Hensol Castle: A Majestic Gothic Revival Wedding and Event Venue in South Wales

Experience the grandeur of a historic Gothic Revival castle set in rolling Welsh countryside, perfect for weddings, events, and luxurious stays.

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Hensol Castle is a stunning Grade I listed castellated mansion in the Gothic Revival style, dating back to the late 17th or early 18th century. Nestled within 650 acres of rolling countryside in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales, it offers breathtaking architecture, beautiful landscaped grounds, and versatile event spaces. Now a premier wedding and conference venue, it combines rich history with modern luxury and exceptional service, making it an unforgettable setting for celebrations and corporate events.

A brief summary to Hensol Castle

Castle Park, Hensol Castle Hensol, Pontyclun, Hensol, CF72 8JX, GB
+441443665803
Visit website
Duration: 2 to 8 hours
Mid ranged
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Book well in advance for weddings, especially during summer months, as Hensol Castle is a popular venue.
Take time to explore the expansive grounds and the unique mock castle summer house accessible by rowing boat.
Consider staying at the Vale Resort’s four-star accommodation to fully enjoy the onsite amenities.
Try the gin-making experience at the castle’s craft spirit distillery for a unique and fun activity.
Check for special event days like wedding fairs to get a closer look at the venue and meet the team.

Getting There

Car

Driving from Cardiff city center to Hensol Castle takes approximately 25 to 35 minutes via the M4 motorway. Ample free parking is available on-site for over 300 vehicles, making it convenient for guests attending events.
Train and Taxi

Take a train to Pontyclun Station, which is about 6 km from Hensol Castle. From there, a taxi ride of around 10 minutes is recommended. Train services run regularly from Cardiff Central, with fares typically between £5-£10.
Coach

Group bookings can arrange private coach transfers from Cardiff or Bristol airports, taking approximately 40 to 60 minutes. This option is ideal for wedding parties or corporate groups and requires advance booking.

Hensol Castle location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Hensol Castle

Historic Origins and Architectural Grandeur

Hensol Castle's origins trace back to at least 1419, with early ownership by the Jenkins family. The current castellated mansion, a notable example of Gothic Revival architecture, was primarily developed in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The south range is considered one of Britain's earliest Gothic Revival structures, possibly designed by architect Roger Morris. Subsequent owners, including the Talbot family and Samuel Richardson, made significant enhancements, from castellations and turrets to landscaping the vast estate. The 19th century brought further modifications by Rowland Fothergill and architects T.H. Wyatt and David Brandon, who added a clock tower, courtyard, and Victorian-era service wings, blending Gothic and perpendicular styles.

Expansive Estate and Picturesque Setting

Set within 650 rolling acres of the Vale of Glamorgan countryside, Hensol Castle is surrounded by beautifully maintained grounds featuring a deer park, a lake with a unique mock castle summer house accessible by rowing boat, and extensive gardens. The estate’s landscape reflects centuries of careful cultivation and improvement, including land drainage and agricultural innovations introduced by past owners. The serene natural environment offers panoramic views and tranquil spots that enhance the castle’s romantic and historic ambiance.

A Premier Venue for Weddings and Events

Today, Hensol Castle is a sought-after wedding venue renowned for its fairytale atmosphere and impeccable service. The castle can be exclusively booked for weddings, providing a range of elegant suites and reception rooms with bespoke décor and stunning views. The venue offers personalized wedding menus, complimentary bridal suites, free parking for over 300 cars, and additional perks such as anniversary dinners and health club memberships. Its combination of historic charm and modern amenities ensures a seamless and memorable celebration.

Corporate Functions and Unique Experiences

Beyond weddings, Hensol Castle serves as a versatile conference and event space. It features six stylish meeting rooms, including a flagship courtyard hall with a natural wildflower roof, accommodating up to 320 guests theatre-style. The venue is part of the Vale Resort complex, which includes 143 four-star rooms, championship golf courses, a large spa, and fitness facilities. Guests can also enjoy the on-site craft spirit distillery offering gin-making experiences, cocktail bars, and team-building activities ranging from archery to cookery classes, making it ideal for corporate retreats and incentive events.

Legacy of Family Values and Community

Hensol Castle remains a family-run business, upholding traditional values of honesty, respect, and integrity. Its long history is intertwined with notable figures such as Benjamin Hall, who contributed to the rebuilding of the Houses of Parliament and the installation of Big Ben. The estate has also supported local communities through charitable gifts and housing. This blend of heritage, community spirit, and dedication to excellence continues to define the castle’s character and appeal.

