About Candleston Campsite
Candleston Woods (often called Candleston Campsite) is an exclusive woodland event venue set on about 100 acres of ancient forest by the sea in Merthyr Mawr, Bridgend (www.heroquest-larp.co.uk ). It adjoins the 900-acre Merthyr Mawr Warren Nature Reserve and overlooks over a kilometre of sandy beach (www.heroquest-larp.co.uk ). A ruined 14th-century fortified manor – Candleston Castle – sits on the site (www.heroquest-larp.co.uk ) (historypoints.org ), giving the place a storybook feel. The setting is truly unique; visitors praise Candleston Woods as a “hidden gem” tucked away in the trees (littleoldworld.com ). The organisers describe it as “an antidote to the hustle and bustle of daily life”, a peaceful nature retreat (candlestonwoods.co.uk ). The ground is sandy and free-draining, so the site stays usable year-round even after rain (www.heroquest-larp.co.uk ). In normal camping mode the woods accommodate around 250 people, and for big events (using the adjoining fields and extra parking) it can host up to 1,000 guests (candlestonwoods.co.uk ). The combination of forest, dunes (near the famous “Big Dipper” dune (www.tickettailor.com )) and historic castle makes Candleston a notable venue on the Welsh heritage coast.
Events and Programming
Candleston Woods hosts a wide range of events throughout the year. Musical festivals are a highlight: for example, the annual **Between the Trees** festival (late August) brings roots, folk and Americana acts into the woodland (www.festical.co.uk ). This family-friendly 4-day festival (running since 2017) often features well-known folk artists – for instance, Seth Lakeman and Elephant Sessions headlined the 2023 edition (www.buzzmag.co.uk ) – and has even earned the title “Best UK Micro-Festival 2025” (betweenthetrees.co.uk ). In spring and summer, Candleston has also hosted food and culture festivals. Street Food Circus’s **Forest Feastival** series turned the glade into a global food fair, with street food trucks, DJs, craft beer and cocktail bars set up around the campfires (www.tickettailor.com ). One-winter event is the **Festive Forest Trail**, a magical after-dark lantern walk in December (tickets.candlestonwoods.co.uk ). Smaller and niche gatherings are common too: live-action role-playing (“LARP”) weekends (courtesy of HeroQuest), yoga and meditation retreats, creative workshops, theatre, charity runs and even wedding celebrations. The site’s own description notes it has hosted “weddings, forest feasts, mindful retreats, music festivals, and much more” (candlestonwoods.co.uk ). Bells and glamping tents can also be added for special occasions – this season Candleston introduced an outdoor **sauna** with panoramic forest views and rentable furnished bell-tents for six, complete with beds and lighting (candlestonwoods.co.uk ) (candlestonwoods.co.uk ) – making it popular for wellness and boutique events. In short, from folk bands and DJs to gourmet food markets and family activities, Candleston’s programming is diverse and geared towards nature-loving crowds.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for most Candleston Woods events are sold online through the organisers. There’s no permanent box office on site, so event tickets typically go on sale via the official festival or Candleston Woods website. For example, the Christmas **Festive Forest Trail** specifically notes that all tickets “must be booked online in advance” (tickets.candlestonwoods.co.uk ). Major events (like Between the Trees) often sell out quickly, so it’s best to subscribe to the venue’s newsletter or follow their social channels for release dates. Ticket prices vary by event size: in recent years a one-day adult pass has been around £40–£60, with reduced rates for teenagers and children (for instance, a past folk-festival ticket was roughly £50 for an adult, £25 for teens and £10 for kids (betweenthetrees.co.uk )). Some events may also offer multi-day or camping-pitch packages. Door or “on-the-day” sales are not guaranteed; only if supplies last, and often at a slight premium. In short, plan ahead: buy tickets early online via the official event pages (avoiding unauthorised resellers), and check event details for booking windows and pricing.
