Usk Castle

Usk Castle stands on a hill north of the town of Usk in Monmouthshire, south-east Wales. It overlooks the main Twyn Square and the surrounding streets. The castle site includes Castle House, a separate Grade I listed building built into the gatehouse. The Romans once had a legionary fortress here before moving it to Caerleon. The Normans established the castle in 1120, though the site had earlier military importance. The castle changed hands several times between Normans and Welsh during the 12th century. Marcher Lords like Richard Fitz Gilbert de Clare strengthened its defences but faced repeated attacks. Adam of Usk, a medieval chronicler, was born here. After Owain Glyndŵr’s rebellion, the castle passed to the Duchy of Lancaster and fell into gradual decay. The gatehouse was later adapted into a private house in the 17th century. Today, substantial ruins remain, including a dovecote tower and wartime naval mines displayed in the gardens. The Humphreys family still live in Castle House, but the gardens open to visitors on certain days. The castle has hosted events and historical re-enactments, including training by Regia Anglorum. The grounds also feature remnants of a narrow-gauge railway used in 1930s excavations.