VISIT  GOODRICH  CASTLE  WITH ENGLISH  HERITAGE  MEMBERSHIP

- Up to 6 Kids go free

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TICKETS & PRICES

Adults: £8.60
Children 5-17 Years: £5.00
Families (2 adults, up to 3 Children): £22.20
Families (1 adult, up to 3 Children): £13.60

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Quick Navigation

  1. Visiting Goodrich Castle
  2. History of Goodrich Castle
  3. Goodrich Castle Images
  4. Goodrich Castle Occupants
  5. Goodrich Castle Q&A & Facts
  6. Goodrich Castle Location / Directions
  7. Places too Stay
  8. Goodrich Castle Events
  9. Goodrich Castle Architecture
  10. What to do and see at Goodrich Castle
  11. Other Places to Visit near Goodrich Castle

Visiting Goodrich Castle

Goodrich Castle is a Norman fortress in Herefordshire, England. The stone keep, which still stands, was erected around the 12th century. By the 13th century, the castle included luxury accommodations and numerous defences. Today, the ruins can be explored by booking a ticket through English Heritage.

Parking

An on-site car park is located adjacent to the visitor centre. It is about 400 metres (437 yards) from Goodrich Castle’s entrance. Parking is free for English Heritage members, though a fee of £3 applies for non-members.

Access to the castle from the car park requires walking up several steps. In the case of recent wet weather, expect the trail leading to the castle to be muddy and slippery.

Visitors with limited mobility can avoid the steps by parking near the tearoom. Additionally, there are two disabled parking spots available closer to the castle. However, visitors must request access to these spaces within the visitor centre. Disabled spaces are subject to availability. 

Price

Prices for admission to Goodrich Castle vary depending on the season. Special events may require an additional charge for members and non-members.

Visitors who purchase tickets online in advance (up to 8:30 a.m. on the date of the visit) are eligible for a 10 percent advance-booking discount. Unfortunately, tickets purchased on-site are not eligible for these savings.

To find exact ticket prices for the date of your visit, view the Goodrich Castle calendar on the English Heritage website. Simply select the date of your visit to view the prices.

The table below provides several examples of Goodrich Castle ticket prices, based on the cost of tickets on a standard (regular occupancy) day in July (with the advance-booking discount included):

Goodrich Castle Ticket Prices - July - Standard

Ticket Type

With Donation

Without Donation

Members

Free

Free

Adult

£9.50

£8.60

Child (5-17 Years)

£5.50

£5.00

Student (with Valid ID)

£8.50

£7.70

Family (2 Adults, Up to 3 Children)

£24.50

£22.20

Family (1 Adult, Up to 3 Children)

£15.00

£13.60

Senior (65+)

£8.50

£7.70

 

Visitors from overseas can save on admission to Goodrich Castle (and other English Heritage sites) by purchasing an Overseas Visitors pass.

Opening

Goodrich Castle is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hours may vary depending on the season. Special events may also affect opening and closing tim

English Heritage issues the last tickets of the day no later than a half-an-hour prior to the posted closing time.

The castle is typically busiest between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., especially on weekends and bank holidays. For a quieter visit, it’s best to arrive before 11 a.m. or after 2 p.m. on a non-peak weekday.

Plan Day Visit

Location and Access

The physical address of Goodrich Castle is:

Castle Lane

Goodrich

Ross on Wye

Herefordshire

HR9 6HY

The castle is located about 8 kilometres (5 miles) south of Ross-on-Wye.

For satellite navigation, enter the following coordinates:

  • Latitude: 51.874633
  • Longitude: -2.61373

Access by vehicle is available using the following routes:

  • From the north (near Birmingham) - Follow the M5 and M50 to A449. Then, take A40 to Castle Lane.
  • From the south (near Bath) - Take the A46 to the M4. Exit to A449 and continue onto A40. Follow A40 to A4137. Continue onto B4229 to Castle Lane.
  • From the east (near Oxford) - Use the M50 to access the B4215. Take B4221 and then merge onto the M50. Take the A40 to Castle Lane.
  • From the west (near Merthyr Tydfil) - Take A654 to A40 before following the B4229 to Castle Lane.

