Chirk Castle and Garden - National Trust

Outside, wrap up warm for a family stroll through the gardens and estate, with breathtaking views across Shropshire and Cheshire and kids will love the Woodland Animal Spotter Trail, keeping an eye out for squirrels, hedgehogs, and hares.

Don’t miss the Reverse Grotto for a chance to meet Father Christmas and give back by donating to the Oswestry and Borders foodbank (Saturdays and Sundays, 10.30am-3.30pm, 29 November-21 December).

About Chirk Castle and Garden

It has been the family home of the Myddeltons for over 400 years! You can explore medieval towers and dungeons and discover 17th and 18th-century rooms, including the historic laundry room! And a curious fact - it's the only castle of its time still inhabited today! It wasn't initially meant to be a family home and was indeed a magnificent fortress with the most up-to-date defences at the time. With round drum towers where archers would aim their arrows, to towers with 5-metre thick walls designed to be impenetrable. Towers, two-level dungeons and murder holes - Chirk Castle and Garden has it all.

It even became a regular visit for special events and parties for royalty, statesmen and the glitterati during the 20th century.

Things To Do At Chirk Castle and Garden

There's so much to do and see at this over 700-year-old castle. Not forgetting the grounds! Pack your visit with activities like discovering the family rooms and dungeons and gazing at the huge collection of arts, furniture and more treasures than you could imagine. From a 35ft long scroll to a Japanese chest from 1600. There's also a very precious copy of the Y Beibl Bach, a Welsh edition of the bible.

With 480 acres of parkland to explore, you're sure to find a good picnic spot for you and your family. Discover ancient trees, a stone cottage, wildflower meadows and plenty of walking trails! There's plenty of space for the little ones to run around and play at Chirk Castle and Garden. You can even spot sheep and wild ponies in the fields.

During the cold seasons, you'll still have plenty to discover and explore on the 480-acre estate. Whether you embark on a gentle wander through the parkland or wintry walks through the gardens. Offering spectacular views of a variety of ancient veteran trees. Not forgetting 2 acres of ethereal snowdrops, evergreen trees and a topiary that glitters when the frost hits its leaves. You'll also find a glimmer of yellow Mahonia flowers and fragrant hamamelis in all sorts of bold colours. Red, orange and yellow!

Indulge your senses in the formal garden. Did you know the first formal garden was created by Sir Thomas Myddelton II in the 17th century? He included French influences, too. Discover the curved border with three seasonal aspects — filled with shrubs, herbaceous borders, and other plant life dotted with seasonal colours. There's also the Ha-Ha areas, where you can gaze out to the sweeping parkland without obstructed views.

Families with kids are always welcome at Chirk Castle and Garden. The outdoor play area, next to the cafe, at Home Farm is great to keep little ones entertained. It's the perfect place to run off some energy, or pause for a rest before tackling the hill up to the castle. With kid-friendly seasonal events taking place throughout the year, you'll have fun whenever you visit.

Don't forget to stop by the play area near Home Farm, where you'll find an agility trail, climbing web and spinners!

Food & Drink

All that exploring can make you tired! So, why not replenish your energy at the cafe in the castle's historic kitchens? You can nibble on an array of hot and cold meals and sip on some warming and refreshing drinks.

Accessibility

- Unfortunately, there is no wheelchair or step-free access to the inside of the castle.

- Service/guide dogs are welcome.

- A shuttle bus also helps visitors up to the castle.

Why We Recommend Chirk Castle and Garden

- The award-winning gardens are beautifully manicured and well worth a visit! 

- There are plenty of stunning views to see from the castle!

- You can explore the inside of the castle, from its medieval towers and dungeons to the lavish interiors of the 17th and 18th-century rooms!