
Craig-y-Nos Castle
A historic castle in Wales, famed for its opera house, romantic wedding venue, and reputedly haunted atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better access

Craig-y-Nos Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic castle in Wales, famed for its opera house, romantic wedding venue, and reputedly haunted atmosphere.
"A truly unique stay with a rich history, though service can be hit or miss."

🏰 Book Castle Tours
Tours aren't always guaranteed; book ahead to explore this historic gem.
💍 Check for Events
It's a popular wedding venue, so check for events that might affect access.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Opera House
Inside the Castle
A stunning, intimate opera house built by a famous soprano for her friends. A unique historical gem.

Castle Grounds & Views
Exterior and surrounding area
Explore the historic castle exterior and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Welsh countryside.

Historic Room 13 (The Morgue)
Castle Accommodation
A surprisingly comfortable and renovated room with a unique historical past, offering a memorable stay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Tours
Wedding Venue Focus
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🏰 Book Castle Tours
Tours aren't always guaranteed; book ahead to explore this historic gem.
💍 Check for Events
It's a popular wedding venue, so check for events that might affect access.
🛌 Consider a Stay
Unique rooms offer a memorable experience, with some renovated for comfort.
👻 Haunted History
Known for its spooky tales, embrace the ghost stories!
Tips
from all over the internet
🏰 Book Castle Tours
Tours aren't always guaranteed; book ahead to explore this historic gem.
💍 Check for Events
It's a popular wedding venue, so check for events that might affect access.
🛌 Consider a Stay
Unique rooms offer a memorable experience, with some renovated for comfort.
👻 Haunted History
Known for its spooky tales, embrace the ghost stories!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Craig-y-Nos Castle offers a unique historical experience with its opera house and stunning grounds, making it a popular wedding venue. While many praise its charm and potential for memorable stays, some visitors have noted issues with service, food quality during events, and occasional maintenance concerns.
"Wonderful venue. Lovely grade 1 listed small Opera house (built by a then famous Soprano to entertain her friends!) as a wedding venue, and splendid other rooms for the wedding breakfast and disco dancing... Had a great time, 29/08/2025"
Darren Sugg
"Got an upgrade to room 13, the old morgue. New renovated and so comfortable.
Staff were so helpful throughout our stay.
A castle tour was included which lasted a couple of hours. That was amazing too.
Loved everything about the place, views, location, staff, food and cleanliness.
Highly recommended place to stay."
Ian Phillips
"I wanted to do a tour of the castle. Walked in at 10 am and no staff to be seen.
When finally a lady turned up I was told i could not do a tour and I asked if I could just have a look as its a beautiful place.
Was told there was nothing in September although the place looked empty.
No body could just take me round quickly?
Will not be back!
replying back to the owner
I also work in hospitality so understand the demand; however, walking into a hotel at 10am in the morning with no staff around is appalling. What if guests need assistance? Do they have to wait til 10?
Your attitude towards this reply is disgusting and uncalled for also.
Had I have been able to book through the website then I would have known there wasn't any availability ( you need to check your website)
Had someone had been on the front desk before 10am they would have seen and responded to my email. Or have you cut back on answering enquiries aswell?
So to make a trip up to the castle was my only option.
Also, I was only recommending you the other day for a relatives wedding venue, hence why I was interested in walking round. But seeing as this isnt possible throughout the WHOLE of September, then we will take our family wedding to another venue that would be happy to have us 😊.
Many thanks
J Heath-Davies"
Julia Heath-Davies
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Craig-y-Nos Castle is located in Powys, Wales. The most common way to reach it is by car, as public transport options can be limited. If driving, use Sat Nav postcode SA9 2LG. For those using public transport, you can take a train to Swansea and then a bus service towards Brecon, alighting at a stop near the castle, though this may require a significant walk.
Yes, there is parking available at Craig-y-Nos Castle for visitors. It's generally located near the entrance, making it convenient for those arriving by car.
Absolutely! Craig-y-Nos Castle is a fantastic destination for a day trip, offering historical exploration and beautiful surroundings. Just be mindful of potential event closures.
The nearest major town to Craig-y-Nos Castle is Swansea, which is approximately 14 miles away. This makes Swansea a good base for exploring the castle and the wider region.
Yes, the Craig-y-Nos Country Park is located directly behind the castle, offering beautiful walking trails and natural scenery. Kidwelly Castle is also a notable nearby historical site.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the castle grounds and public areas may require a ticket or fee, especially if you are not staying overnight or attending an event. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on admission prices and booking.
Opening hours can vary, particularly due to its function as a wedding venue and for private events. It's best to confirm the specific visiting hours for the day you plan to go, as tours might not be available every day.
Castle tours are available but not always guaranteed. It's highly recommended to book your tour in advance, especially during peak seasons or if you have a specific date in mind, to ensure availability.
Information on tiered ticket pricing isn't widely available. Typically, a general admission fee would cover access to the main public areas. Special access to certain rooms or guided tours might incur additional costs.