Public bus access is available using H&H Coach. Service routes 34 and 411 (the latter of which runs on Wednesdays) bring guests about .8 kilometres (.5 miles) from the castle.

Know Before You Go

 

  • Visitors can enjoy refreshments and light snacks on-site. The Goodrich Castle tearoom offers several food options, including soups, bread, sandwiches, pastries, cakes, and hot drinks. A variety of selections are available to meet certain dietary requirements.

 

  • Picnics are welcomed and encouraged. Seating just outside of the tearoom is not intended for picnics, as it is for guests who’ve purchased food or drinks from the facility. However, Goodrich Castle features many spacious, grassy areas perfect for picnicking. Remember to clean up your mess before departing.

 

  • There are a variety of gifts and souvenirs available at the gift shop. Located in the visitor centre, the gift shop has several items available for purchase. Visitors can buy children’s toys and weapons, refreshments, jellies and jams, and themed gifts.

 

  • On-site accessible toilets are available. Male and female facilities and accessible toilets with baby-changing facilities are located within the castle grounds.

 

  • Dogs are permitted both indoors and outdoors. This rule is not limited to service animals. All dogs must remain on a lead, and visitors must clean up after their pets. Dog bowls are provided if needed.

 

  • Guests are not permitted to access the woods and fields around the castle. These properties are private and not owned by English Heritage.

 

  • Free audio tours are available. These are included in the price of admission. The tours include the history of Goodrich Castle, as well as the story of the famous siege, and additional interesting information. Visitors are not required to book audio tours in advance.

 

  • There is plenty of space for children to run and play. The large, open grassy areas are perfect for children to let out some of their energy. However, English Heritage does not permit ball games or kites on the Goodrich Castle site. During some school holidays, the family trail may be opened for visitor access. In addition, children may pick up a “Step Into Goodrich” pamphlet from the visitor centre.


  • Wheelchair access at Goodrich Castle is limited. The cafe and gift shop are accessible. Unfortunately, the castle itself is not wheelchair accessible or recommended for visitors with limited mobility. Access to the keep requires climbing a historic, steep spiral staircase, and the dry moat requires stair access. Unfortunately, no lifts are available.

 

  • Visitors may come across numerous on-site hazards. These may include narrow, dark, steep, or uneven steps, low walls, slippery surfaces, slopes, hills, and various areas of uneven ground. It’s important to remain mindful while exploring the site.

 

Goodrich Castle Events

English Heritage sometimes hosts events on the site of Goodrich Castle. Past events have included family-friendly activities, educational events, and holiday celebrations.

For more information on current and upcoming events, view the Goodrich Castle events page on the English Heritage website.

Goodrich Castle Tours

Those planning to visit Goodrich Castle have the option of purchasing a guided tour. These tours must be booked at least 30 days in advance, and require a minimum of 11 participants (up to a maximum of 30).

An eager and enthusiastic fan of Goodrich Castle guides participants through a 60-minute tour of the grounds. Visitors will learn about the castle’s history and evolution through the years, as well as information regarding its architecture. 

Places To Stay Nearby

The Hostelrie at Goodrich

0.5 km (0.3 mi) south

The Hostelrie at Goodrich is an 18th-century gothic-inspired structure located in the picturesque Wye Valley. Guests enjoy amenities, such as free on-site parking, free WiFi, and a bar and restaurant. Rooms boast natural wood furniture, a TV, and tea and coffee facilities. Each morning, a full English breakfast is cooked to order. Takeaway breakfasts are also available. The hotel is a two-minute drive or a seven-minute walk to Goodrich Castle using Castle Lane.

Book

Premier Inn Ross-on-Wye Hotel

9.7 km (6 mi) north

This Premier Inn facility is located just minutes away from the Ross-on-Wye city centre and is only a 10-minute drive from Goodrich Castle. The hotel offers free WiFi, on-site parking, and access to the on-site restaurant. Double, twin, family, and accessible rooms are available, each including a vanity and tea and coffee maker. The on-site Beefeater restaurant offers breakfast and dinner (at an additional charge — meal deals are available for purchase).

