Just a 22-minute drive from Cardiff lies a fairytale castle, nestled within an ancient forest, its spiralling towers reaching above the treetops. This picture-perfect spot has been hailed by a passionate Welsh traveller as one of the seven 'wonders of Wales', according to Condé Nast Traveller.
A Storied Past
Strikingly red, the 19th-century Gothic castle towers above the village of Tongwynlais in Wales. It was initially built to safeguard the freshly conquered Cardiff, dating back to 1081 when the Normans held power and sought to monitor passage along the River Taff. Since those early days, the castle has undergone countless transformations and extensive refurbishments.
Particularly significant was 1848, when John Crichton-Stuart, 3rd Marquess of Bute, inherited the estate. Then regarded as one of Britain's wealthiest individuals, he invested his fortune into this venture. The Marquess possessed a passionate enthusiasm for architecture and historical research; he commissioned a celebrated architect to reconstruct the castle and transform it into something far more magnificent.
William Burges embarked on ambitious renovations, adorning the property with lavishly decorated interiors and opulent furnishings, creating the masterpiece recognised today. Burges sadly passed away in 1881 after developing a severe chill during a castle visit, and the project was handed to William Frame, who finished the interiors by 1891.
Neglect and Revival
Despite its magnificence, the Marquess seldom visited the castle following its completion, leaving it largely neglected and underutilised. Its owner passed away in 1900, with the castle remaining under his wife's ownership before being acquired by another descendant. By 1950, the castle came under the guardianship of the Ministry of Works, and in 1963, it achieved official listed building status. Today, this historic treasure is safeguarded and managed by Cadw, which has overseen it since the 1980s as part of the Welsh Government's historic environment service.
Visiting the Castle
Centuries on, members of the public can step inside this architectural gem, steeped in medieval and Victorian heritage. It regularly receives votes from the public as one of their most beloved buildings across Wales; it's little wonder some regard it as a 'wonder'. One visitor shared on TripAdvisor: "A true fairy tale castle – but lots of steps. Interesting furnishings and displays. Take time to enjoy all the interior decorations – paintings, ceilings, and furniture. It's amazing what lots of money and creativity can do together."
Another wrote: "My family and I visited in August and were absolutely blown away by the beauty of the place. The castle is incredibly well-preserved, and the grounds are gorgeous. We spent hours exploring the castle, taking in the views, and learning about its history. I would highly recommend a visit to Castell Coch - it's an absolutely incredible place."
Visiting hours from March through to June are currently 9:30am until 5:00pm. These do vary throughout the year, with extended closing times of 6pm during July and August. Adult admission is priced at £10.40, while children aged five to 17 are charged £7.20. Family tickets are on offer at a reduced rate, and pensioners can also take advantage of a discounted entry price.
