Cardiff Castle
Wales' capital castle where 2,000 years of Roman, Norman, and Victorian history converge in the heart of Cardiff.
Cardiff Castle stands as Wales' most iconic heritage attraction, a 2,000-year-old fortress in the heart of the capital city. From Roman occupation through Norman conquest, Victorian transformation, and World War II history, these ancient walls encapsulate nearly two millennia of Welsh heritage. Visitors explore the Norman Keep, opulent Castle Apartments, the Firing Line military museum, and reconstructed air raid shelters. The castle grounds blend historical grandeur with modern city views, offering guided tours, exhibitions, and family-friendly experiences.
A brief summary to Cardiff Castle Museum
- 5 Duke St, Cardiff, CF10 1AY, GB
- +442920878100
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience. Weekends and school holidays attract significantly more visitors, particularly during summer months.
- Wear comfortable shoes with good grip, as you will navigate steep stone stairs, uneven medieval floors, and extensive grounds. The Norman Keep climb is particularly demanding but rewards with panoramic city views.
- Book guided tours in advance to access areas not included in standard admission, such as the Castle Apartments and Wartime Tunnels. Expert guides bring history alive with engaging narratives and lesser-known anecdotes.
- Allow at least 2–3 hours for a thorough visit; longer if you plan guided tours or wish to linger in specific galleries. The castle's scale and layered history reward unhurried exploration.
- Check the official website before visiting during summer months, as concert events may cause early closures or full-day closures on certain dates. Tickets for affected days are clearly marked online.
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 Bus
Multiple bus routes serve Cardiff city centre, with stops within 2–5 minutes' walk of Cardiff Castle on Duke Street. Services 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 15, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31, 32, 33, 35, 37, 38, 39, 40, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 100 operate throughout the day. Journey times from Cardiff Central Bus Station are typically 5–15 minutes depending on route. Single fares range from £1.50–£3.50 GBP. Day tickets and weekly passes offer better value for multiple journeys.
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Train
Cardiff Central Railway Station is approximately 800 metres (10–12 minutes' walk) south of the castle. Regular train services connect Cardiff to destinations across Wales and the UK. From the station, follow signs toward the city centre and Cathays Park; the castle is clearly signposted. Alternatively, local buses from the station reach the castle in 5–10 minutes. Train fares vary by origin and advance booking; typical day returns from nearby towns range £8–£25 GBP.
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Car and Parking
Cardiff Castle is located at 5 Duke Street, Cardiff CF10 1AY. On-street parking is limited in the immediate vicinity due to city centre restrictions. Multiple car parks operate within 2–5 minutes' walk: the Cathays Park Car Park, Castle Arcade Car Park, and St John the Baptist Car Park offer hourly and all-day rates (typically £1.50–£3.00 per hour, or £8–£15 for all-day parking). Disabled badge holders may access designated spaces closer to the castle entrance. Note that the castle's North Gate entrance from Bute Park may have restricted vehicle access during events.
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Walking from City Centre
From Cardiff Central Bus Station or Queen Street shopping district, the castle is a pleasant 10–15 minute walk through the city centre. Follow signs toward Cathays Park and the castle's main entrance on Duke Street. The route is flat, well-lit, and passes through pedestrian-friendly streets. Bute Park offers an alternative scenic approach from the north, though this adds 5–10 minutes to the journey and involves some gentle slopes.
Cardiff Castle Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Cardiff Castle Museum
Two Millennia of Layered History
Cardiff Castle's story begins in the 1st century AD when Roman legions established a fort on this strategic site. The fortress evolved through centuries of conquest and transformation, with the Normans constructing the iconic Keep in the 11th century—a structure that still dominates the Castle Green today. Medieval Lords of Glamorgan added the House during the 15th century, creating the foundation for what would become one of Britain's most significant heritage sites. The Bute family's 19th-century intervention proved transformative, converting the medieval structure into a Victorian Gothic masterpiece with ornate interiors, elaborate decorations, and architectural innovations that reflected the family's immense wealth and influence.World War II and the Hidden Shelters
During the Second World War, Cardiff Castle's ancient walls took on an unexpected role as air raid shelters, providing sanctuary for thousands of Cardiff citizens during bombing campaigns. The castle's thick medieval stonework and underground passages offered protection during some of the city's most perilous moments. Today, visitors can explore a carefully reconstructed air raid shelter that brings this dramatic chapter to life, complete with period details and historical context that illustrate civilian experiences during wartime.Architectural Splendour and Interior Design
The castle's interiors showcase exceptional Victorian Gothic craftsmanship, with richly decorated rooms featuring intricate woodwork, ornamental plasterwork, and period furnishings. The Castle Apartments reveal how the Bute family lived in opulent style, while the Norman Keep offers a stark contrast with its medieval simplicity and commanding views across Cardiff. The architectural contrast between different eras—from Roman foundations to Victorian embellishment—creates a visual narrative of the castle's evolution.Museums and Living History
The Firing Line museum, housed within the castle grounds, chronicles the history of the Welsh military through engaging exhibits and artifacts. This dedicated space complements the main castle experience, offering visitors deeper insight into Wales' military heritage. The castle also hosts temporary exhibitions and special events throughout the year, ensuring that each visit offers fresh perspectives on its collections and history.Setting and Surroundings
Located in Cardiff's city centre, the castle occupies a unique position where historic parklands meet modern urban development. Bute Park stretches alongside the castle grounds, providing green space and walking routes that connect to the wider city. The castle's outer green offers free public access to the Castle Café & Bar and Gift Shop, allowing visitors to experience part of the site without purchasing admission tickets. This integration of heritage site and living city makes Cardiff Castle an accessible landmark for both tourists and residents.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
The castle welcomes visitors year-round with flexible ticket options, including standard admission, guided tour upgrades, and annual passes. Family tickets and group rates make the experience accessible to various budgets. The Visitor Centre provides information services, and the castle grounds accommodate visitors of varying mobility levels, though some areas—particularly the Norman Keep and upper castle apartments—involve climbing stairs. Self-guided exploration allows visitors to move at their own pace, while guided tours provide expert interpretation of the castle's complex history and architectural features.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historical Wales
0.2 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
Cardiff Town Wall
0.2 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Nereid Statue
0.3 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
South African War Memorial
0.4 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
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
0.5 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Exitus Escape Rooms
0.6 km
Experience thrilling adventures and team-building fun at Exitus Escape Rooms in Cardiff, where every puzzle brings you closer to victory.
