Castles

Wales is famous the world over for its castles. Almost every town in the country has fortified remains in one form or another, and in Southern Wales we have some of the most remarkable in the country.

The most impressive castle is undoubtedly Caerphilly Castle. Covering 30 acres the castle is one of the biggest in Europe. It’s imposing towers and defensive moat would have been formidable to advancing armies in the 13th century. The castle's leaning tower leans more than its more famous counterpart in Pisa.

Chepstow Castle is also very impressive. It was one of the first castles to be built in Wales. Its position looking down on the River Wye, which marks the border between Wales and England, reminds us of a time when this now peaceful area of Southern Wales was once a fierce battleground.

Although one of the smallest castles in Southern Wales, Ogmore castle is certainly one of the most picturesque. Standing proudly on the banks of the River Ewenny, a stone’s throw from the quaint village of Merthyr Mawr, the castle can be reached by crossing a set of stepping-stones. Just a couple of miles from Ogmore Castle is Coity Castle. The castle was once attacked by National hero Owain Glyndwr in his brave attempt to secure freedom for Wales.

Although most of the castles in Southern Wales were built to repel advancing forces, some were built as grand stately homes. This is true of Cardiff Castle. Sitting right in the middle of the Nation’s capital, the castle, although once a Roman and Norman fort, was mainly built up by the Marquess of Bute. The Marquess was once the richest man in the world and owned all the land that modern Cardiff now occupies including the hugely profitable dock area. The lavish interiors of the castle show that he was a man of extravagant taste. Just a few miles to the north of the city is Castell Coch, the summer retreat of the Marquess, where from its lofty position on the hillside he could survey his city below him. Again, the castle demonstrates the Marquess’ expensive tastes with some remarkable decoration.