This medieval fortress, situated in Pembrokeshire, Wales, dates back to the 12th century and boasts a rich history. Its name is derived from the Norman-French "Cannetune," meaning "song of the valley." The castle's architecture is a mix of medieval and Victorian styles, with a large keep, curtain walls, and a gatehouse. Over the centuries, it has been involved in various battles and sieges, including the English Civil War. Today, the castle is a popular tourist attraction, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and coastline. Visitors can explore the castle's grand halls, chambers, and battlements, as well as its beautiful gardens and grounds.
Candleston Castle features only minor ruins, but it is surrounded by lush greenery. The nearby sand dunes offer a distinctive touch, combining historical allure with natural beauty. Be prepared for uneven paths and consider wearing suitable footwear. The car park was quite crowded during our visit.
Not much to see of the old Manor house but still some of it left to clamber about in. Parking is paid via card or app, no cash. Setting is marvellous. Went once after rain and over the rise and down to the foot of the big dune, the bridle path was running like a sandy stream and my kids played in it for hours. Lush forest all around and only a slow 90 minute hike through the dunes to Merthyr Mawr Beach. Great spot, drive in through lovely little village too.
Amazing place! All over grown and so so pretty. Amazing for adventures with kids. Very short walk from the car park (PS1.50) or longer walk from Ogmore Castle is possible at low tide.
Fantastic building, with so many features. The Castle is tucked away in some trees and not easy to spot, but the hunt was well worth it.
If you like exploring, but fancy an easy one, this is for you. Massive sand dune for the kids to mess about on (as you can see, mess about they did!) And an easily accessible ruin for you to roam around. Car parking is cheap and there is a sizeable plot of land to accommodate a lot of vehicles so it would have to be unbelievably busy for you to not park easily. Basically- go and visit. Beautiful in sunshine, or the rain (I prefer the rain!)
Atmospheric but neglected 14th century ruins situated next to the Merthyr Mawr sand dunes and car park. The remains are being slowly reclaimed by nature and there is plenty of evidence of freshly fallen masonry. Shame to see the decline of the ruins over the last decade but still an interesting place to explore.
On-site services
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Good for kids
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Candleston Castle features only minor ruins, but it is surrounded by lush greenery. The nearby sand dunes offer a distinctive touch, combining historical allure with natural beauty. Be prepared for uneven paths and consider wearing suitable footwear. The car park was quite crowded during our visit.
Not much to see of the old Manor house but still some of it left to clamber about in. Parking is paid via card or app, no cash. Setting is marvellous. Went once after rain and over the rise and down to the foot of the big dune, the bridle path was running like a sandy stream and my kids played in it for hours. Lush forest all around and only a slow 90 minute hike through the dunes to Merthyr Mawr Beach. Great spot, drive in through lovely little village too.
Amazing place! All over grown and so so pretty. Amazing for adventures with kids. Very short walk from the car park (PS1.50) or longer walk from Ogmore Castle is possible at low tide.
Fantastic building, with so many features. The Castle is tucked away in some trees and not easy to spot, but the hunt was well worth it.
If you like exploring, but fancy an easy one, this is for you. Massive sand dune for the kids to mess about on (as you can see, mess about they did!) And an easily accessible ruin for you to roam around. Car parking is cheap and there is a sizeable plot of land to accommodate a lot of vehicles so it would have to be unbelievably busy for you to not park easily. Basically- go and visit. Beautiful in sunshine, or the rain (I prefer the rain!)
Atmospheric but neglected 14th century ruins situated next to the Merthyr Mawr sand dunes and car park. The remains are being slowly reclaimed by nature and there is plenty of evidence of freshly fallen masonry. Shame to see the decline of the ruins over the last decade but still an interesting place to explore.
