Wigmore Castle was one of the most important castles in the turbulent history of the Welsh Marches.
Founded in 1067 by William Fitz Osbern, Wigmore Castle was a major centre of power for over 500 years, and played host to several kings and queens. Held by the Mortimer family from about 1075 to 1425, it passed to the Crown and was later sold to Sir Thomas Harley in 1601.
The castle fell into ruin after being deliberately demolished during the Civil War.
A Norman planned town
The village of Wigmore was founded as a borough in the 11th century, and developed around a crossroads below the castle.
By the early 14th century it was a prosperous market town, with 102 tenants, a weekly market and an annual fair.
The town declined when the Mortimer family moved its administrative centre to Ludlow Castle.
Sources
Channer, J 2001. 'Wigmore Castle', SPAB News, 22, 4, 21–5
Remfry, P M 1995. 'The Mortimers of Wigmore, Part 1: Wigmore Castle 1066–1181', Malvern Link: SCS Publishing
Remfry, P M 2000. 'Wigmore Castle Tourist Guide', Malvern Link: SCS Publishing
Disclaimer
The text and pictures on this page are derived from the 'Heritage Unlocked' series of guidebooks published in 2004. We intend to review, update and enhance the content in the near future as part of the Portico project, whose objective is to provide information on the history, significance, research background and sources for all English Heritage properties.
