Dunraven Castle Tourist Attraction in Bridgend, Southerndown

Reviews

1. Sian Suter ★★★★★

   Really beautiful place to go and spend a few hours with family and great walks with your dog.

   almost 11 months ago
2. Jonathan Lee Gould “JOFF” u.t.b.Morgan ★★★★★

   Always a nice walk morning noon or night friendly people and good vibes. Fridays or Saturdays Drums out with two good amazing teacher's justbl0 join in. sing dance drum guitar just jump around and feel good. NUFFLUVV AND BLESSINGS TO D&G VAN!! LIFERS!! JOFFY&TACHA TENT CREW.... XXXXXX

   1 year ago
3. Jonbvn ★★★★★

   Dunraven Castle (Welsh: Castell Dwnrhefn) was a mansion on the South Wales coast near Southerndown. The existing manor house was rebuilt as a castellated hunting lodge in the early 19th century and was extensively remodelled later in the century. The surviving parts of the house are a Grade II listed building and its gardens and park are designated Grade II on the Cadw/ICOMOS Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in Wales. The site of the castle was the location for several earlier fortifications, the first of which is said to have been built by Arnold le Boteler (Butler) in the mid-12th century. By the 16th century, a manor house owned by the Vaughan family stood on the site, its existence recorded by John Leland. In 1642 the house was sold to the Wyndham family. Thomas Wyndham of Dunraven was MP for Glamorgan from 1789 to his death in 1814. He rebuilt the manor house as a castellated hunting lodge in 1802–1806. The building was designed by his wife, although it was probably based on Clearwell Castle. The estate then passed to their daughter Caroline, who in 1810 had married the Irishman Windham Henry Quin (1782–1850), later 2nd Earl of Dunraven; in 1815 he assumed the additional name of Wyndham in right of his wife, becoming Windham Wyndham-Quin. Caroline began remodelling the building in 1858; the central tower was replaced by a conservatory and the north and south wings were enlarged by Egbert Moxham. It was inherited by Edwin Wyndham-Quin, 3rd Earl of Dunraven and Mount-Earl, MP for Glamorganshire 1837–1851, and descendants. It was lived in until after the Second World War, having been used as a military hospital. The house was demolished in 1963. The castle's walled garden, gatehouse and several other structures survive[2] and are part of the Glamorgan Heritage Coast. They are designated Grade II on the Cadw/ICOMOS Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in Wales.

   1 year ago

1. Ross Attwell (Red) ★★★★★

   Beautiful walled gardens sheltered from the wind, peaceful and a short walk from the carpark. There are benches or plenty of space on the grass to sit down, you can walk the perimeter, explore the woodland area surrounding or take in the sea sights from the cliff edge. Stunning scenery.

   1 year ago
2. Rhi Bunston ★★★★★

   A lovely walk around Dunraven Castle. There was enough to look at to keep the kids interested while we enjoyed green space; we even met a very friendly Robin. The walk down from the remains of the house towards the car park could be a bit tricky for some to navigate if they’re not so sure on their feet, but there are plenty of easier routes back. Being right next to the sea we were able to combine an interesting walk with some time at the beach. Parking is reasonable at only £3 for the day, and toilets are available at the car park.

   1 year ago
3. Jacob ★★★★★

   Just beautiful, a real hidden jem. Steeped with history coupled with breathing taking views and a stunning beach what more could you ask for. Very easy paths to follow with benches and open areas to sit. Plenty of parking and places to stop for food or a drink. I highly recommend visiting. Always check the weather and dress accordingly. Also dog friendly but it's advised to keep on leash as there is widelife like sheep and rabbits.

   almost 3 years ago

1. Alex Drummond ★★★★☆

   Built as a folly, it's now just a ruin. Not a lot to see, but interesting nonetheless, and worth a visit. The coastal views are fantastic.

   almost 4 years ago
2. Flynn On Tour ★★★☆☆

   Walking up from Dunraven bay, we then reached the walled garden, which is nice to look at and walk through. It especially offered some shade which was splendid on that warm day. When you exit the walled garden on the other side, you can check out a viewpoint a bit higher up or head to another bay if you’re adventurous and want to climb down. On your way back you can see the remnants of Dunraven castle, which really isn’t much more than bare ruins.

   almost 4 years ago
3. Iwona Kukula ★★★★★

   The castel doesn't exist anymore. However wall gardens are amazing. This truly magic place. Wonderful place to walk and relax.

   almost 4 years ago

1. Valerie ★★★★★

   Gorgeous place for a walk and picnic. Walled gardens are a treat whether for old or young with plenty of room to run around or just sit and share a picnic. Continuing east along the path is the coastal walk which again is a fine treat. Parking £1 for an hour but is a fiver if you intend staying over 1 hour. But there's no admission so parking is the only charge. There is a cafe window there at the parking lot at the foot of the hill but have never tried it. Dunraven Castle is a brilliant place to visit.

   almost 4 years ago

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