About
Chirk Castle, a magnificent medieval fortress near Wrexham in North Wales, offers a perfect blend of history, stunning landscapes, and dog-friendly amenities. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a great day out with your furry friend, Chirk Castle has something for everyone. Here’s all you need to know about visiting Chirk Castle with your dog.
Dog Access and Rules
Chirk Castle is very welcoming. Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times to protect the wildlife. While dogs are not allowed inside the castle, they are welcome in the parkland.
Things To See & Do
Chirk Castle was built in 1295 by Roger Mortimer and has a rich history spanning over 700 years. It has been continuously inhabited, showcasing its transformation from a medieval stronghold to a comfortable family home. The castle is known for its impressive architecture, beautiful gardens, and extensive parkland, offering a glimpse into various historical periods.
The estate is located within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. It is an important habitat for rare invertebrates, bats, fungi, and wild flowers.
There are three main marked trails across the 480-acre Chirk Castle estate, so there are great options for dog walks at any time of the year.
- The Woodland Walk is a marked (blue markers) circular path through woodland, parkland, and fields that will take 45-60 minutes to complete.
- The Old Golf trail (red markers) takes 30-45 minutes and takes you through fields and parkland to the hill behind the castle, where you can get the best view of Chirk Castle’s landscape.
- The Offa’s Dyke walk (orange markers) takes you just off the Chirk estate. It’s a permissive path, open from April to September. Look out for sections of the 8th-century Scheduled Ancient Monument of Offa’s Dyke and the site of part of the 1165 battle of Crogen, as well as the ancient Oak at the Gates of the Dead. Follow the orange markers.
Access and Facilities
Getting to Chirk Castle is straightforward, well-signposted and located just off the A5. Ample parking is available on-site for a small fee, free for National Trust members. Chirk railway station is the nearest train station, about 1.5 miles from the castle. You can take a taxi from the station or enjoy a pleasant walk to the castle.
The cafe offers a selection of snacks, meals, and drinks and has outdoor seating areas where dogs are welcome.
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