Chepstow Castle

Beautifully preserved Chepstow Castle stretches out along a limestone cliff above the River Wye like a history lesson in stone. One of the first Norman strongholds in Wales, its building began in 1067 by Earl William fitz Osbern, a close friend of William the Conqueror. Over the centuries it was shaped by some of the wealthiest and most powerful men of the medieval and Tudor ages — William Marshal, Roger Bigod and Charles Somerset — and today its towers, halls and battlements trace over 900 years of history. Managed by Cadw (Welsh Government historic environment service), the site offers families a huge open-air day out: three large grassed baileys to run around, the Great Tower, Marten's Tower, a gift shop and superb views across the River Wye towards the Wye Valley. There is step-free access to the Lower Bailey, Upper Bailey, Great Tower and Upper Barbican.