Monmouth Castle

Monmouth, United Kingdom

William FitzOsbern, Norman Count of William the Conqueror, established Monmouth Castle between 1066 and 1069 as a counterpart to his other major castle at Chepstow. It was originally an earth and timber ringwork fortress, which was listed in the Domesday Book. The wooden castle had stonework added before 1150.

After briefly being held by Simon de Montfort, 6th Earl of Leicester, Monmouth Castle passed into the hands of Edmund Crouchback, Earl of Lancaster and son of Henry III in 1267. He redeveloped the castle, building the Hall and took it as his main residence in the area. It was further improved in the early 14th century, probably by Crouchback's grandson, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster. During this period large decorated windows were installed in the upper part of the Great Tower which also had a new roof. As a town developed around the castle, the castle's defences were augmented by a town wall and fortified bridge, built at the end of the 13th century.

Edward II briefly was held prisoner in the castle before he was transferred to Berkeley Castle where he died. The castle was a favourite residence of Henry Bolingbroke, later King as Henry IV. It was here that in 1387 the future King Henry V of England was born, to Bolingbroke's first wife Mary de Bohun.

Over the centuries, as its defensive function diminished, the outer bailey of the castle became increasingly used as a market place, later (and now) known as Agincourt Square. During the sixteenth century, when Monmouth became the county town of the newly formed shire of Monmouth, the county's Courts of Assize began to be held in the castle's Great Hall.

Civil War

In the tumult of the English Civil War, Monmouth Castle changed hands three times, finally falling to the Parliamentarians in 1645. Oliver Cromwell visited Monmouth in 1646, and according to tradition ordered the slighting (demolition) of the castle. Great Castle House was built in 1673, on the site of the old round tower, by Henry Somerset, 1st Duke of Beaufort.

Modern history

Only fragments of the castle, including the Great Tower and Hall and parts of the walls, remain above ground, and on the site Castle House and Great House have been built. In 1875, the Royal Monmouthshire Royal Engineers Militia, the senior Territorial Army regiment today, made it their Headquarters building and so it remains. It is one of the few British castles in continuous military occupancy. The Royal Monmouthshire Royal Engineers museum is located in the stable block attached to Great Castle House. It includes exhibits relating to the history of the regiment from 1539 to the present day.

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Details

Founded: 1066-1069
Category: Castles and fortifications in United Kingdom

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

Rating

3.9/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Paul Scoplin (5 months ago)
An interesting place, remains of the castle and also a regimental Museum, which is open in the afternoons from April to October
Alice Widger (6 months ago)
The castle is easy to access as you can just walk in (you don't need to wait for someone to open it, just use an alternative carpark) and it's free. Interesting to see due to being the birth place of Henry V, but seeing it in such a sad state is pretty depressing. There is a grotty carpark right next to it, and also a huge Ice Land, and almost worse is the house that was built on top of some of the ruins. So much history lost due to the short sightedness of the council for such a historic town. The alleyway you use from the main street is easily missed and pretty dank and miserable. Not much information to read, as the main board is so weathered is unreadable, which someone else mentioned years ago, which shows how unloved it is. Sad to see such a historic monument like this, especially after seeing numerous castles already in the area that are also free and much more cared for. It is (sort of) worth a visit if you love history, we just came away with an overall feeling of sadness at the state it's been left in, which can't be undone.
Kirsty Jones (9 months ago)
If you are around the area exploring its worth a look, unfortunately, with the history linked to this castle, it's a shame that all that remains are a few walls
EmC Photography (9 months ago)
Monmouth Castle is a site steeped in history, standing as a proud reminder of Monmouth's strategic importance through the centuries. Birthplace of Henry V, one of England's most famed kings, this castle whispers tales of medieval might and royal legacy. Founded in the late 11th century, Monmouth Castle has witnessed significant historical events, evolving from a Norman fortress to a symbol of English power in Wales. Although much of the original structure has succumbed to time, the remaining ruins still offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. As you explore the remnants of this once-mighty castle, you're walking in the footsteps of knights, nobles, and even a future king. The site's historical plaques bring to life the stories of sieges, royal births, and the strategic importance of Monmouth in controlling the Welsh Marches. Despite the passage of time, Monmouth Castle remains a poignant landmark in the town's landscape. Its ruins serve not just as a historical attraction but as a testament to the rich tapestry of British and Welsh history intertwined within these walls.
Gr3at White (11 months ago)
Nice little town with castle ruins. Lots of small shops and cafes here to enjoy the day. It's definitely worth visiting if you passing by.
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