Ogmore Castle
Vale of Glamorgan, Wales
Photo: Ewan Topping from Amsterdam, Netherlands, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Gallery: Wikimedia Commons contributor, CC BY-SA 2.5 · WelshDave, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Key facts
- Operator
- Cadw
- Condition
- Ruin
- Access
- Free, open access
- Nearest station
- Bridgend, 2.4 miles (straight-line)
- Note
- Riverside Norman castle beside famous stepping stones; free
Pinpoint
8 Crompton Way, Bridgend CF32 0QP
Telephone 0300 025 6000
Opening Hours
Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.
| 1st April - 31st March | 10am-4pm |
Last entry: 30 minutes before closing
- Closed
- Closed 24, 25, 26 December and 1 January
Checked against the official page on 13 August 2026.
A Norman ruin beside the River Ogmore, better known now for the stepping stones across the river right next to it than for the castle itself, which is a modest survival dating back to the 1100s. Reviewers treat the whole outing - castle, crossing, riverside walk - as one package rather than the ruin alone.
At a glance
Worth the trip
The stepping stones across the River Ogmore, right beside the castle - reviewers rate crossing them as much a part of the visit as the ruin.
Before you go
Bring wellies if you're planning to cross the stones, since the tide comes in and can leave them slippery or partly submerged; there's a small car park right next to the site.
What visitors say
Ogmore Castle reviews · 4.7 / 5 across 1,533 Google reviews
Visitors consistently enjoy the picturesque riverside setting, with the stepping stones across the River Ogmore mentioned repeatedly as a highlight alongside the free entry and small ruins.
Several reviewers recommend wearing wellies or sturdy shoes, as the stones can be slippery or submerged depending on the tide, and note there's nowhere on site to buy food or drink.
Overall the reviews are uniformly positive about the setting and walks nearby.
“Ruins of a castle with history back to the 1100's. Beautiful setting with walks and a river with stepping stones.”- John Mahoney, visitor review
Within reach of Cardiff (19 miles) - see what else is nearby.
Getting in - what Cadw says
Terrain Level 2 – Easy with mostly flat grounds. Dogs on short leads welcome to ground floor. Uneven car park, no disabled spaces, susceptible to flooding. Slippery stepping stones and masonry hazards.
Taken from Cadw’s own website and read 28 July 2026 - check the current version. Access can change with building work, weather and staffing - if the visit depends on it, ring ahead.
History
Ogmore Castle began as an earthwork and timber fortification in the early 12th century, rapidly converted to stone. William de Londres received the manor and castle as one of the Twelve Knights of Glamorgan. A stone keep approximately 8m × 13m was constructed, with 13th-century curtain walls added to the east. The castle guarded Glamorgan against Welsh incursions and featured an innovative tidal-filled ditch for defence. It remained in use until the 19th century as a court of justice and prison before becoming a ruin.
Drawn from Cadw's own page.
Practical notes from visitors
Quoted from individual Google reviews, not verified with the operator - treat as a steer, not gospel, and check before you travel.
- Parking
- “There is a small car park next to the castle by the stepping stones.” - Helen White
- Facilities
- “Definitely going back on a sunny day and take a picnic.” - Vivian Huskings
Common questions about Ogmore Castle
Where is Ogmore Castle?
Ogmore Castle is in Vale of Glamorgan, Wales, at 8 Crompton Way, Bridgend CF32 0QP.
Is Ogmore Castle free to visit?
Yes - Ogmore Castle is a free, open-access site with no ticket booth, looked after by Cadw. There may still be a charge for nearby parking, and open-access arrangements can change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel.
What is the highlight of visiting Ogmore Castle?
The stepping stones across the River Ogmore, right beside the castle - reviewers rate crossing them as much a part of the visit as the ruin.
Is Ogmore Castle a ruin or still intact?
Ogmore Castle is a ruin - Riverside Norman castle beside famous stepping stones; free.
