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.
Forest Drive
After lunch at the Manor, we travel to Cwmcarn for a spectacular tour around the Forest Drive, set amongst rolling hills and green forests and providing panoramic views over the picturesque Nantcarn Valley.
Castle 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.
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