Seating and Layout
Candleston Woods is an open-air venue with a relaxed, festival-style layout. There are no fixed theatre seats – events are generally general admission. The main gathering area is a mown grassy glade, with a stage or performance zone erected at one end. Attached to the glade is a large wooden deck/platform over the trees, providing a raised viewing area and a natural gathering point (candlestonwoods.co.uk ). The permanent structures include the “Forest Barn” (an indoor lodge with electricity, Wi-Fi, bar and kitchen) (candlestonwoods.co.uk ), and a covered multi-purpose shelter next to the fire pit (useful for ceremonies or acoustic sets) (candlestonwoods.co.uk ). Guests typically stand or sit on blankets/portable chairs on the grass. If an event uses a sound system, speakers are usually set up at the stage end of the glade. The surrounding trees can slightly muffle sound, so front-of-stage is best for clear audio. In drizzle, the Forest Barn and covered areas offer the best dry vantage; on sunny days the open field and elevated deck provide great sight-lines. Keep in mind there are lawn slopes and uneven terrain – place yourself where you won’t lose sight of the performer or get squeezed against the forest edge.
Getting There and Parking
Address: Candleston Woods, Merthyr Mawr, Bridgend CF32 0LS (candlestonwoods.co.uk ) (located near Candleston Castle on Merthyr Mawr Road). By car, the site is easily reached from the M4. From Junction 35 head north on the A473 towards Bridgend, turn left onto the A48 towards Ogmore-by-Sea, then take the turns onto the B4265 and Merthyr Mawr Road as signposted (www.heroquest-larp.co.uk ). Parking is available on-site for roughly 80 vehicles, plus overflow into adjacent fields that can hold several hundred more cars (candlestonwoods.co.uk ). Parking is typically free for guests (though check if major festivals add a small fee). Public transport: The nearest train station is Bridgend (about 9 miles inland). From Bridgend Bus Station (Stand 11), First Cymru bus 303 runs toward Ogmore-by-Sea (www.rome2rio.com ). You can ride to the “Ogmore-by-Sea, after Pelican Inn” stop (the Pelican pub) and then walk or taxi ~1km up Merthyr Mawr Road to the woods. The venue even advertises “pick-up from public transport” (www.pitchup.com ) – meaning you can arrange to be collected if you phone ahead. (If taking a taxi or rideshare, use the postal code CF32 0LS; drivers will drop you at the marked Candleston Woods entrance by the castle.)
Inside the Venue
The vibe inside Candleston Woods is warm and rustic. At most ticketed events there will be a staffed entrance gate, where tickets (printed or on your phone) are checked and small bag searches may occur. Once inside, expect a relaxed festival campsite atmosphere. The Forest Barn provides the heart of the venue: it has a bar area and small catering kitchen (hosted by event staff) (candlestonwoods.co.uk ), plus electrical outlets and Wi-Fi. Many events set up food trucks or stands around the Barn or glade – for example street-food vendors and craft beer bars at Feastival. There are no formal cloakrooms or storage, so guests usually keep coats in their tents or cars. Amenities: A recently built washroom block stands next to the Barn. It has flush toilets, changing rooms, and plenty of hot-water showers – including at least one fully accessible/disabled facility (candlestonwoods.co.uk ). Keep in mind this is a green site: recycling bins are provided for glass, cans, food waste and general refuse (you’ll be asked to sort rubbish), so please bring minimal disposable packaging (candlestonwoods.co.uk ) (candlestonwoods.co.uk ). Comfort & connectivity: There is power and Wi-Fi in the Barn (candlestonwoods.co.uk ), but service can be weak elsewhere under the trees. Mobile phone signal is often spotty in the woods, so downloading music or maps in advance is wise. Bring refillable water bottles (water taps are supplied around the camping areas) and warm, waterproof gear – nights can get chilly and muddy underfoot. If the event has on-site merchandise, you’ll find stalls near the Barn or field entrance featuring performer or crafts dealer merchandise. In sum: expect a camping-cabin ambience with basic comforts, and friendly staff from whom you can get directions or help if needed.
