Grosmont Castle Monmouthshire

Grosmont Castle, Monmouthshire

Grosmont Castle along with Skenfrith Castle and White Castle were all built of earth and timber before 1100 AD by the Normans to control the lands they had conquered in North Gwent.

History | Access | Castles in Wales

History

In 1201, the three castles were granted to Hubert de Burgh, a powerful Marcher lord under King John, who proceeded to rebuild Grosmont in stone between 1201 and 1230. Originally it was a motte-and-bailey design. The castle features a distinctive D-shaped layout with a central courtyard. Other features include a strong gatehouse, and thick curtain walls that once provided formidable defense. The castle played a significant role during the Welsh uprisings. It was attacked during Owain Glyndŵr’s rebellion in 1405.

The ruined castle walls at Grosmont

In the 14th century, the earls of Lancaster added, among other things, a chamber block with an elegant chimney (see below) and a drawbridge.

However, by the 16th century, the castle had fallen into a state of ruin. It is now managed by the Cadw Welsh heritage agency.

Chamber block and chimney

Access – Getting To Grosmont Castle

The castle lies in Grosmont, Monmouthshire very near the present English / Welsh border. It is approximately 8 miles northeast of Abergavenny. The castle is just off the B4347 and is within reach of Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Cheltenham, Gloucester and also Newport by car.

Grosmont, Monmouthshire
NP7 8LW

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