Overview
Cardiff Castle is a medieval castle and Victorian Gothic revival mansion. It offers a fascinating journey through 2,000 years of history with its impressive clock tower, grand walls, and beautifully restored interiors.
Cardiff Castle is a major landmark in the city of Cardiff, reflecting its rich history and architectural evolution. It has been a Roman fort, a Norman castle, and a Victorian mansion, making it a significant historical site.
Location
Address
Castle Street, Cardiff, Glamorgan
Neighborhood: Cardiff Castle
Coordinates
51.482700, -3.179800
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • spring flowers
- • gardens in bloom
summer
warm to hot
- • extended hours
- • outdoor concerts
autumn
cool, crisp air
- • fall colors
- • harvest-themed events
winter
cold
- • holiday lights
- • Christmas market
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets online in advance
- Bring a valid ID
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate, some walking and stairs
- • stairs
- • uneven surfaces
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
credit cards, debit cards, cash
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable, comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing, high heels
Booking Tips
- • at least 1-2 weeks in advance
- • official website
- • 48 hours in advance for a full refund
- • available for online bookings
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Cardiff Castle Official App
Size: 45 MB
Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Main corridors
Charging Stations: Rest areas, Cafe
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Cardiff Airport
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 1 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, beautiful architecture, and a central location in the city
Historical Significance: Important events such as the Battle of St Fagans and the Norman conquest
Insider Tips
- Free entry early morning for locals
- Best food at the back entrance café
- Special tours available for history enthusiasts
Local Recommendations
- • Try local café for Welsh cakes
- • Ask for guide John for a comprehensive tour
- • Visit the nearby Cardiff Market for local crafts
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Welsh, French, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Clock Tower
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle shots for dramatic effect
Result: Stunning photos of the tower
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
National Museum Cardiff
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Museum
Bute Park
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Park
Cardiff Bay
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Waterfront
Reviews
Based on 15,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online"
- "Visit early"
- "Great views from the Clock Tower"
- "Comfortable shoes recommended"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (16)
Cardiff Half Day Tour
Cardiff City Sightseeing Open Top Bus Tour
2.5 hour Walking and Tasting Tour in Cardiff
From Cardiff: 3 Amazing Castles, Tintern Abbey & Roman Caerleon
The Wandering Bard's Mythical West Wales Tour
Private Hike in Cardiff
Bannau Brycheiniog Brecon Beacons Hay on Wye Tour
Cardiff in a day
Wye Valley and Brecon Beacons Day Tour from Cardiff
From Cardiff Three Day Tour of West Wales Pembrokeshire Beaches
Cardiff 3 Hour Orientation Tour
Ultimate Cardiff 10 Hour Day Tour
5 Hour Private Cardiff Day Tour
Cardiff Full Day Tour from London
Legends of West Wales 9 Hour Tour from Cardiff
Discover Cardiff 2 Hours Private Walking Adventure
Quick Info
Available Tours
39
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
15,000
Adult Entry
£17.50