Nearby Amenities
Food and drink: The closest dining options are in the nearby coastal villages. For pre-show meals, try Ogmore-by-Sea (about 10 minutes’ drive): it has several pubs and cafes. The **Pelican Inn** (Ogmore Road) is a popular waterside pub with hearty fare. The *Watermill Inn* (by the old Ogmore Castle) offers pub classics and a popular Sunday roast. A short drive south, Southerndown village (3 mi) has the Dunraven Arms and Three Golden Cups pubs, both serving pub meals. Bridgend town centre (~8 mi away) has a wide range of restaurants, cafés and chain outlets if you want a quick bite. Hotels and B&Bs: There are no on-site hotel rooms, but several nearby stay options exist. Local country inns and B&Bs (e.g. small guesthouses around Merthyr Mawr or Southerndown) do limited bookings. For full-service lodging, Bridgend has familiar hotel chains (Holiday Inn, Travelodge, Premier Inn) and spa-resorts nearby. The stately Court Colman Manor (3 mi) is a highly-rated country hotel. Plan ahead in festival season, as weekend events fill local accommodations quickly. Before the show: Arrive at least 30 minutes early for general-admission events to get a good spot and avoid queues. There’s no box office, so aim to have your tickets ready on phone or printout. If you plan to camp overnight (for multi-day gatherings), check-in usually opens midday or early afternoon (candlestonwoods lists arrivals from noon) (www.pitchup.com ). After the show: Late-night pubs in the area are limited. Ogmore-by-Sea’s Pelican Inn stays open late on event nights, and taxi services (to Bridgend or Cardiff) can be booked in advance. The last local buses depart in the early evening, so for late events it’s safest to pre-arrange a taxi or ride-share for your return.
What Makes This Venue Special
Candleston Woods stands out for its blend of natural beauty and character. Architecturally, the venue is essentially the forest itself plus a handful of charming log structures (like the Forest Barn and covered serenade hut) built in wood, so it always feels like you’re outdoors. The cultural heritage is palpable: events often incorporate Welsh tradition (e.g. barn-dances and folk workshops) and the site connects you with history around Candleston Castle (www.heroquest-larp.co.uk ) (historypoints.org ). Reviewers note the setting feels like a scene out of a fairytale – “an enchanting, forgotten ruin concealed by the woods” (littleoldworld.com ). The dunes add drama: guests can hike up Wales’ own “Big Dipper” sand dune (2nd highest in Europe) before or after shows (www.tickettailor.com ) (littleoldworld.com ). From an events perspective, Candleston has earned a reputation for eco-conscious fun: organisers pride themselves on sustainability (strict recycling, local food traders, litter-free events) (candlestonwoods.co.uk ) (www.buzzmag.co.uk ). Notably, the Between the Trees festival here won “Best UK Micro-Festival 2025” (betweenthetrees.co.uk ), reflecting its high standards. In short, artists and audiences love Candleston Woods because it offers a rare combination of primeval tranquillity and well-run festival infrastructure. It’s a place where you really feel the music or feast under the stars of a Welsh woodland.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Candleston Woods has accessible parking spots and a disabled toilet/shower (candlestonwoods.co.uk ), but the terrain is largely natural (woodland pathways and grass). If you require a ramp or wheelchair, contact the organisers first. The Forest Barn is step-free and has power-access. Dress and gear: Always bring warm layers and waterproofs, even in summer – the woodland can be cool or damp. Wear sturdy shoes (the sand is soft and the grass uneven). A hat and sunglasses are handy for daytime events. There’s no strict dress code: most people come casual or in festival wear. Tip: for shade or seating, bring a folding chair or picnic blanket. What to bring: Refillable water bottles are sensible (water taps are on site). Pack a small torch for walking at night. If camping, you’ll need your own tent and sleeping gear. The venue is very much self-service: bring any personal items (medications, pet essentials if service animals, etc.). Since there’s no permanent shop, stock up on snacks beforehand. Prohibitions: Dogs/pets are not allowed on site to protect wildlife (candlestonwoods.co.uk ). No open fires except in the designated fire pit; you must use firewood supplied by the venue (no outside wood, to avoid tree disease) (candlestonwoods.co.uk ) (candlestonwoods.co.uk ). Smoking is permitted only in isolated outdoor areas (please keep the site clean). Photography is fine for personal use, but drone use or commercial filming usually requires permission. Food and drink: Bringing your own picnic is allowed at most public events, but many people take advantage of the food stalls and bars that pop up. (Check event rules – some festivals allow cooler bags but forbidding outside alcohol, while smaller events may not.) Bring cash for vendors, though many accept card. Common pitfalls: Don’t expect strong phone signal (Telstra/EE/Vodafone often drop in the forest). Better to download anything you need in Bridgend first. Also, parking fills up early on busy days – arrive sooner or share rides if possible. Finally, because the site is remote, confirm exact meeting points: the entrance is along a country lane at CF32 0LS (GPS often says “near Candleston Castle”).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I purchase tickets for events at Candleston Woods?
