96-Discover A Stunning Campervan Road Trip through Caerphilly-HIDDEN-NOT-PUBLISHED

Caerphilly Castle. Steve Cadman

Caerphilly is a long, teardrop-shaped county extending from the fringes of the Brecon Beacons in the north to the bustling capital of Cardiff. Today, we explore the town of Caerphilly on our South Wales road trip. We began our South Wales campervan road trip in Chepstow and now head down to Caerphilly via the M4. We’ve rounded up the best things to see in Caerphilly, including its famous castle and cheese festival, so pick the attractions you want to explore on your campervan road trip. Our itinerary will include the best campsites in Caerphilly, the best places to hire a campervan, and more. Let’s get down to adventuring.

• An Itinerary for a Campervan Roadtrip through South Wales

Caerphilly is a lively town in South Wales, located around 7 miles (11 km) north of Cardiff, and sits within the historic boundaries of Glamorgan.

• What is Caerphilly Famous For?
• Caerphilly Road Trip Itinerary
• Does Caerphilly Have a Beach?
• Camping in and around Caerphilly
• Best Caerphilly Campsites
• Caerphilly Campervans Prices
• Campervan Hire in Caerphilly
• Caerphilly in The Rear View Mirror

What is Caerphilly Famous For?

The town is famous for Caerphilly Castle, one of the largest mediaeval fortresses in Britain and Wales. Historically, the town played an important part in the South Wales coal industry during the 19th and early 20th centuries. It serves as a gateway town to an array of locations due to its strategic location within the South Wales Valleys, with easy access to Cardiff. Caerphilly is also renowned for its namesake cheese, Caerphilly cheese, a crumbly white cheese initially fed to miners and is an iconic treat for anyone visiting the town.

Caerphilly Road Trip Itinerary

Caerphilly. Metro Centric

Caerphilly rests on the southwestern ridge between the Brecons and Cardiff, along with other towns like Ystrad Mynach, Blackwood, New Tredegar, and Bedwas sprinkled across the Rhymney River. Kick-start your exploration at Caerphilly Castle, a magnificent mediaeval fortress with extensive water defences and impressive architecture in the heart of town. You can’t miss this Norman structure, which looms over the city and tempts visitors of all ages with impressive 13th-century century military architecture.

For some fresh air and exercise, take a hike up Caerphilly Mountain for gorgeous views down Cardiff and its docks, the South Wales Valleys, Penarth Head, and England beyond. Stop at the popular snack bar at the top to refuel for your hike back down, or stay awhile and explore the many paths around the summit that snake through ancient woodland.

Wander around the town, swim by the Caerphilly Cheese Visitor Centre for commanding vistas from the terrace, and a delicious cake plus tea at the cake at Coffi Vista. There is a gift shop with souvenirs and a shop, Y Galeri, selling art and craftworks by local artists. If your visit does not coincide with the Cheese Festival, pop in at the Castle Court Craft and Food Market, held once a month, and stock up on produce from the county to slap on the grill back at your campsite and on as much crumbly cheese as needed.

History buffs can take a 19-minute drive via the A469 to visit the Aber Valley Heritage Museum in the former mining town of Senghenydd. The museum is run by a group of volunteers who honour the town’s rich mining history, with a memorial garden dedicated to the victims of the mine explosions in the Universal Colliery that killed a large number of men and boys.

Does Caerphilly Have a Beach?

Caerphilly does not have a beach, however, there are several beaches within easy reach. We recommend Penarth beach, between 30 - 40 minutes away via the A4232, however, there are several excellent options like Whitmore Bay, St Mary’s Well Bay, and Monknash Beach.

If green spaces are more your vibe, head to Cwmcarn Forest Drive, 26 minutes away via the A469 and A472. Explore stunning landscapes, hiking trails, mountain bikes, and scenic drives. Located on the border of Newport, this is an excellent location for ambitious mountain bikers who can tackle two red-graded trails, ranging from complex to extreme. There are several walks for walkers to work up a sweat, including a 2-hour walk to the summit, which rewards hikers with stunning vistas of the Cardiff Bay and Brecon Beacons. Enjoy gentler strolls along the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal if this sounds too strenuous. There is a cafe for sorting snacks and a lovely campsite, Cwmcarn Forest, offering camping and glamping. We will explore the amenities and attractions around this site in our campsite section below. We also recommend Morgan Jones Park, a lovely park in the heart of town with a kid’s play area, beautiful gardens, and walking paths.

With so much to see in and around the lively town of Caerphilly, it is a great spot for a day trip, a weekend break or longer. We’ll explore a range of camping options and fab campervan hire locations for our readers who want to kick off their South Wales road trip in Caerphilly.

Camping in and around Caerphilly

Caerphilly Castle. Hugh Llewelyn

Caerphilly is a fantastic location for an overnight stay. The town blends history, outdoor adventures, and easy access to natural landscapes and urban amenities. Book a campsite in Caerphilly, and you’ll be within easy reach of varied attractions. Discover the beautiful South Wales Valleys and rolling hills, hike up Caerphilly Mountain, or take scenic drives through the Cwmcarn Forest. A wealth of family-friendly attractions and effortless access to the buzzing capital of Wales make it a fantastic base for blending urban adventures with the chance to reconnect with nature. We recommend finding campsites in Rudry, Bargoed and Blackwood, three fantastic locations under 30 minutes from the town. We’ll explore what you can see when you stay at a campsite in one of these locations. Visit our campsites page for more campsites in UK.

