Little-known castle 'like walking into a story book' and 'prettiest in UK'
This castle in Wales has been compared to the Leaning Tower of Pisa and is said to be 'like stepping into a giant storybook filled with knights and kings'
Brimming with history and overflowing with character, this Welsh castle has captured the hearts of visitors who've compared its splendour to some of the globe's most iconic landmarks.
Caerphilly Castle is a medieval fortress dating back to the 13th century and, after a two-year restoration, has reopened its doors to the public. Visitors can now wander through the Great Hall and inner castle ward whilst exploring cutting-edge digital exhibitions inside. It was originally built by Gilbert de Clare as part of his strategy to maintain control of Glamorgan – then Wales's most populous and industrialised county.
With the Prince of Wales's influence rapidly expanding, he needed to establish his authority swiftly. To achieve this, construction began in 1268 on what became the nation's largest castle and second only to Windsor Castle across the entire UK.
Spanning more than 30 acres with massive walls and gatehouses, alongside extensive water defences, it's fair to say his ambitions were realised. One visitor shared their impressions on TripAdvisor, saying: "A sprawling site that is quite impressive.
"The large site minimises crowding, so you should be able to enjoy the site at your leisure – we certainly did. Limited amount of interiors remaining but still well worth the visit."
To grasp just how enormous this fortress truly is, it's three times larger than the Principality Stadium, Wales' rugby headquarters. Many have likened it to Italy's iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, thanks to its own tilting tower which makes it all the more distinctive.
One visitor said: "Caerphilly Castle is like stepping into a giant storybook filled with knights and kings. From the moment you lay eyes on its towering walls, impressive moat and imposing towers, you are transported back in time."
Another highlighted the tower as their standout feature, saying: "This is one of the most beautiful castles in the UK. It is very pretty, especially the leaning tower."
Located in South Wales, Caerphilly Castle sits just 30 minutes by car from Cardiff city centre. It's also conveniently positioned less than an hour from Swansea and within 90 minutes of Gloucester.
Entry to the castle is reasonably priced, with adult tickets at £11.90 and family passes at £38.10, whilst disabled visitors and children under five can enter free of charge. Commenting on the admission cost, one guest remarked: "I have paid more for far less at other mansion houses, etc, and this was so worth the entrance fee."