Visitor Experience and Amenities

Visitors to Hensol Castle enjoy a warm, attentive welcome and a variety of amenities including exquisite dining options, well-appointed rooms, and extensive parking. The castle’s ambiance combines historic grandeur with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Whether attending a wedding, corporate event, or exploring the grounds, guests find a unique blend of cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and modern luxury that makes every visit special.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Visit the Vale

6.2 km

Explore the Vale: Your gateway to stunning landscapes, rich heritage, and unforgettable experiences in a picturesque region.

Queen Anne Square

13.1 km

Explore Queen Anne Square in Cardiff: A serene gem filled with history, beautiful architecture, and perfect spots for relaxation and photography.

Bute Park

13.2 km

Discover the beauty and tranquility of Bute Park, Cardiff's premier urban park and a hub of culture and nature in the heart of the city.

River Cruises

13.2 km

Explore Cardiff's rich history and stunning architecture from the serenity of the water with unforgettable river cruises through the heart of the city.

Animal Wall

13.3 km

Explore the Animal Wall in Cardiff, a historical landmark filled with whimsical animal sculptures that tell the story of the city's rich heritage.

Cardiff Castle Museum

13.4 km

Explore Cardiff Castle Museum, a historic landmark that invites you to dive into the rich heritage of Wales with captivating exhibits and stunning architecture.

Castell Caerffili / Caerphilly Castle

13.5 km

Explore Caerphilly Castle, the grand second largest castle in the UK, where history and architecture come alive in stunning Welsh landscapes.

Principality Stadium

13.5 km

Experience the energy and excitement of Principality Stadium, Cardiff's premier venue for sports, concerts, and unforgettable events.

Wales National War Memorial

13.5 km

A solemn Gothic Revival monument in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who sacrificed their lives in both World Wars.

Alexandra Gardens

13.5 km

Discover the beauty and history of Alexandra Gardens in Cardiff, a peaceful retreat filled with stunning landscapes and rich cultural significance.

Tommy Cooper Statue

13.5 km

Discover the joy of comedy at the Tommy Cooper Statue in Caerphilly, a charming tribute to the legendary Welsh comedian.

Cardiff Castle

13.5 km

Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Cardiff Castle, a treasure in the heart of Wales that combines culture, beauty, and adventure.

Unmissable attractions to see

Hensol Castle Distillery

0.1 km

Discover the unique blend of history and craft gin making in the atmospheric cellars of 17th-century Hensol Castle.

Vale of Glamorgan

2.8 km

Discover the Vale of Glamorgan’s stunning coastline, historic towns, and tranquil countryside just west of Cardiff.

Llantrisant Guildhall

4.5 km

Explore Llantrisant Guildhall, a historic Welsh landmark revealing centuries of local heritage and vibrant community spirit.

Billy Wynt

4.6 km

Explore the historical landmark Billy Wynt in Llantrisant, where stunning views and rich heritage await every visitor.

The Royal Mint Experience

5.9 km

Step inside the historic Royal Mint in Llantrisant to witness coin-making craft, explore centuries of heritage, and strike your own UK coin.

Cowbridge South Gate

7.0 km

Discover the charm and history of Cowbridge South Gate, a stunning landmark that embodies the rich heritage of this picturesque Welsh town.

St. Fagans National Museum of History

7.2 km

Explore Wales’s rich history through authentic buildings, crafts, and landscapes at St. Fagans, one of Europe’s premier open-air museums.

Tinkinswood Burial Chamber

7.2 km

Explore Tinkinswood, Wales’ awe-inspiring 6,000-year-old Neolithic burial chamber crowned by Europe’s largest capstone.

Brynna Woods

7.3 km

A tranquil 38-hectare reserve blending ancient woodland, rare wildlife habitats, and coal mining heritage near Pontyclun, Wales.

St Fagans Castle

7.4 km

Explore centuries of Welsh history and culture at St Fagans Castle and its vast open-air museum set in stunning Cardiff parkland.

St Quentin's Castle

7.5 km

Explore the evocative ruins of St Quentin's Castle, a medieval stone fortress perched above the Welsh countryside near Cowbridge.

Old Beaupre Castle

7.9 km

Discover Old Beaupre Castle, a hidden Tudor manor with stunning Renaissance architecture nestled in the tranquil Vale of Glamorgan countryside.

