Snodhill Castle, Snodhill, Herefordshire

Snodhill Castle, nestled in Herefordshire’s Golden Valley, stands as a testament to the region’s rich medieval heritage

Constructed around 1068 by William Fitz Osbern, 1st Earl of Hereford, the castle was part of a strategic network of fortifications established to consolidate Norman control along the Welsh Marches.  Perched atop a spur approximately 200 feet above the valley floor, the castle offers commanding views of the surrounding landscape, underscoring its defensive significance.    

Initially granted to Hugh l’Asne, the castle transitioned to the de Chandos family through marriage in 1101. The de Chandos lineage maintained stewardship for over three centuries, during which time the castle witnessed numerous historical events, including the Welsh revolts led by Owain Glyndŵr in the early 15th century. Despite regional unrest, Snodhill Castle remained resilient, attributed to strategic fortifications ordered by Sir John de Chandos under King Henry IV’s directive.  

Architecturally, Snodhill Castle is notable for its motte-and-bailey design, featuring a distinctive multi-sided stone keep—a rarity among Norman fortifications. The castle’s expansive ten-acre site encompasses remnants of curtain walls, towers, and ancillary structures, reflecting its evolution over centuries.  

Following periods of decline and partial demolition during the English Civil War, the castle fell into obscurity. However, recent conservation efforts spearheaded by the Snodhill Castle Preservation Trust have revitalized interest in this historic site. Ongoing archaeological excavations continue to unearth insights into its storied past, ensuring that Snodhill Castle remains a focal point of cultural and historical significance in Herefordshire.

Snodhill Castle can be visited along the Golden Valley Pilgrim Way.

For more information visit the Snodhill Castle Trust page.