St Fagans Castle & National Museum of History
Step into Wales’ past at this vast open-air museum, where a 16th-century castle, over 50 historic buildings, and beautiful gardens tell the story of Welsh life across the centuries.
Step into Wales’ past at St Fagans, a vast open-air museum set in the grounds of a 16th-century manor house near Cardiff. Over 50 historic buildings – from a medieval church to a Victorian school and a prince’s hall – have been carefully re-erected here, offering an immersive journey through Welsh life across the centuries. Explore cobbled lanes, working craft workshops, farm animals, and beautiful castle gardens, all on a free-to-enter site perfect for families, history lovers, and anyone wanting a peaceful day in the countryside.
A brief summary to St Fagans Castle
- Cardiff, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Free
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 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 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends or in summer, to avoid the busiest times and make the most of the day before the site gets crowded.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes – the site is large, with cobbled paths, grass, and some steps between buildings and across the parkland.
- Bring a picnic; there are plenty of scenic spots to eat outdoors, and it’s a great way to save money while enjoying a relaxed lunch in the gardens or park.
- Check the museum’s website or noticeboards on arrival for any special events, demonstrations, or temporary closures of specific buildings during your visit.
- Dogs are welcome in outdoor areas on a short lead, but only assistance dogs are allowed inside the historic buildings, so plan accordingly if visiting with a pet.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
From central Cardiff, follow signs for St Fagans National Museum of History; the drive takes about 15–20 minutes. There is a large pay-and-display car park on site with a daily charge; disabled badge holders park free.
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Bus
Regular Cardiff Bus services run from the city centre to St Fagans, with a journey time of around 30–40 minutes depending on traffic; the stop is a short walk from the main entrance.
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Bicycle
A dedicated cycle path leads from Cardiff city centre to St Fagans; the ride takes about 30–40 minutes on quiet roads and paths, with bike racks available near the entrance.
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Walking
From nearby suburbs like Fairwater or Danescourt, a pleasant 30–45 minute walk through residential streets and parkland brings you to the museum entrance, suitable for those already in the local area.
St Fagans Castle location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about St Fagans Castle
A Living Portrait of Wales
St Fagans National Museum of History is one of Europe’s leading open-air museums, where the story of Wales unfolds across 100 acres of parkland. The site centres on St Fagans Castle, a late 16th-century manor house with medieval roots, donated to the people of Wales in 1948. Around it, more than 50 historic buildings from all corners of the country have been dismantled, moved, and rebuilt with meticulous care. Walking here feels like stepping through time: a medieval church, a Victorian school, a workmen’s institute, a 1920s shop, and even a prince’s hall from the age of Llywelyn the Great all stand side by side, each telling a chapter of Welsh social, domestic, and working life.History in Every Stone and Timber
The museum’s strength lies in its authenticity. Many buildings are furnished with period objects and brought to life by costumed interpreters and skilled craftspeople. In the smithy, the clogmaker’s workshop, and the corn and woollen mills, traditional techniques are demonstrated, offering a tangible sense of how people lived, worked, and made a living in past centuries. Children can experience a Victorian classroom, while adults can explore the intimate spaces of cottages, farmhouses, and grander homes, each revealing different facets of Welsh identity, from rural hardship to industrial community life. The castle itself, with its grand rooms and service areas, adds a layer of aristocratic history to the broader social narrative.Castle, Gardens and Green Spaces
St Fagans Castle and its surrounding gardens form a beautiful heart to the site. The gardens are spacious and well-kept, with lawns, flowerbeds, and mature trees creating a peaceful atmosphere ideal for a stroll or a picnic. The castle’s exterior, with its mullioned windows and stone façade, is a striking example of late Tudor architecture, while inside, the historic rooms are presented to reflect their original use. The combination of formal gardens, open parkland, and the nearby River Ely gives the site a distinctly rural feel, despite its proximity to Cardiff, making it a rare green sanctuary where history and nature blend seamlessly.A Day of Discovery for All Ages
