Chepstow Castle
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Overview
One of the first stone castles ever constructed in Britain, building started in 1068, just two years after the invasion of England by William the Conqueror. Chepstow was of great strategic importance and William entrusted one of his best generals, William FitzOsbern, to build the castle and control the Marches. The site is naturally protected on one side by cliffs plummeting into the Wye, and on the other by a valley. The very first building was a simple, two-storeyed rectangular keep. In the 12th century its defences were improved and the castle extended. Although Chepstow was never besieged in medieval times, it played an important role in the Civil War, coming under siege twice while it was being held for King Charles I. After this, its importance declined and it fell into the romantic ruin it is today.
Features
- Opening Times
- Open all year
- Opening Times: Open all year, daily Mar-Jun & Sep-Oct, 9.30-5; Jul-Aug, 9.30-6; Nov-Feb, Mon-Sat 10-4, Sun 11-4 (last admission 30mins before close). Closed 24-26 Dec & 1 Jan
- Facilities
- Parking onsite
About the area
In their bid to control the borderlands of Monmouthshire – also known as the Marches – the Normans built a triangle of castles: Grosmont, Skenfrith and White. At first, they were simple wooden structures strengthened by earthworks, but when the lively Welsh refused to stop attacking them, it was decided more permanent fortresses were needed.
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