A history of the Castles of Britain
As part of our travels we will venture forth to explore majestic castles that touch the sky, their towers reaching towards the heavens as if in prayer to the old gods. Walk the hallowed grounds where knights once trod, in search of honour and glory.
The castles of England and Wales, including their majestic ruins, are integral to the landscape and history of the British Isles, encapsulating a millennium of architectural innovation, military strategy, and the ebb and flow of royal and noble power. From the rugged highlands of Wales to the rolling countryside of England, these structures range from formidable fortresses to shattered remnants of once-grand edifices, all telling tales of intrigue, warfare, and the lives of those who dwelled within.
Following the Norman Conquest of 1066, England saw a flurry of castle-building, spearheaded by William the Conqueror and his barons, aimed at securing their grip on the land. This era birthed some of the most iconic structures, such as the Tower of London and Dover Castle, which were central to the defence and administration of the realm. As the centuries progressed, these military bastions often evolved into lavish residences, reflecting the changing nature of noble life and warfare.
Wales, with its rugged terrain and tumultuous history of conflict, boasts the highest concentration of castles per square mile in the world. The Welsh castles, especially those built or reinforced by Edward I in his campaigns to subdue the principality, stand as masterpieces of medieval military architecture. Castles such as Caernarfon and Harlech are among the best-preserved, but equally fascinating are the ruins that dot the landscape—silent witnesses to the relentless march of time and history. These ruins, like Raglan Castle with its picturesque decay, or the remote beauty of Dolbadarn, offer a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into the medieval past.
The inclusion of castle ruins in the narrative of England and Wales's castellated heritage adds a poignant layer, reminding us of the transience of power and the inevitable decay of even the mightiest fortifications. Today, these castles and their ruins serve not only as key historical sites and tourist attractions but also as focal points for archaeological study and conservation efforts. They continue to captivate the imagination, drawing visitors from around the world to walk their ancient halls and ramparts, and to ponder the lives of those who once called these castles home.