Find your feet
The site plan
A map of Candleston Woods so you know your way around when you arrive. Everything you need for the weekend is on site.
You are warmly invited to celebrate
Invite you to celebrate their wedding
The celebration
Join us for a full weekend in the woods — or just the ceremony and reception on Saturday. However you're able to join us, we're thrilled you'll be there.
We're so excited to celebrate with you at Candleston Woods, a beautiful woodland setting in the heart of Merthyr Mawr. Whether you join us for the full weekend or just the big day, we can't wait to share it with you.
Weekend
22–24 May 2026
Friday arrival through Sunday
Ceremony
Saturday 23rd at 3pm
Reception and fire food to follow
Location
Candleston Woods
Merthyr Mawr, Bridgend, CF32 0LS
Dress code
Smart casual
Comfortable shoes recommended — it's a woodland setting
Weekend programme
Arrive & settle in
Set up camp and get comfortable
Weekend guestsWant to surf?
Not exactly Pipeline, but pretty great for the UK
Weekend guestsWelcome drinks
Gather at the fire circle
Weekend guestsFire food
Culinary delights from our amazing friends
Weekend guestsEvening around the fire
Music, stories, and s'mores
Weekend guestsWant to surf?
For the dedicated — back before the coffee gets cold
Weekend guestsMorning fire & coffee
Fuel up for the celebrations
Weekend guestsDay guests arrive
Make your way to Candleston Woods — please aim to be here by 2pm
All guestsGuests take their seats
Please be seated in the woodland clearing
All guestsCeremony
The moment we've all been waiting for
All guestsDrinks reception
Canapés and bubbles in the woods
All guestsA feast from the fire
Food and celebrations around the flames
All guestsRave in the woods
DJ Crypto on the decks — bring your dancing shoes
All guestsBacon butties & coffee
One last morning around the fire together
Weekend guestsWoodland walk
Optional — explore Merthyr Mawr dunes
Weekend guestsCheck out
Safe travels everyone
Weekend guestsOne more surf?
Don't rush home — the waves will be waiting
Weekend guestsWhere to find us
A magical woodland setting nestled in the Merthyr Mawr nature reserve, just outside Bridgend in South Wales.
Surrounded by ancient dunes and coastal woodland, Candleston Woods offers a truly unique and intimate backdrop for our celebration. The site sits within a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest, so please respect the natural environment during your stay.
Nearest town
Bridgend
3 miles
Nearest station
Bridgend
Direct from Cardiff
Find your feet
A map of Candleston Woods so you know your way around when you arrive. Everything you need for the weekend is on site.
Practical info
Where do I stay?
We're hoping most guests will camp on site with us for the full weekend experience — it's a beautiful spot. If camping isn't for you, there are several hotels and B&Bs nearby in Bridgend and Porthcawl. We'll share a list of recommendations closer to the time.
How do I get there?
Bridgend is easily accessible by train from Cardiff (30 mins) and London Paddington (2 hrs). The site is a short taxi or Uber from Bridgend station. If driving, there is parking on site — please let us know if you'd like to share a lift with other guests.
Can I just come on Saturday?
Absolutely — we totally understand if you can only make the Saturday. The ceremony starts at 3pm, so please aim to arrive by 2pm. The full weekend is a bonus but not at all expected.
What should I pack?
It's Wales in May, so layers are your friend. Smart casual for the ceremony (something you're happy to dance in), plus comfortable outdoor gear if you're staying the weekend. Wellies or sturdy shoes are a good idea for the woodland paths. Conveniently, our friend Dan runs Urban Industry — purveyor of very fine outdoor and lifestyle clothing. Order something before you come and he'll buy you a drink. He said so.
Dietary requirements?
Please let us know about any dietary requirements when you RSVP. We want everyone to be well fed and happy. Our caterers can accommodate most requirements with advance notice.
What's the deal with drinks?
There's a fully stocked bar on site — please buy your drinks there during the event. Due to licensing, you can't bring your own alcohol into the event spaces. That said, what's in your tent is your own business. 🍺
Guest perk
15% off for wedding guests
Dan at Urban Industry has kindly sorted our guests a discount. Use the button to shop and the code is applied automatically at checkout.
Will you join us?
We'd love to know you're coming. Please RSVP as soon as you can.
Fill in the form to let us know your plans — whether you're joining us for the full weekend or just the ceremony and reception. If you have any questions, drop us a line at hello@candandalex.wedding.
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