Shrewsbury Castle is a very early fortification, the original timber motte and bailed ordered by William the Conqueror in 1067. It sits on the neck of a meander in the River Severn and the town of Shrewsbury grew up within the loop. Roger de Montgomery extended the castle, and town walls were built in response to Welsh raids. The Great Hall was constructed between 1272 and 1301 during the reign of Edward I. After the Welsh Wars, the castle fell into disuse and neglect. It was revitalised as a domestic residence during the reign of Elizabeth I and was given to the Town Council around 1600. In the early years of the English Civil War, the castle was repaired and reinforced but it was successfully besieged by the Parliamentarians in 1645. Before this, the only other successful siege was by King Stephen during the Anarchy. In 1780 the castle was repaired and remodelled by Thomas Telford, including construction of Laura's Tower on the site of the original motte. The castle became home to the Shropshire Regimental Museum in 1985 and was attacked by the IRA in 1992. The museum was rebranded to Soldiers of Shropshire Museum in 2019. Outside the gate are two artillery pieces; a 5.5 inch gun like those used in Second World War by a variety of Shropshire units and 25 pounder training gun from Oswestry. Also within the inner bailey of the castle is an old cabbies rest. The little green shelter originally stood on the Square and was moved to the castle after...
Read moreShrewsbury Castle, perched on a hill in the heart of the town, is a good historical site with stunning views of the surrounding area. Originally built by the Normans in 1074, it has played a key role in English history, including during the medieval conflicts and the English Civil War. The castle grounds are free to explore, offering peaceful walks through well-maintained gardens. Inside, the Soldiers of Shropshire Museum showcases military artifacts and memorabilia, highlighting the history of the local regiments.I am not a fan of this type of museums so it did not hook me at all. Climbing Laura’s Tower rewards visitors with panoramic views of Shrewsbury and its medieval streets. The location is very convenient, just a short walk from the town center, Shrewsbury Station, and Park and Ride stops. While the outdoor areas are lovely, some exhibits focus mainly on military history rather than the castle’s architectural evolution, and admission of £8 is required for the interior. Overall, it’s a charming and historically rich site, perfect for leisurely exploration, photography, and learning about...
Read moreAfter the Norman Conquest, William the Conqueror ordered the construction of the castle in the 1070s to strengthen the town's defenses and protect against Welsh invasions. After the end of the Welsh Wars around 1300, the castle's defensive role diminished, and it gradually became a residence for the nobility. In the 1780s, the castle was remodeled by Thomas Telford based on designs by Robert Adam, and the current main structure is the result of his restoration work. Today, the castle operates as the Shropshire Soldiers Museum, displaying a collection of weapons, documents, and artifacts related to British military history. Inside the castle, visitors can explore the lookout points, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Thanks to its elevated position, the castle walls offer stunning views of the River Severn, the town of Shrewsbury, and the surrounding...
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