With the whisper of tales and ghosts of the past, Dudley Castle stands as a monument from the 14th century. Constructed in the year 1327, the walls of the castle were embedded with trilobites; a type of fossil group of extinct marine species known to have eyes made of crystal. Today this ruined castle together with Wren’s Nest Hill have been declared as a Scheduled Ancient Monument and stand as the best surviving historical remains in Dudley.
Dudley Castle happens to be connected with some of the most dark and intriguing tales in the history of the United Kingdom. At one time this historical structure stood as a symbol of majesty and power but at other times it was even the abode of the imprisoned Mary, Queen of Scotts. At the time of the civil war the castle was garrisoned by royalist troops and besieged and was later surrendered. In the month of July in 1750 the whole courtyard including the castle went under flames and robbed the structure of much of its magnificence.
Through the decades the building was used for varying purposes, but it was not until 1937 that the Earl of Dudley opened the Dudley Zoological Society in the courtyard, showcasing a collection of exotic animals from across the globe. Within less than two years the Dudley Zoo rose to fame and attracted a million visitors. Today the castle and its courtyard are stages for living demonstrations which include ghost walks, open air music extravaganzas, events for children and amazing displays featuring birds of prey.
The popular Dudley Zoo found in the grounds of this historic site occupies a total of 40 acres of land and has the world’s largest collection of Tectons which received World Monument Status in 2009. Today the Tectons house over 1,300 creatures which are from over 170 different species and include a number of exclusive endangered varieties. The zoo is also involved in a number of conservation and breeding programs and has won several awards.
The Dudley Zoo and Castle is one of the many attractions in the city. Those planning to tour the United Kingdom and visit its many cultural and historical attractions can stay at 4 star UK hotels belonging to Millennium & Copthorne Hotels UK. Those in search of Dudley hotels offered by this famous name in the hospitality industry can stay at Copthorne Hotel Merry Hill Dudley.
