During and after both civil wars, Chepstow castle was used as a prison. Its most notable guests included the Royalist Bishop Jeremy Taylor and the Regicide, Henry Marten.

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Chepstow Castle was begun in 1067, a year after the Battle of Hastings upon a limestone ridge overlooking the river Wye.

The usual motte and bailey style of castle gave way to a more solid and sturdy construction built entirely from stone. This deviation showed the importance placed upon the castle and the surrounding area by the Normans.

Chepstow castle, lead a relatively peaceful existence compared to most castles of the time. William Fitzosbern by using Chepstow was able to subdue the Welsh of Gwent. In 1075, his son and successor to the castle, Roger, rebelled against the King and subsequently lost the castle.

Chepstow was heavily modified and added to during the 12th century, and the 13th century saw mostly domestic work being carried out. The coming of the Welsh wars saw the addition of more fortifications in readiness for the possible attack by opposing forces but this eventuality never occurred.

The importance of Chepstow declined during the 14th century, changing hands on many occasions. She was re-garrisoned in 1403 in readiness for an attack by Owain Glyndwr.

By the 16th century, the castle was beginning to resemble a Great house than a castle with the addition of more comforts. The Royalists held Chepstow during the first of two Civil wars and in 1645 relinquished control. Once more the Royalist held the castle during the second of the Civil wars, but this time the castle was besieged by canon.

The use of firepower had a telling and devastating effect upon its occupants. The castle walls were breached and its commander, Sir Nicholas Kemeys, killed. During and after both wars, the castle was used as a prison. Its most notable guests included the Royalist Bishop Jeremy Taylor and the Regicide Henry Marten.

The castles defenses were dismantled during 1690 when the garrison and guns departed. Chepstow fell into disrepair and was eventually taken over by the state in 1953.

Tourist Information

Spring Opening Times: 01/04 - 31/05: 9.30-17.00

Summer Opening Times 01/06 - 30/09: 9.30-18.00

Autumn Opening Times 01/10 - 31/10: 9.30-17.00

Winter Opening Times 1/11 - 31/03: 9.30 (11.00 On Sundays) - 16.00

Further Information Last admission 1/2 hour before closing time

Admission Prices:

Adult - £3.00   Concession - £2.50   Family - £8.50