Why Raglan Castle should be top of your list this summer

Set among the green countryside of Monmouthshire, Raglan Castle is thought to be the grandest castle ever built by Welshmen.

Its impressive towers hint at a castle that was never just about defence, but a statement of power, wealth and ambition, something that still comes through as you explore it today.

A castle built to be seen

Built in the 15th century and expanded over time, Raglan Castle was designed as much for status and entertaining as it was for protection.

At the heart of it all is the hexagonal Great Tower, a striking, standalone structure built in 1435 and surrounded by a water-filled moat. As you walk across the causeway, it’s hard not to imagine how the deliberate design would have made a strong impression on visitors centuries ago.

Inside the castle, the scale continues. From the grand halls to the private apartments, you get a real sense of how life here might have looked in the past, with spaces designed for comfort, display and influence.

A different side of castle life

Exploring Raglan gives a different perspective on Welsh history. This isn’t just a fortress built for conflict, but a glimpse into a time when castles were evolving into more luxurious homes for powerful families.

Under the earls of Worcester, it was transformed over time into a magnificent country seat, complete with a long gallery and one of the finest Renaissance gardens in Britain.

Events that bring the past to life

Throughout the summer, Raglan Castle hosts a programme of events that bring history to life.

Highlight events include:

• Falconry Days Wednesday 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th August 11am – 3pm

Join Wings of Wales to meet birds of prey, watch them fly and learn about conservation.

• Raglan Castle Odyssey Sunday 30th  - Mon 31st  August, 11am – 4.30pm

Enjoy a weekend of living history, with reenactors, historic camps and plenty to explore.

The Star of Abergavenny

This August, a new statue of Gwladys ferch Dafydd Gam will arrive at the castle. As Lady of Raglan in the 15th century, she was known as the ‘star of Abergavenny’ and played a key role in medieval Welsh politics, offering visitors the chance to discover her story for the first time.

Making the most of your visit

Raglan is an easy place to spend time exploring. The open layout means you can explore at your own pace, climbing towers, wandering through courtyards and taking in the surrounding views as you go.

For a glimpse into more modern history, you can look out over the castle walls and grounds where scenes for the popular TV show Merlin were filmed.

The independently run Raglan Castle Café is just a short walk away, perfect for a coffee after your visit.

Why it’s worth your time this summer

If you’re looking for a castle that offers something a little different, Raglan delivers, combining history, architecture and setting in a way that feels both impressive and accessible.

For those looking to make the most of the summer, a Cadw membership offers free entry to events and access to over 130 historic places across Wales, with children going free.

For full details on opening times, events and tickets, visit https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/raglan-castle