Cardiff Castle

Cardiff Castle

Cardiff Castle is one of Wales’ most popular tourist attractions. Located in the heart of the city and surrounded by the idyllic Bute Park, you’ll discover a fascinating 2000-year history concealed within its fairytale towers.

Of all the castles in the UK, Cardiff Castle is one of the most extraordinary and also one of the most complex, having served as a Roman fort, a Norman stronghold, a Second World War hideout and an extravagant gothic palace for one of the world’s richest men.

There’s so much to see and do at the castle - here are some of the highlights:

WWII tunnels

You may not realise at first, but within the walls of the Castle are tunnels which were used as air-raid shelters during the Second World War. Visitors can explore the tunnels and find out what it was like to hide here during this turbulent time

The Animal Wall

Running alongside Cardiff Castle, this is one of the most delightful and photographed historic features in Cardiff, decorated with statues of 15 different animals, from raccoons to an anteater and even a seal!

Views from the top

Don’t forget your camera! The top of the castle’s Norman Keep affords stunning views over the city, stretching from Cardiff Bay to Castell Coch

The Firing Line exhibition

Cardiff Castle's Museum of the Welsh Soldier commemorates the history of the Welsh regiments over the last 300 years. This world-class exhibition includes the Battle of Waterloo and Rorke’s Drift against the Zulus, as well as more recent service in Iraq and Afghanistan

The magnificent Castle Apartments

These spectacular fairytale apartments really must be seen to be believed! The opulent rooms were designed by William Burges in the 19th Century for the 3rd Marquess of Bute, who transformed the castle into a Gothic fantasy palace.

To see more of these magnificent rooms, take a House Tour led by an expert guide. Just enquire at the admissions desk when you arrive at the castle

Tours are:

• Around 50 minutes long
• Daily on the hour
• Cost £3 in addition to your admission ticket

Suitable for:

• Infants
• Families
• Couples
• Groups
• Teenagers
• Seniors

Great for:

• Explorers
• Culture Vultures