Places to visit! Southern Wales Attractions

Castell Coch is a Victorian folly built on the site of a much older castle, which may in turn have been raised on the ruins of an ancient fort. It's easy to see why- the modern castle can be seen for miles around and it commands excellent views of the Taff valley below.

A wealth of myths and legends surround Castell Coch ('Red Castle' in English). Ghost stories abound and there is even said to be a tunnel linking it with Cardiff Castle six miles to the south. Needless to say, it has never been found!

Visitors to the castle can see the Marquess of Bute's elaborate furnishings and enjoy the fairytale atmosphere, but they should also make time to wander through the beautiful woodlands. In spring the bluebells are magnificent.

The woods around Castell Coch are also great for children. On the hill just a short walk above the castle itself (where food, drink, and toilet facilities are available), there is a wonderful scuplture trail that includes treasure chests, goblins and fairies, and a magnificent scary dragon. It's the perfect place to introduce little ones to the magnificent woods of South Wales.

Best of all, the castle is just 6 miles from Cardiff City centre. It can be visited by car (there is on-site parking), by bus to the village of Tongynlais, or by bicycle from the Taff Trail. Those with mountain bikes can enjoy a number of rough-and-ready trails around the woods, and there are also permissive horse paths.

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