The museum is designed to be engaging for visitors of all ages. Children love the farm animals at Llwyn-yr-eos Farm, the play area, and the hands-on activities that often accompany special events. Families can spend hours exploring the maze of lanes and buildings, while history enthusiasts can delve into the detailed stories of architecture, industry, and everyday life. The site is also dog-friendly in outdoor areas (on a short lead), and there are cafes, a restaurant, and a shop to support a full day out. With so much to see and do, a visit here easily fills half a day or more, whether you’re dipping in for a couple of hours or making a full day of it.Practicalities and Atmosphere
Admission to St Fagans is free, making it an outstanding value destination, though there is a charge for car parking. The site is largely accessible, with paved paths and facilities including disabled toilets, Changing Places, and free wheelchair hire, though some historic buildings have steps and uneven floors. Comfortable shoes are essential, as the site is extensive and much of it is outdoors. Opening hours vary seasonally, typically from 10:00 to 17:00 in summer and slightly shorter in winter, with closures on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day. The atmosphere is relaxed and educational, with a strong emphasis on storytelling, heritage, and community, making it a deeply rewarding place to connect with the soul of Wales.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
6.1 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Historical Wales
6.2 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
6.2 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
South African War Memorial
6.2 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
6.2 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
Aneurin Bevan Statue by Robert Thomas (1987)
6.3 km
Discover the Aneurin Bevan Statue in Cardiff, a magnificent sculpture honoring the founder of the NHS and showcasing Welsh heritage.
8 St Mary St
6.3 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of 8 St Mary St in the heart of Cardiff, a must-see for every traveler.
Nereid Statue
6.3 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
The Cardiff Market
6.3 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Parc Mackenzie
6.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Parc Mackenzie, a lush park in Cardiff perfect for relaxation, strolls, and enjoying nature's charm.
Fforest Fawr
6.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Fforest Fawr, a captivating woodland in Wales, perfect for hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching amidst stunning landscapes.
National Museum Cardiff
6.4 km
Explore National Museum Cardiff, where art, history, and science converge in a stunning cultural experience for every traveler.
Museum of Cardiff
6.4 km
Explore Cardiff’s vibrant history and culture in the heart of the city at the Museum of Cardiff, housed in the historic Old Library.
Gorsedd Gardens
6.4 km
Explore Gorsedd Gardens, a captivating city park in Cardiff, rich in history and natural beauty, perfect for relaxation and cultural experiences.
Unmissable attractions to see
St. Fagans National Museum of History
0.3 km
Explore Wales’s rich history through authentic buildings, crafts, and landscapes at St. Fagans, one of Europe’s premier open-air museums.
Caerau Fort
2.6 km
Explore Caerau Fort, a vast Iron Age hillfort in Cardiff blending ancient history with vibrant community heritage.
Victoria Park
3.5 km
Historic Victorian park in Cardiff blending heritage charm with vibrant family-friendly recreation and green spaces.
Old Bishop's Palace
3.7 km
Explore the tranquil medieval ruins and gardens of the Old Bishop's Palace, a historic ecclesiastical site nestled beside Llandaff Cathedral in Cardiff.
Llandaff Cathedral
3.7 km
Explore centuries of Welsh history and artistry in the serene and architecturally rich Llandaff Cathedral, Cardiff’s spiritual heart.
Forest Farm Country Park
3.8 km
A serene country park in Cardiff blending rich wildlife habitats with historic canal remnants and scenic trails for all nature lovers.
Gôl Centres Ltd
4.0 km
Cardiff’s vibrant sports hub offering top-quality 5-a-side football, leagues, soccer schools, and dynamic group activities for all ages.
Thompson's Park
4.1 km
Historic and tranquil green space in Cardiff’s Canton, featuring woodland, a duck pond, and iconic fountain sculpture.
Vale of Glamorgan
4.7 km
Discover the Vale of Glamorgan’s stunning coastline, historic towns, and tranquil countryside just west of Cardiff.
