Raglan Castle, Raglan, United Kingdom

Raglan Castle is a late medieval castle located just north of the village of Raglan. The modern castle dates from between the 15th and early 17th centuries, when the successive ruling families of the Herberts and the Somersets created a luxurious, fortified castle, complete with a large hexagonal keep, known as the Great Tower or the Yellow Tower of Gwent. Surrounded by parkland, water gardens and terraces, the castle was considered by contemporaries to be the equal of any other in England or Wales.

Following the Norman invasion of Wales, the area around the village of Raglan was granted to William FitzOsbern, the Earl of Hereford. Some historians suspect that an early motte and bailey castle may have been built on the Raglan site during this period.

The current Raglan Castle was begun by Sir William ap Thomas. In 1432 William purchased the manor of Raglan, where he had already been staying as a tenant, and commenced a programme of building work that established the basic shape of the castle as seen today, although most of, with the exception of the South Gate and the Great Tower, was later built over.

During the English Civil War the castle was held on behalf of Charles I but was taken by Parliamentary forces in 1646. In the aftermath, the castle was slighted, or deliberately put beyond military use; after the restoration of Charles II, the Somersets declined to restore the castle.

Raglan Castle became first a source of local building materials, then a romantic ruin. It now attracts visitors as a modern tourist attraction.

References:

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User Reviews

Bob P (3 years ago)
A little creepy but his place is amazing. Walking around the interior and reading the numerous and extensive interior signs is so informative and gives you an idea of life in the castle. Coolest thing is looking up at the walls and you see fireplaces still in the masonry walls even though the floors have long disappeared. If you can make it up the 90 narrow steps definitely go up to the tower to see the view that the castle guards had. Gift shop has some interesting items and staff is friendly. Highly recommended.

Caroline B (3 years ago)
This castle is well worth a visit. From the outside we thought it was going to be small but going in you realise just how much there is to see. Plenty of castle to walk around and great views at the top. So much castle for your money and worth a visit. Spent about 2 hours here, loved it.

Sue Middleton (3 years ago)
A really impressive castle ruins. The history is fascinating, absolutely loved it as did so many others visiting at the same time. It was lovely to see dogs on leads welcomed as well. Definitely worth a visit for all ages and I would love to visit again when we are back in the area

Martin Cottrell (3 years ago)
Staff were very helpful and friendly. Considerable ruins to explore with numerous boards to visualise what it may have looked like. Many hidden gems within and some fantastic views. Beautiful location and picnic tables available. Dog friendly and clean toilet facilities. Overall a place well worth the visit.

jaimmie riley (3 years ago)
Beautiful spot in wales with a lovely view of the countryside from the castle. It’s about £24 for three people to enter so it’s not the cheapest attraction to visit but it’s beautifully maintained and quite a spectacular building. Really loved I could bring my dog (except on the winding staircases) Wish we can just carried our child instead of using a pram.

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