The National Trust-owned Chirk Castle is a 700-year-old jewel hidden in the heart of the Welsh countryside, dominating the horizon from its position at the meeting point of the rivers Dee and Ceiriog.
Built by King Edward 1 and completed in 1310, it is the only Welsh castle built during this era still occupied today. The rooms inside the castle have been reworked, refurbished and redecorated to suit the tastes of the people who have lived there over the years. Thus, an exploration of the interior of the castle is a trip back in time through the history of Wales itself, from the 17th century splendour of the Long Hall to the 1920s chic of the East Wing.
Highlights of any visit to Chirk Castle include the chance to explore the medieval castle, complete with dungeons and “murder holes”, through which soldiers defending the castle could pour boiling oil down onto those attacking it. You can also try on a traditional suit of armour and take part in a drill.
The rooms in the castle occupied by the Myddelton family through the years present an exhibition of fine furnishings, ornaments and art dating back over 400 years, while the servants’ quarters allow you to experience the harshness of life below the stairs in medieval Chirk Castle.
In the family activity room your kids can play with traditional toys and try on costumes from through the ages, while the 18th century woodland surrounding the castle is packed with scenic walks, geocaching trails and hands-on den building activities.
