Cardiff Castle
Visitor Guide
Tickets, opening hours, accessibility, and what to see
Cardiff Castle
Visitor Guide
Tickets, opening hours, accessibility, and what to see
Plan Your Visit
Location
Central Cardiff, Wales
Admission
Adults £16.50 / about US$22
Hours
9 or 10 am – 5 or 6 pm
Time Needed
2-3 Hours
Can I Go Inside?
Yes
Why Visit Cardiff Castle?
Right in the heart of Wales’s capital, Cardiff Castle is a remarkable blend of 2,000 years of history. From its Norman keep and medieval defences to lavish Victorian rooms, it offers a fascinating look at Wales’s past — all in a stunning city-centre setting.
Whether you’re into history, architecture or simply great views, Cardiff Castle is one of the must-see attractions in South Wales.
The castle’s story begins with a Roman fort, then moves through the Norman conquest and into the Victorian era, when the Marquesses of Bute transformed it with extravagant interiors and elaborate decorative detail. It is unusually rich for a castle in the middle of a capital city: a medieval stronghold, a historic residence and a walkable landmark all in one place.
Start with the Norman Keep for the views over Cardiff, then allow time for the Castle Apartments and Wartime Shelters. Even if you have only a few hours in the city, Cardiff Castle gives you a memorable introduction to Welsh history without needing to leave the centre.
What You’ll See
What You’ll See
Cardiff Castle brings together Roman, medieval and Victorian history. Here are the highlights not to miss.
Cardiff Castle brings together Roman, medieval and Victorian history. Here are the highlights not to miss.
Norman Keep
Climb the iconic 12th-century keep for panoramic views over Cardiff.
Wartime Shelters
Step into the historic shelters used during the Second World War.
Castle Apartments
Explore the lavish Victorian apartments, with rich decoration and remarkable details.
Battlement Walks
Walk the medieval walls and enjoy unique views across the castle and city.
Tickets & Opening Hours
Your Castle Ticket covers the main visitor attractions: the Norman Keep, Battlement Walks, Castle Apartments, Wartime Shelters and the Firing Line museum. Tickets are valid all day, so you can leave and return later the same day. Buy online ahead of time or at the Ticket Office; guided House Tours are an optional extra and are arranged on the day, subject to availability.
Getting There & Parking
Cardiff Castle is in the city centre, within an easy walk of both Cardiff Central and Cardiff Queen Street stations. There is no visitor parking at the castle, so drivers should use a nearby city-centre car park and walk the final few minutes.
Accessibility & Stairs
The Visitor Centre, café, shop and Firing Line museum are accessible for wheelchair users and visitors with buggies. The Castle Apartments and Norman Keep are not wheelchair- or pushchair-accessible, and the keep, battlement walks and parts of the grounds involve steps and uneven surfaces. A disabled visitor can bring one carer free of charge.
Before You Go
- Allow at least 90 minutes; give yourself longer if you plan to add a guided tour.
- Wear comfortable shoes for historic steps, uneven paths and the keep.
- Check the opening times before travelling—summer events and concerts can cause earlier closing or full-day closures.
- The castle is generally open year-round, but closes on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
Related Castles
Explore more amazing castles in South Wales and beyond…
Caerphilly Castle
Castell Coch
Chepstow Castle
