A good place to visit. One of the fortified tunnels takes you back to WW2. Parts of the complex were used as an air raid shelter. The sounds of bombing plus the signage, bunks and other memorabilia all do a good job of taking you back in time.
The history before WW2 is of course extensive. There are info points around the grounds so that you can soak up some detail at your leisure.
We spent an hour or so strolling around the site. When you're done with that, there's also a military museum. It's quite compact, but has some points of interest. When we visited, a couple of historians were available to discuss a helmet collection. One might not think that helmets are fascinating, but their development through the ages tells a surprisingly interesting story.
There is a cafe with outdoor seating. It was a sunny day, so we grabbed a beer. Very pleasant.
This castle did not disappoint. There’s an app you can download for a self-guided tour, which I highly recommend. We didn’t pay for the extra tour that takes you through more upper rooms in the castle, but the rooms we did go through ourselves were extraordinary in their opulent detail. Such creativity and extravagance! There was something unique to see everywhere you looked. We also enjoyed learning about the role the castle played as an air raid shelter during WWI. There were also great views from the castle keep.
Very beautifull castle in deed. The original castle is really small. After entering the main walls, some parts are free so feel free to walk in and look around. You will know when u need to get a ticket. I think you would never need to purchase a ticket in advance or reserve anything. Enjoy…
Jason Fair (Nomadic Nerd Project)
+5
This is an amazing castle. We recommend adding on the 50 min tour for a full experience (£4) and access to special ornately decorated rooms. Our guide, Gareth was fantastic. He did a great job of showing us all the intricate details of how each room was designed. Their is a lot of history here from ancient Roman times to now. You can enjoy the Cafe, which is situated right next to the ancient Roman wall, making for a unique experience. This a must visit in Wales.
*did not do full visit with purchased ticket* this castle is lush! Much bigger than you’d think. Lovely open grounds for public access and a great place to stroll around or sit and enjoy the view. Ticket prices are a little steep for a proper tour on the inside of the castle
Beautiful grounds and castle. Easy enough to wander on your own. Each site was unique and special. Make sure to walk the tunnels; pretty cool experience.
A very interesting day ! You could spend a lot of time here. It is worth doing the guided tour of the Castle, in the summer you can also do a tour of the clock tower. The Tour Guide was very knowledgeable and entertaining.
Wales is lucky to have a number of beautiful castles. Options for visiting include purchasing tickets for a tour of the castle itself, or if you are only here for a quick visit, then you can walk around the grounds for free.
Visiting Cardiff Castle on a weekday was a delightful experience that allowed me to explore this historic landmark without the crowds. From the moment I stepped through the gates, I was transported back in time to a place filled with rich history and architectural wonders.
The castle grounds are impeccably maintained, providing a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls and photo opportunities. I particularly enjoyed wandering through the intricate passageways and taking in the panoramic views from the top of the Norman Keep.
One highlight of the visit was the guided tour, which provided fascinating insights into the castle's past and the lives of the people who once called it home. The knowledgeable guides brought the history to life with engaging stories and anecdotes, making the experience both educational and entertaining.
Exploring the various rooms and exhibitions within the castle offered a glimpse into different periods of its history, from the opulent Victorian living quarters to the medieval banquet hall. Each section was carefully curated, offering a comprehensive overview of Cardiff Castle's evolution over the centuries.
Overall, visiting Cardiff Castle on a weekday was a memorable experience that I would highly recommend to anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. With its fascinating history, stunning architecture, and tranquil surroundings, Cardiff Castle is truly a must-see destination in the heart of Wales.
A lovley experience,the weather was a plus sunny skies.Adult ticket was £15.50 no tour just simply see it yourself. Their is a war museum where the tickets are purchased and then walk to the castle and Tower. Worth money spent.
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