Oystermouth Castle

The ruins sit on a headland overlooking Swansea Bay, and even from the car park you can see why the Normans picked this spot. Stone walls rise out of the grass, weathered but imposing, with views across the water that stretch for miles on a clear day.

Oystermouth Castle dates back to the 12th century, though what you walk around today is largely 13th and 14th century work - a Norman fortress that's been left to the elements for a good few centuries now. The keep still stands, you can climb up inside it (mind your head), and there's enough of the curtain wall left to give you a proper sense of scale. The whole thing's open to the elements and free to explore, which is brilliant if you've got restless kids or just fancy a wander without paying entrance fees.

Historically minded visitors will find it genuinely interesting - this was a working stronghold, not a romantic ruin built for show. The stone tells a story if you know where to look. Families with younger children might find it absorbs them for an hour, maybe ninety minutes if they're into climbing and exploring. On a windy day it can feel a bit bleak, so pick your weather.

It's only a few miles southwest of Swansea town centre, making it easily managed as a half-day trip alongside caravan parks like Swansea Marina Tourer Park or Three Cliffs Bay Holiday Park. The walk from the car park is short and straightforward. Go on a weekday morning if you want it to yourself.