Merthyr Mawr, Bridgend, Wales

Merthyr Mawr Dunes

Newton Nottage

During the 19th century, the apparition of a ‘tall man in antiquated costume’ was reported standing and pointing towards a sand-hill near Newton Nottage. The actual date is not given, but we are told that the appearances were for ‘several months’ during a one-year period. When someone eventually had the courage to address the apparition, he informed them that there was treasure in the sand-hill, and once found needed to be thrown into the River Ogmore. Once the task had been completed, the apparition was no longer seen.

Merthyr Mawr Dunes

The apparition of a wagon complete with team of three horses has been reported crossing Merthyr Mawr. It is said that the ghostly manifestation is the result of the fatality during a thunderstorm when a man riding the wagon was swept into the swollen River. Locals considered seeing the apparition is bad luck, and sometime stated that they "special take that" – something similar to a corpse candle – leads the way of the wagon.

Candleston Castle

This castle and 14th century manor house is now a ruin. There once stood a tall cross here which locals regarded with fear, referring to it as the Goblin Stone. This was due to the presence of goblins in the area that were known to attack anyone foolish enough to sleep under it. The cross has been moved to St. Roque’s Chapel nearby.

Location

Visitor Information

Merthyr Mawr is a village in Bridgend, Wales.

It is situated about 2.5 miles from the centre of Bridgend.

Pictured is Dunes of Merthyr Mawr Warren courtesy of eswales. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons.