Cardiff Castle
Nearly 2,000 years of history converge in Wales' most captivating castle, where Roman forts, Norman keeps, Victorian splendor, and wartime shelters tell an evolving story.
Cardiff Castle stands as Wales' most iconic heritage attraction, dominating the heart of the capital with nearly 2,000 years of layered history. From Roman occupation through Norman conquest, medieval transformation, Victorian opulence, and World War II shelters, this castle has evolved alongside the city itself. Visitors explore the impressive Norman Keep, ornate Castle Apartments, the Firing Line Museum, and atmospheric wartime tunnels, all set within beautiful parklands yet surrounded by modern Cardiff.
A brief summary to Cardiff Castle
- Castle St, Cardiff, CF10 3RB, GB
- +442920878100
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes with good grip, as you will navigate uneven stone surfaces, spiral staircases, and potentially steep terrain, especially when climbing the Norman Keep.
- Allow at least 2–3 hours for a thorough self-guided visit; add additional time if you book a guided tour of the Castle Apartments or Wartime Tunnels, which provide deeper historical context.
- Visit during shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for pleasant weather and smaller crowds; winter visits are atmospheric but can be cold and wet, while summer brings larger visitor numbers and occasional early closures for outdoor concerts.
- Book tickets online in advance to secure entry times and potentially access discounts; same-day tickets are available subject to availability at the Ticket Office.
- Do not miss the Firing Line Museum, located beneath the castle café—it is easy to overlook but offers compelling insights into Welsh military heritage and is included with standard admission.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport from Cardiff City Centre
From Cardiff Central Station, take a local bus service (routes 2, 3, or 8) heading toward the city centre, approximately 10–15 minutes travel time. Alternatively, walk from the station through the city centre to Castle Street, approximately 15–20 minutes on level terrain. Bus fares cost around £1.50–£2.50 per journey. The castle is well signposted from the city centre, and the journey is straightforward with clear pedestrian access.
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Parking and Vehicle Access
Multiple car parks surround the castle, including the Castle Arcade Car Park and Cathays Park Car Park, both within 2–5 minutes walking distance. Parking costs typically range from £1.50–£3.00 per hour, with daily rates around £8–£12. The castle itself does not have dedicated visitor parking, but the surrounding car parks are well-maintained and clearly marked. Disabled parking spaces are available near the main entrance with appropriate permits.
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Walking from Bute Park
If visiting Bute Park, the castle is accessible via the North Gate entrance, approximately 5–10 minutes walking through parkland on well-maintained paths. This approach offers a scenic route through green space and is suitable for most fitness levels. The path is relatively flat and clearly marked, making it an attractive option for those combining a park visit with castle exploration.
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Taxi and Ride-Share Services
Taxis and ride-share services (Uber, local firms) can deliver you directly to Castle Street or the main entrance. Journey times from Cardiff Central Station are approximately 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Typical fares range from £6–£12. This option is convenient for visitors with mobility limitations or those carrying substantial luggage.
Cardiff Castle location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Cardiff Castle
Two Millennia of Transformation
Cardiff Castle's story begins in the 1st century AD when Roman forces established a fort on this strategic site. The fortress evolved through centuries of conquest and change, each era leaving its mark on the stones. In the 11th century, Norman invaders constructed the iconic Keep that still dominates the Castle Green today—a towering symbol of medieval military power. The medieval Lords of Glamorgan expanded the castle during the 15th century, adding residential structures and fortifications. However, the most dramatic transformation came in the 19th century when the Bute family, having amassed considerable wealth, commissioned a sweeping Victorian Gothic renovation that turned the castle into an opulent residence of extraordinary beauty and architectural ambition.The Norman Keep and Castle Grounds
The Norman Keep remains the castle's most recognizable feature, rising majestically above the surrounding landscape. Climbing to its summit rewards visitors with panoramic views across Cardiff and the surrounding valleys. The extensive castle grounds encompass manicured lawns, historic fortifications, and atmospheric passages that invite exploration. The outer walls, which once served as air raid shelters during World War II, now tell stories of civilian resilience during the Blitz. Walking the grounds, you encounter layers of history at every turn—from Roman stonework to medieval battlements to Victorian landscaping.Victorian Splendor and Interior Elegance
The Castle Apartments showcase the Bute family's vision of grandeur, featuring elaborate Gothic and Victorian-style decoration throughout. Ornate ceilings, intricate woodwork, and period furnishings create an atmosphere of 19th-century aristocratic life. The interiors are meticulously maintained, revealing the wealth and taste of one of Wales' most influential families. Guided tours provide deeper insight into the rooms and their historical significance, though many spaces remain accessible to independent visitors exploring at their own pace.World War II Heritage and the Firing Line Museum
During World War II, the castle's surrounding walls were converted into air raid shelters, providing sanctuary for thousands of Cardiff citizens during bombing raids. A carefully reconstructed shelter now allows visitors to experience the conditions endured by civilians seeking protection. The Firing Line Museum, housed within the castle grounds, chronicles the military history of Wales through artifacts, displays, and interactive exhibits. This museum is easily overlooked but represents an essential part of understanding the castle's role in modern Welsh history.Setting and Atmosphere
Cardiff Castle occupies a remarkable position—surrounded by beautiful parklands on one side while integrated into the bustling modern city centre on the other. This juxtaposition creates a unique atmosphere where centuries-old stone walls stand in conversation with contemporary urban life. The castle's location makes it accessible to visitors exploring Cardiff's wider attractions, yet the grounds themselves offer peaceful respite from city streets. The Public Square provides free access to the castle's outer green, where visitors can enjoy the café and gift shop without purchasing admission tickets.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cardiff Town Wall
0.1 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Historical Wales
0.1 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
Nereid Statue
0.2 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
South African War Memorial
0.3 km
A poignant bronze and stone tribute in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who served in the Second Boer War, embodying peace, war, and grief.