The county of Caerphilly, nestled in the South Wales Valleys, offers a lush, green landscape with expansive woodlands and peaceful surroundings ideal for quiet escapes. The area is crisscrossed with walking paths and hiking trails that allow campers to discover beautiful scenery and historic attractions like Caerphilly Castle and Llancaiach Fawr Manor. Rural Caerphilly campsites are far from light pollution, so sparkling night skies are guaranteed, especially if you’re the type who enjoys campfires and evening alfresco meals.

The charming village of Rudry is a quiet retreat with plenty to explore and a vibrant twin like Caerphilly nearby. You can kick start your Rudry campsite escape at Rudry Common, a calm location for scenic walks through woodland and undulating hills with gorgeous views of the enclosing countryside. It is an excellent spot for hikes, exercising your dog, or a picnic with your family. Pop into St James Church, a historic site dating back to the 12th century, offering a glimpse into the village's history. There are plenty of beautiful green areas for birdwatching and admiring local flora. Rudry’s proximity to Caerphilly makes it easy to visit Caerphilly Castle, one of the largest fortresses in Wales, which is a short drive away. After a long day of sightseeing, relax with a pint and some heart food at the Maenllwyd Inn, just 9 minutes from town. Browse our list of 180 campsites within 30 miles of Rudry, or check out more campsites in Cardiff, campsites in Penarth, campsites in Barry and campsites in Hendreforgan.

Tucked in the Rhymney Valley, the town Bargoed rests in the heart of the South Wales Valleys and is a gorgeous spot for a camping getaway. With its stunning natural landscapes, you can wake up to breathtaking views and fresh mountain air. The nearby Bargoed Park is perfect for strolls or picnics. The area is rich in history, from old mining heritage to charming local shops waiting to be explored. Explore the history of the coal mining industry at sites like The Rhymney Valley. Families can park at Parc Cwm Darran, a lovely park with a play area, picnic spots, and walking trails. Adventurous types will enjoy hiking the scenic trails in the surrounding hills, offering plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting and breathtaking sunsets. Campsites in Bargoed are ideal for our readers who want to combine a trip to Caerphilly with the thrills of Brecon Beacons National Park. You needn’t venture that far for scenic drives as Cwmcarn Forest drives are nearby. For more camping options near Bargoed, check out our campsites in Merthyr Tydfil, campsites in Crickhowell and campsites in Abergavenny.

Blackwood is a fantastic spot for camping, enclosed by stunning scenery with a welcoming community spirit. Nestled in the heart of the South Wales Valleys, you'll find verdant greenery and scenic trails perfect for hiking and biking. The nearby Parc Penallta is great for families and offers picturesque walks, play areas, and playful sculptures, including the famous Sultan the Pit Pony. Take scenic drives through the Cwmcarn Forest, potter around National Trust Tredegar House, or rumble over to the Brecon Beacons National Park and fall in love with breathtaking scenery. Plus, the lively local scene means you can enjoy the local welcome at cafes and pubs after a day of sightseeing. With easy access to historical sites and outdoor activities, our campsites in Blackwood promise a memorable camping experience. We also list 184 campsites within 30 miles of Blackwood, and offer more campsites in Newport, campsites in Aberdare and campsites in Usk.

Best Caerphilly Campsites

With stunning castles, picturesque parks, and green landscapes, Caerphilly is an enchanting location for urban adventures and countryside escapes. The town presents a delightful combination of vibrant culture and rich history, with plenty of local amenities like shops, cafes, and markets. Take back the unique cheese to enjoy back at one of our recommended campsites and spend a quiet evening snacking on fresh meals courtesy of the barbecue grill. Check out Ty Coch Camping in Newport and Cwmcarn Forest in Caerphilly. These well-equipped campsites are well located for getting around and ensure comfortable stays for all budgets.

Ty Coch Camping in Newport

Ty Coch Camping, Newport

Ty Coch Camping is a quiet campsite, 15 minutes from Cardiff and Newport and an excellent site for adults-only camping. There is plenty to do in this beautiful part of South East Wales, and owners Nigel and Maria warmly welcome all campers who want to explore this corner of the country. Follow stunning coastal paths, and explore historic houses and magnificent castles. There’s excellent shopping nearby at Cardiff City Centre; enjoy walks along the pier at Cardiff Bay and explore a range of market towns, beaches and countryside within easy reach. Pitch a tent or park your touring vehicle on 15 hardstanding bases or 15 grass pitches, all with electric metres. The campsite is open throughout the year and offers a rustic escape from the bustle of the nearby towns and cities.

