Castell Coch

Castell Coch is a Gothic Revival fortress on a wooded hilltop in Tongwynlais, built from red sandstone, limestone, and Pennant stone. The three circular towers – the Keep, Kitchen Tower, and Well Tower – rise above the surrounding forests and are connected through an inner courtyard.

The original Norman castle from the 11th century fell into ruin over the centuries. Architect William Burges rebuilt it between 1875 and 1891 for the third Marquess of Bute as a romantic country retreat in the Gothic style.

The name means Red Castle and refers to the warm tone of the sandstone used, which stands out clearly against the green wooded hillside. Visitors today can walk through elaborately decorated interiors filled with mythological scenes and medieval motifs.

The fortress sits at the edge of woodland above Tongwynlais and is reached by a short walk from the parking area. Cadw manages the site and offers tours through the rooms and towers, though the layout includes some steep staircases.

Lord Bute planted an experimental vineyard here that produced wine until World War I. The steep slopes around the fortress were considered an unusual location for winemaking in Wales at the time.

Location: Tongwynlais

Architects: William Burges

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Elevation above the sea: 101.1 m

Made from material: sandstone, limestone, Pennant Measures

Website: https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/castell-coch

GPS coordinates: 51.53583,-3.25472

Latest update: December 12, 2025 18:11