CAMPING & EVENTS
Candleston Woods
A dedicated camping and events site on the edge of the Merthyr Mawr National Nature Reserve.
The Venue
Ancient Woodland on the Edge of the Nature Reserve
Candleston Woods sits within ancient broadleaf woodland on the western boundary of Merthyr Mawr National Nature Reserve. Close by stand the ruins of Candleston Castle, a late medieval fortified manor house abandoned in the 18th century as the encroaching dunes made the land unworkable.
The site operates as a separate, bookable entity from the wider Merthyr Mawr Estate. It hosts events year-round — weddings, retreats, festivals, and private gatherings — as well as overnight stays in bell tents and woodland cabins. The Forest Barn provides covered event space, and shower facilities serve campers on site.
Direct access to the National Nature Reserve means guests can walk into the dune system and out to the beach from the woodland edge.
What We Host
Events, stays, and gatherings
Weddings
Weddings
The Forest Barn provides a covered space for ceremonies and receptions, with the surrounding woodland and meadow available for outdoor gatherings. Guests can stay overnight in bell tents on site, making it a self-contained venue for a full weekend.
Retreats
Retreats
The site's distance from road noise and its position within ancient woodland make it well suited to yoga, wellness, and residential retreats. Groups can book bell tents or woodland cabins, with the Outdoor Sauna available as an additional facility.
Festivals & Gatherings
Festivals and gatherings
Between The Trees — a folk, indie and science festival — has been held at Candleston Woods every August since 2018. The site also hosts family gatherings, private celebrations, and community events throughout the year.
Woodland Camping
Woodland camping
Bell tents and woodland cabins are available within the ancient woodland, with shower facilities on site. The campsite adjoins the Merthyr Mawr National Nature Reserve, giving campers direct access to the dune system and coastline.
Facilities
Annual Festival
Between The Trees — folk, indie and science, every August since 2018.
Between The Trees is a public festival held at Candleston Woods each August, bringing together live music across folk and indie, alongside science talks and family activities within the woodland setting.
Bookings & Enquiries
Visit Candleston Woods
For bookings, availability, and event enquiries, visit the dedicated Candleston Woods website.