At the request of the 3rd Marquess of Bute, William Burges the Gothic Revival architect started to remodel Cardiff Castle in 1869

Cardiff Castle, lying solemnly in the heart of a busy metropolis, is situated on a site first used by the Romans. The Normans covered the remains of the original fort with earthen ramparts, constructing their own fortification on top.

For the next three centuries Cardiff Castle was continually improved and modified. During the 12th century a stone keep was added whilst the 13th and 14th centuries saw the addition of a gatehouse and for-buildings. A tower (the Black Tower) was also added to the southern end of the building.

The Earl of Warwick, in 1423 added a new tower and hall to the western side of the castle and the Herbert family improved it further still in the later stages of the 16th century. These improvements turned Cardiff into a lavish and well appointed house. During the 17th and 18th centuries, Cardiff was abandoned by its owners, falling into disrepair.

1766, the future 1st Marquess of Bute, Lord Mountstuart came into possession of the house. He immediately began a programme of re-building and renovation which was carried on by his grandson the 2nd Marquess. During the 1770’s, the famous landscape gardener ‘Capability’ Brown was given the task of redeveloping the site. The castles wall and the fore-buildings we demolished and the moat surrounding the motte was filled to accommodate his designs.

At the request of the 3rd Marquess of Bute, William Burges the Gothic Revival architect started to remodel Cardiff castle in 1869. Burges was given artistic freedom by Lord Bute, due to the wealth he inherited from his father. Lord Bute was fancifully known at the time as the “wealthiest baby in the world.”

Tourist Information

March to October: 9.30am to 6 pm (last tour/entry 5pm)

November to February: 9.30am to 5 pm (last tour and last entry 4.00pm)

There may be occasional variations due to events, please check events listing for details.

Grounds and Full Guided Tour of the apartments (approximately 50 minutes):

Adults: £6.50 Children: £4 Senior Citizens: £5 Students: £5.25 (upon production of a Student Card) Family Rate: £21

Grounds only:

Adults: £3.30 Children: £2 Senior Citizens: £2.50 Students: £2.75 (upon production of a Student Card) Family Rate: £10.60

Admission to Grounds includes Norman Keep, Military Museum, Tea Room and Gift Shop.