The Heritage Hiker’s Guide to Fonmon

History of Fonmon

Fonmon – Ffwl-y-mwn is a small hamlet just north of Fontygary in the Vale of Glamorgan. It is best known for its central duck pond and Fonmon Castle. Fonmon Castle is one of the few medieval castles which until recently was still lived in as a home. Since it was built by the St John family around 1200, it has only changed hands through sale twice.

Fonmon Castle

Fonmon Castle has its origins in the 12^th century during the Norman conquest of south Wales. It is now a mansion that incorporates substantial elements of the original medieval masonry castle, including a late 12th century keep and further building work of the 13th to 14th century. The castle was heavily added to in the 16th century, with a major refurbishment around 1760, and later minor modern additions and alterations.

The 19^th century saw the estate in decline and little was done to the castle except for the addition of the entrance porch and the extension to the south wing between 1840 and 1878. The castle passed by marriage to Sir Seymour Boothby in 1917 and then to his grandson. In 2019 the castle was sold and it is now run as a visitor attraction and wedding venue. To the west of Fonmon are the remains of East Orchard Castle . East Orchard Castle was a manorial estate that included a chapel, barn and dovecote. Its main building phase is date to the 14^th century with later additions. The main house was dismantled in the 18^th century.

The site is now run as a visitor and heritage attraction (Castle Park and Gardens) offering days outdoors and castle tours. Entry charges apply, check ahead for opening times.

Walks

There is a Valeways Walk that also takes in Penamark and Lancarfan (starting at Lancarfan)

For articles relating to areas near Fonmon see Penmark and Rhoose