Chepstow Attractions Cas-gwent

Chepstow (pop. 9,000) is picturesquely situated on the River Wye 3mi/5km above its mouth. Its situation at the most important entrance to Wales from England gave it great significance for centuries, and a large castle was built on a high crag above the town, called Striguil by the Normans. The well-retained castle dates mainly from the time of Edward I, with the keep having been built by the Normans between 1120 and 1230. The walnut tree in the courtyard is said to be more than 600 years old. The medieval town wall still partly encloses the narrow streets of the old town center. The 14th century town gate in Bridge Street now houses a museum devoted to local history and artists from the Wye Valley.