MG019

Domen Castell Mound and Bailey Castle  

 

Designated  

Powys  

Welshpool  

323017  

307411  

Defence  

Motte and Bailey  

Medieval  

The following provides a general description of the scheduled monument. Domen Castell comprises the earthworks of a medieval motte and bailey castle set on low, naturally boggy ground to the E of the later medieval planned borough of Welshpool. The earthworks were adapted in the early 19th century to form the Victoria Crown Bowling Green. The remains of the medieval castle consist of a steep-sided artificial mound or motte approximately 6m high, formerly supporting a timber tower or palisade. Adjacent and to the N is the raised, oval bailey enclosure. This is also likely to have been surrounded by a wooden palisade and would have contained accommodation, workshops and other structures required by the medieval garrison or household. Both motte and bailey were defended by a substantial ditch which survives on three sides of the bailey but has been backfilled towards the former railway sidings to the W and S. The interior of the bailey now contains the bowling green. It is surrounded by a raised, flat-topped ornamental walkway which possibly incorporates the remains of the medieval bailey rampart. This is bordered by a graduated planting scheme of conifers and limes, accessed via three sets of symmetrically positioned steps adjacent to and opposite the present picturesque brick clubhouse and gate passage. These date from the mid to later 19th century but rest awkwardly on the rough masonry walling of a subterranean basement, which appears to belong to an earlier structure on the site. There is some evidence that the motte was also landscaped at this time and a pavilion constructed on the summit, accessed by steps or a spiral path, although these cannot presently be traced. The whole site is surrounded by a contemporary masonry boundary wall with original ornamental wrought iron gates in situ between substantial piers to the NW. The monument is of national importance for its potential to enhance our knowledge of medieval earth and timber fortifications and contemporary domestic practices. As a strong contender for the castle of Cadwgan ap Bleddyn of Powys recorded by the Brut y Tywysogion in 1111, it is of great archaeological and historical importance as potentially the first documented native Welsh castle. The later crown bowling green, the clubhouse and associated landscaping and planting represent one of the earliest and most complete examples of its type in Wales. The scheduled area comprises the remains described above and an area around them within which related remains might be expected to survive.