In the centre of Cardigan overlooking the River Teifi is Cardigan Castle which dates back to the 11th century. Most of the medieval castle was destroyed in the English Civil War with only the castle walls surviving. Inside the walls is a manor house built much later in Georgian times.
Cardigan Castle is best known for its role in hosting the 1176 Cardigan Eisteddfod. Although it wasn’t called an Eisteddfod at the time, it is considered to be the original Eisteddfod that lead to the modern-day tradition in Wales.
Is Cardigan Castle Worth Visiting?
Cardigan Castle is best when viewed from the outside since the castle walls are all that remain from the stone castle. Inside, there is no longer a castle keep, instead, you’ll find a grade II listed Georgian house.
If you are interested in the Eisteddfod, then a visit to Cardigan Castle may be worthwhile as it’s the site of the original Eisteddfod and you’ll find a sculpture of the Bardic Chair there today. However, if you are looking for a real castle experience, the nearby Cilgerran Castle is a better visitor attraction in my opinion.
You can still support Cardigan Castle by dining at the onsite restaurant, Cegin 1176, or by staying in the castle. More on this below.
Visiting Cardigan Castle
Prices
| Adults | £7 |
| Junior (3-16) | £4 |
| Family (2 adults, 5 children) | £20 |
Opening Times
Opening times vary throughout the year and can change at short notice. Below is a typical schedule but I recommended calling ahead of your visit to ensure the castle is open.
| January | Closed |
| February to March | Tues-Sat: 10am - 4pm Sun-Mon: Closed |
| April to October | Mon-Sat: 10am - 4pm Sun: 11am - 4pm |
| November to December | Tues-Sat: 10am - 4pm Sun-Mon: Closed |
Visitor Information
Where to Park for Cardigan Castle?
There is no parking at Cardigan Castle so the best place to park nearby is at Quay Street Car Park. This is a pay and display car park costing £0.50 per half hour.
Are Dogs Allowed In Cardigan Castle?
Yes, dogs are allowed in Cardigan Castle, however, they must be kept on a lead and there is an additional charge of £1 per dog with a maximum of 2 dogs per person.
How Long Does it Take To Visit Cardigan Castle?
Cardigan Castle is very small so it only takes around 30 minutes to see everything including the introductory video which lasts around 10 minutes. Allow a little longer if you plan to visit the castle restaurant, Cegin 1176, although you don't need a ticket to visit this.
What is There To Do at Cardigan Castle?
Here is what you can expect to do on a visit to Cardigan Castle:
1. Learn About the Castle With the Introductory Video
When you first enter the castle after purchasing your ticket, there’s an explanatory video that gives a really clear and comprehensive overview of the castle. It lasts around 10 minutes.
2. Explore Exhibits at Castle Green House
Castle Green House is the grade II listed manor house that can be found inside the castle walls.
As the site of the 1176 Cardigan Eisteddfod which is considered to be the original Eisteddfod, the house has exhibits which tell the story of the Eisteddfod’s history.
There are also some rooms that have been mocked up as they would have been when the house was in use as well as the Barbara Wood Gallery which tells the story of the last person to live at Castle Green House.
3. Sit in the Bardic Chair Sculpture
One of the main exhibits dedicated to the Eisteddfod is the 9 foot tall sculpture of the original Bardic Chair (also known as the Eisteddfod Chair) which is a tradition that continues to this day.
The sculpture is a handcrafted remake using local oak, slate and bronze, that now sits on top of the East Tower. You can sit on it and have a photo
4. Eat at Cegin 1176 Kitchen
Cegin 1176 (or 1176 Kitchen) is the onsite restaurant at Cardigan Castle. The restaurant serves up delicious breakfast and lunch daily, as well as dinner several times per week. You can see the full menu here.
Note: You do not need to pay for a castle entrance ticket to dine at Cegin 1176 as there is another entrance from outside the castle.
Related Questions
Can You Stay at Cardigan Castle?
Yes, you can stay at Cardigan Castle. They have 4-star bed and breakfast rooms as well as 5-star self-catering apartments, all within the castle grounds. You can book the bed and breakfast rooms via Booking.com and the self-catering apartments via West Wales Holiday Cottages.
See our full guide for more castles in Wales you can stay in.
Is Cardigan Castle National Trust?
No, Cardigan Castle is not part of National Trust so you cannot use your National Trust membership to get in.
Is Cardigan Castle CADW?
No, Cardigan Castle is not a CADW property, it is owned by Ceredigion County Council. CADW or English Heritage memberships are not valid for entry or discounts at the castle.
Published: 27 August 2022