Chepstow Castle
Bridge Street, Chepstow, Monmouthshire, NP16 5EY
0870 042 4577
Superbly set high upon a river cliff above the Wye, Chepstow still guards one of the main river crossings from southern England into Wales. Few castles in Britain tell the story of medieval fortification, from beginning to end, as does this mighty stronghold. It was probably the very first stone castle in the entire country, and was to see successive developments right through to the Civil War of the 17th century. Throughout the Middle Ages, Chepstow was the centre of military and administrative power in the Marcher lordship of Strigoil.
A Norman castle, Chepstow’s construction began in 1067, less than a year after William the Conqueror was crowned King of England, under the direction of William FitzOsbern. FitzOsbern's fortresses were the vehicles from which the new king consolidated control of his newly conquered lands, and Chepstow Castle became the key launching point for expeditions into Wales, which were eventually to subdue the rebellious population.
Visit Chepstow Castle
1st April to 31st October 09:00 - 17:00 Daily, 1st November to 31st March 09:30 - 16:00 Monday to Saturday, 11:00 - 16:00 Sunday
0870 042 4577
calls charged at national rate
www.cadw.wales.gov.uk/default.asp?id=6&PlaceID=50