Chirk Castle

Chirk is a 10 miles SW of Wrexham in NE Wales – satnav LL14 5AF
For more information and photographs see
http://www.castles99.ukprint.com/Essays/Wales/NWales/Chirk.html
http://www.castlewales.com/chirk.html

In his 1282-3 campaign against the Welsh, one of Edward I’s most loyal and effective commanders was Roger Mortimer (d1326), a younger son of Roger Mortimer (d1282) the baron of Wigmore. In recognition of his support, Roger was granted lands around Chirk, previously held by a supporter of the Welsh prince Llewelyn ap Gruffudd (d1282). This 1282-3 campaign proved decisive in conquering the Welsh and, to strengthen his hold of north Wales, the king built a string of fortresses at Conway, Beaumaris, Caernarfon and Harlech designed by Master James of St George, a talented architect from Savoy. It is thought that Master James was involved in the design of the great new castle built subsequently at Chirk by Roger Mortimer.

Intended originally for defence, the castle looks formidable indeed when viewed from the outside. Inside, it has a very different feel. Over many years it has been developed as a comfortable palace and family home and the large rectangular courtyard is surrounded by attractive apartments.

The Mortimers of Wigmore had many sons called Roger. This Roger is known to history as Roger Mortimer of Chirk. In 1322 he rebelled against King Edward II, was captured and then inured in the Tower of London, where he died in 1326. Over succeeding centuries the castle changed hands several times, being variously owned by the Fitzalan earls of Arundel, the Beauforts and the Stanleys. In 1595 it was purchased by Sir Thomas Myddelton and the family continue to live in the castle.