Tickets are sold in advance through each event’s official page (often linked from Candleston Woods or event social media). There’s no permanent box office on site. For example, the Candleston "Festive Forest Trail" clearly states that “all tickets must be booked online in advance” (tickets.candlestonwoods.co.uk ). It’s best to subscribe to the venue’s newsletter or follow announcements so you catch sale dates early.
Are tickets available at the door on event day?
It depends on the event. High-demand festivals can sell out in advance; if they do, door sales won’t be offered. However, for smaller events there may be a limited number of walk-up tickets on the day (usually at a box office tent on-site). Always assume you need to have bought a ticket beforehand. Check the specific event information – some will explicitly state if door sales are possible.
What are the typical ticket prices?
Prices vary widely by event. Small workshops or retreats might be £10–£20 per ticket, while music festivals tend to be £30–£60 for a day pass. For instance, past Candleston Woods folk festivals charged around £50 for an adult weekend day, with discounts for children and teenagers (betweenthetrees.co.uk ). Always refer to the event’s pricing page for exact figures; family deals or early-bird discounts are often available.
Where exactly is Candleston Woods and how do I get there?
The venue address is Merthyr Mawr Road, Merthyr Mawr, Bridgend, CF32 0LS (candlestonwoods.co.uk ). By car, take M4 Junction 35, follow the A473/A48 towards Ogmore-by-Sea and then turn onto the B4265/Merthyr Mawr Road as signed (www.heroquest-larp.co.uk ). There is a parking area on site (with space for ~80 cars plus overflow fields). If using public transit, the nearest train is Bridgend station. From Bridgend Bus Station, take First Cymru bus 303 toward Ogmore-by-Sea and alight at Ogmore Pelican Inn – from there the site is about 1 km on foot (www.rome2rio.com ). The venue’s contact page also notes they can arrange a pickup from local transport stops (www.pitchup.com ).
Does Candleston Woods have parking and what is the cost?
Yes. There are two on-site parking areas at Candleston Woods, which together hold about 80 cars (candlestonwoods.co.uk ). For larger events, additional parking is organized in adjacent fields, allowing up to 500 extra spaces (candlestonwoods.co.uk ). Parking is generally free of charge for event attendees (though some festivals may ask for a small parking fee to help staff the lots). The entrance to the parking area is clearly signposted off Merthyr Mawr Road. If the official parking fills up, organizers typically direct cars to nearby overflow fields, so arriving early is wise on busy days.
Can I take public transport to Candleston Woods?
Public transport options are limited but available. The closest train station is Bridgend (9 mi away). From Bridgend Bus Station, First Cymru route 303 runs via Ogmore-by-Sea every hour (www.rome2rio.com ). Take this bus to “Ogmore-by-Sea, after Pelican Inn”, then either walk (~15 min) east along Merthyr Mawr Road to the site or book a local taxi. Note that the woods are in a rural area, so onward travel (especially after evening events) typically requires booking a taxi in advance. Some patrons coordinate rideshares or use the venue’s “public transport pick-up” arrangement (www.pitchup.com ).
What is the seating arrangement at events? Can I reserve a spot?
Candleston Woods is largely unseated. Most performances are on a standing-room (or grass-seated) basis. There are no assigned or reserved seats – it’s more like a small outdoor festival or camp event. The main stage is on a grassy glade, and audience members stand or sit on blankets or portable chairs at their leisure. A large raised deck (attached to the indoor Barn) doubles as a viewing area (candlestonwoods.co.uk ). If an event is multi-stage, they often announce where to gather. In short, plan as for a general-admission outdoor concert. Best viewing is wherever you have a clear line to the stage – many people stand by the fire pit or on the deck edge if covered seating is offered.
