Sometimes it's easy to miss a striking bits of scenery if it's not a signposted attraction with flashing lights. The expansive Welsh countryside is full of surprises, including the remains of Morlais Castle, which, if you didn't know were there, would be very easy to miss. Originally built in 1270, this unique piece of history is tucked away above the Taff Gorge, and is definitely a must-see.
It was built by the Earl of Gloucester and Lord of Glamorgan, Gilbert de Clare, on land claimed by Humphrey de Bohun, which caused a major dispute, culminating in the Battle of Maesvaynor in 1291. The land was also briefly held by Welsh rebels three years later, during the Welsh Rebellion of the thirteenth century, according to Visit Merthyr. After Edward I won his war against the rebels, he destroyed parts of the castle to prevent it from ever being used as a stronghold again.
For the latest Welsh news delivered to your inbox sign up to our newsletter READ MORE: The walk that starts in a picture postcard village cafe and ends on a beach, with tonnes of history inbetween READ MORE: Hundreds of Welsh attractions you can visit for free this September And although the remains of the site are fairly scarce, the surviving crypt which you can still go in, gives a clear indication that the castle was once a colossal site - but it still looks pretty impressive, and it's not every day you see 13th century remains blending into the natural landscape quite so seamlessly. The small walls around the .