Powis Castle

Powis Castle stands on a wooded hill above the town of Welshpool in Powys. Built in the 13th century by the Welsh prince Gruffydd ap Gwenwynwyn, it is one of the few castles in the Marches constructed by a Welsh ruler rather than a Norman baron. The castle passed through generations of Welsh princes and English lords before the Herbert family bought it in the late 16th century. Today it remains the seat of the earls of Powis and is managed by the National Trust. Its Grade I listed interiors and gardens are recognised as among the finest in the country. The castle’s history reflects the turbulent politics of the Welsh Marches and the shifting loyalties of its owners. Gruffydd ap Gwenwynwyn rebuilt the fortress after Edward I rewarded his loyalty following the conquest of Wales. Later, the Herberts transformed it from a border stronghold into an aristocratic residence during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The Baroque gardens, designed by William Winde, survive as one of Britain’s rare examples of the style. The family’s Catholic allegiance brought periods of imprisonment and exile, yet they maintained their connection to the castle for over four centuries. Visitors walk through rooms arranged by successive generations of the Herbert family. The Long Gallery and Great Staircase date from the 17th century, while the State Bedroom was installed around 1665. Below the terraces, the Baroque water garden descends in formal parterres and yew hedges. The surrounding woodland and parkland offer views across the Severn valley towards the Welsh hills. The castle’s interiors display fine plasterwork, tapestries and collections accumulated over centuries.