Caerphilly castle is built between 1268 and 1295 by Gilbert de Clare. Its concentric defences are comparable to the Tower of London or Edwardian castles like Beaumaris and Harlech. Its setting amid extensive waterworks mimicks those of Kenilworth castle. By the early sixteenth century the owners of Caerphilly have lost interest in the fortress, allowing it to fall into serious decay. From 1593 onward one Thomas Lewis is allowed to quarry the stone of the castle to build his Elisabethan mansion at nearby Y Fan. Perhaps during the Civil War, or more likely in the immediate aftermath of the conflict, much of Caerphilly castle is deliberately destroyed. The four corner towers of the inner ward, together with the main front of the inner east gatehouse, seem to have been undermined or blown up. Honor and praise to the fourth marquess of Bute who funds a major restoration programme of the stronghold from 1928 to 1939, thus saving it for future generations. * Visitors can discover Caerphilly castle with the help of an outstanding guidebook. There are no reconstruction drawings or information panels on site. The stronghold impresses by its size, boasting no less than seven gatehouses with a multitude of drawbridges and portcullises and two massive dam platforms. The inner east gatehouse contains an appartment for royalty with a vast hall and a private chapel and could be sealed off from the rest of the fortress. The layout of the inner ward with the great hall, the private appartments of the earl, the kitchen tower and the transverse block with larders is very interesting. Sadly, because of major restoration works all these structures are currrently inaccessible and can only be viewed through openings in the so called de Braose gallery, making it impossible to appreciate any details. Visitors can walk atop the curtain wall (partially equipped with a wooden fighting platform) and scale the top of the inner east gatehouse and of the northwest tower. Part of the middle ward as well as the north dam platform are currently equally off limits due to works. On the south dam platform you can admire several siege engines as well as the remains of a mill.

Visited during a spontaneous trip to Wales, it was raining and not too far away from where we were staying so decided to go for it (we didn’t do any prior research or check the website). Plenty of parking near by and you get to do a nice walk around the castle from the parking to the entrance. When we arrived the receptionist advised us that some of the castle was closed and asked if we would still like to go in. Was about £10 each to wander around and we got a free book because of the closure which was a nice gesture. Took us about 45 mins to walk around all the open parts of the castle, I was a bit disappointed in the lack of information about the parts of the castle, there were a few signs with information but I feel there could have been alot more and that would mean you could spend longer there and learn a bit more. Overall I enjoyed the visit but it’s a shame I didn’t get to see the whole thing, but understand that castles are always going to need some scheduled maintenance.

Do you want to see an ancient Castle? Well Caerphilly Castle you can visit it's mammoth size and give you a feeling of travelling back in time. The castle was built in 1290 and is in the middle of Caerphilly town. We loved it there, especially my family, we couldn’t believe it was so large, the second biggest castle in Britain. Inside the castle it is amazing. I loved being able to walk around, being able to see what people would have seen hundreds of years ago. I loved the amazing gift shop. They sell keychains, bracelets, cushings and teddies. My favourite were the toys and the squishies. There is alos a lot do do around the castle at it is right by the shops and local cafes. My family walked around the lake and fed the ducks, it was a truly wonderful day out. I think I should give Caerphilly Castle a 5 star rating.

I would recommend visiting the ancient, amazing castle that was built in 1290. The castle is surrounded by a huge lake in the middle of Caerphilly Town. When we walked up to the castle I was shocked at how massive it is, so were my parents. We learned so much by walking around and reading all the information posted at each area. We were very impressed by the Gift Shop, there is so much you can buy in there! Teddies, keyrings, magnets and bracelets! My favourite item you can buy is the squishy toys for only £2.50! What a bargain! The only thing that is missing from this fascinating landmark is a lovely cafe to have breakfast or lunch in. But I have heard there could be some exciting news coming soon about a new cafe! I had such an amazing time at Caerphilly Castle with my family! If you can get there to visit, don't put it off, you won't regret it!

Staggeringly beautiful castle that certainly merits a visit. Set in stunning grounds, the building is a fascinating piece of history that you'll spend a good while looking around. Plenty to keep your interest, you'll be surprised. Wales is the spiritual home of castles and you won't find many better an example that Caerphilly. Give the town itself a good look around while you're there too, it's a rather lovely place. Plenty of nice cafes and pubs to keep you refreshed and eager to see more.

Caerphilly Castle is like stepping into a giant storybook filled with knights and kings. From the moment you lay eyes on its towering walls, impressive moat and imposing towers, you are transported back in time. Exploring the castle grounds is a journey through centuries. From the vast outer walls to the intricate inner chambers, every corner of this castle tells a story of conquest, power, and resilience. The sheer scale of the castle is breathtaking, leaving you in awe of the ingenuity and craftsmanship of its creators. One of the most remarkable features of Caerphilly Castle is the iconic leaning tower. As you gaze upon this architectural marvel, you can't help but marvel at its precarious tilt, a testament to the castle's enduring strength and the passage of time.

Currently (April 2024) much of the castle is being renovated. There is a 10% discount on tickets though far more than 10% of the castle is inaccessible. However, the ticket was still pretty cheap and worth it for what was open. The castle is huge and the displays basic but it is good for a short visit.

The castle is a great place to visit although it will be considerably better once the great hall is completed. Large parts of the castle are closed while major works take place. There are some difficult stairways to climb so probably not ideal for the less mobile. If I could complain about anything it would be the lack of information boards. I did have a guide book but it would have been so much easier to understand if there were any signs in the castle explaining where you were. Even the direction around the castle is unclear with just laminated arrow signs stuck to banisters. I will definitely return once the works are completed.

Very friendly staff in the ticket/shop area. The castle is currently having work done and lots of it is shut however there are areas where you can view the work that is taking place. We will return once the work is completed to see the great hall. We are English Heritage members so our entrance was free as long term members, the couple after us had arrived by train and also got a discount so would suggest check the deals out before you visit. Car park just across the road was good value pay and display.

Caerphilly Castle 7th May The castle itself is magnificent and has a lot of great displays, from the dragons in the pit to the projection of a portcullis in the gatehouse. A really worthy visit. However, the best of all was the staff. We were immediately greeted in the ticket office by Paula and Cori who were both lovely, welcoming, friendly and had great banter. We immediately knew we were going to have a good day. Next, we met Steve and Reece who again were extremely pleasant and welcoming. A special shout out to Steve whom we met again on the battlements and with whom we had a very lengthy and detailed chat about the castle, history in general, and who I have to say is one of the friendliest guides we have ever met. Truly, my partner and I hope to cross paths with him again.