The Animal Wall at Cardiff Castle
Discover Cardiff’s whimsical Animal Wall, a historic sculptured boundary blending Victorian artistry with playful wildlife carvings near Cardiff Castle.
The Animal Wall is a Grade I listed sculptured wall in Cardiff, Wales, featuring 15 intricately carved stone animals. Originally designed by architect William Burges in 1866, the wall was built in the late 1880s and moved to its current location near Bute Park in the 1920s. The first nine animals were carved by Thomas Nicholls, and six more were added by Alexander Carrick in the 1930s. This whimsical landmark blends Victorian artistry with local heritage and remains a beloved symbol of Cardiff’s Castle Quarter.
A brief summary to Animal Wall
- 11 Castle St, Cardiff, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the intricate details and lifelike expressions of the stone animals.
- Look closely to distinguish between the original 19th-century carvings with glass eyes and the later 20th-century additions without.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through nearby Bute Park for a scenic and relaxing experience.
- Pick up an information booklet at Cardiff Castle’s gift shop to learn more about each animal and the wall’s history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
Getting There
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Bus
Take Cardiff Bus routes 1, 2, or 6, which stop near Cardiff Castle on Castle Street. The journey from Cardiff Central Station takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares around £2-£3 for a single ticket.
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Train and Walk
Arrive at Cardiff Central Railway Station, then enjoy a 15-20 minute walk through the city center to Castle Street where the Animal Wall is located. The walk is mostly flat and suitable for all abilities.
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Taxi
Taxis from Cardiff Central Station to the Animal Wall take about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares around £5-£8. Taxis provide a convenient option if carrying luggage or during inclement weather.
Animal Wall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Animal Wall
Origins and Architectural Vision
The Animal Wall was conceived in 1866 by William Burges, the renowned architect for the 3rd Marquess of Bute, as part of his grand redesign of Cardiff Castle and its surroundings. Burges envisioned a Pre-Raphaelite garden in front of the castle, with the wall forming a playful boundary featuring sculpted animals. Though Burges died in 1881 before the wall’s completion, his assistant William Frame oversaw the construction and the carving of the original nine animals in the late 1880s and early 1890s. These animals, carved by Thomas Nicholls, Burges’s favored sculptor, included lions holding shields, a lioness, a hyena, a wolf, a bear, a lynx, two baboons, and a seal. The animals were originally painted in rich colors and featured distinctive glass eyes, lending them a lifelike quality.Relocation and Expansion
In the early 1920s, the Animal Wall was relocated approximately 50 meters west to its current position near Bute Park to accommodate road widening in front of Cardiff Castle. This move was accompanied by an extension of the wall, onto which six additional animal sculptures were added in 1931. These later carvings, crafted by Scottish sculptor Alexander Carrick, include a pelican, an anteater (often affectionately called the “Aardvark” by locals), two raccoons, a leopard, a beaver, and a vulture. Unlike the originals, these newer animals lack glass eyes but maintain the whimsical and expressive spirit of the earlier sculptures.Artistic and Cultural Significance
The Animal Wall is a unique example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture infused with humor and charm. It reflects the creativity of Burges and his team, combining architectural innovation with naturalistic sculpture. The wall has been a source of local pride and cultural identity, inspiring a 1930s cartoon strip that imagined the animals’ antics and contributing to Cardiff’s character as a city that values its heritage and artistic expression. The wall’s Grade I listing underscores its national importance as a historic structure.Preservation and Restoration Efforts
Throughout its history, the Animal Wall has faced threats, including a 1970s proposal to demolish it for further road widening, which was ultimately abandoned due to public opposition. In 2010, a major restoration project funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund carefully cleaned the wall, repaired damaged stonework, and replaced lost parts, such as the anteater’s nose. The restoration used traditional lime mortar and sourced new stone to match the original, ensuring the wall’s preservation for future generations. This conservation effort highlights the community’s commitment to maintaining this beloved landmark.Visitor Experience and Location
Situated along Castle Street at the southern boundary of Bute Park, the Animal Wall offers visitors a delightful visual experience with its detailed animal sculptures set against the backdrop of the historic castle and lush parkland. The wall invites close inspection and discovery, as visitors can identify each animal and appreciate the contrast between the original and later carvings. Its central city location makes it accessible year-round and free to visit, serving as a charming introduction to Cardiff’s rich architectural and cultural heritage.Legacy and Local Lore
The Animal Wall continues to enchant locals and tourists alike, embodying the whimsical spirit of Victorian design and the natural world. The anteater’s nickname and the stories inspired by the animals reflect the wall’s integration into Cardiff’s cultural fabric. It stands not only as a testament to Burges’s visionary work but also as a playful symbol of the city’s historical narrative and artistic legacy.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historical Wales
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Cardiff Town Wall
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Nereid Statue
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South African War Memorial
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Fogo's Free Tours
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John Batchelor Statue
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A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
City Hall
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Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
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A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
National Museum Cardiff
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Canal Quarter
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Parc Mackenzie
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Discover the tranquil beauty of Parc Mackenzie, a lush park in Cardiff perfect for relaxation, strolls, and enjoying nature's charm.
