Opulent and luxurious, the Cardiff Castle shines at the heart of the city. With a fascinating history that spans over 2000 years, stunning interiors that bring out the romantic in even the hardest hearts and a wealth of visitor-friendly activities, this enchanting castle is a must visit.

The first inhabitants of the land were the Romans, who used the space as a defensive ground during 50’s A.D. They constructed four forts, this land being used for one of them as archaeologists discovered. The Roman Wall still stands today, as a testament to the first residents. This was followed by the Norman conquest, which resulted in the creation of the castle’s keep and further medieval fortifications. The castle was passed from many a noble hand until it fell under the ownership of the Bute Family and it was in this period when the castle was transformed into a ravishing thing of great beauty. Following the death of the Fourth Marquess of Bute, the castle and its land was gifted to the city and has since then become one of Wales’ most beloved sites.

Today, the Castle attracts visitors from all around the world thanks to its beautiful interiors, fascinating guided tours and the breathtaking view of Cardiff from the top.

• Kids will have a blast on the ‘Castle Quest’, a treasure hunt styled adventure complete with map that’ll have them scurrying through the rooms and across the grounds.
• Take the 50 minute ‘House Tour’ and prance through the highly decorated rooms and stunning interiors. Each room has a story, such as the Winter Smoking Room, Lord Bute’s Bedroom and The Roof Top Garden. You’ll especially enjoy the captivating designs of the furniture.
• Are you a TV buff? Then you’ll be thrilled to know the castle has been used as a film location in Doctor Who, Sherlock, Torchwood and The Sarah Jane Adventures. There’s a special 40 minute guided tour, at £4 per head, that will take you through the rooms that have been aired on TV. You’ll find it hard to believe that extra-terrestrial and inter galactic scenes were shot in this olden day castle!
• If you feel adventures, explore the numerous tunnels that intersect the interiors of the Castle. These were used as hiding places during the Second World War, and a special 30 minute tour will take you around these nooks and crannies.
• The Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier commemorates over 300 years of battle. Immerse yourself in an intriguing mix of historical information, exhibits, hands on activities and lively programs.

There are free audio guides for those who wish to explore the castle at their own pace. These are available in 10 languages, namely English, Welsh, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Russian, Mandarin Chinese and Portuguese. 

• Your Castle Ticket includes a free audio guide, stunning, decorated rooms in the House, a view of the medieval Keep, the Second World War Shelters and the Roman Wall. It also includes a visit to the Firing Line: Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier and the Interpretation Centre with film show and exhibition.
• If a special event is being held in the grounds there may be an additional charge.
• Only assistance dogs are allowed on site.
• There is also a children’s version of the audio guide available in English and Welsh.
• The Wartime Shelter tours run at weekends and during the summer holidays.
• The Green Apple Trail (in Castle Quest) is suitable for children in wheelchairs and buggies.
• If you’re traveling by car, then from M4, exit junction 32 and follow the A470 to Cardiff city centre. Please use the city centre car parks or on-street meter parking. For Sat Nav: Cardiff Castle postcode is CF10 3RB.

• Adults : £12, Children : £9 and Adult family ticket : £36
• If you add £3 to the general ticket price, it will include a House Tour.
• Entry is free for under 5 years.

• Train and bus: Cardiff Central Station is located just 10 minutes' walk away.
• Water: A Waterbus service is available from Cardiff Bay and stops at Bute Park, only 3 minutes’ walk from the Castle entrance.
• Bike: Nearest cycle route NCR8 passes through the Civic Centre, only 2 minutes' ride from the Castle entrance.
• Foot: Look for the finger post signs around the city centre. The Castle entrance is on the junction of Castle Street and High Street.

• Zizzi (Pizza, Pasta, Italian)
• Bella Italia (Italian)
• Subway (Sandwiches)
• Browns (British)

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