It was built in the late twelfth century and probably replaced the motte and bailey castle a few hundred metres away.

The castle was signed to Walter Heckelutel, as a Licence of the Crenellate, by King Edward I of England on 24 November 1284.

This licence to crenellate was thought of as a way for central authority to exert power over the lords, although this is not confirmed.

Aberedw was the last retreat Llewelyn made before he was killed and beheaded by Adam Francton, who then had his head sent to the King of England, in 1282.

It stands to the east of the River Wye floodplain and remains of the moat are visible on the other three sides.