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Cardiff Castle: Over 2000 Years of History in the Heart of Wales
Updated: Jun 16
Step inside one of the oldest castles in the UK, with a history spanning over 2,000 years! Prepare to be awestruck by Cardiff Castle, a majestic fortress with a story as rich as its architecture. From Roman beginnings to a lavish Victorian transformation, this castle boasts a history as dramatic as the battles it has witnessed.
We absolutely love exploring castles and we were really happy to add Cardiff Castle to our ever-growing list. This blog post is your one-stop guide as we delve into its fascinating past, highlight must-see features with stunning photos, include interesting facts, and provide all the practical information you need for your visit, including opening times and ticket details. We also explore the surrounding Bute Park, and its incredible abortorium. There is so much to the story here. Let's get to it!
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Our Cardiff Castle highlights
As two passionate history fans, exploring the castles of the UK has always been something we have been keen to do. That being said, that had all pretty much happened in England to-date. Wales had always been high on the list, especially given its fascinating Celtic history, but we had never really had the chance to go there - until now.
So, of course, what better way to kick off a road trip around Wales than with a visit to its perhaps most famous pride-and-joy, the incredibly Cardiff Castle! A life-long ambition fulfilled, we came here with a huge sense of anticipation and we were not disappointed in the slightest. This is a magnificent castle, and one that we will not forget in a hurry!
The first of 4 Roman forts is established in Cardiff, it was strategically built alongside the River Taff, which supplied its moat and provided easy access to the sea. In around 270 AD the basis of the Castle’s layout today is built in stone, modified over the years as it defended the city from invasion. It now stands as one of the most important structures in Wales, and is a fascinating beacon of Roman, Welsh and English history in the area.
With a large itinerary for the day, we got to the castle early, and had very limited time. We were only able to explore the inner castle and exterior area (Bute Park), and were desperately disappointed not to be able to go inside. We will save that for another time! If you chose to, you can get a ticket to explore the walls of the castle, the Norman keep, its museum and perhaps its most impressive feature, the Victorian Apartments.
It was a cloudy and windy day as you can probably tell from the photos, but we still really enjoyed our time wandering through the free parts of the grounds. The Welsh Dragon, the main castle entrance gate and the keep on the mound are excellent features to check out. The paid area is well sectioned off, but you can still get close enough for some good shots. Once you get past the mound of the keep the you will exit to Bute Park.
⪢ The Surrounding Gardens (Bute Park)
Bute Park is a large park (around 130 acres) located right next to Cardiff Castle. It used to be the private pleasure garden of the castle, but now it's a public park and considered the "green heart" of Cardiff. It's a Grade 1 listed historic park with a wealth of archaeological and nature conservation interest including a magnificent arboretum containing over 3000 rare and beautiful trees, some of which are "champion trees" - the biggest of their species in the UK.
There are remains of a medieval Blackfriars Friary within the park, and it also has a visitor center, cafes, toilets, a woodland play trail, and fitness equipment. There is plenty to enjoy here and when you exit the east-side of Cardiff Castle you will find yourself in the park itself. We crossed over the River Taff, and were thoroughly impressed by the arboretum which kind of reminded us of the mangroves in Langkawi (Malaysia). They really are spectacular!
We also checked out the Gorsedd Stone Circle, which may look old, but was actually only installed in 1978. It was moved to Bute Park from Gorsedd (hence its name), to celebrate Cardiff hosting the Welsh National Eisteddfod. This 8 day festival is considered to be the largest music and poetry festival in Europe! We did not know this at the time, but as two poets who literally met each other through our poetry, it was super cool to find this out afterwards. Especially as Jenn was particularly drawn to stand right in the middle of it on the large central stone overlooking the castle walls!
You can find more information on the official Bute Park website. Read on for more on the history of the castle, and some impressive facts! Plus find out all you need to know about opening times, admission prices, and how to get there.
