You can explore the castle grounds on your own or you can take a variety of tours that are offered. You’ll want to start your visit with little ones at the Interpretation Center where there are costumes, a puppet theater and crafts for them to try. Don’t miss exploring the remains of the Roman fort walls, climbing up the stairs to the top of the keep or visiting with the many birds such as owls and peacocks who roam the grounds. We learned from the falconer that his owl Hector weighs about four pounds and that long ago falconers would use owls to hunt for food. It was exciting to hold Hector and see him up close!

Several tour companies offer visits to Wales, including a stop at Cardiff Castle. If you don’t want to plan a trip on your own, you might want to consider a family vacation with CIE Tours who will do the planning for you. We found that their guides were incredibly informative, but still gave families the freedom to explore on their own. The tour also included a banquet at the castle with costumed servers, music and all! If you are touring the castle on your own and not part of a tour such as CIE Tours, you can still make a reservation for a banquet experience through the castle.

Special events take place throughout the year. Generally held in the summer-time, visitors can sign up to view ajoust competition. The day is full of fun for the whole family with storytelling, parades and, of course, a jousting competition! Other events include dragon tales, a Roman weekend and Tafwyl Fair, a Welsh language festival.