Caerphilly Castle
Castell Caerffili
Britain's second-largest castle. Its 13th-century concentric fortress is surrounded by an artificial lake, and its famous “leaning tower” is more tilted than the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Caerphilly Castle was begun in 1268 by the Norman lord Gilbert de Clare. It is known for its defenses, with an artificial lake formed by a dam and multiple layers of walls, and it is the second-largest castle in Britain after Windsor Castle. The south tower was damaged during the civil war and leans about 10 degrees, more than the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The castle has recently completed major restoration, and the great hall has reopened. It is managed by Cadw, with admission of about £11. It is about 12 km from Cardiff. The train takes about 20 minutes to Caerphilly Station, and then it is a 5-minute walk.
Opening hours
About 09:30–17:00 (shorter hours in winter)
Nearby sights
- Castell Coch
- Llandaff Cathedral
- Roath Park
- Bute Park
- Cardiff City Hall & Civic Centre
- National Museum Cardiff
- Cardiff Castle
- Cardiff Victorian Arcades