City Hall
0.4 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
Fogo's Free Tours
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
0.4 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Canal Quarter
0.6 km
Explore the scenic beauty and cultural richness of Canal Quarter, Cardiff's hidden gem for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure.
Parc Mackenzie
0.6 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Parc Mackenzie, a lush park in Cardiff perfect for relaxation, strolls, and enjoying nature's charm.
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.6 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
Cardiff International Film Festival
0.6 km
Discover the Cardiff International Film Festival, where cinema comes alive through captivating screenings and inspiring workshops in the heart of Wales.
Capitol Cardiff
0.6 km
Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, Cardiff
0.7 km
Experience the warmth of community and spirituality at RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, a welcoming Church of Christ in the heart of Cardiff.
Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries Cardiff.
0.7 km
A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
0.7 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cardiff Castle Museum
0.1 km
Wales' capital castle where 2,000 years of Roman, Norman, and Victorian history converge in the heart of Cardiff.
Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Castle
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff Castle, a majestic blend of Roman roots, Norman strength, and Victorian splendor in the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital.
Firing Line Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier
0.1 km
Discover the rich military heritage of Wales beneath Cardiff Castle in this immersive museum dedicated to the Welsh soldier.
Blue Bell
0.1 km
Discover the charm of The Blue Bell, Cardiff's premier pub for traditional food, local ales, and a warm atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Rummer Tavern
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich local culture at Rummer Tavern, a must-visit pub in the heart of Cardiff.
Castle Quarter Arcades
0.2 km
Explore Cardiff’s historic Castle Quarter Arcades—Victorian charm, independent shops, and vibrant dining in the city’s heart.
Aneurin Bevan Statue by Robert Thomas (1987)
0.2 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Cardiff to Aneurin Bevan, visionary founder of the NHS, sculpted by Robert Thomas in 1987.
Animal Wall
0.2 km
A whimsical Victorian stone menagerie along Cardiff’s Bute Park, featuring 15 expressive animals carved into a historic wall near Cardiff Castle.
High Street Arcade
0.2 km
A beautifully preserved Victorian shopping arcade in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, filled with independent boutiques, vintage shops, cafés, and historic charm.
Charter for Trees Woods and People
0.3 km
A symbolic pole in Cardiff’s Bute Park celebrating the enduring bond between people, trees, and nature’s future.
Coopers Field
0.3 km
A serene and spacious green oasis in Cardiff’s Bute Park, perfect for outdoor events, relaxation, and city escapes.
St John The Baptist City Parish Church
0.3 km
Cardiff’s oldest medieval church, blending historic grandeur with vibrant community spirit in the city centre.
Cambrian Way Plaque Cardiff
0.3 km
Discover the gateway to Wales’ epic mountain trail at the Cambrian Way Plaque in Cardiff’s historic Bute Park.
The Cardiff Market
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff Market’s vibrant Victorian charm, where fresh local produce and unique stalls create a lively city-centre shopping experience.
Cardiff Market
0.3 km
A bustling Victorian indoor market in Cardiff city centre, alive with fresh produce, street food, vintage finds and local character under a grand glass roof.
Essential places to dine
The Welsh House Cardiff
0.2 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
0.2 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
The Potted Pig
0.2 km
A stylish underground eatery in Cardiff serving seasonal Welsh-inspired modern British cuisine in a unique former bank vault setting.
