Castle Bank: A Glimpse Into Oswestry’s Past

Castle Bank is all that remains of Oswestry’s once‑impressive medieval castle, a key stronghold in the Norman defences along the Welsh border. Today, visitors can climb to the top of the grassy motte for spectacular views across the town and surrounding countryside.

The castle was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, built by Rainald, Sheriff of Shropshire. Over the centuries it passed through many hands, including notable figures such as Alan fitz Flaad, William FitzAlan and Madog ap Maredudd, Prince of Powys. Frequent conflict between the English and Welsh meant the fortress was attacked and rebuilt several times.

By the 13th century, the castle’s walls extended to enclose the town—an echo still found in local street names like Bailey Street and Bailey Head. It also hosted a parliament of Richard II in 1398. Despite the later addition of a stone town wall, the town suffered repeated destruction through the Middle Ages.

During the Civil War, the castle was held by Royalist forces until it was captured by Cromwell’s army in 1644 and largely dismantled by 1650. Only the motte and a few surviving ruins remain today. The Beatrice Gate pillars, once part of the town’s entrance, now mark the approach to the mound.

The motte rises about 30 feet, and the remaining ruins—thought to date from the 13th century—are Grade II listed. An inventory from 1398 describes a keep with three chambers, a hall, a chapel dedicated to St Nicholas, and various service rooms.

In the late 19th century, the site was restored and landscaped to create the public park visitors enjoy today. Access is via a set of steep steps, rewarding you with a peaceful green space rich in history.