Cardiff Castle

Presiding over the city center and surrounded by the idyllic Bute Park, Cardiff Castle is one of the capital’s most visited tourist attractions. Spanning an incredible 2,000 years of the city’s illustrious history, the castle has been variously, a Roman Garrison, a Norman Stronghold, a Second World War hideout and, most recently, the fairytale medieval home of the Marquess of Bute.

With a breathtaking panorama from the castle’s iconic Clock tower, it’s worth a look for the views alone, but a visit to the castle offers much more than just a photo opportunity. Guided tours whisk visitors around the battlements, the Norman Keep and the castle’s Victorian era apartments. Inside, the opulent furnishings bring to life the work of architect William Burges whose 1866 refurbishments feature dramatic murals, intricate stained glass fittings and tasteful gilding. Each room is exquisite, with themes ranging from ‘Mediterranean’ to ‘Arabian’ and never failing to incite gasps from the crowd. There’s plenty of quirky fun to be had too - explore the network of wartime tunnels beneath the castle; experience being locked up in a pillory (if you dare) or get into the mood of the times at the castle’s dressing up area (children and very small people only!).