Book

Travelodge Gloucester

37.3 km (23.2 mi) east

Travelodge Gloucester is a pet-friendly budget hotel featuring air-conditioned rooms, an on-site restaurant and bar, and free WiFi. The hotel sits in a convenient location, near numerous shopping opportunities, attractions, and nightlife. Standard, family, and accessible rooms are available. This hotel is a convenient option for those on a budget, and is only a 35-minute drive from Goodrich Castle.

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History of Goodrich Castle 

Goodrich Castle is a 12th-century Norman fortress. The original structure consisted of timber and earth defences. In the 13th century, the castle was far more elaborate thanks to numerous additions and renovations. During the First Civil War, Goodrich Castle was part of a bloody siege that led to its slighting by parliamentarian forces.

Time Line

- 1101-1102 (Original Castle Construction)

Shortly after the Norman Conquest, Godric Mappestone erected a simple earth and timber fortification atop the sandstone foundation. Today, there are no signs of this original structure.

- 1148 (Building The Keep)

Richard “Strongbow” de Clare came into possession of Goodrich Castle after it was willed to him by his father, Gilbert. Richard began building the stone keep around this time.

- 1176 (Castle Reverts to the Crown)

Upon Richard’s death, he had no heirs that were of legal age to inherit his estate. As such, his properties, including Goodrich Castle, came under the control of the Crown.

- 1204 (Earl of Pembroke Takes Possession)

King John gifted Goodrich Castle to William Marshall, who began adding to the fort’s defences. Mural towers and a stone curtain wall (to replace the wooden palisade) were erected on the site.

- 1245 (Williams Daughters Inherit the Castle)

William Marshall’s sons all died under tragic circumstances. As such, the castle was granted to his daughters, and later, his grandchildren, including Joan Marshall.

- 1247 (Castle Passes to Joan de Valence)

Countess Joan married noble Frenchman, William de Valence. The surviving structures of Goodrich Castle are contributed to de Valence.

- 1296 (William de Valence Dies)

After William de Valence’s passing, Joan de Valence maintained ownership of the fortification. During this time, she spent much time at the castle, along with her son and daughter-in-law.

- 1307 (Countess de Valence Dies)

Upon the death of Countess Joan, her son, Aymer de Valence, inherited the castle.

- 1317 (de Valence’s Financial Ruin)

Unfortunately for Aymer de Valence, his ownership of Goodrich Castle wouldn’t last long. He was imprisoned after it was believed that he had outstanding debts. A ransom was issued, which he paid, ultimately leading to his financial ruin.

- 1325 (Castle Surrender)

Upon Aymer de Valence’s death, Goodrich Castle passed into the hands of his niece, Elizabeth Comyn. Because she was a minor at the time, the castle once again reverted to the Crown. During this time, Edward II’s favourite, Hugh Despenser, imprisoned Comyn and forced her to give up the castle.

- 1326 (The Talbots)

Elizabeth Comyn was released and went on to marry Richard Talbot. As a result, the 2nd Lord Talbot took the castle back for Elizabeth. The Despensers were removed from power shortly thereafter. The Talbot descendants would retain possession of the castle for over 100 years.

- 1404-1405 (Welsh Invasion)

After a Welsh invasion, the 5th Lord Talbot successfully defended Goodrich Castle.

- 15th Century (Renovations)

The Talbot family completed numerous renovations at Goodrich Castle, including improving the accommodations, adding a gallery, and upgrading the chapel.

- 1460 (Castle Forfeiture)

After the death of John Talbot during the Wars of the Roses, the Talbot family surrendered Goodrich Castle. However, 25 years later, the 4th Earl of Shrewsbury would take back possession of Goodrich Castle and various other lands.

- 1616 (The Greys)

After passing to the Grey family, they rented the castle out to numerous tenants over the years.

- 1632 (Additional Renovations)

Richard Tyler served as Goodrich Castle’s constable. He occupied the site with his family. During his time as constable, he completed numerous renovations to the castle.

