This fairytale castle is one of the most beautiful places in the UK

We could all do with a bit more beauty in our lives, so earlier this year Time Out picked the most beautiful places to visit in the UK and created a definitive ranking. Our list includes sublime mountain ranges and rainbow-hued cottages formerly owned by famous artists, as well as cliff-side theatres and majestic bridges. 

Looking for an arresting weekend trip to close out the year? Why not visit the tenth most beautiful spot on our list: Castell Coch in Glamorgan. The Welsh landmark, also known as ‘Red Castle’, is tucked away within the beech woods of Fforest Fawr, its three turrets rising from the leaves like an illustration from a fairytale. You can catch a glimpse of them driving down the M4 out of Cardiff, but it’s inside where you’ll find a real treat.

The ancient building sits on the ruins of a 13th-century fortification and was designed by Victorian architect William Burges, who also oversaw the reconstruction of Cardiff Castle. He was commissioned by the third marquis of Bute, one of Britain’s wealthiest men at the time, and was allowed total free rein. The results? Pretty spectacular. 

Inside, you’ll find rich furnishings and ornately decorated interiors, like the staggering drawing room with a gold vaulted ceiling covered in murals of twinkling stars and flying birds. Or Lady Bute’s bedroom, covered in friezes of monkeys and pomegranates and filled with gilded furniture. And explore the Medieval kitchens filled with handsome tiles and huge stove ranges. 

Combine your visit with a walk along one of Fforest Fawr’s trails for the ultimate day out. 

The 23 most beautiful places in the UK to visit in 2026. 

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