While some areas might be accessible for a general look, a formal tour is often the best way to experience the history and understand the significance of the castle. Access can also be restricted due to private events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic interiors, including the unique opera house, and enjoy the castle grounds. For overnight guests, there are simple rooms, a gym, and a hot tub. The castle is also known for its haunted history, adding an element of intrigue.
Yes, Craig-y-Nos Castle is reputed to be haunted and is a popular spot for ghost hunting enthusiasts. Visitors often share stories and experiences related to its spectral residents.
Guided tours are offered, providing insights into the castle's rich history and architecture. It's advisable to book these in advance to secure your spot and ensure they are running on your desired date.
The castle offers simple rooms for overnight stays. Some guests have reported upgrades to unique rooms like 'The Morgue,' which has been renovated for comfort.
Photography is generally permitted in public areas for personal use. However, if you are planning professional photography or filming, especially for events, you may need to seek permission and adhere to specific guidelines.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the castle may offer dining options, especially for guests and events, it's not always a full-service restaurant open to all visitors at all times. Some reviews mention limited services or pointing guests to nearby eateries.
When dining is available, it can range from cooked breakfasts for guests to meals for events. Some past reviews have been critical of the food quality for events, citing issues with temperature and preparation.
Yes, there are dining options in nearby towns and villages. If the castle's dining is limited during your visit, local pubs and restaurants can offer a good alternative.
Craig-y-Nos Castle is a popular wedding venue, and wedding reception meals are a key part of their offering. However, feedback on the quality of event catering has been mixed.
For guests staying overnight, a cooked breakfast is typically included. This is often highlighted as a positive aspect of the accommodation experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the castle, especially with the surrounding landscape, offers stunning photographic opportunities. The opera house interior is also a unique and picturesque location.
For professional photoshoots, especially for weddings or commercial purposes, it's essential to contact the castle management beforehand to arrange permissions and understand any associated fees or restrictions.
Generally, personal photography is allowed in public areas. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain historical sections to preserve artifacts, and professional shoots will require prior arrangement.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset often provide the most beautiful light for exterior shots. Midday can be harsh, but the castle's architecture still holds its own.
Yes, it's frequently cited as a beautiful wedding venue with fairytale vibes, offering numerous picturesque backdrops for wedding photography both inside and out.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during a time when tours are readily available and the castle isn't hosting a private event. The nearby Craig-y-Nos Country Park is also excellent for family walks and picnics, providing a more relaxed outdoor experience.
👻 Ghost Hunters & Paranormal Enthusiasts
Look for specific ghost tours or events that might be organized at the castle, or simply visit and soak in the atmosphere. Many visitors report feeling a distinct presence or experiencing unexplained occurrences during their stay.
💍 Couples & Wedding Planners
While the venue is visually spectacular, it's wise to thoroughly research and discuss all aspects of event planning, including catering and logistics, with the venue management to ensure your wedding day is as seamless as possible.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Hauntings
Beyond its operatic connections, the castle is also steeped in tales of the supernatural. It's frequently cited as one of Wales' most haunted locations, with numerous reports of ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena. Visitors interested in the paranormal often seek out its eerie atmosphere, making it a destination for ghost hunters and those fascinated by local legends.
The castle's history also includes periods of disrepair and renovation, contributing to its complex character. Some areas may show signs of age, while others have been updated, creating a fascinating juxtaposition of old and new. This layered history adds to its allure, drawing visitors interested in both its architectural heritage and its spectral stories.
Weddings and Events at the Castle
Couples often choose the castle for its unique features, such as the opera house for intimate ceremonies or the grand halls for larger celebrations. The venue offers a range of services to cater to wedding parties, from styling and decor to ensuring a memorable day for guests.
While the venue is celebrated for its beauty, it's worth noting that feedback on event catering and service can be mixed. Some reviews mention issues with food quality and organization during large events. However, many couples still find the overall experience magical, emphasizing the castle's undeniable charm and romantic appeal for their special day.
Accommodation and Visitor Experience
The visitor experience can be varied. While many praise the helpfulness of staff, the views, and the overall atmosphere, some reviews highlight challenges. These can include difficulties in booking tours, inconsistent availability of services like restaurants or bars, and occasional issues with cleanliness or maintenance in certain areas.
Despite some criticisms, the castle's historical significance, its unique features like the opera house, and its beautiful location continue to attract visitors. The surrounding Craig-y-Nos Country Park also offers opportunities for outdoor activities, making it a destination with diverse appeal.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit