Castell Coch, Tongwynlais, South Wales

© Billy Stock/Alam

Castell Coch, Tongwynlais, South Wales

Castell Coch, Welsh for 'Red Castle', is perched on a wooded hill in Cardiff, Wales. Built on the ruins of the old fortification, the renowned architect William Burges redesigned the castle between 1875 and 1879. The castle is a symphony of opulence, featuring lavish interiors adorned with intricate carvings, vibrant stained-glass and sumptuous furnishings. Its external features and high Victorian interiors stand as an example of the brilliance of its designer. Melding together remnants of the mediaeval fortress with 19th-century innovations, its design achieves a synthesis that is hailed as a highlight of the Gothic Revival in Britain. The surrounding beech forest contributes to the fairytale-like background, and it contains geological features of limestone, sandstone and rare plant species such as the butterfly orchid, bird's-nest orchid and dog's mercury. These woods are recognised and protected as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.