Raglan

Raglan Castle (shown above) has a handsome, decorative apprearance.  This castle may look less sturdy and imposing than some of Wales' earlier, more robust fortresses but it must have been strong enough, for it withstood the longest siege of the Civil War from June to August 1646.  It was built in the more settled late Middle Ages of the 15th and 16th centuries, when greater consideration would have been given to decoration and home comforts.  Raglan's most outstanding feature is its Great Tower, which stands surrounded by a water-filled moat separate from the rest of the castle. 

Clytha Park House was built in the 1820s for William Jones, who uncle had earlier built Cytha Castle, a folly designed by John Nash, in memory of his wife.  The Castle was lived in as a gamekeeper's cottage until 1948; the entire estate was acquired by the National Trust in 1979.  The House is open to the public, while the Castle is leased to the Landmark trust and is available for holiday lets.

For further information visit www.cadw.wales.gov.uk