Chepstow Castle
Beautifully preserved Chepstow Castle is a history lesson in stone.
If you think modern doors are long-lasting, think again. Chepstow boasts the oldest castle doors in Europe. All wood and all of 800 years old. Until 1962 these doors hung in the main gateway, but are now in safekeeping in the on-site display. Let’s just say it would be nigh on impossible to find a replacement.
The whole site is a lesson in longevity. From around 1067 through to 1690, the castle, almost chameleon-like, changed its appearance as fashions changed in military architecture. More a case of bright architects than bright colours, however.
Century after century, the castle grew and grew along its narrow cliff top ridge. The oldest building is the Norman great tower but building work continued well into the 17th-century as medieval battlements were replaced by stronger musket-friendly parapets. Bows and arrows were so last century!


Opening hours
- Monday9:30 am - 6:00 pm
- Tuesday9:30 am - 6:00 pm
- Wednesday9:30 am - 6:00 pm
- Thursday9:30 am - 6:00 pm
- Friday9:30 am - 6:00 pm
- Saturday9:30 am - 6:00 pm
- Sunday9:30 am - 6:00 pm
These are the peak summer opening times.
Other times may vary. For full details please visit the CADW website.
Last admission 30 minutes before closing.
Closed 24th, 25th, 26th December and 1st January.
Sloped access from public car park.
4 dedicated disabled spaces available in council car park directly in front of the castle.
There is dedicated coach parking.
Nearest toilet including disabled toilet in car park at the front of the castle.