Local links

Castles

Abergavenny is well served by castles - as well as its own Norman keep, there are Skenfrith, Grosmont, Whitecastle and Raglan Castles all within a few miles of each other. Situated on the Marches, this area was a key line of defense/attack for the Normans. The castles date from the end of the 11th century.

Abergavenny Castle

Abergavenny castle is one of the best examples of a motte and bailey castle in Britain. With a restored keep set on top of a man made mound, there are also enough walls remaining to show that this must have been an impressive castle when in full repair.
It has it's dark tales to tell as well - in 1089 a Norman lord, William de Braose invited twenty Welsh chieftains to a Christmas meal in the castle. While they were feasting, they were executed.
The castle meadows, stretching out alongside the River Usk provide a picturesque scene at all times of the year, and the brick path makes for an idyllic walk at all times of year.

Grosmont Castle

Skenfrith, Grosmont and Whitecastle

These three castles are still in relatively good state of repair. Skenfrith castle, situated in the small village of Skenfrith is small, but well formed - the round corner towers and high walls are still intact, and together with the central keep, you need very little imagination to picture the castle in it's original state.
Grosmont castle is in a similar condition, but is slightly larger and has a moat (although this is mostly dry). Whitecastle is apparently so called because the walls were originally coated in a lime wash that made the castle white and visible for some distance. It is the most complete of these three castles, and the largest - the moat is full and access is via the drawbridge. There are some good views across the countryside from the top of the towers.

Raglan Castle

Raglan castle is the biggest of all the castles mentioned so far, and in the best shape - you'll want to spend a couple of hours wandering around the ruins. It's a little more modern that the previous three castles - built in 1435 AD for Sir William ap Thomas