• Defense Against Welsh Resistance

Throughout the Middle Ages, Skenfrith Castle was on the frontline of conflicts between English rulers and Welsh princes. The castle changed hands several times during Welsh uprisings, including those led by notable figures such as Llywelyn the Great and Owain Glyndŵr.Its fortifications were tested repeatedly in these struggles.

• The Marcher Lords

The castle was controlled by the Marcher Lords — powerful noblemen granted semi-autonomous authority over the Welsh Marches by the English Crown. These lords had significant military and administrative power, often acting independently to maintain order.Skenfrith Castle was a symbol of their authority and a base from which they governed their territories.

 Later History and Decline

• Tudor and Stuart Periods

By the late medieval period, the political landscape changed as the English Crown consolidated more direct control over Wales. The role of Marcher Lords diminished, and many castles, including Skenfrith, lost military importance.During the Tudor and Stuart eras, the castle was maintained as a residence but gradually fell into disrepair as military needs waned.

• English Civil War

Skenfrith Castle briefly regained military significance during the English Civil War (1642–1651). It was held by Royalist forces but eventually surrendered to Parliamentarian troops.After the war, the castle was slighted (deliberately damaged) to prevent future military use, accelerating its decline into ruin. shutdown123