Quality family time is important and visiting a castle in South Wales and exploring Welsh heritage makes a great day out for all of the family. Although some castles are now ruins some are still pretty much intact and protected by both Welsh Heritage and the National Trust. Castles were built for power and to defend against an enemy during war. Most castles we see today were built after the Norman Conquest. As time moved on the construction and sophistication increased to the more elaborate ones we see around today.
Check out some of the top castles in and around Wales, below!
Caerau Castle Ringwork - is a Norman ringwork castle within an Iron Age hillfort. A timber palisade would have sat on top of the bank surrounding the living quarters. Free and open access at any reasonable time.
Caerphilly Castle
Caerphilly Castle - was constructed by Gilbert de Clare in the 13th Century the castle’s history extends as far back as 1268. Allen Brown once described the castle as, "the most elaborate water defences in all Britain" surrounded by lakes and 30 acres this castle is a spectacular viewing point into Welsh history.
Barry Castle
Barry Castle - is the remains of 14th century castle and was the seat of the de Barry family. A fortified manor house which was built in the 13th century, in the early 14th century this was added too and strengthened. Free and open access at any reasonable time.
Penmark Castle
Penmark Castle - is the remains of 13th century stone castle. Dating from the 12th century and later rebuilt in stone, the castle passed to Oliver de St John when he married the young heiress Elizabeth Umfraville in the early 14th century. Free and open access at any reasonable time.
Cardiff Castle
Cardiff Castle - is located in the city centre of Cardiff. The estate was built in the late 11th Century by Norman Invaders, on top of a 3rd Century Roman Fort. This magnificent estate holds various events throughout the year including, live music, cinema and theatre.
St Quentin's Llanblethian Castle
St Quentin's, Llanblethian Castle - is the remains of late 13th century castle. First bulit around 1102 in timber, in 1245 the castle and lands were acquired by the de Clare family, who started to build the stone structure which stands today. Free and open access during restricted dates and times.
Ogmore Castle
Ogmore Castle - is the remains of 12th century castle. Built by William de Londres to guard a strategic crossing of the River Ewenny. Rebuilt in stone sometime after 1116. Damaged in the Owain Glyn Dŵr rebellion of 1405, the castle gradually fell out of use during the 16th century. Free and open access during restricted dates and times.
Newcastle Castle
Newcastle Castle - was built around 1106 by William de Londres, one of the legendary Twelve Knights of Glamorgan. Owned for many years by the Turberville family who had little use for it as their main seat was at nearby Coity Castle, it seems to have fallen out of use after this. Free and open access at any reasonable time.