Enjoy a Castle Scavenger Hunt at Castell Coch
Summer wouldn’t be the same without an exciting family holiday. Not sure where to go this year? We recommend Wales. There are countless white, sandy beaches, kid-friendly activities and famous attractions to explore.
Best of all, Cadw has just announced its awesome activities line-up. Over several weeks, the organisation will run unique events across 130 locations, including Castell Coch. Alongside being thoroughly entertained, you’ll walk away a little more knowledgeable about the country’s most celebrated historical places!
Interested to learn more? Keep reading as we explain everything you need to know.
An exciting quest awaits
One of this year’s highlights is a fun-filled scavenger hunt at Castell Coch in Cardiff. Of course, staying in the capital means there’s plenty to do and see. Once you’ve unearthed hidden treasures in the 13th-century fortress, check out the local restaurants, breweries and shops.
The castle itself is a magnificent feat of engineering. In fact, it’s often voted as the country’s favourite building. While the stone fortification was originally erected between 1267 and 1277, famous architect William Burgess completed renovation work in the late 1800s. The result? A breathtaking blend of medieval and Victorian influences.
It’s easy to see why so many people flock here on holiday. The conical towers rise above the ancient beech woodlands of Fforest Fawr, cutting a dramatic silhouette against the skyline. Inside, you’ll find elaborately decorated halls, private apartments and living quarters. We especially love the ornate ceiling in the octagonal drawing room. The 58 coloured panels depict scenes from Aesop’s Fables, including “The Fox and the Crow”.
So, what can you expect from the summer scavenger hunt? The winding treasure trail loops around the castle and grounds, encouraging you to venture off the beaten track. You’ll learn about the site’s history as you unearth hidden treasures, from the original building’s destruction after the Battle of Bannockburn to its glorious restoration.
Most importantly, the hunt will take you into the woods, among countless animal and plant species. Fforest Fawr comes alive in spring with bluebells, wood anemones and wild garlic. As the weather warms, you’ll hear the chit-chat of nesting birds in the canopies above.
Castle scavenger hunt FAQS
When does the event take place?
Castell Coch’s scavenger hunt is the perfect bank holiday activity. You can join the fun from Saturday 26th August to Monday 28th August, between 11am and 3pm.
Do you have to book and pay?
While you don’t have to book for the event specifically, you must purchase general admission tickets in advance. The venue can only accommodate a limited amount of visitors at one time. Here’s the price list:
- Members: Free
- Children (under 5): Free
- Adults: £8.70
- Family (2 adults and up to 3 children): £28.20
- Disabled person and carer: Free
- Juniors (aged 5 – 17): £6.10
- Students: £6.10
- Seniors (aged 65+): £8.10
How do you get to Castell Coch?
Castell Coch is pretty easy to find. You can access it via the M4 (Jct. 32) and A470 – you’ll see signposts along the way. Otherwise, search for bus, rail and bike routes from Cardiff city centre.
Address: Castell Coch, Cardiff, CF15 7JS
What facilities are there?
The location has brilliant facilities, including an on-site café serving light refreshments, a well-stocked gift shop and an exhibition centre. Plus, the car park is free with three accessible bays.
Is the venue dog-friendly?
Unfortunately, you can’t bring your pups to this site. However, assistance dogs are welcome.
Is there accommodation nearby?
As you can imagine, there’s a treasure chest of top-rated accommodation options nearby. Struggling to narrow it down? Simply browse through our comprehensive travel directory to find the best B&Bs, hotels and campsites in the local area.
Learn more about Cadw’s summer line-up
The fun doesn’t stop with Castell Coch’s summer scavenger hunt. If you’d like more holiday inspiration, discover the rest of the Cadw event schedule on our blog. There’s plenty to choose from, including medieval festivals, treasure hunts and children’s archaeology taster days.