National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens

8.1 km

Explore 55 acres of Edwardian garden rooms, exotic plants, and woodland arboretum surrounding a grand Victorian mansion near Cardiff.

The Garden Cafe

8.1 km

A peaceful garden retreat in Wenvoe offering cozy indoor and scenic outdoor dining nestled in nature’s embrace.

St Lythans Burial Chamber

8.5 km

Step back 6,000 years at St Lythans Burial Chamber, a mysterious Neolithic tomb nestled in the tranquil Welsh countryside near Cardiff.

Essential places to dine

Llanerch Vineyard Restaurant

0.7 km

Award-winning vineyard dining with seasonal Welsh cuisine, scenic vineyard views, and expert wine pairings in a charming countryside setting.

Llanerch Vineyard Hotel

0.7 km

Experience luxury and tranquility in Wales’ only vineyard hotel, where scenic beauty meets exquisite dining and elegant accommodations.

Miskin Arms

1.9 km

A cozy and quality-driven restaurant and bar in Pontyclun, serving fresh local meats and fish with a welcoming atmosphere.

The Castell Mynach

2.4 km

A cozy gastropub in Pontyclun offering hearty British dishes, friendly service, and a warm community atmosphere.

The White Lion

3.8 km

A vibrant Welsh country pub and hotel offering exceptional food, warm hospitality, and cozy accommodations in picturesque Ystradowen.

Harvester Llantrisant

4.1 km

Family-friendly bar & grill in Talbot Green Shopping Park serving classic British dishes with a welcoming atmosphere.

The Longbow Beefeater

4.8 km

Classic British bar and grill in Pontyclun offering hearty steaks, family-friendly dining, and a welcoming atmosphere all day long.

The Red Lion

5.3 km

A welcoming village pub in Bonvilston offering hearty homemade meals, cozy charm, and friendly hospitality near Cardiff.

Hare & Hounds

5.4 km

Rustic charm meets refined dining at Hare & Hounds, Aberthin’s beloved pub and restaurant with locally inspired, flavour-packed cuisine.

The Bush Inn

6.5 km

A charming Welsh country pub in Cowbridge offering hearty British fare, cosy atmosphere, and friendly service in a picturesque village setting.

The Barley Mow

7.2 km

A cozy Welsh pub in Graig Penllyn offering fresh local fare, seasonal ales, and a warm community atmosphere near Cowbridge.

The Fox at Penllyn

7.9 km

Experience authentic Welsh pub charm and hearty cuisine in the cozy countryside setting of The Fox at Penllyn near Cowbridge.

Harvester Old Mill Bridgend

8.0 km

A welcoming family-friendly British restaurant in Bridgend offering hearty meals, casual vibes, and attentive service for all ages.

Pantruthyn Farm Table Table

8.5 km

Family-friendly pub dining in a cosy farm setting offering classic British dishes, hearty roasts, and great value near Bridgend.

The Fox and Hounds Pub

8.7 km

A cozy gastropub in scenic Llancarfan offering hearty food, warm hospitality, and charming rooms for a perfect countryside escape.

Discover exclusive designer ladies' fashion in Cowbridge’s charming boutique, blending elegance with personalized style advice.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Pipeworks Bar

2.7 km

A cozy micro bar in Pontyclun offering craft keg beers, ciders, and gins in a friendly, unique atmosphere with occasional live music.

Vale Of Glamorgan Inn

6.8 km

A cozy Welsh pub in Cowbridge offering real ales, homemade food, and a lively beer garden with friendly service.

The Six Bells

10.2 km

Historic Welsh village pub with medieval roots, cozy fires, and locally sourced fare in the heart of Penmark.

The Sycamore Tree

11.3 km

A charming countryside pub in Colwinston offering hearty meals, warm hospitality, and a welcoming atmosphere in the Vale of Glamorgan.

The Bar

11.4 km

A stylish cocktail bar and restaurant in Cardiff’s Canton, offering craft drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe for all occasions.

The Highwayman Inn

11.7 km

Rustic British pub in Rhoose famed for hearty portions, classic dishes, and a warm, lively atmosphere.

The Flying Club

12.1 km

A friendly, affordable bar in Rhoose offering unique planespotting views and a cozy atmosphere near Cardiff Airport.

Cherry Orchard

12.2 km

A modern, family-friendly pub in Barry offering great ales, tasty meals, and a welcoming atmosphere in a charming historic setting.