Tinkinswood Burial Chamber
4.7 km
Explore Tinkinswood, Wales’ awe-inspiring 6,000-year-old Neolithic burial chamber crowned by Europe’s largest capstone.
Cardiff City Stadium
4.8 km
Step onto the pitch and behind the scenes at the home of Cardiff City FC and the Wales national team in this modern 33,000‑seat stadium in Cardiff.
National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens
5.1 km
Explore 55 acres of Edwardian garden rooms, exotic plants, and woodland arboretum surrounding a grand Victorian mansion near Cardiff.
The Garden Cafe
5.2 km
A peaceful garden retreat in Wenvoe offering cozy indoor and scenic outdoor dining nestled in nature’s embrace.
St Lythans Burial Chamber
5.2 km
Step back 6,000 years at St Lythans Burial Chamber, a mysterious Neolithic tomb nestled in the tranquil Welsh countryside near Cardiff.
Sophia Gardens
5.5 km
A scenic riverside park and premier cricket stadium in Cardiff, blending natural beauty with vibrant sports and cultural events.
Essential places to dine
The Heathcock
3.4 km
A modern gastropub in Llandaff with a Michelin Bib Gourmand, serving seasonal British dishes and craft beer in a relaxed, stylish setting.
Nook
3.5 km
Cozy Cardiff eatery specializing in seasonal small plates and natural wines, perfect for intimate dining and wine lovers alike.
Porro Llandaff
3.5 km
A stylish, modern Italian-inspired restaurant in Llandaff village, serving hearty breakfasts, pasta, grilled meats, and seasonal dishes in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Beefeater Walston Castle
3.7 km
A modern, family-friendly steakhouse in Wenvoe offering hearty British classics with warm service and a relaxed atmosphere.
Heaneys Restaurant
4.7 km
Discover Cardiff’s celebrated fine dining gem, Heaneys Restaurant, where innovative British tasting menus meet stylish comfort in Pontcanna.
Milkwood
4.8 km
Innovative Welsh brunch and vibrant evening pizzette bar in Cardiff’s lively Pontcanna neighborhood.
Thomas by Tom Simmons
4.8 km
Refined Welsh cuisine meets elegant design in Cardiff’s stylish Pontcanna district at Thomas by Tom Simmons.
Elgano Italian Restaurant
5.2 km
Authentic Italian dining in a stylish, romantic setting on Cathedral Road – perfect for date nights, family meals, and special occasions in Cardiff.
Neighbourhood Kitchen & Cocktails
5.6 km
Intimate Riverside restaurant with rotating menus, exceptional seafood, and craft cocktails in Cardiff.
Sunnys Street Food - Mexican & Italian Restaurant Cardiff
5.9 km
Bold street food flavors, generous portions, unbeatable prices—where Cardiff gathers to eat well.
Calabrisella Cathays
6.1 km
Savor authentic Italian pizzas and pasta in a lively Cardiff setting with warm service and a vibrant atmosphere.
Bar 44 Cardiff
6.1 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in Cardiff's vibrant Castle Quarter.
Maison de Bœuf
6.1 km
An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
Casanova
6.1 km
A long-standing Cardiff trattoria serving authentic regional Italian food with warm service and an excellent all-Italian wine list.
The Potted Pig
6.2 km
A stylish underground eatery in Cardiff serving seasonal Welsh-inspired modern British cuisine in a unique former bank vault setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pearls Gift Shop
4.5 km
Handpicked Welsh treasures and locally crafted souvenirs in the heart of Cardiff.
The SHO Gallery and Shop
4.6 km
A vibrant Cardiff hub offering art supplies, handmade gifts, and local creativity in a welcoming gallery and shop environment.
Nest Cardiff
5.6 km
Discover unique gifts and charming children’s clothes in a welcoming boutique nestled in Cardiff’s leafy Rhiwbina suburb.
Ethical Boutique Charity Shop
5.7 km
Vintage vibes meet ethical impact: shop sustainably, swap smartly, and support global good at Cardiff's coolest charity boutique.
