Top 5 Castles around Colwinston
Best castles around Colwinston are found in the wider Vale of Glamorgan, a region known for its historical depth and natural landscapes. While Colwinston itself does not feature prominent standing castles, the surrounding area offers several historical sites. The village of Colwinston is notable for its 12th-century Norman church and its status as a "Thankful Village." Visitors seeking castles will explore locations beyond the village boundaries.
Best castles around Colwinston
- The most popular castles is Ogmore Castle Ruins, a…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Stepsau Teilo Stepping Stones at Ogmore Castle
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Ogmore Castle Ruins
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Along with the ruins of the stone structure, Ogmore castle's earliest defensive features of banks …
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Llanblethian Village and St Quentin's Castle
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It's an ancient village, outdating the nearby market town of Cowbridge, and …
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Penryn Bay
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The bay features a huge …
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Old Beaupre Castle
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See also https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/llanblethian-castle Quentin's Castle, also known as Llanblethian Castle was probably built by English nobleman and military commander Gilbert de Clare in the early 14th century, the most notable remnants of this castle are its huge, twin-towered gatehouse and high stretch of curtain wall on the north of the site. In the centre of what was once a large fortress is an earthen mound with the remains of a thick-walled building on top of it, which may be all that’s left of an earlier keep. Links to Caerphilly Castle too - see plaque in the gatehouse.
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Despite the name and its medieval origins, Old Beaupre is really more manor house than castle. Built in two stages, the older part was constructed around 1300 while a major renovation in the 16th century by the Bassett family produced some of its most impressive remaining features. These include the well-preserved three-storeyed gatehouse and striking porch, decorated with columns inspired by the architecture of ancient Greece and bearing the family’s heraldic crest carved in stone
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In the beginning, as a castle of earth and wood in the early 12th century, it was quickly fortified in stone before being further strengthened with a curtain wall in the early 13th century. Unusually, the later additions have not obscured the castle’s earliest defensive features, with the banks and ditches built at Ogmore’s birth still clearly visible. Another original feature is the deep ditch around the inner ward, designed to fill with sea water at high tide.
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No always visible during the winter
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Lllanblethian is a quaint and picturesque village that sits above the River Thaw in the Vale of Glamorgan. It's an ancient village, outdating the nearby market town of Cowbridge, and hosting a number of beautiful historic buildings. The village is home to St Quentin's Castle, a 14th-century castle perched upon a hill, a church that dates back to the 12th-century dedicated to St John the Baptist, and an early 18th-century great house that sits along the river.
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Penryn Bay is a secluded cove located a stone's throw away from the magnificent St Donats Castle and Arts Centre on the Glamorgan Heritage Coast. The bay features a huge slab of rock which makes a great place to sit and gaze across the beautiful Bristol Channel.
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These stepping stones have quite a history. Before the suspension bridge for pedestrian use was built there was, at that spot, a series of stepping stones. When the bridge came into use these stones were lifted and placed near Ogmore Castle, where they remain today, keeping their original name: Stepsau Teilo. At one period towards the end of the last century a competition developed to see how quickly the crossing could be made without falling into the river. Many tried to take the stones at full speed and, cheered on by onlookers there were several slips.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any castles directly within Colwinston village?
Colwinston village itself does not feature prominent standing castles that are typically considered tourist attractions. While the area has a rich history, including Norman connections, visitors seeking castles will need to explore locations in the wider Vale of Glamorgan area.
Which castles near Colwinston are family-friendly?
Several castles in the area are suitable for families. Ogmore Castle Ruins is a great option, offering open spaces and historical features to explore. Llanblethian Village and St Quentin's Castle also provides an engaging historical site for all ages.
What kind of historical features can I expect to see at these castles?
The castles around Colwinston offer a range of historical insights. At Ogmore Castle Ruins, you can see early 12th-century defensive banks and ditches, including a unique deep ditch designed to fill with sea water. St Quentin's Castle features a huge, twin-towered gatehouse and a high stretch of curtain wall from the 14th century. Old Beaupre Castle, more of a manor house, showcases a well-preserved three-storeyed gatehouse and a striking 16th-century porch.
Are there hiking trails near the castles around Colwinston?
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. For example, you can find routes that incorporate St Quentin's Castle, such as the moderate 10.9 km 'Cowbridge Physic Garden – St Quentin's Castle loop from Cowbridge'. Other routes in the area include those near Penllyn Castle and Coity Castle. You can find more details and routes on the Hiking around Colwinston guide page.
What natural features are near the castles?
Near Ogmore Castle Ruins, you'll find the picturesque river crossing with the historic Stepsau Teilo Stepping Stones. The castle's defensive ditch also interacts with the sea water at high tide. Further afield, Penryn Bay offers a secluded cove and views across the Bristol Channel, located near St Donats Castle.
What is the best time to visit the castles near Colwinston?
The castles can be visited year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the ruins and surrounding landscapes. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter visits can offer a quieter, more atmospheric experience, though some areas might be muddy. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit.
Are there cycling routes that pass by these castles?
Yes, there are cycling routes in the area. For instance, the 'View of Ogmore River Mouth – St Quentin's Castle loop from Llangan' is a difficult 63.9 km route that passes by St Quentin's Castle. You can explore more cycling options on the Cycling around Colwinston guide page.
Is there parking available at the castle sites?
Yes, Ogmore Castle Ruins offers a free car park for visitors, making it convenient to access. For other sites, parking availability may vary, so it's advisable to check specific location details before your visit.
Can I bring my dog to the castles or on nearby walks?
Many outdoor historical sites and walking trails in the Vale of Glamorgan are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a lead and owners clean up after them. For specific castle sites like St Quentin's Castle or Ogmore Castle Ruins, it's generally acceptable to bring well-behaved dogs. Always look for local signage regarding dog policies.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Colwinston?
Visitors appreciate the historical depth and picturesque settings of these sites. The visible early defensive features at Ogmore Castle Ruins and the impressive gatehouse of St Quentin's Castle are frequently highlighted. The unique blend of castle ruins and manor house architecture at Old Beaupre Castle also draws interest, offering a glimpse into different historical periods.
Are there any pubs or cafes near these castles?
While Colwinston itself has local amenities, for specific castles, you might find options in nearby villages or towns. For example, near Ogmore Castle Ruins, there are pubs within a short distance. The ancient village of Llanblethian, home to St Quentin's Castle, also offers local establishments. Exploring nearby towns like Cowbridge will provide more choices for dining and refreshments.
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