Maison de Bœuf
0.2 km
An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
The Botanist Cardiff
0.2 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cardiff city centre where botanical décor, creative cocktails, and live music bloom together.
Cafe Citta
0.2 km
Cozy Italian eatery in Cardiff city center serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and pasta in an intimate, stylish setting.
Revolución de Cuba Cardiff
0.2 km
Experience authentic Cuban cuisine and vibrant culture at Revolución de Cuba Cardiff - your gateway to Havana's flavors in the heart of Wales.
Asador 44 Spanish Grill & Wine House
0.2 km
Authentic Spanish charcoal grilling and fine wines in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Casanova
0.2 km
A long-standing Cardiff trattoria serving authentic regional Italian food with warm service and an excellent all-Italian wine list.
Bar 44 Cardiff
0.3 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in Cardiff's vibrant Castle Quarter.
Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
0.3 km
Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
The Alchemist Cardiff
0.3 km
Experience the magic of mixology at The Alchemist Cardiff, where innovative cocktails meet exquisite dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Turtle Bay Cardiff
0.3 km
Caribbean soul meets Welsh hospitality—bold jerk, tropical cocktails, and island warmth in Cardiff city centre.
Laguna Kitchen & Bar Cardiff
0.4 km
Elegant modern dining with Welsh flair in the heart of Cardiff’s Park Plaza Hotel, featuring seasonal menus and a stylish cocktail bar.
Lezzet Turkish Kitchen
0.4 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
0.1 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Hobos Vintage
0.2 km
A vibrant Cardiff vintage shop packed with retro fashion, trainers, and accessories from the 1950s to today – perfect for throwback style and bargain finds.
Rokit Cardiff
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
Great Welsh Gifts
0.2 km
Unearth authentic Welsh crafts, treats, and treasures on Cardiff's High Street—a delightful dive into Cymru's cultural heart at Great Welsh Gifts.
The Works
0.2 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Little Welsh Company
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
Cardiff Creative Shop
0.3 km
Handcrafted Welsh wonders from 45+ local artisans await in Queens Arcade's creative gem—unique gifts that sparkle with personality and heritage.
Mojo King
0.3 km
Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
Knight Vintage
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Flying Tiger
0.4 km
Discover quirky Scandinavian gifts and creative everyday essentials at Flying Tiger in Cardiff’s St David's Centre.
Morgan Quarter
0.5 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Urban Outfitters
0.5 km
Curated lifestyle retail celebrating creativity, fashion, and cultural expression in Cardiff's city centre.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
0.5 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Welcome Things
0.5 km
Discover whimsical treasures in Cardiff's historic Royal Arcade at this eclectic gift shop, where unique Welsh-inspired finds meet global curiosities in Victorian splendor.
elephants and flowres
0.5 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Revolution Cardiff
0.1 km
A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
The Libertine Cocktail Bar
0.2 km
A stylish Cardiff cocktail bar blending gothic charm with expertly crafted drinks and a lively city center vibe.
The Bootlegger
0.2 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
Rum & Fizz
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s rum haven with over 200 rums, crafted cocktails, cozy elegance, and live jazz every Friday in Castle Arcade.
Penny
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
0.2 km
Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
0.2 km
A lively, multi-level cocktail bar and casual-restaurant on The Friary — made for groups, brunch and evening drinks in central Cardiff.
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff’s vibrant craft beer scene and lively pub culture at Tiny Rebel, a hub for award-winning brews and eclectic events.
Flight Club Cardiff
0.3 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant city nightlife at Flight Club Cardiff’s unique multi-level bar and rooftop terrace.
Yates - Cardiff
0.4 km
Lively sports bar and nightclub in Cardiff city centre with unbeatable sports coverage, great drinks, and a unique dancing doorman.
Glassworks
0.4 km
Lively Cardiff pub pouring Greene King ales, serving pub classics, and screening sports in the heart of the city center—perfect for meals, pints, and pre-event vibes.
Main Stage
0.4 km
Cardiff's vibrant gay bar and cabaret club with lively drag shows, DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Henry's Cafe Bar Cardiff
0.4 km
A relaxed, long-standing Park Place bar offering cocktails, local beers and approachable British food from brunch through late-night.
Mary's Cardiff
0.5 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife at Mary’s, a lively bar and nightclub blending modern lounge vibes with energetic party spirit.
Slug & Lettuce - St Mary St Cardiff
0.5 km
Vibrant Cardiff cocktail bar on St Mary Street, famed for bottomless brunches, creative mixes, and lively nights in the city heart.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Victorian Styles
- Historic
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Iconic Views
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly
