Caerphilly, a town in Wales just a 10-minute train ride from Cardiff, offers ancient ruins, green hills and rolling valleys, along with Mexican food that comedian Rhys James has called "the best thing I've ever tasted in my life."
A town with Roman roots and a leaning tower
The town dates back to the Roman conquest of Britain, when forces built a fort they occupied from AD 75 until around the middle of the second century. Its centrepiece is Caerphilly Castle, one of the largest castles in the country, looming over the town with huge mediaeval walls and surrounding moats.
Built in the 13th century, it is the second largest castle in Britain and one of the most impressive sights in Wales. It even has its own Leaning Tower, like that of Pisa — and Caerphilly's tower leans even more dramatically than the one tourists flock to in Italy.
Ffos Caerfilli: a food hall in shipping containers
Once you have wandered through the castle, the town is built around it, so in just minutes you can be in the middle of Ffos Caerfilli, one of the UK's best food halls. Built in 2023 using repurposed shipping containers, it is home to more than 20 independent traders, from food and drink stalls to handcrafted homeware and vintage treasures.
Ffos Caerfilli has become a staple in the town's food and events culture and is home to the "best Mexican food" in south Wales. Bab Haus serves authentic street food from chef Leyli Homayoonfar, who made her debut on Saturday Kitchen Live earlier this year. It is a firm favourite with locals, and Rhys James described its tacos as "the best thing I've ever tasted in my life" on James Acaster and Ed Gamble's podcast, Off Menu.
Something for everyone
If tacos are not your thing, there are sweet treats from Cwtch Bakes or stonebaked pizza from Estraneos Pizza. There is something for everyone in Caerphilly, which is why it is so beloved.