- 1643-1645 (First Civil War)

The English Civil War led Goodrich Castle to become the centerpoint in a battle for Herefordshire. Parliamentarian forces first occupied the castle. However, a Royalist garrison would lay siege to the site, ultimately taking over by 1644. 

- 1646 (Parliamentarian Control)

Parliament was unwilling to give up that easily. A surprise attack was launched with little results. However, Colonel John Birch was determined, so he returned months later and led a more vicious attack. Ultimately, the Royalists surrendered, though Goodrich Castle lay in ruins.

- 1648 (Castle Slighting)

After Richard Tyler went back to live at Goodrich Castle, Parliament ordered the slighting to prevent further occupation. The battlements were completely dismantled and the main defences were destroyed. Until 1755, the castles remained under the control of the Earls of Kent.

- 1755 (Tourist Attraction)

After being sold to Admiral Thomas Griffin, Goodrich Castle became a tourist attraction. Its once hardened exterior grew more picturesque by 1873, thanks to the overgrowth of wildflowers and other plant life.

- 1920s (Castle Repairs)

By the early 20th century, Goodrich Castle’s structural integrity was greatly compromised. After coming under the management of the Office of Works, numerous repairs were completed. Much of the overgrowth was removed, the stonework was reinforced, and multiple sections of the structure were rebuilt. Access was greatly improved for tourists.

- 1984 to Present (English Heritage)

In 1984, English Heritage began conserving the site. Today, the castle remains under the management of the organisation and is open to the public for viewing.

Goodrich Castle Occupants

  • 1101-1102: Godric of Mappestone erected the first structure on the site. This is where the castle received its name (with “Godric” becoming “Goodrich”).
  • 1138: Gilbert de Clare received the castle from King Stephen.
  • 1148: Richard de Clare inherited the castle from his father, Gilbert.
  • 1204: William Marshall, Earl of Pembroke, took possession of the castle after it was granted to him by King John. His sons would go on to take ownership of the castle in succession. Tragically, all were dead by 1245, leading Marshall’s female descendants to take over.
  • 1247: Countess Joan, William Marshall’s granddaughter, became heir to the castle. Upon her marriage to William de Valence, Goodrich Castle became his property. After de Valence’s death, however, she took ownership, often staying on the castle grounds with her son and his wife.
  • 1307: Goodrich Castle passed into the hands of Aymer de Valence, Countess Joan’s son. Aymer de Valence lived on the castle grounds with his wife.
  • 1325: Upon Aymer de Valence’s untimely death, the castle was granted to his niece, Elizabeth Comyn. However, she forfeited the castle after being held prisoner by Hugh Despenser.
  • 1326: Richard Talbot married Elizabeth Comyn and took the castle back. The castle would remain under the Talbots, later the Earls of Shrewsbury, for many years.
  • 1404-1405: Gilbert, 5th Lord Talbot, occupied the castle and protected it from a Welsh attack.
  • 1485: The 4th Earl took back the castle after it was again forfeited. 
  • 1575: After marrying Bess of Hardwick, George’s son married Bess of Hardwick’s daughter, Mary, and the two moved into Goodrich Castle. They had a daughter, Elizabeth, who married Henry Grey.
  • 1616: Upon Gilbert’s death, the castle was willed to Elizabeth. As she was married, her husband, Henry Grey, took ownership of the castle. The Grey family would rent the castle out to numerous tenants over the years.
  • 1632: Richard Tyler lived at Goodrich with his family and enhanced the structure during his stay. However, after the English Civil War began, Parliamentarian forces took control of the castle.
  • 1643-1644: Henry Lingen ordered a siege which led to the occupation of the Royalists at Goodrich Castle.
  • 1646: The Royalists surrendered and Parliament garrisoned Goodrich Castle once again. Despite the great damage, Richard Tyler moved back in before the castle was slighted. From this point on, the castle was no longer used as a residence, though it would remain in possession of the Earls of Kent for over a century.



