Ludlow Castle’s history has captured imaginations for centuries – not least those of the staff who welcome visitors each day. Noriko, one of our Customer Service Assistants, is no exception – drawn here by her passion for history. We spoke to Noriko about what makes Ludlow Castle such a special place to work.
What brought you to work at Ludlow Castle, and how long have you been part of the team?
When I first visited England many years ago, I learned about the Battle of Hastings and I immediately fell in love with English history. At the same time, I visited one of the ruined castles and that was the start of my English castle obsession. I’ve been to most of the castles in England and Wales and Ludlow Castle is one of the best castles I’ve visited for both historical and architectural aspects. So the opportunity to work here came to me 9 years ago, I didn’t hesitate to grab it.
You have a keen interest in the Castle’s past – is there a particular figure or era you’re especially drawn to?
I used to work at Hampton Court Palace in London, so I’m extra fond of Tudor characters. Prince Arthur is not someone you first think of among the Tudors, but such a key person who unintentionally changed the course of history. And it’s such a sad story that he spent 9 years of his youth at this castle, learning to rule the country and looking forward to the life with his bride, but died so soon after he started the new life with Katherine (of Aragon).
Is there a historical story or detail about the Castle that you especially enjoy sharing with visitors?
Prince Arthur wrote a love letter to Katherine of Aragon in 1499 at Ludlow Castle. The letter may not have been written entirely in his own words but it was signed as ‘From our castle of Ludlow 5th of October 1499’. it’s tangible evidence that he was here on that day, writing a letter to his future wife.
What’s your favourite area of the Castle, and does it connect to any part of its history?
Standing in the middle of the Inner Bailey, you are literally surrounded by history. From the Norman to the Elizabethan, they all left their marks in the castle’s architecture. But the Round Chapel is deserves to be singled out. Its uniqueness is one thing. Only a handful of its kind are left in this country. Also it was built in the 12th century, that means all occupants in the castle since the chapel was built – including Roger Mortimer, Richard Plantagenet (Duke of York) and his family, Prince Edward (, Prince Arthur and Katherine of Aragon – have been in this space. This chapel witnessed everything that happened in this castle throughout its history.
If you could step back in time and witness one moment in the castle’s history, what would it be and why?
This is one of the biggest mysteries in English history and it made such a turbulence at the Tudor court later period. Yes, it’s Arthur and Katherine’s private life at Ludlow Castle! (Sorry but can’t resist).
If the history of the castle and its fascinating characters has captured your imagination, there’s plenty more to explore. Take a look at our collection of blogs, including deeper dives into the lives of Roger Mortimer, Prince Edward, Prince Arthur & Katherine of Aragon.