Cardigan Castle - Castell Aberteifi

South Wales

27 Feb

Quick Info

Region: Ceredigion
Built: 1110
In the Care of: Ceredigion County Council
Free Parking: No
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Dogs Allowed: No
Admission: Paid Admission
Postcode: SA43 1JA

Opening/Closing Times

9am - 4pm

“Visitors can explore the well-preserved medieval castle ruins, including the impressive curtain walls and the iconic cylindrical tower.”

— Castle Crawl Cymru

History

Cardigan Castle was constructed by Norman invaders at the end of the 11th century, establishing it as a significant fortification in Wales. It was captured by the infamous ruler, Lord Rhys ap Gruffydd in 1171, (son of Gwenllian ferch Gruffydd & Gruffydd ap Rhys); marking the resurgence of Welsh control in the region. Lord Rhys rebuilt the castle in stone. It was a remarkable fortress and the Lord Rhys held the first ever Eisteddfod here in 1176.

The castle was built on a ridge that jutted into the river Teifi and ended in a low cliff. It was cut off from the only easy approach along the ridge by a rock-cut ditch, which is similar to other castles associated with The Lord Rhys at Cilgerran, Nevern and Rhayadr (Rhaeadr Gwy near the mid-Wales border). The castle overlooked the lowest fording point of the river Teifi and protected a sheltered anchorage that was a few miles upstream from the Irish sea. Its elevated position afforded good views of the arterial valleys to the north, south, east and west.
(John Northall, Castles of Wales)

black and white drawing of Cardigan castle from the sea.

Following The Lord Rhys’s death in 1197, his two sons fought over the castle. Eventually Maelgwyn won and he surrendered his brother Gruffydd to his brother and sold the castle to the English crown! Robert Waleran rebuilt the castle again in 1244-54 and stone walls were added around the town that had by now grown around the castle.

The Castle was then used as a stronghold during the English Civil War. When the civil war was over the castle was purposefully damaged to ensure it couldn’t be used as a stronghold in the future. In the 19th century it was damaged further to make way for a bowls green, mansion house and walled garden.

What Can You See?

Castle Ruins: Visitors can explore the well-preserved medieval castle ruins, including the impressive curtain walls and the iconic cylindrical tower.
Georgian Mansion: The castle is home to a beautifully restored Georgian mansion, which offers guided tours showcasing the history and architecture of the building.
Gardens: The castle boasts lush gardens, including a walled garden, a sensory garden, and a picturesque riverside terrace perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics.
Eisteddfod Exhibition: Cardigan Castle hosts an impressive exhibition showcasing memorabilia from Eisteddfods over decades! If you want to learn more about Welsh history and culture, our Eisteddfods are a central part, not to be oberlooked!

Accessibility:

Cardigan Castle is committed to providing accessibility to all visitors. It offers the following facilities:

Wheelchair accessibility with ramps and lifts
Accessible restrooms
Braille and large-print information available
Assistance dogs are welcome

Interesting Facts About Cardigan Castle:

Eisteddfod Connections: Cardigan Castle has strong connections to the National Eisteddfod of Wales, a major cultural festival, having hosted the event several times in its history.
The Birthplace of the Eisteddfod Chair: The Eisteddfod tradition includes the awarding of a bardic chair, and Cardigan Castle is where the first Eisteddfod chair was awarded in the 18th century.
World War II: During World War II, the castle served as a training ground for the Home Guard, adding to its historical significance.