Goodrich Castle Architecture

General Layout

Although Goodrich Castle originally began as a simple earth and timber fortification, it became a grand structure by the 13th century. William de Valence, an expert castle builder, added to the castle’s overall aesthetic with the use of finely-dressed square red sandstone.

Original Layout

Goodrich Castle is surrounded by picturesque countryside and offers spectacular views of the River Wye.

The mediaeval castle included a keep, gatehouse, and curtain wall. It was accessed via a wooded path and surrounded by a significant dry moat. Ramparts and a barbican were positioned just outside of the moat. It featured a concentric design, much like the castles in North Wales at the time.

A reception area was built into the barbican wall, complete with a stone bench. 

Gatehouse

The barbican included an angular walkway leading to a drawbridge. The drawbridge would bring visitors into the gatehouse before accessing the castle grounds. Goodrich Castle’s gatehouse included a portcullis and murder holes as extra defence against potential invaders. A guard chamber was situated just to the right, along with a small garderobe.

Inner Ward

After passing through the gatehouse, guests would come into the Inner Ward. Various domestic buildings line these grounds, including a chapel, great hall, kitchen, solar, and a prison, or dungeon. There was a wall walk along the eastern wall.

Above the chapel were various rooms that went above the gatehouse. From here, guards could drop missiles from the murder holes onto the heads of enemies.

Towers

Goodrich Castle boasted a large perimeter made up of the gatehouse and three large mural towers. The northwestern tower included luxurious living quarters for the guards who occupied and defended the castle grounds.

Keep

The 12th century stone castle keep was the focal point of Goodrich Castle, and acted as the primary living quarters for the Lord. It was a tall, square structure, relatively simple for its time. The keep sat at the back of the castle site, as it was used as the last line of defence. The top of the keep included panoramic views of the entire castle grounds and the surrounding countryside.

Modern Layout

The only surviving structure from the 1100s is the castle keep. After the Parliamentarian ordered the castle’s slighting, most of it was destroyed. It lay in a ruinous state for many years, before undergoing various repairs and restorations in the 20th century.

Today, visitors can still see the original gap for the portcullis in the keep. The barbican now contains a gift shop. Within the courtyard, the cannon fired (Roaring Meg) during the Civil War siege is on display.

Images of Goodrich Castle

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Images Supplied and licensed from Shutterstock Standard Licence Package

What Can I See During Visit to Goodrich Castle?

 

  • See what it was like inside a mediaeval prison cell. In the tower, visitors can enter a dark, narrow doorway leading to the castle prison. The room featured vaulted ceilings and received little natural light. It was locked from the outside with a drawbar. Climb into the cell to see what it would feel like as a prisoner in Goodrich Castle.

 

  • View the mediaeval garderobe (or toilet). Long ago, a stone chute served as the castle toilet — and it was considered a luxury accommodation! All occupants of the castle used this single latrine. Those using the loo would squat or sit over a stone seat, before releasing their waste down a chute into an outdoor sewage pool.

 

  • Explore the castle exhibit. The visitor centre boasts an impressive amount of information detailing the history and occupants of Goodrich Castle. Visitors can see artefacts, including items recovered from the deep well, dating back to the great siege during the First Civil War.


  • Observe the infamous “Roaring Meg.” The cannon that ultimately led the Royalists to give up the castle to Parliamentarian forces is on display in the castle courtyard. This massive canon could shoot missiles around 85 kilograms (187 pounds)!

 

  • Take in the incredible views. A spiral staircase takes you to the top of the keep, where you can observe magnificent views of the English countryside, including the picturesque River Wye and the scenic Wye Valley. See if you can spot different types of wildlife, including bats and various bird species.

 

  • Listen to the free audio guide. Before entering the castle, stop in the visitor centre to grab an audio tour phone. This phone allows you to listen to stories as you explore the castle site. You’ll hear descriptions of the castle grounds and learn about its inhabitants and long history, including the bloody siege of the First Civil War.

 

  • Play “As I Was Saying.” Families will enjoy the free family game, available in the visitor centre. This interactive activity allows visitors to learn more about castle occupants and decide how they may have answered specific questions. You can use replies in the game (or come up with your own).



