See & Do

Castell Coch

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If you’re looking for something to do while on a visit to Cardiff, then head up to Castell Coch to see what happens when a patron of unlimited wealth meets an architect of boundless imagination. Spend a day out in the castle and around the grounds, with fantastic paths to walk around and architecture to gaze upon.

Castell Coch, or the ‘Red Castle’, rises up from the ancient beech woods of Fforest Fawr like a vision from a fairy tale. Yet these great towers with their unmistakable conical roofs only hint at the splendour within.

Given free rein by the third Marquess of Bute, architect William Burges didn’t hold back. The highly decorated interiors and rich furnishings of Castell Coch make it a dazzling masterpiece of the High Victorian era.

But it’s no exotic folly. Underneath the mock-medieval trappings you can still trace the impressive remains of a 13th-century castle, once used as a hunting lodge by the ruthless Marcher lord Gilbert de Clare.

Castell Coch has been a plaything of the rich and powerful for over 700 years. Having lavished huge sums on it neither Gilbert de Clare nor the Marquess of Bute spent much time here.

But it remains a magnificent vision of an imaginary medieval world – regularly voted by the public as their favourite building in Wales.

Opening times vary throughout the year, so please check the website.

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Castell Coch

4.64384 reviews

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Sylwia Pysiewicz

2 months ago

Absolutely magical place, especially in autumn. The castle rises out of the woods like something from a storybook, surrounded by golden and crimson leaves. The setting feels peaceful and other-worldly — perfect for a quiet walk or photos. Inside, the castle is beautifully restored, full of rich Victorian Gothic detail and colour. Each room is full of character and imagination. The climb up the turrets gives lovely views through the trees across the valley. The surrounding forest trails are stunning this time of year, carpets of leaves, soft light through the trees, and that crisp autumn air. Easy to spend a couple of hours just wandering and soaking it all in. Parking is easy, and staff are friendly and knowledgeable.

Anna Williams

2 months ago

Dont miss the opportunity to visit this hidden gem. Definitely have the Audio guide thats included in the very reasonable ticket price. I have deliberately not shared my photos of the internals as these are amazing to see and should remain a surprise until your visit. Particuarly lovely to visit in the Autumn with all the surrounding trees.

Marcus O'Reilly

2 months ago

Super awesome castle to visit. It is built mostly like a traditional defence castle, but it was really a posh fancy show-off castle for the rich dudes who built it (Marquess of Bute and others after). The listening tour is great and has lots of historical facts but not too overboard. We were there for about 2 hours in total. The views from the castle of Cardiff and the bay are to die for too!

Erika Young

4 months ago

Such a beautiful place, gorgeous surroundings and an absolutely lovely little castle with amazing designs and rooms. Perfect for couples or families. Lots of steps so wear sensible shoes.

Sher Peters

4 months ago

This castle was going through renovations due to leak noted in their last survey. Lovely rooms in a romantic fairy tail way, it includes aspects of bygone days. There are not many rooms, but the rooms that you do see are beautiful and detailed.