Overview
Chirk was never planned as a family home, the castle was built by King Edward to keep control of the Welsh people. The King gave Roger Mortimer the Chirklands, and was built by master-builder James of St. George (the builder of Harlech, Beaumaris, Caernarfon and Conwy castles).
The castle was a symbol of English power and might, controlling the border and it dominating the surrounding land. Originally lime washed white, Chirk Castle stood out prominently in the treeless landscape.
The castle was purchased in 1595 for about £5,000 by Sir Thomas Myddelton, a son of the governor of Denbigh Castle and successful London merchant. As a founder of the East India Company, an investor in the expeditions of Drake, Raleigh and Hawkins, he had the means to convert Chirk into a comfortable Tudor residence. His new stone north range contained a hall, buttery and kitchen, with upstairs drawing and dining rooms. This range, with alterations, became the main living quarters of the castle, while the old south range was gradually given over to servants.
Inside the Castle rooms of different periods rub up against each other unlike the usual suite of rooms that flow seamlessly. As you walk through the State Rooms, you will pass historic interiors that are examples of the latest fashions of their time, and a collection that has grown through the centuries.
Summary
- National Trust
- Walk the Castle & Gardens
- Cafe
More activities
River Tubing
- All equipment & Instruction included
Archery & Axe Throwing
- All equipment & Instruction included
Erddig Hall
- National Trust Castle
Chirk Castle
- National Trust Castle