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The history of Cardiff Castle
⪢ One of the UK's Oldest Surviving Castles
Cardiff Castle, standing tall in the heart of Wales's capital city, has a rich and storied history dating back over 2,000 years. Its origins trace to the Roman occupation of Britain, where a fort was constructed on the site around 55 AD. Over the centuries, the castle evolved, with significant developments occurring during the Norman period when William the Conqueror's nephew, Robert Fitzhamon, built the first stone keep in the late 11th century.
⪢ Medieval Conflicts
Cardiff Castle has indeed witnessed its fair share of attacks and conquests throughout its history. It was repeatedly involved in clashes between the Anglo-Normans and the Welsh during the 12th century. A significant event occurred in 1404 when Owain Glyndŵr, a Welsh leader, successfully stormed and captured the castle during his rebellion.
⪢ English Civil War
During the English Civil War (1642-1651), the castle changed hands twice. Royalist forces under the Marquess of Hertford captured the castle in a surprise attack, then Parliamentary forces and local troops quickly besieged and recaptured the castle within hours. While these are the most prominent instances, it's likely the castle faced other attacks or attempts at conquest throughout its long history, particularly during periods of regional conflict.
⪢ Noble Ownership & Victorian Transformation
Subsequent generations of noble families, including the de Clare and Herbert families, expanded and fortified the castle, shaping its imposing appearance. However, it was during the Victorian era that Cardiff Castle underwent its most significant transformation. In the 19th century, the castle's owner, the Third Marquess of Bute, commissioned renowned architect William Burges to redesign and refurbish the castle interiors, resulting in the creation of opulent and fantastical rooms that are now celebrated as some of the finest examples of High Victorian Gothic architecture in the world. The castle remained in the Bute family until the 20th century when it was gifted to the city of Cardiff.
⪢ The End of the Moat
In the mid-1800s, Isambard Kingdom Brunel came up with plans to divert the River Taff to the west, away from its old course around Cardiff Castle. Having supplied the moat for over a thousand years, this move was considered to have marked the end of the defensive era of the castle. The river now flows next to Cardiff Arms Park and the Cardiff Principality Stadium. It also allowed Cardiff Central Station to be built in an area that had previously been prone to flooding.
⪢ Air Raid Shelter to Modern Day Attraction
Cardiff Castle also played a role in World War II, with its walls offering shelter to citizens during air raids. Following the 4th Marquess's death, the castle and its parkland were gifted to the city of Cardiff. For a period, it housed the National College of Music and Drama, but since 1974, it has become one of Wales' most popular tourist attractions, offering visitors a glimpse into Roman, Norman, and Victorian eras within its walls.
10 interesting facts about Cardiff Castle
1. Roman Beginnings: The site boasts a Roman fort built around AD 55, making it nearly 2,000 years old! Four separate forts were built by the Romans over two centuries, laying the foundation for the later castle.
2. Norman Transformation: Following the Norman conquest in 1066, a motte and bailey castle was constructed, solidifying Cardiff as the center of the Marcher Lordship of Glamorgan.
3. Medieval Makeover: Throughout the Middle Ages, the castle underwent numerous transformations, including the addition of a stone shell keep and extensive defensive walls.
4. Victorian Extravaganza: In the 19th century, the 3rd Marquess of Bute embarked on a grand project with architect William Burges, transforming the castle into a lavish Victorian Gothic mansion. This resulted in the opulent interiors with murals, stained glass, and intricate carvings we see today.
5. World War II Refuge: During the war, the castle's tunnels provided shelter to citizens during air raids. These tunnels, with dormitories, kitchens, and first-aid facilities, are now accessible as part of the castle tour.
6. Giant Rugby Ball: In 2015, during the Rugby World Cup, a giant rugby ball was cleverly installed into the castle wall, symbolizing Wales' passion for the sport.
7. Ghosts and Legends: The castle is shrouded in tales of ghosts and legends, including the "Black Cat" said to roam the grounds and the "Archer" haunting the Clock Tower.
8. Movie Magic: The castle has served as a filming location for various movies and TV shows, including "Doctor Who" and "Torchwood."
