Goodrich Castle
"This
splendid fortress occupies a commanding position on the
top of a red sandstone hill, forming a small promontory
in the S.E. corner of the county, on the border of
Monmouthshire, and, environed with woods, has a line
appearance with the Wye sweeping along its base. It was founded in
very early days, after an incursion of the Welsh hordes, in order to protect
the ferry below it, which formed part of the chief thoroughfare between
England and the marches of Wales. We find the possession of this castle by
William the Marshall, Earl of Pembroke, confirmed by King John in 1203, the
king being strenuously supported by him against the rebellious barons. He
became, however, at the death of John, the mainstay of the kingdom, and was
appointed governor of the young Henry III.; being chosen Protector of the
realm, he delivered it from the presence of a foreign army, defeating the French
with great loss at Lincoln, and thus putting an end to the Civil War."
Extract from "The Castles of England: Their Story and Structure" (Archive)
Goodrich Castle is a English Heritage property with free entry for English Heritage members.
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