Top 5 Castles around Raglan
Best castles around Raglan are located in Monmouthshire, a region characterized by its historical significance and varied architectural heritage. The area offers a glimpse into Welsh history, featuring structures that range from medieval strongholds to 18th-century follies. These sites are often set within scenic landscapes, providing opportunities to explore both cultural landmarks and natural surroundings.
Best castles around Raglan
- The most popular castles is White Castle, a historical site that is the best preserved of the Monmouthshire fortresses known…
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Monmouth Town Centre
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White Castle
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The fort was established by the Normans in the …
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Clytha Castle
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Raglan Castle
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Usk Castle Ruins
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Monmouth is a charming historic market town that sits right on the confluence of Rivers Wye and Monnow. It's noted for its 13th-century gated bridge and being the birthplace of Henry V. The River Wye separates the town of Monmouth to the east from Wyesham to the west and provides a scenic wonderland for many river activities. I have finished many a DOE gold award canoe trip at this point.
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White Castle is a ruined but super nice castle to visit and sits between the villages of Llantilio Crossenny and Llanvetherine. It is part of the 'Three Castles' group, along with nearby Grosmont and Skenfrith. These historic Norman fortresses were built to control the border region, and White Castle is known as the most imposing due to a strong inner and outer ward. It also has an imposing, water-filled, stone-lined moat. It is free to enter and maintained by Cadw.
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The 300-year old Shire Hall, on Agincourt Square in the centre of Monmouth, has outside a large sculpture of King Henry V (also called Henry of Monmouth) and a statue of the aviation pioneer Charles Rolls who lived near Monmouth. Rolls also co-founded the Rolls-Royce car manufacturing firm.
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Clytha Castle (Welsh: Castell Cleidda) is a folly near Clytha between Llanarth and Raglan in Monmouthshire, south east Wales. Dating from 1790, the castle was built by William Jones, owner of the Clytha Park estate as a memorial to his wife, Elizabeth, who died in 1787. The castle is an example of the Gothic Revival and comprises three towers, of which two are habitable, and linking, castellated curtain walls. Long attributed to John Nash, recent research has confirmed that the architect was John Davenport of Shrewsbury. The folly has views towards the Sugar Loaf and Skirrid mountains on the easternmost edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park. Described by the architectural historian John Newman as one of the two "outstanding examples of late eighteenth century fanciful Gothic in the county", Clytha Castle is a Grade I listed building.
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A fine example of Gothic Revival architecture, Clytha Castle is one of Wales' outstanding 18th-century follies. It forms a part of the Clytha Estate, a tranquil landscaped park containing a Grade I-listed house, as well as the castle. The folly was built in 1790 by William Jones as a memorial to his late wife Elizabeth. It stands proud on Clytha Hill to the backdrop of a grove of chestnut trees.
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A secretive ancient fortress nestled on a promontory above the town, Usk Castle is a romantic ruin. Thought to have been established in the early 12th century on the site of a former Roman fort, it has seen its fair share of conflict. Today, it is Grade I-listed and is open on special occasions, to Usk Castle Friends on set days, as well as to those using the nearby glamping facilities.
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Nestled in the lower reaches of the scenic Wye Valley is the historic county town of Monmouthshire. It is a popular choice as a base for exploring all the superb landscape has to offer. Notable landmarks in the town include its medieval stone gated bridge, the last of its kind left in Britain, and Monmouth Castle, the birthplace of King Henry V in 1386.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most notable castles to visit around Raglan?
The region around Raglan features several significant castles. Raglan Castle is a late medieval fortress known for its unique hexagonal Great Tower and blend of military strength with aristocratic luxury. White Castle is the best preserved of the 'Three Castles' of Monmouthshire, showcasing Norman origins and Edward I's renovations. For a different architectural style, Clytha Castle is an 18th-century Gothic Revival folly set within a tranquil landscaped park.
Are there family-friendly castles in the Raglan area?
Yes, several castles around Raglan are suitable for families. Both Raglan Castle and White Castle are listed as family-friendly. These sites offer ample space for exploration and a chance to engage with history in an immersive setting.
What is the historical significance of Raglan Castle?
Raglan Castle holds significant historical importance. It was the boyhood home of Henry Tudor, who later became King Henry VII. During the English Civil War, it served as a Royalist stronghold and endured one of the conflict's longest sieges before being deliberately damaged. Its architecture also reflects a unique blend of defensive structures and luxurious living spaces, evolving from a stronghold to a stately residence with Renaissance influences.
What kind of architecture can I expect to see at Raglan Castle?
Raglan Castle is renowned for its distinctive architecture, blending military strength with aristocratic luxury. Its most striking feature is the multi-angular (hexagonal) Great Tower, also known as the Yellow Tower of Gwent. The castle also features an ornate double-towered gatehouse and showcases an evolution of styles from the 15th to early 17th centuries, incorporating both pale yellowish sandstone and local Old Red Sandstone.
Can I explore the towers at Raglan Castle?
Yes, despite its ruined state, Raglan Castle invites visitors to explore its atmospheric courtyards and climb its impressive towers, including the Great Tower. From the upper levels, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Are there hiking trails near the castles around Raglan?
Yes, the area around Raglan offers various hiking opportunities. You can find several trails, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, that allow you to explore the scenic landscapes near these historical sites. For detailed routes, refer to the Hiking around Raglan guide.
What other outdoor activities are available near the castles?
Beyond hiking, the region provides options for road cycling and running. You can explore various routes that pass through picturesque areas near the castles. Check out the Road Cycling Routes around Raglan and Running Trails around Raglan guides for more information.
What is the best time of year to visit Raglan Castle?
Raglan Castle is open all year, allowing visitors to experience its grandeur in any season. The choice of season might depend on personal preference for weather and crowd levels, but the castle's impressive ruins are accessible throughout the year.
Is there an entry fee for Raglan Castle?
Yes, there is an entry fee to visit Raglan Castle. The cost for adults is typically 6.50.
What makes Clytha Castle unique among the castles in the area?
Clytha Castle stands out as an 18th-century folly, a notable example of Gothic Revival architecture. It was built as a memorial and forms part of a tranquil landscaped park, offering a different historical and architectural experience compared to the medieval fortresses in the region.
Can I visit Monmouth Castle, the birthplace of King Henry V?
Yes, Monmouth Castle, the birthplace of King Henry V, is located in Monmouth Town Centre. While much of the original castle was reused and built over, the site now houses the Great Castle House, which serves as the headquarters and regimental museum of the Royal Monmouthshire Royal Engineers.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Raglan?
Visitors appreciate the majestic silhouettes and unique architectural features of the castles, such as Raglan Castle's hexagonal Great Tower. The rich history, from medieval strongholds to Civil War sieges, and the opportunity to explore atmospheric ruins and climb towers for panoramic views are also highly valued.
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