Hey there, adventure seekers, nature lovers, and history buffs! If you’re looking for a place where the past meets nature, Fforest Fawr in South Wales is your go-to destination. Strap on your walking boots and discover the enchanting world of Fforest Fawr!
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I visit Fforest Fawr several times a month to walk my dog, Ivan. There are plenty of exciting dog walks in Cardiff. Fforest Fawr is an incredible national nature reserve. This is the perfect place to take a break from the stress of life and get some fresh air at the same time.
In spring, it is covered in bluebells, making it an incredible Instagrammble location in Cardiff. You can even pick wild garlic! It is a beautiful country park with stunning scenery and spectacular views.
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Fforest Fawr History
First things first, let’s set the scene with a dash of history. Fforest Fawr is now a UNESCO Global Geopark, found between The Black Mountain and the Brecon Beacons National Park. For centuries, it has been known as Fforest Fawr, or ‘the Great Forest of Brecknock’. Belonging to Lord Brecon in the late 11th Century as a hunting area.
During the Industrial Revolution, the forest was a silica mine. Silica bricks are used in copper, iron and steel industries and were exported worldwide. The mines are now fenced off as there are significant drops and collapsed ground. Today, it is managed by Natural Resources Wales.
This ancient woodland often serves as a filming location and has made appearances in popular shows such as Merlin, Doctor Who, and Sherlock.
Fforest Fawr Walk
Now that we’ve got our history hats on, it’s time to lace up those hiking boots and hit the Fforest Fawr for a walk! With towering trees, the gentle rustle of leaves, and the occasional chirp of a hidden bird – it feels like a world away from busy roads and suburbs beyond the treeline.
There are three circular walking trails: a sculpture trail for families, the Three Bears Cave Walk and Sir Henry’s Trail, the hardest of the three. However, they are relatively flat and suitable for different fitness levels. I suggest walking boots or trainers as the paths can be uneven, with exposed tree roots. There aren’t many benches or places to sit along the routes. Castell Coch Walks: The hill is very steep if you are coming from the castle.
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Fforest Fawr Sculpture Trail
The most popular reason to visit Fforest Fawr is for the sculpture trail. Giant wooden sculptures emerge like hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. It’s something that all ages will enjoy. The trail is a magical playground for younger ones, while older people will admire the craftsmanship and imagination.
Fforest Fawr Car Park
If you’ve never been, you could be nervous about finding the Fforest Fawr parking or worry about insufficient spaces. There are only a few spaces, but I have never had difficulty parking. Feel free to park at Castell Coch, but be mindful of the gate closure times – I’ve witnessed someone unintentionally locked in before. Or, the Fforest Fawr car park.
Fforest Fawr Directions
I live in Taffs Well and get to Fforest Fawr from The Taff Trail, behind the Castle Coch. If you are driving from Cardiff or Rhondda Cynon Taff to Tongwynlais, once past the castle, it is 1 mile along Heol-y-Fforest Road on the left-hand side.
There are signs indicating the way. From Caerphilly, you’ll come down Heol-y-Fforest Road and turn right into the car park.
Castell Coch Postcode is CF15 7JS.
Getting around by train has never been easier
Transport for Wales now offers Multiflex, which gives you 12 journeys for the same price as 5 returns. With stops in Radyr, Whitchurch, Llandaff North, Cathays, two in the city centre – Queen Street and Cardiff Central – plus Cardiff Bay. So, Taffs Well train station is the closest. It is a 35-minute walk to Castell Coch or 11 minutes by bike.
Fforest Fawr Opening Times
Technically, Fforest Fawr is open 24 hours a day. However, I recommend only visiting when it is light. Plan your visit wisely to make the most of your day. Whether you’re an early bird catching the sunrise or a sunset enthusiast, Fforest Fawr welcomes you with open branches (literally).
Fforest Fawr Cafe
The Forest Tea Room is the perfect place to visit after your walk. I’ll be honest: it looks like someone’s home from the road, even though there is a sign. However, its rustic charm and warm ambience make it the ideal spot to unwind. In the summer, you can sit on the decking or by the log fire in the winter. They serve homemade treats, from delicious cakes to savoury sandwiches. Of course, it’s a welcoming haven for dogs, too.
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Castell Coch
Perched atop the hill, you’ll discover the enchanting fairy-tale castle. The climb and burn in your legs will be worth it. Castell Coch, or the ‘Red Castle’, has highly decorated interiors and rich furnishings. It is a dazzling masterpiece and one of the many castles in Cardiff.
If you have a CADW membership, you get free entry. Or 50% off if you are in your first-year membership with English Heritage. If you have been a member for over a year, admission is free.
The English Heritage has over 400 sites across the country, from Stonehenge, Tintagel Castle near Bude (I LOVED my visit here!), Hadrian’s Wall and Dover Castle. You can even take six children (aged under 18) in for free. There’s also free parking, discounts on special events and other members’ rewards.
Get 20% off gift and annual memberships by using the promo code SUMMER20 at the checkout. It is valid until 31 July 2024. Making a single membership £58.65 per year and a couple’s membership £102. Get yours here.
When are you visiting Fforest Fawr?
If you’re searching for a location where history intertwines with the present amid a vibrant, green landscape, look no further than Fforest Fawr in Cardiff.
Free things to do in Cardiff
There are so many things to do in Cardiff for free. Sometimes we need some inspiration or reminders of what is on our doorstep. There are over 50 ideas on this list!
Museums you can visit in Cardiff for free
We’re so lucky that the museums in Cardiff are some of the best in the United Kingdom. You’ll have an abundance of options, whether you’re seeking exhibitions, galleries, or events.
Things to do in Cardiff when it’s raining
The Welsh weather is not often on our side, but don’t let the wet weather dampen your day. Luckily, there are plenty of different things to do in Cardiff on a rainy day.
FREE Visit Cardiff Checklist & Guide
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