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Castle Country
suggested
day trips
Start the day at Cyfarthfa Castle, Merthyr Tydfil. Built in 1824 by
local Ironmaster William Crawshay, the position of the castle on a hill
meant it would overlook his vast Iron empire. Today the castle is a
renowned Museum and Art Gallery located in 160 acres of
picturesque parkland. On to Caerphilly Castle which dominates the
town. Covering 30 acres the castle is one of the biggest in Europe.
Watch out for its leaning tower which ‘out leans’ that of Pisa. Go
over the mountain from Caerphilly to probably the most picturesque
castle in Wales – Castell Coch. Built as a summer retreat for the
wealthy owner of Cardiff’s booming docks, Lord Bute. The Castle
enjoys commanding views over Cardiff from its vantage point
perched on a hillside to the north of the City. Finally head into Cardiff
City Centre to view Lord Bute’s other home – Cardiff Castle.
Extravagantly decorated by Lord Bute’s architect William Burgess, the
castle is one of Cardiff’s premier attractions. Before coming into the
ownership of the Bute family the castle site was occupied by the
Romans and Normans.
Sea Breeze
Take a day trip along the stunning Glamorgan Heritage Coast with
its rugged cliffs and golden sandy beaches. Start off at the newly
rejuvenated Penarth Marina and take in the view from the barrage
across the Bay to Cardiff. Head along the coast to the beach at
Southerndown. Stop offs along the way could include Porthkerry
Country Park in Barry or the picturesque market town of Llantwit
Major. After Southerndown head for the traditional seaside resort of
Porthcawl. The more energetic visitor
can catch some waves and go surfing
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while others may prefer to stroll along
the promenade or simply sit, relax and
enjoy some refreshments in one of the
many seafront bars and cafes.
Photographs
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1. Cardiff Castle || 2. Southerndown || 3. Monmouth ||
4. Big Pit || 5. Luxury Spas || 6. Golf || 7. Ogmore Castle
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Historic Wye Valley
Your day tour of the beautiful Wye Valley starts at Caldicot Castle.
The Normans founded this castle before being restored as a Victorian
family home. The castle is set in 55 acres of Country Park. From
Caldicot take the short journey to the border town of Chepstow
where the castle stands guard over the Wales/England border. You
may even catch a horse-racing meeting at the nearby Chepstow
Racecourse. Move up the Wye Valley to the picturesque village of
Tintern, which is dominated by the impressive remains of a 13th
century Cistercian Abbey. Sitting on the banks of the River Wye, the
setting once inspired Wordsworth. Finally head for Monmouth the
history laden gateway town. Good shopping, attractive Georgian
streets, several fine old country inns and the Nelson museum
dedicated to Admiral Lord Nelson, hero of the Battle of Trafalgar
complete this attractive town.
Shops, Mines and Heritage
Abergavenny is an attractive market town on the banks of the River
Usk. Surrounded by the glorious scenery of the Brecon Beacons the
town is home to a famous food fair every autumn. After exploring
Abergavenny head to the World Heritage Site at Blaenavon. Take an
underground tour at the excellent Big Pit: National Coal Museum
or visit one of the town’s many bookshops. For those who want more
shopping then Festival Park Shopping Village near Ebbw Vale is
the next stop. Almost 50 shops under one roof is a must for anyone
with some spare money to spend. Then its time to end the day in
relaxing fashion by visiting Dare Valley Country Park near
Aberdare to take in the stunning views of the Cynon Valley.
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