Antoinette Antiques and Vintage Clothing
5.9 km
Discover Cardiff’s largest vintage hat collection and timeless antiques in a historic Pumping Station setting.
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
6.1 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Great Welsh Gifts
6.2 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
6.2 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.
Mojo King
6.3 km
Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
Knight Vintage
6.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Rokit Cardiff
6.3 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
6.3 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Little Welsh Company
6.3 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
Cathays High Store
6.3 km
Discover the convenience of Cathays High Store in Cardiff, your local supermarket offering a wide range of groceries and local specialties.
B&M Home Store
6.3 km
Discover incredible deals on home essentials and unique items at B&M Home Store in Cardiff Bay - your go-to discount shop!
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bar
4.0 km
A stylish cocktail bar and restaurant in Cardiff’s Canton, offering craft drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe for all occasions.
The Grange Pub
6.0 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Bar 105
6.1 km
Intimate Cardiff cocktail haven with killer drinks, DJ nights, and pop-up feasts in student-fueled Cathays.
The Bootlegger
6.1 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
Revolution Cardiff
6.1 km
A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
The Flora
6.1 km
Cozy Cathays pub pouring pints, roasts, and community spirit in a quirky, welcoming haven—Cardiff's go-to for hearty Sundays and everyday cheer.
Cathays Sports & Social Club
6.1 km
Cardiff's unpretentious social hub: cheap pints, games galore, live tunes, and community vibes in student-favorite Cathays.
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
6.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s vibrant craft beer scene and lively pub culture at Tiny Rebel, a hub for award-winning brews and eclectic events.
The Woodville
6.1 km
Cathays' go-to pub for burgers, brews, sports screens, and unbeatable student specials in a lively, welcoming spot.
The Libertine Cocktail Bar
6.2 km
A stylish Cardiff cocktail bar blending gothic charm with expertly crafted drinks and a lively city center vibe.
Rum & Fizz
6.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s rum haven with over 200 rums, crafted cocktails, cozy elegance, and live jazz every Friday in Castle Arcade.
Penny
6.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
Flight Club Cardiff
6.2 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant city nightlife at Flight Club Cardiff’s unique multi-level bar and rooftop terrace.
Cathays Beer House
6.3 km
Cozy Crwys Road craft beer haven with high ceilings, expert pours, live events, and outdoor vibes in Cardiff's vibrant Cathays.
Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
6.3 km
A lively, multi-level cocktail bar and casual-restaurant on The Friary — made for groups, brunch and evening drinks in central Cardiff.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fuel Rock Club
6.1 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Clwb Ifor Bach
6.1 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
For Your Eyes Only
6.2 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Popworld - Cardiff
6.3 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Metros
6.4 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
6.4 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The CUBE
6.4 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Walkabout - Cardiff
6.4 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience in Cardiff, offering vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and live sports in a lively atmosphere.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
6.5 km
Cardiff's largest nightclub ignites Greyfriars Road with 1,500-capacity energy, state-of-the-art production across themed rooms, and epic nights from club beats to private spectacles.
Retro
6.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cardiff at Retro, where nostalgia meets fun in a lively bar and nightclub atmosphere.
Pulse
6.7 km
A city-centre LGBTQ+-friendly bar that becomes a neon-lit nightclub after dark, blending casual daytime dining with late-night DJs and themed club nights.
The Globe
7.2 km
A compact Grade II-listed former cinema turned lively live-music venue and nightclub, famed for intimate gigs and energetic club nights on Albany Road.
The Vaults
7.5 km
Dive into Cardiff’s iconic underground club housed in a historic former bank, where techno beats and vibrant nightlife come alive beneath the city streets.
Cabaret at Wales Millennium Centre
7.7 km
Dive into Cardiff Bay's sizzling hub of drag, burlesque, comedy, and live music at Cabaret – where inclusive performances sparkle with pop culture magic and high-energy fun.
Coco Cubanas
9.7 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
