The original Folly was built around 1765 and renovated in 1835. It commands views both of the industrial valleys to the west and the pastoral landscape to the east. At the outset of World War II the Ministry of Defence ordered its demolition as it might guide German bombers to the Royal Ordnance factory at Glascoed. After a number of unsuccessful attempts to rebuild it after the war, a charitable group was established in 1990 for this purpose, work started on the rebuilding in 1992 and HRH the Prince of Wales performed the official re-opening in 1994.

The grotto was built in 1794, and improved around 1830. It is decorated with small shells and some large exotic ones, together with clusters of spar and stars of crystal, set in geometric and flower patterns. The floor is decorated with animal bone. In recent years the Grotto has been repaired and restored inside and out and new windows have been installed. The chairs originally in the Grotto have been restored.

The opening hours of both these attractions are 2.00 � 5.00 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays from May to September inclusive.

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