St David's Metropolitan Cathedral
0.6 km
Experience the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of St David's Metropolitan Cathedral, a must-visit spiritual landmark in Cardiff.
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.
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.
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.7 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith 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.
Cardiff International Film Festival
0.7 km
Discover the Cardiff International Film Festival, where cinema comes alive through captivating screenings and inspiring workshops in the heart of Wales.
Capitol Cardiff
0.7 km
Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cardiff Castle
0.1 km
Discover nearly 2,000 years of history and stunning architecture at Cardiff Castle, the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital city.
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.
Animal Wall
0.1 km
A whimsical Victorian stone menagerie along Cardiff’s Bute Park, featuring 15 expressive animals carved into a historic wall near Cardiff Castle.
Blue Bell
0.2 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.
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.
Charter for Trees Woods and People
0.2 km
A symbolic pole in Cardiff’s Bute Park celebrating the enduring bond between people, trees, and nature’s future.
Cambrian Way Plaque Cardiff
0.2 km
Discover the gateway to Wales’ epic mountain trail at the Cambrian Way Plaque in Cardiff’s historic Bute Park.
Coopers Field
0.2 km
A serene and spacious green oasis in Cardiff’s Bute Park, perfect for outdoor events, relaxation, and city escapes.
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.
River Cruises
0.2 km
Explore Cardiff Bay’s stunning waterfront on a relaxing, eco-friendly Aquabus river cruise with accessible, modern catamarans.
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.
Aneurin Bevan Statue by Robert Thomas (1987)
0.3 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Cardiff to Aneurin Bevan, visionary founder of the NHS, sculpted by Robert Thomas in 1987.
Cardiff Arms Park
0.3 km
Historic rugby stadium in Cardiff, home to Cardiff Rugby and a cornerstone of Welsh sporting heritage since the 1870s.
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.
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.
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.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
0.2 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
Bar 44 Cardiff
0.2 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in Cardiff's vibrant Castle Quarter.
Casanova
0.2 km
A long-standing Cardiff trattoria serving authentic regional Italian food with warm service and an excellent all-Italian wine list.
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.
Cafe Citta
0.3 km
Cozy Italian eatery in Cardiff city center serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and pasta in an intimate, stylish setting.
The Botanist Cardiff
0.3 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cardiff city centre where botanical décor, creative cocktails, and live music bloom together.
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.
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.
Revolución de Cuba Cardiff
0.3 km
Experience authentic Cuban cuisine and vibrant culture at Revolución de Cuba Cardiff - your gateway to Havana's flavors in the heart of Wales.
Lezzet Turkish Kitchen
0.4 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
The Sorting Room Restaurant
0.4 km
Elegant modern European dining in Cardiff’s city centre, celebrated for Welsh beef specialties and refined brasserie ambiance.
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.
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.
Hobos Vintage
0.3 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
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
The Works
0.3 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Little Welsh Company
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
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.
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.
Flying Tiger
0.5 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.
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.
Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
0.5 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
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 Bootlegger
0.2 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
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.
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.
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
0.2 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.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
0.3 km
Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
0.3 km
A lively, multi-level cocktail bar and casual-restaurant on The Friary — made for groups, brunch and evening drinks in central Cardiff.
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.
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.
Yates - Cardiff
0.5 km
Lively sports bar and nightclub in Cardiff city centre with unbeatable sports coverage, great drinks, and a unique dancing doorman.
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.
Henry's Cafe Bar Cardiff
0.5 km
A relaxed, long-standing Park Place bar offering cocktails, local beers and approachable British food from brunch through late-night.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Entertaining
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Victorian Styles
- Historic
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Physically Demanding
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
