Candleston Castle

Candleston Castle stands on a narrow promontory above the Merthyr Mawr Sand Dunes in Bridgend County Borough. Built in the 14th century as a fortified manor, it once formed part of a medieval settlement. The castle’s long rectangular structure stretched across the western end of the promontory, giving it a defensive position. Its name likely comes from the Norman Cantilupe family, who were its first tenants. The ruins lie close to Ogmore Castle, separated only by the River Ogmore. Sand dunes now surround the site, having shifted since the 14th century. The castle’s history reflects the changing fortunes of its owners over seven centuries. It passed through the hands of the St Quintin, Horton, Cradock, Herbert and Greville families. Sir Mathew Cradock, a steward of Gower and constable of Kenfig and Caerphilly castles, refurbished the manor in the late 15th century. Later, the Greville family made only minor changes before selling it in the 18th century. By the 19th century, the castle had become a farmhouse before being abandoned. Visitors find ivy-covered ruins set among woodland and farmland near the dunes. Wildflowers, butterflies and orchids grow in the area, while the nearby sand dunes rise more than 80 metres above sea level. The site offers views across the dunes and towards Swansea Bay. A stepped base of a Calvary cross, uncovered in 1823, lies near a windmill. The ruins and their surroundings provide a quiet place to explore the traces of the past.