Photo: Alexander Forst-Rakoczy / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0 at)
Powis Castle is a Grade I listed castle in Powys, cared for by the National Trust. Read about its history, architecture and gardens, plus how to visit and what's nearby.
About Powis Castle
Powis Castle rises on a rock above Welshpool in Powys, a fortress turned country house whose original stonework dates from the 13th century.
It was built by a Welsh prince, Gruffydd ap Gwenwynwyn, making it a rare case on the Marches.
The National Trust cares for the castle and its celebrated Italianate garden.
Inside, the Clive Museum holds treasures linked to Robert Clive, better known as Clive of India.
Read more on WikipediaHistory of Powis Castle
Gruffydd ap Gwenwynwyn's son Owain was raised to the peerage as Owen de la Pole after the ancient Kingdom of Powys was abolished by the Parliament of Shrewsbury in 1283. On his death the lordship passed to his daughter, Hawys Gadarn, known as the Lady of Powis. The Herbert family later held the earldom of Powis and the castle for generations before its transfer into public care.
Architecture of Powis Castle
The castle keeps its medieval core beneath later Tudor and Jacobean alterations, and its walls of local red sandstone set it apart from most Welsh castles.
Worth knowing
The Clive Museum houses items brought back from India by the family of Robert Clive, known as Clive of India, after his son married into the Herbert family who held the earldom of Powis.
Gardens & grounds at Powis Castle
The castle's Italianate terraced garden, laid out in the late 17th century, is ranked among the most important in Britain and keeps its ancient clipped yews.
Facilities
Plan your visit to Powis Castle
Nearest station: Welshpool Raven Square Station (W&LLR) (0.4 miles)
Places to visit near Powis Castle
Powys Castle Museum
View Powys Castle Museum on heritage mapBrithdir Hall
View Brithdir Hall on heritage mapMontgomery Castle
View Montgomery Castle on heritage mapBryngwyn Hall
View Bryngwyn Hall on heritage mapHistoric places nearby
Within 5 miles of Powis Castle (SY21) there are 3 historic properties, including 2 historic houses, across Historic Houses and National Trust sites.
Within 10 miles of Powis Castle (SY21) there are 8 historic properties, including 4 historic houses and 2 castles, across Historic Houses, Cadw and English Heritage sites.
Within 20 miles of Powis Castle (SY21) there are 27 historic properties, including 12 historic houses, 4 historic buildings and 4 castles, across Historic Houses, English Heritage and National Trust sites.
Facts
A castle raised by a Welsh prince, later filled with treasures from Clive of India and framed by celebrated terraced gardens.
- Type
- castle
- Location
- Powys, Wales
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