Goodrich Castle Facts

 

  1. Visitors say a ghostly couple haunts Goodrich Castle. As the story goes, Alice, the niece of a Parliamentarian soldier, was in love with a Royalist. The two found themselves at Goodrich during the great siege. To save their love, they escaped on horseback. Unfortunately, flooding caused the River Wye to swell. As they attempted to cross, they drowned. It’s said they can still be seen on rainy nights, along with their ghostly mare.
  2. A spirit wanders in the dungeon. The young couple aren’t the only paranormal sightings at Goodrich Castle. Rumour has it that an Irishman was held prisoner in the dungeon, and during an escape attempt, he died. It’s said that his spirit still wanders the keep, appearing as a strange white mist.
  3. Many of Goodrich Castle’s owners suffered untimely deaths. William Marshall’s sons would become Lords of Goodrich Castle. However, all of them suffered tragic fates after receiving ownership. Interestingly, they weren’t the only ones — multiple Lords succeeding the Marshall’s also suffered early deaths, with none living to be older than 55. The youngest death was that of John Montchesney, who was just over 13-years-old.
  4. Over 100 horses were killed during the First Civil War siege of Goodrich Castle. When the Royalists ran out of provisions, they decided they needed to conserve as much of their ammunition as possible. As such, they resorted to throwing stones at Parliamentarian forces. Soldiers attempted to leave the castle for supplies numerous times, leading to all of their horses being shot with each subsequent attempt.

Goodrich Castle Q&A

Who Lived in Goodrich Castle?

Many people lived in Goodrich Castle over its centuries-long history. Occupants included the de Clare family, the Marshalls, William de Valence and his wife, Countess Joan de Valence, Aymer de Valence, Hugh Despenser, Elizabeth Comyn, and the Talbot family (who occupied the castle for many years).

How Old is Goodrich Castle?

Goodrich Castle is over 900-years-old. Godric of Mappestone (where the castle received its name) erected the first castle on the site around 1101. By the 13th century, Goodrich Castle was considered a fine structure, thanks to the work of William de Valence.

Did Goodrich Castle Have a Moat?

Goodrich Castle has a dry, rock-dug moat. This moat was situated on the south and east sides of the castle and acted as a form of defence. Long ago, the moat was crossed via a drawbridge and defended by a barbican. Today, the moat is a grassy ditch and may be explored by visitors.

Is Goodrich Castle Worth a Visit?

Goodrich Castle is absolutely worth a visit. The site has a history of over 900 years, so there is plenty to see and do. Take a tour of the site or listen to the free audio tour, view the historic architecture, and learn more about the great siege that occurred on its grounds.

Location of Goodrich Castle

Goodrich is a tiny village in the county of Herefordshire, England. The small town is quaint and quiet, a prime example of a rural village in the English countryside. It sits near the River Wye and boasts a population of nearly 600 residents.

Its small residency and rural location have led to some economic difficulties for the town. There are no local stores and no post office. However, the village does maintain a town hall, the St. Giles Church (the final resting place of the Countess of Salisbury), and tennis and cricket club.

Other Places To Visit Near Goodrich Castle

St. Mary’s Church, Kempley

Located in Gloucestershire, St. Mary’s Church, Kempley is a Norman church featuring the oldest wooden roof in England. However, that’s not what draws the crowds — it’s the exquisite, well-preserved, 900-year-old paintings inside.

St. Briavels Castle

St Briavels is a Norman castle constructed between 1075 and 1129. During his reign, Edward I added a massive gatehouse, which still elicits feelings of amazement from modern-day visitors. At one point, the castle served as England’s primary manufacturing centre for arrows.

Rotherwas Chapel

Rotherwas Chapel is a relatively plain mediaeval family chapel owned by the Bodenham family in 1483. The chapel boasts a large tower and its original wooden roof (dating from the Elizabethan period). The most awe-inspiring site, however, is the exquisite Victorian interior, including elegant furnishings.

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