Cardiff Castle

Cardiff Castle is one of Wales’ leading heritage attractions and a site of international significance, with a walk through our gates and you will discover a story 2,000 years in the making.

From the Roman occupation of Britain to the Norman Conquest, through civil war turbulence, a Victorian transformation and even the terrors of World War 2, these walls have seen it all.

Wales is world-renowned for its castles but, here in Cardiff, we’re proud to be a little different; having not only survived the centuries but evolved with them in a fashion few others can claim.

TWO THOUSAND YEARS OF HISTORY

It all started in the 1st century AD by the Romans who built the first in a series of forts. In the 11th century, the Normans constructed the Keep that still dominates the Castle Green to this day. The medieval Lords of Glamorgan began work on the House during the 15th century.

The Bute family left their mark on the entire city in the 19th century, they also transformed the House into the opulent Victorian Gothic home it is today. During World War II the walls which surround the Castle were used as air raid shelters; a place of safety for thousands of Cardiff citizens. A reconstruction of the shelters has been opened for visitors to explore.

This Cardiff attraction has many events throughout the year from hosting Cardiff Winter Wonderland to the Welsh Military Tattoo, from Knights Jousting on horseback to Tom Jones belting out the classics.

For all the latest news and announcements, as well as fascinating blog posts, tales from the Castle’s history and updates from our weddings and education teams, check their website to see what activities in Cardiff Castle are happening during your time of visit or if you’re looking for fun days out in Cardiff, to keep the family busy throughout school holidays.