Heritage Hiker’s Guide to… Castle Sites to Visit for Free in Bridgend County

Overview

This short guide outlines the castle sites to visit for free in Bridgend County. It can be hard to find places to go and things to do but castle hunting is definitely a favorite. Even better if you can find something new near home or a place to put on the list for a day out – Happy exploring….

Where is Newcastle, Bridgend?

Newcastle Castle is located on a steep hill on the west side of the River Ogmore near the centre of Bridgend Town. It was built to guard the important river crossings which once controlled access into Glamorgan when much of this part of the country was under native Welsh control. Newcastle Castle was established by the first Norman lord of Glamorgan, Robert Fitzhamon in 1106, the original likely built in timber and earth construction, although nothing of that phase remains. What remains today relates to the later renovations in the 1180’s. The striking 12th century Norman doorway is a highlight to any visit, remaining virtually unaltered since its construction. It appears to have been last occupied in the late 16th century with a small refurbishment in the south tower.

The remains are largely 12th century and there are good views on a clear day of the town of Bridgend below. There is limited free parking near the site but no other facilities – check ahead for opening times.

History of Coity Castle

Coity Castle was founded in the early 12th century and was granted to the Norman family of Turberville. Its was first built in timber and earth around 1100 but by the end of the 12th century the original timber defences had largely been replaced by stone. The castle was further fortified following damage caused in the 14th century and again in the 15th, after Owain Glyndŵr laid siege to the castle during his uprising against English rule. The addition of an extra floor and other slight modifications took place in the 16th century but by mid 18th century Coity Castle was mostly a ruin.

The main entrance to the site is through the west facing gatehouse. The remains consist of a circular inner ward, with three storey keep on the north west side and a 14th century domestic block to the south side. There are the foundations of a chapel, a well and a large curtain wall. Definitely worth a visit.

There is very limited free parking near the site.  The site is currently closed to visitors whilst conservation takes place – check ahead for opening times. The site can be viewed from the outside or the lane that runs along its east side. The is a small shop near the site for refreshment during its opening hours but there are no toilets.

Kenfig Castle – Castle in the Sand

The castle at Kenfig was established around 1100 by the first Norman lord of Glamorgan, Robert Fitzhamon. It was originally built in earth and timber around 1140 and replaced in 1185 by a stone tower. The castle was repeatedly attacked by Welsh forces from the 12th until the 14th century when it was abandoned. By the 16th century it had become a ruin partially reclaimed by the sands it was built on. The site was excavated in 1924-32 by A. J. Richard with later intermittent archaeological investigations taking place between 1993 until 2010 by the Kenfig Society.

The eerie remains of Kenfig Castle rise from the dunes beside the Cynfig river. Only a small stack of stone marks its location but hidden beneath are the further remains of rooms that have mostly been reclaimed by the sands on which they stand. The site is located in Kenfig Nature Reserve managed by the Kenfig Corporation Trust. Wales Coast Path have mapped a route starting and finishing at the Kenfig Nature Reserve Visitor Center.

Candleston Castle

Candleston Castle was built in the 14^th century and abandoned in the 19^th century. The site remains impressive, walls and internal features can be found still standing, wrapped in ivy and hidden within the sand dunes and trees.  The building was used continuously over the years firstly as a family home and later as a Farmhouse.

There is parking at Candleston (charges apply) or you can walk from nearby Ogmore Castle.

If you have enjoyed reading about castle sites to visit for free in Bridgend County then take a look a the guide to castles in the Vale of Glamorgan click here.