About Caerphilly Castle

Gilbert de Clare raised this fortress in the 13th century to keep his grip on Glamorgan, and it became the focus of bitter fighting between his family and the native Welsh rulers. Covering around 30 acres, it is the largest castle in Wales and the second largest in the whole of the United Kingdom.

The castle is famous for bringing concentric defences to Britain, with rings of walls set one inside another. Its man-made lakes have been judged among the most elaborate water defences anywhere in Britain, and its great gatehouses remain the most striking feature for visitors walking around the site today.

Highlights

• Largest castle in Wales, covering around 30 acres
• Elaborate artificial lakes used as water defences
• Early British example of concentric castle design

• Outdoor, best on a dry day

Details are checked against public sources including Wikidata and Wikipedia. Opening times and prices change, so please check the official website before you travel.