On the way home from Caerphilly castle I decided to visit Chepstow castle too.
Chepstow Castle
Chepstow castle is another large Welsh castle, dating back to 1067 AD.
This time the car park was right next to the castle and Blue Badge holders get free parking.

I drove my wheelchair up a reasonable slope to the gate house. Again wheelchair users and their companions get free entry (come on England, it’s time to learn some lessons from our Welsh neighbours).
We had a quick chat with the man at the entry kiosk. He explained the castle was pretty accessible, but to watch out for a steep slope about half way up. He was sure that my wheelchair would have no problem with it through.
The path in front of me already looked pretty steep, so I wondered exactly what he meant.
My wheelchair easily made it up the first slope, I wasn’t concerned at all. Then as I turned a corner I understood, this next part looked dodgy!
I chatted with my P.A. and we decided it was worth a go, I’m not one to turn down a challenge.
Slightly nervous I got my chair in position and jus went for it!
There was no chance of turning around once I was on the slope, the chair would definitely have tipped.

Safely arriving at the top, I turned to see the spectacular view of the river Wye and the bridge spanning it.
There wasn’t that much to do once we reached the top, so as I was getting cold again, I decided to head back down. Luckily going down was far easier, and safer.
We explored some more of the ruins. Lots of cobblestones and a couple of narrow archways I didn’t fancy getting stuck in. Interesting none the less.
I then found a sunny spot and relaxed for a bit, reclining the chair and resting before the drive home.
I liked Chepstow castle, but it’s more of a ruined castle than Caerphilly. The castle also isn’t that accessible. The slopes are step and there are quite a few bumpy areas.
Unless you have a powerful wheelchair, or a strong companion to help, I wouldn’t advise it for anyone with mobility problems, unless you decide to stay near the bottom.
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