2,000 years of history
As you enter the castle grounds, visit the Interpretation Centre to pick up a free audio guide and discover the fascinating story of the castle and its important place in British history.
Cardiff Castle dates back to Roman times, when it was the site of a Roman fort – visit the remains of the fort and wall, which can still be seen today. A modest motte and bailey keep was built on the site in Norman times, and in the 19th century the castle was transformed into a lavish palace by the Bute family, one of the richest families in the world.
Striking architecture
In the 1800s the ‘eccentric genius’ architect William Burges was given free rein on redesigning the castle, and he created some of the best examples of Gothic revival architecture in the world.
Walk the corridors and see where episodes of Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Who were filmed, and discover why the castle is described as a ‘Victorian fantasy palace’, with its fairy tale spires and iconic arched windows outside, and fantastically decorated themed rooms inside. Take a free tour of the Castle Apartments and see the Arab room, with its ornate, gilded ceiling, plus many other themed rooms adorned with stunning murals, marble work and intricate carvings.
The Norman keep and Roman Walls
Climb the 50 steps up to the Norman keep, dating back to the 11th Century, to get stunning views of Grade I listed Bute Park and the city of Cardiff, which surrounds the castle.
Then visit the preserved Roman walls, where Roman soldiers kept watch almost 2,000 years ago. Learn about the fascinating history of their battles and the forts they built with your audio guide.
Wartime tunnels and air raid shelter
Explore the network of wartime tunnels that were built beneath the castle to shelter the people of Wales during WWII. See where 1,800 people escaped from the air raids and walk through them yourself to truly appreciate the cramped conditions they would have endured.
Discover more of Cardiff’s wartime history at Firing Line: Museum of the Welsh Soldier, an exhibition within the castle dedicated to 300 years of history, from the Battle of Waterloo in 1815 to the role of Welsh soldiers in 21st century conflicts. There are profound, moving exhibits and hands-on activities which aim to explain the extraordinary acts of bravery seen in war.