Caerphilly Tourist Information

Set in the shadow of Europe's second largest castle, lies the town of Caerphilly. The imposing majesty of this Norman castle dominates the town. Proudly standing on a 30 acre site Caerphilly Castle is one of the largest fortresses in Europe. Boasting a tower which "outleans " that of Pisa, the castle also receives visits from the infamous ghost of the Green Lady.

Caerphilly is renowned for its Cheese, which visitors can buy in the local shops in the town, where there is a range of high street shops as well as a good choice of smaller, specialist shops and a market. There is an excellent selection of pubs, restaurants and coffee shops. The Caerphilly International Summer Festival takes place in July. There are many attractions on offer such as living history encampments, street entertainers, folk dancing, falconry displays and minstrels.

Nearby is Sirhowy Valley Country Park, set in 1000 acres of woodland and farmland stretching along 4 miles of the Sirhowy Valley. The Full Moon Visitor Centre provides details on trails and activities in the park, which include rambling, cycling and horse riding. At the heart of the Sirhowy Valley Country Park lies the Ynys Hywel Centre. A converted 17th century farmhouse which offers conference facilities, Sunday lunches, a weekend coffee shop with craft demonstrations (April-September only).

Cwmcarn Forest Drive, Visitor Centre and Campsite, here you can explore the magnificent 7 mile Forest Drive with panoramic views of South Wales. Visitors can make use of permanent barbecue and picnic sites or stop off at the visitor centre for a snack and to browse around the gift shop.

At Penyfan Pond you will find a whole range of outdoor activities. Situated near the village of Croespenmaen, Penyfan Pond Country Park caters for all types of watersport by prior arrangement.

Parc Cwm Darran offers a six acre coarse fishery and attractions for all the family. Nestling in the Darran valley just north of Bargoed, lies this beautiful country park with an adventure playground and a well-equipped visitor centre, as well as numerous walks and cycle rides.

Llancaiach Fawr is an award winning, living history museum. Here you can step back in time to the Civil War era and see enactments of life during this period of history.