Caerphilly Castle

First things first, if you thought Pisa was the only place in the world to have a leaning tower, think again. Caerphilly Castle has a tower with an even steeper lean than the famous Pisa so don’t miss it! Surrounded by artificial lakes, moats and little watery islands, the castle sprawls over a huge area of land so don’t forget your walking shoes.

The Castle
Based on the design of a concentric ring of walls and unlike anything else seen in the UK, this castle has a ring of water defences as well as a number of huge gatehouses. A stunning fortress with those fairytale-style turrets,  it’s also made up of large cosy rooms which were once lived in by the Anglo-Normans. To explore the turrets, windows and castle rooms, you’ll need to go up the spiral stone staircases where you’ll then discover some amazing views over Caerphilly. After, head to the Grand Hall where you can sit at a real medieval banqueting table and imagine a big feast is on the way! Out on the green, the kids will love seeing the battle equipment such as a trebuchet, perrier and a ballista and can find out how they were one used in battles.

Events
Renowned for it’s fun reenactment events and plays, it’s always worth checking Caerphilly Castle’s event calendar. Past events have included some medieval mayhem from the Company of Chivalry where you can spend the weekend learning archery and sword skills, plus watching weapon displays and demonstrations. There’s also have-a-go archery shows, armour displays and falconry shows - fun for all the family.
 

Facilities
From facilities, opening times and admission, make the most of your visit to the castle with our guide.
 

Important Information
The castle is usually open from Monday to Friday 9.30am-6pm and 11am-4pm on Sundays. Last admission to the castle is 30 minutes before closing so make sure you plan your trip in advance and have enough time to see everything. Tickets cost £7.95 for an adult, children under 16 £5.20 and children under 5 go free. Going with the family? As family ticket at £23.70 will cover two adults and up to three children.
 

Accessibility
There are standard and disabled toilets available on site as well as baby changing facilities and cycle racks if you were thinking of cycling to the castle. There are central level paved areas, however, disabled access to the some of the towers can be a little difficult due to steps and slopes. Dogs on leads are also welcome.

Top Tip

Spend some time walking round the entire outside of the castle to really get a feel for the enormity of it all and the impressive dam. You’ll also spot a variety of perfect spots to picnic at too.

Did you know?
Caerphilly Castle is the largest castle in Wales and the second-largest castle in Europe, after Windsor Castle in the UK. What’s more, it was said to be built in just three years from 1268 - 1271.  

Eating and drinking
Whether you’re after a quick pit stop for coffee and cake, a cute lunch spot or a hearty dinner to see you into the evening, you’ll find somewhere to satisfy all your tummy needs.

Grazing Ground Cafe
A lovely independent cafe in the heart of the town centre with a menu full of treats, this is the perfect place to enjoy a loose leaf tea or a spot of lunch. What’s more, the cafe specialises in vegan food too. Favourites include the bean burger with salad and chips, the homemade soups and the tasty vegan cake, all made using local Welsh produce.
 

Volare
Nothing beats an authentic Italian meal in a family run restaurant. And Volare doesn’t disappoint. Known for its buzzy atmosphere and friendly staff, the menu is jam-packed full of culinary delights and sharer dishes. The fish board, made up of calamari, white bait and king prawns is a popular choice as well as the super soft burrata cheese with cherry tomatoes and the bruschetta sprinkled on with spicy N’duja, anchovies and melted cheese. And let’s not forget the classics including pizzas, baked salmon and their delicious lamb shank.
 

The Black Cock Inn
Popular with locals and tourists a like, this traditional pub and restaurant is perfect for all the family to enjoy. In the summer, the hug beer garden is packed to the rafters and in the colder months, the Sunday roast goes down a treat in the cosy confines of the pub.

Near Caerphilly Castle
Once you’ve had your fill of turrets and moats, make the most of the lovely Caerphilly town centre. From the castle, why not enjoy a spot of shopping in the town centre? There are high street shops a plenty as well as local boutiques to pick up a gift for a loved one (or treat yourself). Then  wander in and out of one of the many specialist delis where you can sample some of the area’s most famous local product - you guessed it, Caerphilly cheese. If that gets your taste buds going then make your way to the farmers market in Twyn where you’ll find lots of other local produce. If that’s not enough, try and catch a game at Virginia Park - the home ground of locals Caerphilly RFC. It’s only a 10 minute bus ride from Caerphilly bus station too.

Getting to Caerphilly Castle

By car
If you are thinking of driving, there is chargeable car parking very close to the castle, around 200 metres away as well as dedicated disabled car parking.

By bus
Head to Central station, the main bus depot. From here, you’ll need to jump on the Stagecoach bus number 26 via Blackwood and the trip will take around 45 minutes.

By train
Catch a train from Cardiff Bay station and change at Queen Street. From here, trains to Caerphilly run every 20 minutes and the journey will take around 29 minutes.