Raglan Castle
 Castles |
The 15th century moated ruin of Raglan Castle still proudly displays the remains of a massive hexagonal keep, two vast courtyards and an imposing double-fronted gatehouse. It was successfully used as a fortress in the Wars of the Roses of 1455/71, and later became the family home of the Earls of Worcester. During the British Civil War of 1642/9 the 5th Earl of Worcester repelled the Parliamentarian siege for 10 weeks before being defeated. The surrender of Raglan Castle marked the ending of the Civil Wars.
The little market town of Usk lies to the south of Raglan. It is dominated by its ruined 12th century Norman castle. The 13th century Church of St Mary has medieval woodwork and a Tudor rood screen, very unusual given that rood screen were all but eliminated during the Reformation. There is also a 13th century priory gatehouse and a fine 18th cent arched bridge. The battlemented building in Maryport Street, built in 1841, was the county gaol.
Cefntilla Court lies between Usk and Raglan Castle. It is the home of Lord Raglan, built in 1616 and restored in 1856. The Court houses pictures, porcelain and relics of the Peninsular Campaign and of the Crimean War. The 1st Baron Raglan commanded the British troops in the Crimea.
For further information see - http://www.britishcastle.co.uk/index.php?pageId=RaglanCastle_theCastle