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Cardiff Private Day Tour of South Wales Castles

19 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 19 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
|
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards. Cardiff, United Kingdom
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from $245.53 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Cardiff Castle on a clear day.
Cardiff Castle's Keep
Cardiff's marvellous indoor market.
Cardiff Civic Centre
The old City Hall.
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 24 (0) days in advance.
9 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

This day tour is the perfect way to see the city of Cardiff and three of South Wales' most important castles - Cardiff, Caerphilly, and Castell Coch.

Starting at Cardiff Castle this tour, led by one of our expert and fun-loving local guides, offers you the chance to see some of South Wales' most iconic and historic landmarks, uncover their history, and explore the culture of Wales all in one day. After exploring Cardiff Castle, you will be taken on a walking tour of the city where you will have the chance to see some hidden gems, that are not often visited by other tours including Cardiff's historic market and covered arcades.

After exploring the city you will have time to explore one of the best art galleries in the UK, before being whisked off to the largest castle in Wales where you can explore this medieval marvel. Finally, you will be taken to one of the prettiest castles in the UK where you will be able to see inspirational interiors and breathtaking views of of Cardiff.

What's Included

  • Entry To Castell Coch
  • Entry to Caerphilly Castle
  • Entry To Cardiff Castle
  • Gratuities
  • Refreshments & Lunch
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Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

We will pick up clients from any location within Cardiff City Center, or Cardiff Bay including Cardiff Central Station, Cardiff Bus Station, Cardiff Queen Street Station.

What To Expect

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Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Caerphilly Castle

Caerphilly Castle is the largest castle in Wales and only Windsor Castle is larger in the whole of the United Kingdom. Considered to be one of the mightiest medieval castles in Europe, it was built to protect Norman/English interests in the area. Still an impressive sight to behold the Castle was restored by the Marquis of Bute and William Burgess, however, unlike their fantasy castles at Cardiff and Castell Coch, Caerphilly retains much of its medieval military might.Surrounded by a lake (much reduced since its heyday but still impressive) the castle seems to rise out the water with its most impressive element - a tower that leans at an angle greater than the leaning tower of Pisa - a much loved and prominent feature.Restored over 174 years, the castle is a testament to the work that the Marquises of Bute undertook to preserve the history that was contained within the property that they owned.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Included

Castell Coch

Castell Coch (or the Red Castle in English) is a unique castle within Wales. Built in the Neo-Gothic style, this Castle could be mistaken for a fairytale court or a fantasy fort and is a real hit with kids both young and old. Indeed the Castell has been used numerous times in films and TV shows for that exact reason! Described by the historian David McLees as "one of the greatest Victorian triumphs of architectural composition" the current Castell was intended as a summer retreat for its owners, who sadly never visited!Designed by William Burgess for the Marquis of Bute, the Castle and its stunning decorations are not to be missed - nor are the breathtaking views of Cardiff, which can be seen from many of the Castell's rooms.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Included

Llandaff Cathedral (pass by)

Llandaff is one of the most important Christian sites in Wales. Famous for its stunning cathedral that was heavily damaged by a German landmine during the Second World War, this area of Cardiff is where the author Roald Dahl grew up. As we drive through this quaint area of Cardiff your guide will point out the Cathedral School, where the young Roald Dahl studied, and the site of Mrs Pratchett’s sweet shop on Llandaff’s High Street which is said to have inspired several of Dahl's stories including Mathilda and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
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The Welsh House Cardiff

Our lunch stop will be at one of the few places in Cardiff that serves traditional Welsh food. From Lamb Cawl (a hearty soup that tastes like the one our guide's grandmother makes) to Shepherds Pie and Welsh Rarebit, this restaurant is a hit with everyone we have taken there.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Cardiff Castle

Cardiff Castle started life as a Roman Fort, evidence of which is still visible today. Indeed the city of Cardiff gets its name from the old Roman fort, as Cardiff or the Welsh version Caerdydd translates into English as "Fort on the river Taff". Developed by the Normans the castle has seen many changes and was once used as a royal prison. Developed further by various English marcher Lords, the castle fell into ruin in the 16th century. Taken over by the Marquis' of Bute in the 17th Century, it wasn't until the 3rd Marquis that the current version of Cardiff Castle came into being. Described as a victorian escapist dream, it is a stunning location for film and TV crews to use and has been seen countless Films and TV Series.Whilst here your guide will show you around the castle, including its most interesting historical features. You will also have time to explore the Firing Line Museum and Second World War Shelters contained within the Castle Walls.
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2 hours Admission Ticket Included

