Scheduled MonumentsWalesCastell Rhaglan
Medieval · Castle

Castell Rhaglan

Wales
Cadw SAM MM005
Period
Medieval
Site type
Castle
Broad class
Defence
Nation
Wales
Boundary

Scheduled area

© Mapbox · © OpenStreetMap contributors · Boundary data © Cadw

Overview

History & significance

Castell Rhaglan is a late medieval castle situated in Monmouthshire, Wales, which was begun in 1431 by William ap Thomas and substantially developed during the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. The castle is distinguished by its impressive hexagonal tower, known as the Yellow Tower of Gwent, which was constructed as the focal point of an outer ward surrounded by its own moat, creating a formidable gatehouse structure. The main castle comprises a rectangular inner ward with corner towers and residential ranges, reflecting the castle's dual purpose as both a military stronghold and a seigneurial residence of considerable status. Castell Rhaglan remained an important fortification and noble seat until it was partially slighted after the English Civil War, yet substantial portions of its medieval fabric survive, including much of the curtain walls, towers, and the distinctive tower gateway that represent significant examples of late medieval military architecture in Wales.

Castell Rhaglan is a scheduled monument protected by Cadw under reference MM005. View the official record →

About this monument

Questions & answers

What is Castell Rhaglan?

Castell Rhaglan is a late medieval castle situated in Monmouthshire, Wales, which was begun in 1431 by William ap Thomas and substantially developed during the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Cadw under reference MM005.

What period does Castell Rhaglan date from?

Castell Rhaglan dates from the medieval period, and is classified as a castle. It is one of over 32,000 scheduled monuments protected across Britain.

Who is responsible for protecting Castell Rhaglan?

Castell Rhaglan is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Cadw — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in Wales. The official designation reference is MM005.

What other scheduled monuments are near Castell Rhaglan?

Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including Great House Camp (5.3 km), Camp 650m South of Ty Freeman (6.2 km), Ringwork NE of New House (7.3 km).

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