Caerphilly Castle

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Book one-day admission tickets to Caerphilly Castle 

Caerphilly Castle, the largest in Wales and second only to Windsor in Britain, stands tall as one of the truly great fortresses of medieval Europe. It's simply a must-visit for history-buffs of all ages in Wales. 

Your ticket includes:

  • One-day admission to Caerphilly Castle

Why not upgrade and visit multiple castles?

  • Visit 20 historic castles and monuments in Wales, including Caerphilly Castle with the Cadw Explorer Pass

More than just a picturesque ruin, Caerphilly Castle offers a glimpse into history unlike many other castles of its size. Built as a defence against Welsh prince Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, this formidable castle is three times the size of the Principality Stadium! 

Not just home to many legends, be sure to keep an eye out for the mighty mythical dragons that call the castle home. The surrounding moat is more like a tranquil lake, which makes for a perfect stroll before or after your visit to the castle. 

Interested in visiting other Welsh castles? Get your Cadw Explorer Pass to visit 20 historic monuments in Wales

Your key to unlock Wales' greatest castles, in one ticket!

The Castles of Wales Explorer Pass offers the freedom to explore all of Cadw's historic attractions and help you get the most out of your visit to Wales. 

  • Entry to 20 Welsh castles and attractions (see additional info for full list)
  • Visit as many castle as you want
  • Choice of either the 3 day pass or 7 day pass (the 3 day pass gives you 3 days of entrance and is valid for a 7 day period. The 7 day pass gives you 7 days of entrance, valid for 14 days)
  • Save lots of money!

So don't miss out on this epic historic day, get tickets now and have them delivered to you instantly via email and SMS!

Location

Caerphilly Castle

Castle Street,
Caerphilly,
Glamorgan,
CF83 1JD
Show on Google Maps

How to find us

By car: 

There is a small short-stay car park next to the tourist information centre across the road from the castle and there is a larger long stay car park at the back of the castle that is approximately a 10-minute walk from the entrance.

By train:

The train station is a 10-minute walk downhill to the castle.

By bus:

The closest bus stop is directly outside the castle. The bus will also stop at the train station.

Facilities
  • Gift shop
  • Toilets
  • Paid parking
  • Picnic tables
More Info
Are dogs allowed at Caerphilly Castle?

Yes, dogs on leads are allowed at Caerphilly Castle, but with some restrictions. They are permitted in the outer grounds and on the ground floor levels of the castle. 

However, dogs are not allowed inside the castle buildings, except for assistance dogs. Dogs must be kept on leads at all times and non-assistance dogs must remain on the ground floor only.

Is smoking allowed at Caerphilly Castle?

No, smoking is not permitted at Caerphilly Castle. 

Is there parking at Caerphilly Castle?

Yes, there is a small short-stay car park next to the tourist information centre across the road from the castle and there is a larger long stay car park at the back of the castle that is approximately a 10-minute walk from the entrance.

Can I bring a picnic to Caerphilly Castle?

Yes, there are picnic tables in Caerphilly Castle, offering a lovely spot to relax and enjoy your food while soaking up the historic surroundings.

Is Caerphilly Castle wheelchair-accessible?

The north dam platform, courtyard and great hall are all on the ground floor levels, whilst the lower level of the gatehouse has one step.

The rest of the site is accessed via narrow winding staircases, with the stairs around the site being largely original, and therefore narrow and uneven.

The path from the visitor centre to the courtyard is a mix of paved and resin surface, the path to the north dam platform is gravel and then grass.

The digital interpretation and information panels are mostly on the ground floor.

When was Caerphilly Castle built?

The construction of Caerphilly Castle began in 1268. While under construction, the site was destroyed by Welsh prince Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, but was rebuilt from 1271 onward. 

Who built Caerphilly Castle?

Caerphilly Castle was built by Gilbert de Clare, one of Henry III's most powerful barons, in order to maintain control of Glamorgan. 

Is Caerphilly Castle the biggest castle in Wales?

Yes, Caerphilly Castle is the biggest castle in Wales, covering a 30-acre site. 

Is Caerphilly Castle the biggest castle in the UK?

No, but it is the second biggest castle in the UK, with only Windsor Castle being bigger than Caerphilly Castle in size. 

Are the dragons still at Caerphilly Castle?

Yes, the famous dragons of Caerphilly Castle are still on display and you can spot them on your visit to the castle! 

Does the tower at Caerphilly Castle lean?

Yes, the South Eastern tower has a tilt of more than 10 degrees, which is more than the Tower of Pisa.

Is Caerphilly Castle haunted?

Caerphilly Castle is supposedly haunted by the "Green Lady", a ghostly woman in a green dress. She is said to be the spirit of Gilbert de Clare's wife, Alice of Angouleme.

What was filmed at Caerphilly Castle?

Several Doctor Who episodes have been filmed at Caerphilly Castle between 2009 and 2015.

The site is also known for being the filming location of the 1995 film Restoration, which starred Robert Downey Jr. 

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