Standing on a natural coastal promontory with no external moat, the main entrance to the inner ward is a tower gateway with a portcullis, a roof, embrasures and a heavy iron/wood door.

The castle's domestic ranges, which were completed in the 1140s, included kitchens, apartments and a Great hall.

Initially, he constructed a motte-and-bailey castle on the site which had a wooden keep defended by a palisade and earthworks embankments.

In the early part of the 12th century, William de Barri, Odo's son, used locally quarried Limestone to strengthen the fortification.

He was the fourth and youngest son of William de Barri, who was related on his mother's side, to the legendary Welsh princess Nest ferch Rhys.

Gerald wrote of his birthplace: "In all the broad lands of Wales, Manorbier is the most pleasant place by far."

An episode of the 1960s television series 'Danger Man' ('Secret Agent' in the US), "The Conspirators", was partly shot at the castle.