Chepstow Castle Overview
Located in the Wye Valley in picturesque South Wales, the Chepstow Castle occupies a commanding position on the banks of the River Wye guarding what was once a strategically important crossing point on the river. Construction of the castle began in 1066 just after the Battle of Hastings for William the Conqueror, and was the first castle in Britain to be built entirely of stone. The two towers were later added by the Earl of Pembroke around 1200 and his sons added a gatehouse and barbican. During the 16th century, Richard Bigod III added more comfortable living quarters and the place became more like a palace than a castle. It was to later serve as a prison for Henry Marten, a signatory to the death warrant of King Charles I, following the Restoration of Charles II in 1660. The castle opened its doors to tourists for the first time in 1953 and today welcomes guests with life-size models of its former inhabitants and rulers. The award-winning Chepstow Museum is in the 18th-centurey Town House located opposite the castle car park and tells the long history of the region.
Contact Addresses
Chepstow Castle, Bridge Street, Chepstow NP16 5EZ, Wales
Tel: (01291) 624065
Website: www.chepstow.co.uk
Transportation
Air: Cardiff International Airport. Rail: Chepstow Station. Road: Bus: Public services.
Location
Chepstow
Wales
,
United Kingdom
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