9 reasons to make Cardiff Castle a must-visit attraction this Christmas
ENTERTAINMENT MEETS HISTORY WITHIN THE GROUNDS OF THE MUCH-LOVED VISITOR ATTRACTION RIGHT IN THE CENTRE OF THE CITY
LANDMARKS abound in Cardiff, with many of the images so familiar around Wales.
Definitely taking its place on any list is Cardiff Castle, known as the heart of the city and, therefore, one that is not going to miss out on the seasonal celebrations.
Once again, a wonderful variety of festive attractions for the whole family has been lined up for the build-up to Christmas to reiterate its importance to city life.
What is more, there are sure to be a few surprises along the way.
1. TAKE THE FAMILY ICE SKATING AT WINTER WONDERLAND
This year, the covered ice rink, as well as the 150-metre ice walk is located within the public square. Suitable for all ages and abilities, families will love this festive favourite even more against the stunning backdrop of the Norman Keep.
It is open until January 3, with accessible sessions every
Wednesday morning, so there’s no excuse not to get your skates on.
2. SETTLE DOWN TO A FESTIVE FILM AT THE UNDERGROUND CINEMA
Watching your favourite Christmas film is just the best way to kickstart that festive feeling as we get in the holiday mood. So this December, Darkened Rooms will unwrap a selection of feelgood family flicks for the underground cinema in the castle’s atmospheric, 15th-century undercroft.
Tickets are £8.50 for adults and £5.50 for children. For a full list of films, including Elf, Home Alone and Die Hard, visit cardiffcastle.com.
3. TUCK INTO SOME SEASONAL FOOD AND DRINK
When it’s time to take the edge off those chilly winter nights, pick up your favourite festive treats from stalls around the ice rink, including Yorkshire pudding wraps, open fire toasted marshmallows and luxurious hot chocolate.
The Castle Keep Terrace kitchen and bar will also be open, and the alfresco dining area has heaters and large umbrellas to foil the Welsh weather. With a variety of smaller snacks and hearty mains, alongside hot drinks, cold beers and wine, it’s a great place to kick back and relax.
4. TAKE THE LANTERN TRAIL IN THE PUBLIC SQUARE
In the beautiful setting of the free to enter public square discover the Alice in Wonderland-themed lantern trail with the picturesque Castle House as the backdrop. The area is even lovelier at Christmas time, and it’s an ideal place to meet friends and family, or for somewhere to rest after shopping.
5. SHOP IN THE CASTLE GIFT SHOP
If you’re looking for stocking fillers with a difference, then pop into the gift shop where you can browse a charming selection of souvenirs, books and toys, as well as beautiful gifts and keepsakes and local Welsh produce.
During the build-up to Christmas, you will also find a popular range of traditional decorations, baubles and crackers for sale. Read to the end to see how you can get a 10% discount.
6. EXPLORE 2,000 YEARS OF HISTORY WITH A CASTLE TICKET
While there’s lots of fun going on outside, you certainly shouldn’t overlook what there is to see inside at Cardiff Castle. An admission ticket is valid for the whole day and lets you climb the Norman Keep, marvel at the castle apartments, discover the Roman remains, see the Firing Line Military Museum and experience the wartime shelters.
Download the Castle App on your smartphone and follow the free audio guide, narrated by Huw Edwards, to discover nearly 2,000 years of history. Tickets are available to buy through cardiffcastle.com.
7. SEE EVEN MORE ON A GUIDED TOUR
While you can see incredible rooms with your castle ticket, others can only be seen by joining a guided tour. Upgrade your ticket and a guide will take you on a 50-minute house tour around the lavish Victorian living quarters, which are adorned in festive decorations at this time of year.
Be amazed by and hear the story behind the fantastical decorations in the winter smoking room, nursery, Lord Bute’ bedroom and the roof garden. Tours can be booked at the ticket office.
8. DISCOVER BLACK TOWER TALES
Earlier in the year, Cardiff Castle opened a brand new family attraction called the Black Tower Tales. This family-friendly attraction includes an audio-visual experience, telling the story of local Welsh hero Llywelyn Bren and his struggle against the oppressive Sheriff of Glamorgan.
Llywelyn and his followers fought bravely but he was eventually captured, imprisoned and horribly executed in the Black Tower – the very same place where this chilling tale is now brought to life.
Black Tower Tales can be added to a castle ticket at the ticket office.
9. ENJOY FREE ENTRY IF YOU ARE A CARDIFFIAN
Did you know that Cardiff Castle was given as a gift to the city’s people in 1947? To honour this magnificent gift, anyone who lives or works in Cardiff is entitled to their very own castle key. It entitles you to free entry to the castle, as often as you like, for three years.
Key-holders also benefit from a 10% discount at the gift shop and the Keep Terrace kitchen and bar. To get your key,Zjust visit the castle’s ticket office with proof of your address or employment.
To keep up to date with everything that’s happening at Cardiff Castle. check out cardiffcastle.com or in Welsh at castell-caerdydd.com.