Fontygary Inn

12.8 km

A friendly traditional pub in Rhoose offering hearty meals, local ales, and a vibrant community atmosphere in the heart of the Vale of Glamorgan.

Star Inn

13.0 km

Cosy village pub in Dinas Powys offering classic dishes, a friendly atmosphere, dog-friendly spaces, and seasonal celebrations year-round.

Ocean Lounge

13.2 km

Charming coastal pub nestled in Porthkerry Caravan Park offering stunning sea views, local ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in South Wales.

Bar 105

13.3 km

Intimate Cardiff cocktail haven with killer drinks, DJ nights, and pop-up feasts in student-fueled Cathays.

Cathays Sports & Social Club

13.3 km

Cardiff's unpretentious social hub: cheap pints, games galore, live tunes, and community vibes in student-favorite Cathays.

The Flora

13.3 km

Cozy Cathays pub pouring pints, roasts, and community spirit in a quirky, welcoming haven—Cardiff's go-to for hearty Sundays and everyday cheer.

The Grange Pub

13.4 km

A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Eclipse Nightclub

10.1 km

Experience Pontypridd’s vibrant midweek nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community come alive every Wednesday night.

Squares Night club

12.6 km

Experience Porth’s vibrant nightlife at Squares Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable evenings come alive every weekend.

Coco Cubanas

13.0 km

Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.

Bar Cocoa

13.0 km

Experience Barry’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Bar Cocoa, a lively nightclub where music and dancing keep the party going until the early morning.

Fuel Rock Club

13.5 km

Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.

Clwb Ifor Bach

13.5 km

Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.

For Your Eyes Only

13.6 km

Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.

Popworld - Cardiff

13.7 km

Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.

Tiger Tiger Cardiff

13.8 km

A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.

The CUBE

13.8 km

Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.

Metros

13.8 km

Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.

CIRCUIT Cardiff

13.9 km

Cardiff's largest nightclub ignites Greyfriars Road with 1,500-capacity energy, state-of-the-art production across themed rooms, and epic nights from club beats to private spectacles.

Walkabout - Cardiff

13.9 km

Discover the ultimate sports bar experience in Cardiff, offering vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and live sports in a lively atmosphere.

Be At One - Cardiff

13.9 km

Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Be At One in Cardiff, where every drink is a celebration and the atmosphere is electric!

Retro

13.9 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cardiff at Retro, where nostalgia meets fun in a lively bar and nightclub atmosphere.

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Hensol Castle: A Majestic Gothic Revival Wedding and Event Venue in South Wales

A brief summary to Hensol Castle

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Car

Train and Taxi

Coach

Hensol Castle location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Hensol Castle

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Hensol Castle

Historic Origins and Architectural Grandeur

Expansive Estate and Picturesque Setting

A Premier Venue for Weddings and Events

Corporate Functions and Unique Experiences

Legacy of Family Values and Community

Visitor Experience and Amenities

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Visit the Vale

Queen Anne Square

Bute Park

River Cruises

Animal Wall

Cardiff Castle Museum

Castell Caerffili / Caerphilly Castle

Principality Stadium

Wales National War Memorial

Alexandra Gardens

Tommy Cooper Statue

Cardiff Castle

Unmissable attractions to see

Hensol Castle Distillery

Vale of Glamorgan

Llantrisant Guildhall

Billy Wynt

The Royal Mint Experience

Cowbridge South Gate

St. Fagans National Museum of History

Tinkinswood Burial Chamber

Brynna Woods

St Fagans Castle

St Quentin's Castle

Old Beaupre Castle

National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens

The Garden Cafe

St Lythans Burial Chamber

Essential places to dine

Llanerch Vineyard Restaurant

Llanerch Vineyard Hotel

Miskin Arms

The Castell Mynach

The White Lion

Harvester Llantrisant

The Longbow Beefeater

The Red Lion

Hare & Hounds

The Bush Inn

The Barley Mow

The Fox at Penllyn

Harvester Old Mill Bridgend

Pantruthyn Farm Table Table

The Fox and Hounds Pub

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Havard & Havard Antiques

Sovereign Antiques

West Hampton

Colours of Cowbridge

Square Spot

Visage

E91

Minnie May Closet - Boutique

The Vintage HQ

WHSmith

Your Ethical home

The Original Welsh Candle Co

Tallia Cowbridge

Willow In White Bridal Co