Chepstow Castle, Wales: Gorgeous Norman Castle On The River Wye

Chepstow Castle, located in Monmouthshire, South Wales, is a stunning fortress overlooking the River Wye. The castle was initially constructed around 1067 by William FitzOsbern, a Norman nobleman, and later expanded by Sir William Marshal, one of England’s most prominent knights.

Known for its unique position atop a limestone cliff above the river, Chepstow Castle’s rich history spans nearly a thousand years, reflecting its role as a symbol of power and prestige throughout various eras.

The castle’s original Norman name was Striguil, which was derived from the Welsh word “ystraigl,” meaning “river bend.” Over the centuries, the fortress underwent several modifications and improvements, incorporating elements of medieval military architecture.

Today, Chepstow Castle is managed by Cadw, the Welsh Government’s historic environment service, and stands as a testament to Wales’ turbulent but fascinating past.

For those planning to visit this magnificent structure, tickets for admission can be purchased on arrival or booked online. Before embarking on your journey, it is essential to check the current opening times, prices, and any relevant health and safety advice.

Don’t forget to pick up a guidebook to enhance your understanding of this iconic and well-preserved castle and make the most of your experience.

Location of Chepstow Castle

Chepstow Castle is a historic fortress situated in the town of Chepstow, Monmouthshire, South Wales.

It stretches out along a limestone cliff above the River Wye, making for a picturesque and impressive sight. As the oldest surviving post-Roman stone fortification in Britain, the castle holds significant historical importance.

How to Get There

Visitors have several options for reaching Chepstow Castle:

• By car: Chepstow is easily accessible from the major motorway networks, such as the M4 and M48. The castle is located in the town center, with public parking available nearby.
• By train: Chepstow has a railway station which is well-connected to Cardiff, Newport, and Gloucester. The castle is a short 10-minute walk from the train station.
• By bus: Chepstow is well-served by local and regional bus services, providing connections to nearby towns and cities. The bus station is located close to the castle.

Once you arrive in Chepstow, the castle is hard to miss. It is a prominent landmark and can be seen from various vantage points, particularly from the opposite bank of the River Wye. On your visit, be sure to explore the castle’s four baileys, its picturesque surroundings, and immerse yourself in its rich history.

History of Chepstow Castle

Construction

Chepstow Castle, located in Monmouthshire, South Wales, was first constructed around 1067 by William FitzOsbern. The castle is the oldest surviving post-Roman stone fortification in Britain, built on cliffs above the River Wye. The construction began under the instruction of FitzOsbern, a Norman lord, originally called Striguil.

It was the southernmost of a chain of castles built in the Welsh Marches. The castle’s significant improvements took place around 1190 CE by Sir William Marshal, one of England’s greatest knights who served four kings and acted as regent for Henry III of England.

Some key features of the castle include:

• The first Great Hall (built between 1067-1090)
• The tower keep (constructed around 1072)

Major Historical Events

Chepstow Castle played an essential role in various historical events throughout the centuries. Some highlights include:

1. The Domesday Book listed Chepstow Castle as an asset in 1086-1087.
2. The castle was held by the de Clare family for most of the 12th century.
3. In the late 12th century, William Marshal transformed the castle into a major stronghold, making him one of the richest men in the kingdom.
4. Chepstow Castle has seen multiple conflicts, including the English Civil War, where it was a parliamentary base.

Restoration and Preservation

Over time, Chepstow Castle has undergone restoration and preservation efforts to maintain its historical value. Cadw, the Welsh Government’s historic environment service, currently manages the castle. The beautifully preserved structure offers visitors the opportunity to explore 900 years of architectural evolution as the castle adapted to changing weaponry and the ambitions of its owners. Today, Chepstow Castle is an important tourist attraction and a testimony to the rich history it represents for both Wales and the United Kingdom.

Visiting Chepstow Castle

What to Expect

Chepstow Castle, located in Monmouthshire, South Wales, is a beautifully preserved fortress stretching along a limestone cliff above the River Wye. As one of the oldest surviving castles in Britain, it offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the evolution of castle architecture and weaponry over time. The castle is open daily, with varying opening hours depending on the season:

• 1 April – 31 October: 10:00 – 17:00
• 1 November – 28 February: 10:00 – 16:00

Keep in mind that the last entry is 30 minutes before closing time. Admission fees can be found on the official Cadw website.

Things to Do

During your visit to Chepstow Castle, you can:

1. Explore the castle grounds: Discover the various rooms, towers, and halls that have been built and expanded upon over the centuries, witnessing architectural changes and technological advances.
2. Learn about the castle’s history: The castle has numerous information boards throughout the grounds that provide fascinating insights into its rich history, key figures, and significant events.
3. Enjoy the scenic views: Chepstow Castle overlooks the picturesque River Wye, and visitors can take in the stunning scenery from various points around the site.
4. Participate in guided tours and events: Check the Cadw website for information on guided tours and special events such as reenactments and living history displays.

Visitor Accessibility

Chepstow Castle makes efforts to accommodate visitors with disabilities, providing an access guide to assist in planning your visit. Some key points to consider include:

• Parking: There is a disabled parking space by the castle entrance, with additional accessible parking available in the town centre.
• Entrance and grounds: The site has a paved and gently sloping entrance path, but some areas within the castle may be challenging due to uneven surfaces and steep steps.
• Facilities: Accessible toilets are located near the visitor centre.

For further assistance, contact the castle by emailing ChepstowCastle@gov.wales or call 03000 252239.