9. Architectural Mashup: The castle is a unique blend of architectural styles, showcasing Roman, Norman, Medieval, and extravagant Victorian Gothic elements.
10. National Treasure: Today, Cardiff Castle is one of Wales' most popular tourist attractions, offering a fascinating glimpse into its rich and layered history.
Cardiff Castle opening times & ticket prices
⪢ Opening times
Cardiff Castle is open to visitors 7 days a week, including bank holidays. The only exceptions are Christmas Day (25 December), Boxing Day (26 December) and New Year’s Day (1 January), when the castle is closed.
Summer Opening (Mar – Oct) | Monday to Friday | Saturday to Sunday |
Opening Time | 10am | 9am |
Last Entry | 5pm | 5pm |
Closing Time | 6pm | 6pm |
Winter Opening (Nov – Feb) | Monday to Friday | Saturday to Sunday |
Opening Time | 10am | 9am |
Last Entry | 4pm | 4pm |
Closing Time | 5pm | 5pm |
⪢ Ticket Prices
Admission Rates | Prices (GBP) |
Adult | £15.50 ($19.45 USD / $26.58 CAD) |
Child (Ages 5 – 16, must be with an adult) | £10.50 ($13.18 USD / $18.01 CAD) |
Senior / Student / Disabled (single carer free with each disabled ticket) | £12.50 ($15.68 USD / $21.44 CAD) |
Adult Family Ticket (2 Adults and 2 Children) | £42.50 ($53.33 USD / $72.89 CAD) |
Senior Family Ticket (2 Seniors and 2 Children) | £36.50 ($45.80 USD / $62.60 CAD) |
Under 5s | FREE |
** Prices are correct at time of writing (May 2024). Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Note: If you currently live or work in Cardiff then you are entitled to your very own Key to the Castle with FREE admission to this world-class heritage attraction for 3 years.
How to get to Cardiff Castle
Cardiff Castle is conveniently located in the heart of Cardiff city center, making it easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Visitors can choose from several options to reach the castle:
⪢ Public Transport
Cardiff has an extensive public transport network, including buses and trains. Cardiff Central Railway Station is just a short walk from the castle, making it a convenient option for those arriving by train. Additionally, numerous bus routes serve the city center, with several bus stops within walking distance of the castle.
⪢ Walking
If you are already in the city center, walking to Cardiff Castle is often the most straightforward option. The castle is centrally located, making it easily reachable on foot from many nearby attractions, hotels, and shopping areas.
⪢ Cycling
Cardiff is a cycle-friendly city, and cycling to Cardiff Castle is a popular option if you enjoy exploring by bike. The city center has dedicated cycle lanes, and bicycle parking is available near the castle entrance.
⪢ Taxi or Ride-Sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services operate throughout Cardiff, providing a convenient door-to-door option if you prefer not to use public transport or walk. Taxis can drop off you near the castle entrance.
⪢ Car
While parking in the city center can be limited, there are several public car parks within walking distance of Cardiff Castle, generally charging around £6 per hour. They are well sign-posted and easy to access.
Address: Castle St, Cardiff CF10 3RB
Email: cardiffcastle@cardiff.gov.uk
Phone: 02920878100
Website: cardiffcastle.com
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Our Cardiff Castle experience rating
We would perhaps have given a higher rating had we had time to go inside, but even still, we would recommend a visit based on what we saw and the experience we had. There is plenty to see here even if you do not want to spend anything, and it is a really nice walk inside where you are able, and outside in Bute Park and along the street with the famous animal wall. Parking is easy to get to and being located in the heart of the city there are plenty of other things you can do around the castle if you are going for a longer day out.
Our castle ratings have pretty high standards, and given we have been to the likes of Balmoral and Arundel, we feel that 3.5 is still pretty respectable! Take nothing away from Cardiff Castle, it is very inspiring and wonderfully imposing! Feel free to let us know about your experience in the comments below... would you rate it higher?
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