Caerphilly Castle
A monumental 13th-century fortress with a famous leaning tower, vast moats, and interactive historical displays.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Caerphilly Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental 13th-century fortress with a famous leaning tower, vast moats, and interactive historical displays.
"A wonderful castle ruin with plenty of information and a fun pair of huge dragons!"
🎟️ Book CADW Tickets Online
Purchase tickets via the CADW website to save time and potentially money.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces, so comfy shoes are a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Leaning Tower
West Wing
Marvel at this iconic tower, leaning at a greater angle than Pisa! A testament to its dramatic history.
Great Hall Digital Storytelling
Great Hall
Immersive videos bring the castle's history and famous residents to life. A highlight for all ages.
The Moated Landscape
Outer Grounds
Explore the vast moat and surrounding parkland, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Interactive Catapult Display
Outer Grounds
See impressive displays of siege engines and learn about medieval warfare. Fun for history buffs!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets Online
Allow Ample Time
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
First visit to Caerphilly Castle
🎟️ Book CADW Tickets Online
Purchase tickets via the CADW website to save time and potentially money.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces, so comfy shoes are a must!
Can we talk about how impressive Caerphilly Castle is?
Moving to Caerphilly – Castle View Estate – What to Expect?
📸 Capture the Leaning Tower
Don't miss a photo op with the famous leaning tower – it's quite a sight!
🧺 Picnic in the Park
Ample space for picnics within the castle walls or the surrounding parkland.
Don't do that do this
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book CADW Tickets Online
Purchase tickets via the CADW website to save time and potentially money.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces, so comfy shoes are a must!
📸 Capture the Leaning Tower
Don't miss a photo op with the famous leaning tower – it's quite a sight!
🧺 Picnic in the Park
Ample space for picnics within the castle walls or the surrounding parkland.
🐉 Meet the Dragons
Enjoy the fun dragon statues and their accompanying audio story.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Caerphilly Castle for its impressive scale, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly atmosphere. The self-guided tour, digital storytelling, and the unique leaning tower are frequently highlighted as major attractions. While generally well-received, some visitors note that certain areas might be challenging for those with mobility issues.
"A wonderful castle ruin, with plenty of information along the self guided tour, not only of the castle but of the history of some of the famous people that lived there. Beautiful scenery. Informative display of catapults, and a fun pair of huge dragons with an audio story accompanied by steam and sound affects."
Christopher Jacobsen
"Me and my partner regularly visit cadw places and this place was amazing! There was so much history and things to see with rooms still intact! And towers that are still accessible. Definitely recommend for history lovers."
lauren loveridge
"Continuing my journey of going to all the castle in Britain. This is one of my favourites! I love how interactive and the use of videos to really bring to life what is a beautiful castle! There is a parking lot near by the castle that is clearly signed and well priced. It’s a nice walk through the park to get to the front. Thought the price was extremely fair!"
Dante Messiah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Caerphilly Castle is easily accessible by car, with clearly signed parking lots nearby. It's also reachable by public transport, with train services to Caerphilly station.
Yes, there is a well-priced and clearly signed parking lot near the castle, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! It's a pleasant walk through the park from Caerphilly town center to the castle entrance.
The nearest train station is Caerphilly Station, which is a short walk from the castle.
While much of the castle is accessible, some areas may be challenging due to uneven terrain and stairs. Check the official CADW website for detailed accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees are considered fair for the experience. Booking tickets online through CADW is recommended.
Tickets can likely be purchased at the gate, but booking online in advance is advised to guarantee entry and avoid potential queues.
Opening hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official CADW website for the most up-to-date information on opening times.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak times, to ensure entry and avoid waiting.
Discounts may be available for certain groups or through CADW membership. Check the CADW website for details on pricing and potential concessions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the imposing gatehouse, the famous leaning tower, the Great Hall with its digital storytelling, and the extensive moated grounds. There are also interactive displays and historical information. +2
Yes, Caerphilly Castle is very family-friendly, with interactive exhibits, dragon statues, and ample space for children to explore and play.
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the castle, including the self-guided tour, interactive elements, and exploring the grounds.
While a self-guided tour is provided with plenty of information, specific guided tours may be available. Check with the visitor center upon arrival.
Yes, there are designated areas for picnics within the castle walls and the surrounding parkland, making it a great spot for a family outing.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a well-stocked gift shop that may offer some snacks or light refreshments. However, it's advisable to bring your own food or dine in the nearby town.
The town of Caerphilly, located just yards away, offers a variety of pubs and cafes for dining options.
Absolutely! The castle grounds and surrounding parkland are perfect for picnics, with plenty of space to relax.
While there isn't a full-service cafe, the gift shop might offer some refreshments.
Caerphilly town offers a range of dining experiences, from traditional pubs to local eateries.
📸 📸 Photography
The leaning tower, the grand gatehouse, and panoramic views from the ramparts offer fantastic photo opportunities. The moat also provides scenic reflections.
Yes, photography is generally allowed within Caerphilly Castle for personal use. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric feel.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites like Caerphilly Castle. It's essential to check the official CADW regulations regarding drone photography.
Drone usage is usually prohibited at heritage sites to protect the monument and ensure visitor safety. Always verify with CADW.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking tickets online in advance to streamline your visit. Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of ground to cover, and bring snacks or plan for a picnic to keep energy levels high. The castle's historical significance is presented in an engaging way that even younger visitors can appreciate.
🏰 History Buffs
Pay close attention to the restoration efforts by CADW and the informative displays on siege warfare. The digital storytelling in the Great Hall offers a unique perspective on the castle's past. Allow ample time to absorb the rich history and appreciate the scale of this magnificent fortress.
📸 Photographers
Explore the grounds to find different perspectives of the castle, from wide-angle shots of the entire complex to close-ups of architectural details. Remember to check CADW regulations regarding drone photography, as it's often restricted at heritage sites.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Fortress Through Time
Despite its ruined status, significant restoration efforts by CADW have brought much of the castle back to life. Visitors can explore the Great Hall, which features engaging digital storytelling that vividly recounts the castle's past and the lives of its inhabitants. The imposing gatehouse and the famous leaning tower, which famously tilts more than the Tower of Pisa, are also key attractions. The extensive moated landscape surrounding the castle adds to its dramatic presence and offers a beautiful setting for exploration.
The interactive elements and well-preserved structures make Caerphilly Castle a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and families alike. The informative displays, including siege engines, and the overall atmosphere of the site provide a tangible connection to the past. It’s a place where history feels alive, offering a comprehensive and engaging visitor experience.
Interactive Exploration for All Ages
Children will delight in the large dragon statues and the interactive elements scattered throughout the site. The accessible grounds and the opportunity to climb accessible towers provide a sense of adventure. The castle's design, with its vast moat and open spaces, also makes it an ideal location for picnics and active exploration, ensuring a memorable visit for families.
Beyond the visual and historical aspects, the castle offers a chance to learn about medieval siege warfare through displays of catapults and other engines. This hands-on approach to history makes the learning process enjoyable and memorable, appealing to both young and old visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit