Cardiff Castle

Discover 2,000 years of fascinating history on a great family day out at Cardiff Castle. A free audio guide, narrated by BBC newsreader Huw Edwards, is available to download via Cardiff Castle’s website in advance of your visit.

See the exposed Roman wall, climb the twelve-sided Norman keep, walk the battlements and visit the wartime shelters. All ages will be intrigued by the fairytale nature of the spectacular, extravagantly decorated Victorian apartments with gilding, murals, stained glass, marble and wood carvings.

Learn more about the story of the Welsh soldier at Firing Line: Museum of The Queen’s Dragoon Guards and The Royal Welsh. With hands-on activities, there are plenty of family things to do and see as you find out about Waterloo, Rorke’s Drift and more recent battles in Iraq and Afghanistan – see www.cardiffcastlemuseum.org.uk for more information.

On the Castle Green is a historically accurate replica of a 13th-century trebuchet. Explain to the kids how the counter balance system ensured rocks and stones were hurled with such force that they could breach fortifications. Make sure you allow time to see the delightful Animal Wall alongside the castle. After falling into disrepair, the wall was repaired and cleaned in 2010. Spot the pelican, lynx, bear, anteater and others.

On selected dates visitors can also discover the story of a forgotten hero of medieval Welsh history, Llywelyn Bren, at exciting experience Black Tower Tales. The programme of special events may feature school holiday activities such as Warrior School and craft days, living history events including the fantastic ’Joust!’ and Santa’s Grotto at Christmas.

Please see Cardiff Castle’s website for further information and to book tickets online.