Cardiff Castle travel guide

Nestled in the heart of Wales' capital, Cardiff Castle boasts a rich and compelling history that stretches over 2000 years.

Romans established the site in the late 50s AD and built the original fort. The fort's remains form part of the castle's core today.

In the 11th century, the Normans arrived and constructed a keep within the castle walls. The castle experienced several facelifts over the centuries, with significant restructuring in the Victorian era under the auspices of architect William Burges.

During World War II, the castle served as a shelter during air raids. Its fascinating story is told through exhibits and tours, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

Today, Cardiff Castle is a blend of Roman, Norman, and Victorian Gothic architecture, offering a unique insight into Cardiff's past.

Cardiff Castle is a medley of architectural styles, reflecting its varied history. It is not just a castle, but a Roman fort, a Norman Keep, and a Victorian Gothic palace in one. The breathtaking Norman Keep, with its twelve-sided design, is one of the finest examples of a motte-and-bailey castle in the country. The Victorian Gothic palace's opulent interiors are adorned with Murals Room's ornate paintings, intricate wood carvings, and gilded decorations, showcasing the wealth of the 3rd Marquess of Bute, who commissioned the palace.

A remarkable feature is the castle's war tunnels. Used during World War II as air-raid shelters, these tunnels are built into the castle's walls, offering a unique insight into the castle's strategic importance during the war. The castle also boasts a significant green space, the Bute Park, which provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Among the exotic trees and landscaped gardens, you'll find the Animal Wall, a stone wall adorned with 15 sculptures of different animals, another eccentric addition by the 3rd Marquess of Bute.

Located in the dynamic Castle, the popular Cardiff Castle is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful street of Cardiff or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through England.

Cardiff is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Cardiff offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Cardiff and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable National Museum Cardiff, Bute Park, Gorsedd Gardens, Museum of Cardiff, and Alexandra Gardens.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Cardiff has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Cardiff, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in England!

Cardiff Castle is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Cardiff, England. If you're flying in, Bristol Airport is approximately 21.1 miles (33.9 km) away from Cardiff. From there, you can easily reach Cardiff Castle by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Cardiff, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Cardiff Castle, which is located 0.1 miles (0.2 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Cardiff Castle, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Castle St, Cardiff CF10 3RB, UK.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Cardiff Castle!

The best time to explore Cardiff Castle is arguably between late spring and early autumn, particularly from May to September. During these months, Wales enjoys mild to warm temperatures, making it ideal for touring the historic fortress and its lush grounds. However, if you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons, particularly May or September, when the weather remains pleasant but tourist numbers begin to dwindle. Cardiff Castle offers an array of seasonal events that can enhance your visit. In summer, outdoor concerts and theatrical performances are often held within the castle grounds, while the annual 'Joust!' event in June offers a unique spectacle of medieval entertainment. Conversely, autumn sees the castle adorned in beautiful fall colors, providing a stunning backdrop for photos. No matter when you visit, ensure to check the castle's official website for any upcoming events or potential closures. This way, you'll make the most of your time at this iconic Welsh landmark.

To truly enjoy your visit to Cardiff Castle, joining a tour that features this popular castle in Cardiff is highly recommended. As one of England's most iconic attractions, Cardiff Castle draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Cardiff Castle starting at just 20.19 EUR below.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Cardiff Castle and other top attractions in Cardiff than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Cardiff include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Cardiff Castle's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Cardiff Castle and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind castle in England.

Conveniently explore Cardiff Castle and plenty more captivating attractions in Cardiff by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the street. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Cardiff Castle and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Cardiff has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Cardiff Castle below.

Aside from Cardiff Castle, Cardiff is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the street offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Cardiff, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely National Museum Cardiff, Bute Park, and Gorsedd Gardens.

National Museum Cardiff is a bucket-list museum and top attraction in Cardiff, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,900 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the street. The exact address of National Museum Cardiff is Cathays Park, Cardiff CF10 3NP, UK.

Another appreciated attraction in Cardiff is Bute Park. Like National Museum Cardiff, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the street. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 6,500 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this park is North Rd, Cardiff CF10 3ER, UK.

Gorsedd Gardens is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Cardiff. This park and top attraction in Cardiff has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 900 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Gorsedd Gardens Rd, Cardiff CF10 3NP, UK.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the street of Cardiff below.