The Three Castles Walk links the Trilateral Castles, a triangle of Norman castles built by Hugh de Burgh, to maintain a grip and a line of defence along the turbulent Welsh Marches. Walking through the quiet Welsh border countryside of sheep pastures and patchwork fields, it is hard to imagine the peaceful countryside as the backdrop of fierce medieval conflicts.
You will walk old monk's path, along quiet riverbanks and an energetic ascent over Graig Syfyrddin descending to the sleepy little village of Grosmont with its castle, fine church, old market hall and narrow main street, scene of dramatic encounters between Henry III and Llewellyn’s fierce Welshmen in 1233.
From Grosmont, you follow the trail through the Monnow valley to the tiny hamlet of Skenfrith on the meandering river Monnow. Time appears to have stood still, as you find yourself amongst the picturesque rows of cottages around Skenfrith Castle and its gem of 13th century church and wooden belfry.
Your walk then takes you to White Castle (Castell Gwyn), which remains well preserved within the fortifications and moat encompassing. The castle looms over the peaceful, surrounding farmland, with views across to the Black Mountains, the Skirrid (Ysgyryd Fawr) and the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog).
