Raglan Castle

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Overview

This castle is an astonishing statement of wealth and power. From the great tower to the great gatehouse, this whole castle was built for show. Mind you, it did hold off Oliver Cromwell’s forces for 13 weeks in one of the last sieges of the Civil War. It’s hard to believe that the castle was taken and partially destroyed because what remains is so impressive. That, and the fact it is different – owing to being built in the 1430s, much later than most of the other castles – makes it a real treat. The large bay oriel window is one of Raglan’s defining features – lighting up the high table at the end of the hall. No wonder it was the BBC’s film location of choice for Merlin.

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 closing). Closed 24-26 Dec & 1 Jan
Facilities
Parking onsite

Location

RAGLAN, NP15 2BT

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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Raglan Castle

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