Filming of the new series of the BBC’s hit show Merlin has recently completed near Castell Coch.
Cast and crew shot scenes at Fforest Fawr at an area known locally as the three bear caves – a series of small, medium and larger holes which are actually the entrance to old iron mines.
Part of the larger hole is still covered in fake fool’s gold, a throwback to when it featured in the 1989 BBC TV series Prince Caspian Voyage of the Dawn Treader.
Fforest Fawr is an ancient woodland with mainly beech and Japanese larch trees and is a popular area for relaxing, just minutes away from the capital city.
Forestry Commission Ranger Emma Louise Felkin said: “At this time of year much of the woodland is covered with bluebells and wild garlic. A visit can have a magical effect on our health and well being – I’m sure Merlin would approve.”
The filming of Merlin follows a recent appearance of Caerphilly Castle on the latest series of Dr Who. Viewers would have spotted the 13th Century castle mocked up as a futuristic factory.