As far as castles go, Usk Castle is not overly impressive but it is far more accessible than many others you can visit. It is in private ownership but most areas are open to the public with the private gardens being open a few times a year too. What we liked about this place over other places visited was that it was totally old school (pre health and safety) where we were able to climb a few places that would normally be closed off at other fortifications. Some steps are uneven and steep but allows you to use your own mind to whether you feel comfortable clambering the ramparts and climbing the steps. The owners have been sympathetic with the structure and have created plenty of areas to sit, relax and enjoy the day within cared for gardens with a picnic or packed lunch, signposted the areas and marked off interesting notables. There is also a magnificent view over the town of Usk. The castle itself is of Norman structure but built, as many were, on top of earlier foundations, in this instance the Roman fort of Burrium. No notable mentions in history until it was recaptured by the de Clare family after it was captured by the Welsh. We were lucky in that the private gardens were open and the tithe barn served some liquid refreshments and the most wonderful freshly baked Welsh cakes, but unless there is an event like this there are no other areas of refreshments. There are toilets which are large and clean but on the far side of the main castle grounds. This is highly recommended as a visit due to the nature of accessibility as well as how beautiful the whole place is with the mix of wild habitats and manicured gardens.

Very charming place with nice style. Childs and members of Usk Castle have free enterance, adults pay 4£.

Beautiful hidden gem ready to be found and explored. Take your time, sit down and relax while enjoying stunning views of the town and countryside.

Beautiful hidden historic gem within the small town of Usk. People don't seem to think much of this castle since it's off the beaten track, but once inside it's beautiful and complete with colourful flowerbeds, animals to see and a tower you can climb (but not to the top!) There's even space for special occasions (such as weddings) and you can bring your dog. I honestly don't know why this castle is so underrated, as it contains features a Cadw castle would never have. Only thing that could improve it is implementing toilet facilities.

Had a great walk around the grounds. It was a day after they had a wedding so it was pretty quiet. Great to have a nose about and also take in the beautiful scenery. Some good walks nearby too.

Such cute ruins. A lot of options to take excellent photos or shoot a video or organise event. If nearby, certainly add it to your visits bucket list. There are plenty of walks and hikes around. As well as camping options. 12th century. Private, cash option Summer would be superb views but autumn leaves give some different feelings.

25/11/22: Usk Weekend Unlike most castles, Usk Castle has been a private family home since 1908. Before this, it has been a farmhouse, a dame school, home to a fern collector and now is open to the public to share it’s beautiful, historic setting. The Inner Ward of the castle is a large grassy area which has played host to many marquee receptions, picnics, plays, concerts and pageants. The Castle House itself is a family home and is not open to the public except in May each year (see opening times). The gardens immediately around the house and tithe barn are private, but open once a year as part of the National Open Gardens scheme. This English castle was built by a Frenchman on a previously fortified, possibly Roman, site which has prehistoric connections. It was the site of the start of the Battle of Usk in 1405 and has been a ruin since 1536. The boundary to Wales has moved many times. In 1955 Monmouthshire was added as an afterthought to Wales – ‘Wales and Monmouthshire’ was the official description. The debate continued until as late as 1972! Following the Norman conquest, Richard ‘Strongbow’ de Clare was allocated lands on the Welsh borders and permitted to build a castle. The Welsh rebellion started in 1400 by Owain Glyndwr was weakening by 1405 and the Battle of Pwll Melyn on the ridge beyond the castle was a further blow, signalling the end of the rebellion by 1406. Following the death of William Herbert, Earl of Pembroke, at the Battle of Edgecote in 1469, the castle reverted to the crown. It was later leased to Roger Williams of Llangybi. He was prosecuted for taking castle stone in 1536 in order to built Ty Mawr, his townhouse in Usk.

A nice walk around the ruins of this castle and the tower if you go back into the property. There was some work being done on the grounds while we were there in the old stable area. I hope they continue as this could be an even nicer attraction with some attention.

Great stopping point, small grounds but a pretty cool place for a fleeting visit if you're in the area.

It's ruins but has a bit of history you can read up on. The grounds do look well looked after

We had our wedding at Usk Castle back in September. It was exactly what we had been looking for - private, historical and beautiful. The team were always on hand to help if we needed, and were incredibly accommodating and supportive of our vision for our day. We had lots of different areas to use in different ways, it worked perfectly. And the cherry on the top was the glamping for our guests next door. Thanks so much for all of your help :)

I thought £4 was a bit steep. A lot of areas out of bounds or private. There were workman putting up a large marque leaving stuff about. Scaffolding poles cluttered the entrance and I tripped on some clamps and found the exit path blocked by a wheelbarrow. I think the site should be closed for safety while work is going on. The views were excellent though.

On a lovely sunny day a 4 star attraction for the views over the Usk valley and Usk itself. The castle was built in the 12th century by a Norman Frenchman and added to over the next 300 years. It fell into ruins half way through the 16th century. The castle is actually situated in somebody's garden. Entry is by donation and parking is free. Rest rooms are available in the castle grounds.

What a lovely gem. We found it on our way to a different destination £4/person with contactless entry

Lovely place to visit on a sunny day only £4 entry

Great for a wander around. Modestly priced for a saunter around. Nothing too exciting but a lovely little site none the less.

Beautiful place in Usk well worth visiting if you're around. Only £4 to see!

Hidden gem in a small town. Great camping and glamping too! Beautiful remains and well maintained. Can be hired for weddings etc.

Had a nice evening picnic with my family on a beautiful warm sunny evening. There were lovely children playing in the grounds from the campsite & they were nice to my 3 year old grandson who wanted to play too. Awesome views & quaint walks around the castle ruins, soaking up the history! Definitely going again & only a 15 minute drive from where we live! 👍

we recently visited this adorable castle whilst staying in Usk. Such a pretty setting and history, wonderful views.. really nice atmosphere.. well worth a visit

Great views and plenty of space for the kids to explore

Castle ruins on privately owned land, with access to the public on certain days a week. Donations of £4pp for the general public. Some of the movers and shakers of medieval, are directly linked to this castle