Cwmcarn Forest in Caerphilly

Cwmcarn Forest, Caerphilly

Nestled in the heart of stunning Cwmcarn Forest, Cwmcarn Forest campsite is peaceful, quiet, and well-equipped. It has that inimitable atmosphere that makes it feel like you're miles away from everyone. Set up your tent, park your caravan, and wake up to breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. If you want to enjoy a few more home comforts, look at the glamping pods and lodges. The site has all the amenities required for a peaceful retreat, including an adventure playground for the kids, a visitor centre, and access to an array of walking and hiking routes mere steps from your pitch or self-catering abode. Whether you want to amp up the pace or destress and relax, the site has everything you'll need for a comfortable stay.

Caerphilly Campervans Prices

With so much to explore and rich history at every turn, we’ve likely enticed you into considering heading down for a Caerphilly campervan road trip. You’re probably wondering how much a campervan in Caerphilly will cost you, and we’re happy to provide our competitive rates.

A campervan rental is a great way to explore the varied landscapes of the UK. However, just as with hotel rooms, several factors influence the price of your rental. Decked-out campers with all the frills and comforts are understandably more costly than simpler campervans with the essentials. The season of hire also plays an important part, as does the location of the rental. If it is a remote area with a handful of campervans or motorhomes on offer, the charges will be higher than campers in a larger, more popular city. Longer reservations often secure discounted rates, so it might be worthwhile to consider hiring a campervan for the school holidays if you’re on a tight budget. Our Caerphilly campervans start at £95 per night and can go up to £165 per night. Our campervan pages also offer a handy list of campervan owners near your hire location. So, scroll to the bottom of the page and click on the locations provided to browse more campervans nearby.

Campervan Hire in Caerphilly

Caerphilly Castle. Priya Deonarain

Caerphilly County is a campervan lover's paradise if you know where to look. With its stunning landscapes, from rolling hills to majestic forests, adventurous sorts will find endless opportunities for adventure. Imagine waking up with views of the iconic Caerphilly Castle or exploring the scenic trails of Cwmcarn Forest. The region's rich history and vibrant towns, like Blackwood and Caerphilly, offer plenty of charming pit stops for food and fun. It's just a stone's throw from Cardiff, making city escapades easy. Whether you crave outdoor thrills or a cosy retreat, hiring a campervan in Caerphilly is a great way to explore this area of south Wales.

Caerphilly is a fantastic spot to hire a campervan because it’s the gateway to assorted adventures. Nestled between the vibrant city of Cardiff and the stunning South Wales Valleys, it’s the perfect starting point for road trips filled with rolling hills, ancient castles, and hidden gems. Imagine parking by winding through lush green landscapes up to Caerphilly Mountain for breathtaking views or waking up to quiet countryside scenery. With its blend of history, outdoor fun, and proximity to stunning Welsh scenery, hiring a campervan in Caerphilly is a beautiful way to turn any journey into an unforgettable adventure!

Trecenydd is a hidden gem for hiring a campervan, offering a fantastic launchpad for adventure. Nestled in the heart of South Wales, you’re surrounded by stunning countryside and quick access to the breathtaking Brecon Beacons and the charming town of Caerphilly. Wake up at your pace in your cosy Trecenydd campervan, ready to explore scenic trails, historical castles, and picturesque parks. The area boasts friendly local shops and eateries, perfect for stocking up on snacks for your journey. With fantastic transport links to nearby attractions and a welcoming community vibe, Trecenydd makes your campervan experience a convenient and unforgettable experience. Browse 83 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Trecenydd or find more campervans for hire in Blackwood, campervans for hire in Cardiff, campervans for hire in Penarth and campervans for hire in Cowbridge.

Ystrad, nestled in the stunning Rhondda Valley, is a fantastic place to hire a campervan for your next adventure. With breathtaking landscapes and lush hills just outside your Ystrad campervan door, you’ll be ready to explore nature at its finest. The area boasts incredible hiking trails, including the iconic Bwlch y Groes, perfect for those who crave a little thrill. Plus, you’re just a short drive from Cardiff, where vibrant city life meets culture. Ystrad’s friendly vibe and local shops make stocking up for your journey as easy as pie. We list 82 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Ystrad. For More hire options check out our campervans in Bargoed, campervans in Aberdare, campervans in Hendreforgan, campervans in Merthyr Tydfil and campervans in Newport.

Nestled in the heart of South Wales, Nelson is a fantastic base for your campervan escape to Caerphilly. Surrounded by stunning hills and lush valleys, you’ll have opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring nature. The friendly community makes it easy to connect with locals and discover hidden gems and handy pointers. With excellent access to major roads, you can quickly hit the scenic routes towards the Brecon Beacons or the beautiful coast. Imagine setting off each day in your Nelson campervan hire, returning to your secluded campsite under starry skies—perfect for those who crave adventure and serenity. With 95 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Nelson, you will find the perfect camper.

Caerphilly in The Rear View Mirror

So we wrap up this part of our campervan road trip through South Wales. Our Caerphilly campervan guide introduced you to some lovely campsites and campervans scattered in and around Caerphilly, making it easy to craft the perfect camping trip in this beautiful part of South Wales. Stay tuned for the next stop on our An Itinerary for a Campervan Roadtrip through South Wales which is Llantwit Major, where we will be diving into coastal beauty and discovering charming seaside spots.