The Gathering - Cardiff
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Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
Cardiff International Film Festival
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Capitol Cardiff
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RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, Cardiff
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Unmissable attractions to see
Cardiff Castle Museum
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Wales' capital castle where 2,000 years of Roman, Norman, and Victorian history converge in the heart of Cardiff.
Cambrian Way Plaque Cardiff
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Discover the gateway to Wales’ epic mountain trail at the Cambrian Way Plaque in Cardiff’s historic Bute Park.
River Cruises
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Explore Cardiff Bay’s stunning waterfront on a relaxing, eco-friendly Aquabus river cruise with accessible, modern catamarans.
Charter for Trees Woods and People
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A symbolic pole in Cardiff’s Bute Park celebrating the enduring bond between people, trees, and nature’s future.
Cardiff Arms Park
0.2 km
Historic rugby stadium in Cardiff, home to Cardiff Rugby and a cornerstone of Welsh sporting heritage since the 1870s.
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.
Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Castle
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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
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Discover the rich military heritage of Wales beneath Cardiff Castle in this immersive museum dedicated to the Welsh soldier.
Cardiff Castle
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Discover nearly 2,000 years of history and stunning architecture at Cardiff Castle, the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital city.
Blue Bell
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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.
Coopers Field
0.3 km
A serene and spacious green oasis in Cardiff’s Bute Park, perfect for outdoor events, relaxation, and city escapes.
SCALE
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Experience the thrill of climbing Cardiff’s iconic Principality Stadium roof with SCALE—where panoramic views meet sporting legend.
High Street Arcade
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A beautifully preserved Victorian shopping arcade in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, filled with independent boutiques, vintage shops, cafés, and historic charm.
Rummer Tavern
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich local culture at Rummer Tavern, a must-visit pub in the heart of Cardiff.
Principality Stadium
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Wales’ national stadium with a retractable roof, iconic rugby heritage, and world-class events in the heart of Cardiff.
Essential places to dine
Maison de Bœuf
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An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
Bar 44 Cardiff
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Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in Cardiff's vibrant Castle Quarter.
The Potted Pig
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A stylish underground eatery in Cardiff serving seasonal Welsh-inspired modern British cuisine in a unique former bank vault setting.
Casanova
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A long-standing Cardiff trattoria serving authentic regional Italian food with warm service and an excellent all-Italian wine list.
The Welsh House Cardiff
0.2 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
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.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
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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.
Cafe Citta
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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.
Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
0.4 km
Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
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.
Lezzet Turkish Kitchen
0.4 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Revolución de Cuba Cardiff
0.4 km
Experience authentic Cuban cuisine and vibrant culture at Revolución de Cuba Cardiff - your gateway to Havana's flavors in the heart of Wales.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
0.2 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Great Welsh Gifts
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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.
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
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Little Welsh Company
0.4 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
The Works
0.4 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Rokit Cardiff
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
Cardiff Creative Shop
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Handcrafted Welsh wonders from 45+ local artisans await in Queens Arcade's creative gem—unique gifts that sparkle with personality and heritage.
Morgan Quarter
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Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
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Bright, bold Welsh art and homewares in the heart of Cardiff’s Royal Arcade – perfect for souvenirs, gifts, and a splash of contemporary Welsh culture.
elephants and flowres
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Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Welcome Things
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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.
Ganesha Handicrafts
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Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bootlegger
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Revolution Cardiff
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Tiny Rebel Cardiff
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The Libertine Cocktail Bar
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A stylish Cardiff cocktail bar blending gothic charm with expertly crafted drinks and a lively city center vibe.
Rum & Fizz
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Discover Cardiff’s rum haven with over 200 rums, crafted cocktails, cozy elegance, and live jazz every Friday in Castle Arcade.
Penny
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Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
Flight Club Cardiff
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The Live Lounge Cardiff
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Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
Main Stage
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Cardiff's vibrant gay bar and cabaret club with lively drag shows, DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
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A lively, multi-level cocktail bar and casual-restaurant on The Friary — made for groups, brunch and evening drinks in central Cardiff.
Glassworks
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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.
Mary's Cardiff
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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
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Vibrant Cardiff cocktail bar on St Mary Street, famed for bottomless brunches, creative mixes, and lively nights in the city heart.
Boom Battle Bar Cardiff
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Cardiff’s ultimate bar for games, street food, cocktails, and late-night fun in a lively, interactive setting.
Yates - Cardiff
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Lively sports bar and nightclub in Cardiff city centre with unbeatable sports coverage, great drinks, and a unique dancing doorman.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fuel Rock Club
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Clwb Ifor Bach
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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
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Popworld - Cardiff
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Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Metros
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Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
The CUBE
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Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
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CIRCUIT Cardiff
0.6 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.
Pulse
0.8 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
1.9 km
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The Vaults
2.1 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
2.3 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
11.4 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
11.4 km
Experience Barry’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Bar Cocoa, a lively nightclub where music and dancing keep the party going until the early morning.
Eclipse Nightclub
15.5 km
Experience Pontypridd’s vibrant midweek nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community come alive every Wednesday night.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Victorian Gothic Revival
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
