goodrich castle

Goodrich castle is located in Goodrich, Herefordshire it is believed that this castle was built by Normans when they invaded England. The windows and architecture supports this however the exact time the castle is built is still unknown. Firstly the keep was built by the Fitz Baderons, It is made of a light grey stone and it has a basic rectangular shape. In contrast the extra facilities added by the De valence family such as the kitchen, chapel and they extended the great hall. They are built of a more solid material with more modern shapes and extra detail and intricacy, (etc. arch windows, cross shaped arrow loops). The castle was thought to have been able to sustain up to 200 nobles and their servants. Until the 1640s, Goodrich Castle was in good condition and remained an exceptional example of medieval castle construction. During the civil war the parliamentarian members took over Herefordshire. This resulted in the opposing Royalists using the castle as a safe house and also so they could protect the king. The castle was under siege for months which meant that no one could get in. However, Colonel John Birch who was on the Parliamentarian side decided to launch a cannon filled with gunpowder into the castle. This was called Roaring Meg, it landed in the North tower destroying most of the castle. After this the Royalists surrendered, Colonel Birch then slighted (intentionally destroyed) other parts of the castle to prevent it from being used form the Parliamentarians.
The Castle was re-developed so it could be visited by the public. Handles, concrete steps and frames to support the structure have been added for safety. As well as a gift shop, toilets and informative plaques around the castle. Although the castle is a ruin the structure and main features remain stable. It is also easy to identify the rooms and uses of the castle during that time.