Immerse yourself in the history of the beautiful Margam Country Park and be transported back in time to learn about this distinctive estate and its unique past. With evidence of habitation for more than 4,000 years, there are many dramatic stories to be told about Margam and the contribution it’s made to the Dramatic Heart of Wales.

Start your day with a guided tour of Margam’s heritage landscape with The Friends of Margam Park who will show you around the Margam Park Estate with its impressive Castle, Orangery, Abbey Ruins, Citrus House and many more historic features. The Friends also offer a series of Wellbeing Walks around the estate throughout the year. Bookings for tours with the Friends of Margam Park can be made via their events listing.

Spend time in the beautifully appointed Castle Gardens and lavish Orangery which offer guests something unique with each change of the seasons. The Orangery which boasts 27 grand windows along its south facing façade was once home to exotic orange, lemon and citrus trees. You will see why this is a popular wedding venue with its romantic setting and picture-perfect views.

If you’re ready for a rest then head for one of the park’s many well-situated benches for some quiet time to take in the view over the park, the coast and towards the famous steelworks. From this impressive viewpoint you will see why this landscape has formed so many interesting characters, from famous actors to amazing innovators; all of whom have been inspired by both the beauty and the ‘grit’ of this dramatic landscape. It’s also a great place to get snappy with the camera, did you know that one of the earliest photographs taken in Wales was captured here in Margam Country Park in 1841.

For refreshments visit Charlotte’s Pantry, the park’s on-site cafe which serves snacks, sandwiches, cakes and pastries as well as Mario’s luxury Welsh dairy ice cream.

If you’re keen to chat then choose one of the park’s ‘chatty benches’ where you’re encouraged to meet the person sat next to you. You never know who you might meet and what you will learn!

Once refreshed, you may carry on your day with a visit to the historic Margam Abbey Church. Your authorised guide from Margam Abbey will provide a unique experience at the Cistercian monastery which dates back to 1147.

The Medieval Abbey is a fantastic example of a preserved parish church, which is still in use today. You will learn about the history of the Abbey including its foundation in Medieval Wales, the skilled craftsmanship of masons who built the Abbey and the life of the founder, Earl Robert – the son of a King.

A costumed tour of the Abbey is available for pre-arranged group bookings and includes an atmospheric adventure through the Medieval Ages with characters connected to the Abbey’s 870 years. Enquiries and bookings for Margam Abbey tours can be made via the Parish of Margam website

Margam Country Park also plays host to a range of outdoor events and exciting occasions throughout the year. From food festivals, outdoor cinema screenings, and theatrical productions, there’s something for everyone. The park is a truly year-round destination with a landscape that changes with the seasons.

Larger groups visiting the park can choose from a range of different accommodation providers, food and refreshment options are also available. Contact us to find out more about tailoring visits for large groups.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY:

DAY ONE

• Morning – Arrive at Margam Country Park and tour the grounds, Margam Castle, the Castle Gardens and Orangery.
• Noon – Pick up a snack at Charlotte’s Pantry in the Margam Castle Courtyard.
• Afternoon – Enjoy a guided tour around Margam Abbey.

The Dramatic Heart of Wales is a great choice for a socially distanced mini-break. With so many outdoor attractions from country parks and our epic seafront through to our expanse of mountains and natural landscapes, you can relax knowing you are having a ‘safe-cation’. Many of our tourism businesses have achieved ‘Good to Go’ status and made a commitment to maintaining the highest standard of safety and cleanliness.

Protecting our land for future generations while caring for one another is part of what makes us who we are. Visit Wales is inviting you to make your ‘Addo’ (the Welsh word for promise), please join us by making your pledge before you visit. By working together to keep each other safe we can all enjoy what the Dramatic Heart of Wales has to offer.