Highlights
- Four rock-cut terraces dating from the late 17th century
- The giant clipped yew tumps on the Top Terrace, planted in the 1720s
- The Orangery Terrace
- The Edwardian formal garden and fountain garden laid out by Violet Herbert
- The Clive Museum of objects from India
About Powis Castle and Garden
Powis Castle stands on a rocky ridge above Welshpool, with its garden falling away below it in a series of dramatic terraces. The terraces were cut into the rock between the 1670s and 1705, with the architect William Winde directing the work. In the 1720s the 2nd Marquess planted the row of yews on the Top Terrace that has since grown into vast clipped shapes.
The last major changes came in the early 20th century, when Violet Herbert, wife of the 4th Earl, moved the kitchen garden and laid out a formal garden at the foot of the terraces. The 4th Earl left the castle and garden to the National Trust on his death in 1952.
What to see
- The terraces: four surviving terraces, each about 150 metres long.
- Yews: the giant yew tumps and hedges, alongside darker Irish yews planted in the 19th century.
- The Orangery Terrace: its orangery was once open-fronted and was glazed in the early 20th century.
- The formal garden: Violet Herbert's Edwardian layout, with a fountain garden.
- The Clive Museum: objects brought back from India by the Clive family, open while the castle rooms are closed.
Planning your visit
Powis is signed from the A483 Newtown road; enter by the first drive gate on the right. The postcode misdirects satnavs, so follow the brown signs. Parking is free, with eight electric vehicle charging points, and there is a 1-mile walk up through the estate from Welshpool station and town. The Courtyard Café is open daily, and the Garden Coffee Shop in the formal garden opens from April to September. There are toilets, baby changing, a shop, plant shop and second-hand bookshop. Paths include gravel, cobbles and slopes, and terraces have unguarded drops, so children need supervising.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to visit Powis Castle and Garden?
While the castle rooms are closed, off-peak prices apply: £14.30 for adults and £7.20 for children with Gift Aid, or £13 and £6.50 without. When the castle is open, adult castle and garden tickets are £19.80 with Gift Aid. Under 5s and National Trust members go free, and parking is free.
Can I bring my dog to Powis Castle garden?
Dogs are welcome in the garden on short leads from 1 November to 28 February, and on a trial basis from 6 June to 31 October 2026, following the signposted route. Assistance dogs are welcome all year. Dogs cannot go on the wider estate, which is privately owned.
Is the castle open?
The castle rooms are temporarily closed for essential conservation. The garden and Clive Museum remain open.
Is Powis Castle garden accessible?
There is a step-free route around the garden, but it has steep slopes and unfenced terraces. There is no step-free access to the castle or the Clive Museum. Blue Badge parking, accessible toilets and wheelchairs are available.