As you drive past junction 32 of the M4 motorway near Cardiff. You’ll get your first glimpse of the fairytale-like Gothic revival castle known as Castell Coch (Welsh for the Red Castle). It looks more suited to a Bavarian forest rather than overlooking the entrance to a Welsh valley.
How Old Is Castell Coch
Castle Coch is not as old as it may first look. It was designed and built between 1875 and 1879 by William Burges for the 3rd Marquess of Bute. Although once completed, the castle wasn’t really used and the Marquess rarely visited.
The combination of Bute’s industrial wealth with Burges’ fantastical designs resulted in not only the creation of Castell Coch but the elaborate remodelling of Cardiff Castle. These buildings are regarded as two of the finest examples of the late Victorian era Gothic Revival architecture.
Although Castell Coch is a relatively new Victorian creation it is situated in a very strategic position overlooking the Taff Gorge. It was actually the site of an early Norman Castle built in 1081 during the Norman invasion of Wales.
During the 13th century, a stone castle was built although this was destroyed in an attack in 1314. The castle was not rebuilt and remained abandoned.
Getting There And Entrance Fee
Castell Coch is only 5 minutes from Junction 32 of the M4 motorway and is clearly signposted. The castle is only 9 miles from Cardiff city centre. You can actually cycle there along the Taff Trail, it takes about 45 minutes.
There is no charge for parking however entrance to the castle was £7.30 at the time of my visit. There are discounts for kids and OAPs and a family ticket available. Obviously, check with Castell Coch for the current opening times and prices.
Inside Castell Coch
The interior design within the castle could never be described as ‘understated’. They are decorated in William Burges’ high Victorian designs similar to his fantastic creations in Cardiff Castle.
Many of the designs within the castle are based on nature. The walls of the octagonal drawing room are decorated with a mural showing animals from Aesop’s Fables. The ceiling is also ornately decorated with butterflies and swooping birds.
When visiting Castell Coch make sure you allow yourself time to walk the mature beech woods surrounding the castle.
The 42-acre woodland is an SSSI (a site of special scientific interest). The secluded beech woods are home to a variety of rare plants including a number of orchids.