Are dogs or pets allowed at Candleston Woods?
No. As a wildlife-sensitive area, Candleston Woods does not allow dogs or pets on site (candlestonwoods.co.uk ). This policy helps protect the woodland ecology and avoids issues with dog waste. Service animals (guide dogs, etc.) are typically the only exception, but always double-check with the event organiser if unsure.
Can we have a campfire or barbecue on the site?
Fires are only allowed in designated pits. Candleston Woods provides a communal fire pit by the glade, but you may not light fires elsewhere (candlestonwoods.co.uk ). You may not bring your own wood or charcoal – all firewood must be supplied by the venue (and should be pre-ordered) (candlestonwoods.co.uk ). This rule is to prevent invasive pests and protect the trees. Barbecue setups, if used, must also be in these approved areas. In short: no backyard-style bonfires or personal campfires outside the official fire circles.
What food choices are available inside the venue?
There’s no permanent dining hall, but most events bring in caterers. The Forest Barn has a small kitchen and bar area (candlestonwoods.co.uk ), used for light snacks or volunteer-run bars. Expect roaming food vendors at festivals – past events have featured food trucks (street-food, barbecue, bakery, etc.) around the glade. You can usually purchase drinks and meals from these stalls. However, you’re welcome to bring your own picnic or snacks during public events (check the event rules on outside alcohol/food). Remember to pack out all your rubbish or use the recycling bins on site.
Is Wi-Fi or mobile phone coverage available?
Yes and no. There is Wi-Fi access inside the Forest Barn (candlestonwoods.co.uk ), which is handy if you need to connect. However, signal under the forest canopy is generally weak. We advise downloading any maps, tickets or playlists beforehand. Mobile data (3G/4G) can be very patchy – some guests buy local SIMs or use offline apps. Cell reception is better on higher ground by the edges of the site, but don’t count on reliable service except near the main building.
What restroom and shower facilities are there?
There are modern washroom blocks on site. These include multiple flush toilets, hot-water showers, and even private family/change rooms. Crucially, an accessible (disabled) bathroom and shower are provided (candlestonwoods.co.uk ). Showers have plenty of hot water. These facilities are adjacent to the Barn, so they are easy to find at events. If camping overnight, note that these toilets (and the small sinks in the tent area) are for camper use. Carry your own towels and toiletries – only minimal soap or hand wash is usually supplied.
Are there restrictions on what we bring (e.g., alcohol, gas stoves, etc.)?
There are a few key rules. Aside from the firewood policy above, outside alcohol rules depend on each event: some allow you to bring a bottle or two for personal use, while others serve drinks on site only. (Check the specific event’s policy.) You may use small camping stoves or grills in your own tent area, but open flames are restricted to the designated pit. Drones or commercial filming equipment require permission. In general, pack out everything you bring, don’t damage plants, and follow any safety guidance from staff. Age restrictions: most events are all-ages, but some late-night concerts might be 18+ – check ahead.
Can I visit the Candleston Castle ruins or Merthyr Mawr dunes while at the venue?
Absolutely. Candleston Castle sits right adjacent to the campsite and is an intriguing spot to explore. It’s a ruin that’s generally open to visitors – you can wander through the old courtyard and tower like a “forgotten ruin” in the woods (littleoldworld.com ). (There are no guarded gates, but be mindful of safety on crumbling steps.) Merthyr Mawr’s sand dunes, including the famous “Big Dipper,” are a short walk away. Many campers take a hike or run up the dunes between events. It’s a unique extra attraction – in fact, one guide notes it as the “second largest sand dune in Europe” right there (littleoldworld.com ). Walking shoes or a small bag for essentials are useful if you plan this.
Is there a coat or luggage check at the venue?
No, there isn’t a formal checkroom at Candleston Woods. It’s a self-service site, so visitors are responsible for their own belongings. For day events, bring what you need on your person or leave extra gear locked in your car. If you’re camping, you can use your tent for storage or ask camp neighbours. Most people simply carry a small daypack with valuables or a blanket.
