Caerphilly Castle

We drive to Caerphilly Castle, the second largest castle in Britain. Built in the late 13th century, the fortress is a supreme example of the concentric 'walls within walls' system of defence. Also the castle's outstanding water defences made it almost impregnable to siege warfare.

Particularly noteworthy features include the gatehouse, banqueting hall and full-size working replicas of medieval siege-engines. Often threatened but, unsurprisingly, never taken, the castle's only sign of weakness is its famous leaning tower (which out-leans the tower at Pisa), possibly caused by subsidence.

Llancaiach Fawr

We continue to Llancaiach Fawr Manor, built in 1530, where time is suspended in the year 1645. The 'servants' of the Manor’s owner, Colonel Pritchard, will be pleased to discuss with you their lives in the troubled times of the Civil War.   

The Brecon Beacons National Park

The Brecon Beacons National Park spans 519 square miles of beautiful mid-Wales contryside and contains some of the most spectacular and diverse landscapes in Europe.The landscape is scattered with prehistoric monuments, Roman remains and medieval castles, spectacular waterfalls, caves and wooded gorges, along with distinctive upland formations.

Castell Coch

Our final stop is at Castell Coch. With its conical towers and needle-sharp turrets, peeking out from wooded slopes, it is perhaps the ultimate fairytale castle, presenting a vision more in tune with the Bavarian countryside than a Welsh hillside.

It is of course a romantic fantasy, a late 19th century creation inspired by the spirit of the Victorian Age, which, although undeniably extravagant, was underpinned by a profound knowledge of medieval architecture.