Cathays Park

Cathay's Park is one of the finest examples of an early 20th Century Civic Centre. Built on land previously owned by the Bute family, the buildings in this part of Cardiff are constructed using Portland Stone, the same stone as St Pauls Cathedral. Home to Cardiff's Crown Court, Cardiff University, The National Museum Cardiff, and the Welsh National War Memorial we will explore why this area is so important, and how it was built using the wealth brought into the city by the booming coal trade in the 18th - mid 20th century. Whilst exploring the civic centre we will also discuss why Cardiff is now one of the most popular filming locations in the UK, and how this sector of the creative arts industry and the tourism it generates to the South Wales area is filling some of the gaps left by the de-industrialisation of Wales.
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20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

National Museum Cardiff

The National Museum Cardiff is home to one of the best collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist Art in the UK. Its collection, which is spread over 15 galleries, includes masterpieces by Monet, Cézanne, includes Renoir's famous Blue Lady 'La Parisienne' and Rodin's 'The Kiss'. Also home to some of the best Welsh art, both modern and historic, it would be easy to spend a whole day in the museum exploring the world-class collection that is on permanent display. Sadly this tour can only offer you a taster of what is on show but promises to get you 'up close and personal' with as many of the most famous artworks. How did the National Museum manage to collect such an impressive range of art? Your guide will explain all, including who to thank, during the tour. Please note that the Museum is closed on Monday's. Tours booked on Monday will be unable to visit the interior of the museum but other locations will be added to the tour by the guide on the day to compensate for this.
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45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Saint Mary Street (pass by)

St Mary's Street is one of the main shopping/hospitality areas in Cardiff. Named after the now-demolished St Mary's Church, which was destroyed in a typhoon this street contains some of Cardiff's most iconic shops such as James Howell & Co, and Cardiff Market.
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Cardiff Market

Cardiff Market is one of the finest examples of a Victorian covered market in the UK. Famous with locals for its range of products and produce, including delicious cakes, rare vinyl records, second-hand books, and fresh fruit and veg, fans of TV series filmed in Wales may recognise the market from A Discovery of Witches and Torchwood. Considered to be one of the last bastions of 'old Cardiff' this is one of those locations that you would only visit with a local, who knows the secrets that this marvel has to offer including a 100-year-old family business that has traded from the same stall since 1928 and a fishmonger who has traded at Cardiff market since 1866!Once the site of Cardiff's prison or gaol, the market now stands on the site of one of the most famous (or should that be infamous) miscarriages of justice in Wales' (and the UK's) history. But what happened? Find out on this tour!
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

St John The Baptist City Parish Church

St John The Baptist Church in Cardiff is one of the oldest buildings left in Cardiff and the only building that remains from the old medieval walled town. Built around 1180 it is one of the few pre-norman building left in this part of Wales, although much of the church was redesigned in the 15th century after Owain Glwndwyr sacked the city in 1404. Famous for its use in the TV series Doctor Who, in the episode "The Runaway Bride" starring David Tennant and Catherine Tate, St John's Church should be known for its beautiful interior decor which includes Victorian stained glass by leading pre-raphaelites including William Morris which will be pointed out to you as part of the tour.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Tiny Rebel Cardiff (pass by)

The Urban Tap House, owned by the renowned Tiny Rebel brewing company is one of the best, and newest pubs in Cardiff. From outside the Urban Tap House (please let us know if you are over 18 and would like to stop here for a drink as part of the tour) we will be able to see The Principality Stadium, formally the Millenium Stadium, which is home to Welsh Rugby. From this location, we will talk about the importance of Ruby to the people of Wales, how the Principality Stadium will go down in history as Europe's first stadium with a retractable roof, and how the stadium has also welcomed some of the biggest names in Show biz who have performed in this impressive area.
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Show 10 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Cardiff Private Day Tour of South Wales Castles?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (GMT). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-192133P41

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
19 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 19 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
19
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 24 (0) days in advance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Balloon Tours customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Cardiff Private Day Tour of South Wales Castles?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (GMT).
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Entry To Castell Coch.
  • Entry to Caerphilly Castle.
  • Entry To Cardiff Castle.
The following is NOT included:
  • Gratuities.
  • Refreshments & Lunch.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Cardiff Private Day Tour of South Wales Castles is as follows:

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Romantic evening in Sorrento will be included in your confirmation email from City Balloon Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • Entry To Castell Coch
  • Entry to Caerphilly Castle
  • Entry To Cardiff Castle
  • Gratuities
  • Refreshments & Lunch

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Report Product Issue

Activity name