Have a taste of the middle ages while studying English in Wales One of the big pleasures of studying
English in Cardiff, besides rugby, welsh cakes and enjoying the liveliness of a multicultural capital, is that you won’t be far from all the calm and quiet you can find in the countryside. And, no, I’m not talking about sheep...
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| Cardiff Castle |
There were over 600 castles built in Wales, of which 100 are still standing (some as ruins and others better preserved)! Most of these castles were built between the 11th and 14th century and were used as fortresses and royal residences. You can learn a lot about British history by visiting these sites (and, of course, imagine what life was like back then)!
Of course there’s Cardiff castle, which is literally in the middle of the city. (Learn more about it here:
http://peartreelife.blogspot.com/2017/10/the-secrets-of-cardiff-castle.html). But, we decided to give you a short list of different castles you can visit around the Cardiff area:
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| Caerphilly Castle |
Caerphilly castle
Built between 1268-1290, Caerphilly castle is said to be the second largest in the UK (and biggest in Wales). Located only a 30-minute drive away from Cardiff centre, it can be easily accessed by public transport. Have a walk around its huge moat and look for its leaning tower. Also, have a taste of local Caerphilly cheese. Yummi!
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| Castell Coch |
Castell Coch
Re-built by the 3rd Marquess of Bute and the famous architect William Burges on the ruins of a previous castle destroyed in the 14th century, ‘The Red Castle’ (translated from the Welsh) is a Victorian reimagination of a castle (and more similar to a later European style). The rooms are highly-decorated and visitors can also enjoy a walk in the surrounding woods. Easily accessed by public transport.
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| Raglan Castle |
Raglan Castle
Only a 45-minute drive from Cardiff city centre, Raglan castle was the childhood home of King Henry VII. The castle was built in the 15th century and was famous for its surrounding parks and gardens. Walk to the top of the massive and partially-destroyed Yellow Tower of Gwent and enjoy the view.
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| Coity Castle |
Coity Castle
Built in the 11th century by Sir Payn ‘The Demon’ de Turberville, its ruins still stand near the town of Bridgend (only about 50 minutes away from Cardiff city centre). It was abandoned in the 15th century, but we can still see the great hall and different Norman features.
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| Caldicot Castle |
Caldicot Castle
About 50 minutes away from Cardiff city centre, near the town of Chepstow, Caldicot was built in the 12th century near an old Saxon castle. You may enjoy the well-preserved entrance, a picnic with your friends and even a medieval-style banquet!
Let us know what other historical places you enjoy visiting around Cardiff! Have fun!
Peartree Languages is a language school located in Cardiff.
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