The Castle is situated in Cardiff's City centre with its Roman gateway overlooking the picturesque Bute Park. The Castle is rather unique in that it offers the visitor an interesting glimpse into over 2000 years worth of history as each separate building within the castle grounds was constructed in a different time period. The outer wall of the castle was originally Roman and the Roman remains can still be seen (they are highlighted with red brick - seen below) underneath the newly build brick wall that now surrounds the grounds. The keep is Norman, the main apartment is 14th century and the neo-gothic tower and banqueting hall are 19th century. The castle came under the ownership of many noblemen and each left their distinct mark upon the castle and its grounds. The Fifth Marquess of Bute handed over the keys to the Castle and its parkland to the people of Cardiff in 1947 where it finally became open to the public.
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As a student at Cardiff University, and therefore a resident of the City of Cardiff, I was entitled to a 'key to the castle' upon my arrival. The key allows those who live or work in Cardiff access to the castle free of charge as well as offering 10% discount in the castle shop and cafe and 10% discount on entry for friends/relatives. I visited the castle with my flatmate in the summer and we had a fabulous experience. The staff were all friendly and helpful and willing to answer any questions you may have about the castle and its grounds. It is particularly lovely in the summer sunshine as the green grass of the courtyard is wonderful for picnics, lounging around in the sun and watching the castle's resident peacocks.
Myself and Olly opted for the audio guides and ambled around the grounds taking in the sights and listening to the historical facts that Huw Edwards was giving us through our headsets. I personally love audio guides as I think they're a nice relaxed way to have a mosey around whilst also learning something about the place. The audio guide lead us around the grounds, up the Norman keep, around the outer wall, through the Roman gate and into the World War Two bunker. We were fortunate enough to visit whilst there was a World War Two exhibition on in the bunker which was extremely interesting to look around. We had such fun discovering the castle together and we even managed to find a door which is build for people of my own height: modern-day dwarves in other words as I'm only a meagre 5ft2 :(
After completing the audio guided tour we decided to join a formal tour (which was free courtesy of our key to the castle) as you cannot see the interior of the castle without being accompanied by a guide. I would thoroughly recommend this as the inside of the castle is incredibly flamboyant and extravagant - shockingly so if I'm honest. The interior design is indicative of the wealth of the Bute family and I found it strangely similar to the ornate and ostentatious nature of Antoni Gaudi's Casa Batllo. Each room is glamorously furnished and no part is in any way boring or plain. I particularly loved the staircase which had a marble Lion at its base and the ceiling detail in the Arab Room which is positively mind blowing in its elaborate detailing.
The only down side that I found to my castle experience was that the staff are incredibly strict and you cannot touch anything! I completely understand that they have to protect the building but I find not being able to sit on a chair or touch a book slightly over-the-top. I'm definitely one for the hands-on approach that the National Trust have been implementing in its many properties over the strict policies implemented in Cardiff Castle. Despite this, however, I had a fantastic experience and would definitely recommend a visit. The castle would make a better trip in good weather as you can take full advantage of the wonderful outdoor scenery and of the grass courtyard (which is the perfect adventure ground for young children). All in all I thoroughly enjoyed my day trip to Cardiff Castle and would definitely return to show family and friends the sights. It's a fabulous tourist destination and is definitely up there in my top 10 things to see in Wales. For more information about the castle, its opening times and upcoming events click here.
Have you been to Cardiff Castle before? What were your experiences?
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