Welcome to another collection of appearances by Castell Coch on our television and movie screens.
The Black Knight is well known as it was a big film in the 1950s. Knightmare was very popular kids TV show that I remember watching. She Fell Among Thieves is a bit more obscure but features an interesting set.
The Black Knight (1954)
Release date – August 26, 1954 (United Kingdom)
Scenes from The Black Knight were filmed at Castell Coch in July 1953. Crew members stayed with residents of Tongwynlais who had space to accommodate them.
People were able to watch as the short scenes set in the courtyard and in front of the castle were filmed.
The film’s star, Alan Ladd, was one of the most popular actors in 1954. The Black Knight’s visor is down for the action scene in the courtyard so this is clearly a stunt double.
Knightmare
Series 5/6 (1991 – 1992)
Castell Coch was used as “Knightmare Castle” in series 5 and 6. The entrance was used when players boarded “Treguard the dragon” and for departing teams.
The courtyard and dungeon were used in one of the puzzles involving a divining rod and chest.
Watch retrospective on YouTube
She Fell Among Thieves
BBC2 Play of the Week
Episode aired 1 March 1978
BBC2’s “Play of the Week” was an anthology of plays and novels adapted into feature length movies.
Castell Coch doubles as a French château in this 1978 film based on the novel of the same name by Dornford Yates.
There’s an extra building suggested by a wall and door on the right of the castle and an outbuilding/garage that matches the design of the castle.
There’s an exciting action sequence where Malcolm McDowell’s character swings from the Well Tower on a rope.
Watch on iPlayer | View on IMDB
