Fairy Tale Folly (Castell Coch)

Member Name: danfreedman

Product:	Castell Coch
Date:	25/03/01 (291 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Good for adults and children of all ages

Disadvantages: Has some stairs to climb to see all the attactions

If ever you are driving along the M4 in Wales, head for junction 32 and stop off to visit this fabulous castle.

For a picture have a look at http://www.castlewales.com/coch.html

Whilst the exterior building is reminiscent of a story book fairy tale castle, with round turrets and conical roofs, it is the interior which is the most surprising.

William Burgess decorated each room with incredible detail. One room has paintings within wooden panelling of the entire flower and fauna to be found in Britain.

Children will be delighted with this attraction, everywhere you look are carvings of animals birds and insects. Fables and stories adorn every wall. Most of which contain humour and surprises.

The main courtyard is reached by a medieval drawbridge. From there you can explore the kitchens, opulent dining rooms and banquet hall. Don't forget to visit the eerie dungeon, nothing gory, but definitely creepy.

Cardiff is nearby, where you can shop till you drop. There is also a new cinema and bowling complex just a short drive away. For those that like a simpler time, the grounds around the castle and the paths over the mountain on which it sits are totally excellent for just chilling out.

All in all Castell Coch is an superb place to visit and to base a whole weekend on. If you like Castell Coch and want to see some more of William Burgess’s work, drive into Cardiff and see the capitals castle.

The prices of entry to all Wales heritage attractions should soon be free, so no bar there then.

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