Just a short hop from the hustle and bustle of Bridgend town centre, Newcastle is an excellent option for those looking to slow the pace and spend some time delving into the area’s rich and varied history.
In addition to the late medieval architectural marvel that is St John’s House, you’ll also discover the ancient yet hardy ruins of Newcastle castle and the Grade II* listed St Illtud's Church, which was constructed in the 14th century but which also offers glimpses of Victorian and Gothic touches.
Explore history and mystery at St John’s House
Finally safe in the hands of the St John’s Trust more than ten years since they first announced an ambitious bid to save the historic property from being sold, there’s never been a better time to explore Welsh history at St John’s House.
Now a protected Grade II* listed building, St John's House is an exceptionally well preserved example of an early early 16th Century hearth-passage house - it is also thought to be the oldest habitable building in the Bridgend area. Extensions were added during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries but all bar one of these has now been removed, leaving behind an excellent example of a late medieval domestic dwelling.
The exact history of the house remains uncertain and many mysteries and questions have yet to be answered - are the carvings in the hallway linked to the Knights of St John? Why was an ancient bell hidden under the floor and does this suggest that pilgrims once rested here on their way to St David's Cathedral?
The house is open from 11am to 3pm on the last Saturday and the second Sunday of each month. Check the Facebook page for more information.
Wander the hardy ruins of Newcastle Castle
Perhaps less well known than neighbouring Coity and Ogmore, Newcastle completes a trio of castles built to protect the important river crossings that allowed access to Glamorgan during the Norman invasion of Wales.
Thought to originally have been constructed in 1106 by William de Londres (one of the legendary Twelve Knights of Glamorgan), the castle was strengthened some time during the 1180s. The resulting ruins are a great example of superior stonework and construction - the Norman doorway still stands proud despite having been built over 800 years ago!
There’s free, year-round access to the ruins, but be aware that a set of steps between the two main levels restricts full access for prams and wheelchair users.
More information available here.
Discover 900 years of worship at St Illtud's Church
Standing proud at the top of Newcastle Hill is St Illtud's Church, a Grade II* listed building with a fascinating history. Originally constructed in the early 14th century, Victorian decoration can clearly be seen in the way of the nave and chancel, which were rebuilt in the 19th century when the vestry and aisle were added to the northern side.
Look closely at the 16th century west tower, however, and you’ll soon spot gargoyles and other details more typical of Gothic architecture.
People are believed to have worshiped at this site for nearly 900 years - the first recorded priest was Father Gilbert right the way back in 1153. The churchyard is accessed via a lychgate that was donated by Samuel Llewellyn of Coed Parc in 1910.
Check the Facebook page for more information.
