The castle was built on the site of a pre-existing Saxon fortress to defend the town against Welsh border incursions.
Laura's Tower, the circular stone structure on the motte, was constructed in 1790 as a summer house by the architect Thomas Telford.
The castle grounds contain a fragment of the town's original defensive wall, which once enclosed the entire medieval settlement.
During the Civil War, the castle was held by Royalist forces before falling to Parliamentarian troops in 1645.
The Shropshire Regimental Museum collection includes artifacts from the King’s Shropshire Light Infantry and the Queen’s Dragoon Guards.
Shrewsbury Castle is a red sandstone fortification founded by Roger de Montgomery around 1070 following the Norman Conquest. The site currently houses the Shropshire Regimental Museum, which displays a collection of uniforms, weapons, and medals spanning three centuries of military history. Visitors can access the Laura's Tower viewpoint, situated on the remains of the original Norman motte, offering panoramic views over the town and the River Severn. Much of the current stone structure dates to a significant 13th-century rebuilding by King Edward I. The site has functioned as a royal stronghold, a private residence, and a government office throughout its millennium of use. It stands directly adjacent to the Shrewsbury railway station.
The view from the base of the motte looking up at Laura's Tower against the sky.
Walk up to the top of Laura’s Tower for the most unobstructed views of the town’s distinctive loop in the River Severn.
Check for temporary event closures before visiting, as the grounds are occasionally booked for private functions.
Do not expect a sprawling medieval interior, as much of the original castle was converted into a private residence in the late 18th century.
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays; typically seasonal, often operating from mid-spring through autumn.
