Raglan Castle

In the same way Cadw’s members help protect it today, it’s only fitting that the Raglan Castle we know was built with defence in mind.

The work of Sir William ap Thomas and his son Sir William Herbert, Earl of Pembroke, Raglan Castle combined a moated Great Tower and flared machicolations – stone arches that allowed missiles to be rained down on attackers – to make it a truly remarkable fortress.

Though built for protection, Raglan’s story is just as much about power and prestige. Following his father’s death in 1461, Sir William Herbert enjoyed a meteoric societal rise, and Raglan was transformed into a magnificent country seat with a fashionable long gallery, stately new gatehouse and one of the finest Renaissance gardens in Britain. Poet, Dafydd Llwyd, praised its ‘hundred rooms filled with festive fare, its hundred chimneys for men of high degree.’

In the end, however, devotion to the crown spelled its destruction. Though defended by 800 men, Raglan Castle fell after one of the Civil War’s longest sieges and was deliberately destroyed. Among the treasures taken was a Tudor wood panel, now on display in the visitor centre after being rediscovered in a cowshed in the 1950s.

Yet even in ruin, Raglan’s majesty, impressive scale and historic charm continue to inspire, welcoming thousands of visitors each year, including Cadw members who play a vital role in safeguarding its legacy.

But don't just take our word for it — why not find out yourself?

Opening times:

1st September - 31st October: 09.30am-5pm

1st November - 28th February: 10am-4pm

1st March - 30th June: 09.30am-5pm

1st July - 31st August: 09.30am-6pm

Last admission 30 minutes before closing

Closed 24, 25, 26 December and 1 January

Prices: 

Members - Free

Adult - £10.40

Family (2 adults & up to 3 children) - £33.30

Family (1 adult & up to 3 children) - £22.90

Disabled person and companion - Free

Juniors (Aged 5-17) / Students* - £7.20

Seniors (Aged 65+) - £9.30

CADW £1 ticket - for those on Universal Credit and other named benefits

All children under 5 receive free entry.

*Student photo ID card is required to be shown on entry

Blue Light Card holders and HM Armed Forces & Veterans receive 10% off individual admission (not available online).