A Roman auxiliary fort, a medieval castle and mining memorials offer different ways to explore the history of Caerphilly. The remains of Gelligaer Roman Fort now lie beneath a covering of grass; the site was first excavated towards the end of the 19th century. An interpretation area, roadside parking, a viewpoint and picnic benches help you find your way around. Visitor facilities can change, so check these details before your visit. A family-friendly Discovery Trail adds a self-guided exploration to your visit.
From the Castle to the Memorial Sites
Caerphilly Castle was built from 1268 by Gilbert de Clare, a Marcher lord. The grounds cover 30 acres; the castle is considered the largest in Wales and the second largest in Great Britain after Windsor Castle. Its scale offers a contrast to the Roman fort, hidden beneath grass: here, the focus is on an extensive castle complex, while there, it is on the archaeological traces of an auxiliary fort.
In Senghenydd, the focus turns to mining history and its commemoration. The Senghenydd National Mining Memorial remembers the victims of 152 mining disasters in Wales. Senghenydd Memorial Garden features a bronze statue, a memorial wall and a remembrance trail; there is a ceramic tile for each disaster. In 2024, the Welsh Government officially recognised the garden as the National Mining Disaster Memorial Garden of Wales.
Aber Valley Heritage Museum focuses in particular on Universal Colliery in Senghenydd and Windsor Colliery in Abertridwr. Exhibits include mining-related objects, photographs and archive films. Interactive touchscreens show images of people from the valley, as well as local landmarks and buildings. Caerphilly Workmen’s Hall brings another aspect of cultural life together with architectural history: in the 1990s, the building was listed as a Grade II building. As a venue for community arts and entertainment, it may host theatre, stand-up comedy, rock concerts and pantomimes, among other events; the programme may change.
Trails, Landscape and Views
The trails also vary considerably in length and character. Walking Through Time is a three-mile circular walk through the Aber Valley, passing 30 points of interest marked with blue plaques. In Cwmcarn Forest, the nine-mile 1807 Walk passes historic features, woodland and viewpoints. Check for possible diversions on this route before travelling. For a shorter loop, there is also a 1.2-mile circular trail with 21 points of interest, which you can find using an explorer map.
For those who would rather ride a mountain bike than walk, Cwmcarn Forest offers the Twrch Trail: 15.5 kilometres of almost continuous singletrack that can be ridden year-round. Another route starts in Caerphilly and passes green fields, woodland and protected wildlife areas. A waymarked circular walk, longer hiking routes and a mountain bike trail offer different ways to explore the landscape and its paths.
Habitats in Parc Penallta range from woodland, ponds and grassland to flower-filled meadows; orchids, dragonflies and other wildlife are also part of the landscape. The High Point Observatory offers 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. A 200-metre-long, 15-metre-high figurative earth sculpture is one of the largest of its kind in the country. Nature, a viewpoint and landscape art offer distinct discoveries here.
Local Experiences and Getting Around
Ffos Caerffili is home to more than 20 independent traders, offering everything from street food to handmade goods; the mix of traders may change. Events include free and paid options, such as craft markets, apple and cider festivals, live comedy, music and quiz nights. Van Rd Trails offers something different: the non-profit dirt-jump bike facility in Caerphilly is free to use. There are weekly club nights in summer and an annual dual-slalom competition in autumn. Check the dates before visiting.
Caerphilly Audio Tours offers another option for a self-guided walking tour through the history and legends of Caerphilly; check operating arrangements in advance. Caerphilly Transport Interchange is near Caerphilly Castle. Trains to Bargoed and Cardiff run approximately every 10 to 20 minutes, while trains to Rhymney run approximately every 30 minutes. Timetables can change, so check connections before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Blackwood, Caerphilly, Crosskeys, Oakdale, Rhymney, Bedwas, Cwmfelinfach, Gwynedd.
Go to the main travel overview: Wales.
