The original barracks, which were constructed of red brick, were built at the Watton in 1805 and then extended in 1813.

[1] In 1873, as part of the Cardwell Reforms (which encouraged the localisation of British military forces),[2] the barracks became the depot for the two battalions of the 24th (2nd Warwickshire) Regiment of Foot, which began recruiting throughout South Wales.

During January 1879, the 24th Regiment became famed for its role at two momentous battles of the Anglo-Zulu War – Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift.

[1] Following the Childers Reforms, on 1 July 1881, the 24th Regiment was renamed the South Wales Borderers.

[6] The barracks were designated as a Regional Seat of Government in the Cold War.