A stark symbol of power, the construction of Chirk Castle began around 1295 during the reign of the conquering Edward I in order to subdue the last princes of Wales. Built on an outcrop above the meeting point of the Rivers Dee and Ceiriog, the castle, with its imposing silhouette, was a brooding statement of English intent in these disputed lands.
Chirk Castle was purchased by grocer, sugar trader and privateer Sir Thomas Myddelton in 1595, and was inherited through the Myddelton family line. With over 700 years of history, and as the last castle from this period still lived in today, Chirk Castle has lavish interiors and a beautiful and eclectic collection. The state rooms include a 17th-century Long Gallery, grand 18th-century saloon with rich tapestries, servants’ hall, and the restored East Range, containing the library and 1920s style Bow Room showing off Chirk Castle’s connections to high society.
The award-winning gardens cover 5.5 acres of manicured lawns, clipped yews, herbaceous borders, beautiful rose, shrub and rock gardens, and the wooded pleasure ground – perfect for a stroll. Don’t miss the terrace overlooking the 18th-century ha-ha at the bottom of the garden, with stunning views over the Cheshire and Salop plains.
Chirk Castle has over 480 acres of estate parkland for you to explore, with wild ponies, sheep, veteran trees and a beautifully preserved section of Offa’s Dyke. The estate is located within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has also been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest as an important habitat for rare invertebrates, bats, fungi, and wild flowers.
