Behind the Scenes Castle Tour

This specialized tour descends into Cardiff Castle's hidden infrastructure - medieval tunnels, wartime fortifications, and a functional WWII air raid shelter preserved beneath the grounds. The 1.5-hour experience focuses on the castle's military and survival role during World War II rather than its residential history. Visitors see emergency provisions, communication equipment, and structural reinforcements built during the conflict. Suited to history buffs and those interested in how the castle served beyond ceremonial purposes. Best for history buffs and those interested in wartime Cardiff. This is a moderate activity lasting 1.5 hours. Group size: 2-12. You meet at Castle Shop entrance. Key highlights: WWII air raid shelter with original reinforcements and equipment intact, Medieval tunnel system spanning 100+ meters beneath castle, Working ventilation and water systems preserved from 1940s.

Price: £35

Duration: 1.5 hours

Difficulty: moderate

Group size: 2-12

Minimum age: 8+

Best for: history buffs and those interested in wartime Cardiff

Best time: Off-season tours (October-March) are less crowded; avoid summer groups when tunnels feel confined. Tours during school term typically run mornings; school holidays offer afternoon slots.

Meeting point: Castle Shop entrance

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

0:00-0:10 Meet at Castle Shop entrance and receive safety briefing - Guide explains underground layout, structural features, and wartime context before descent.

0:10-0:35 Explore medieval tunnel system beneath castle - Walk through stone-lined passages originally built for supply access and military movement during medieval period.

0:35-1:10 Tour WWII air raid shelter and bunker facilities - See original ventilation systems, blast protection walls, medical bays, and communication rooms built 1940-1941.

1:10-1:30 Examine emergency provisions and wartime artifacts - View preserved water storage, food supplies, emergency equipment, and personal items left by shelter staff.

1:30-1:40 Return to surface and final Q&A - Guide answers questions about Cardiff's bombing during the Blitz and how the shelter protected residents.

The whole experience takes 1.5 hours. Difficulty: moderate. You meet at Castle Shop entrance.

• WWII air raid shelter with original reinforcements and equipment intact
• Medieval tunnel system spanning 100+ meters beneath castle
• Working ventilation and water systems preserved from 1940s
• Medical bay and communication room setup from wartime period
• Authentic artifacts and shelter logbooks on display

What is included: Professional guided tour, Access to restricted underground areas, Detailed wartime and medieval history commentary, Safety equipment (torches/flashlights provided).

Not included: Castle general admission (separate £15.50 ticket required), Protective gear beyond torches, Lunch or refreshments. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Sturdy, closed-toe shoes with grip (stone floors are damp), Layers - underground areas remain cool year-round (approximately 10°C), Small flashlight if you prefer personal light source, Willingness to duck in narrow passages (6-7 feet clearance in places). Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Off-season tours (October-March) are less crowded; avoid summer groups when tunnels feel confined. Tours during school term typically run mornings; school holidays offer afternoon slots..

Tip: Advance booking essential

Tip: Not suitable for mobility issues

Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users - narrow tunnels, irregular stone flooring, and multiple descents make wheelchair access impossible. Not recommended for those with claustrophobia, respiratory issues, or severe mobility limitations. Visitors must be able to navigate stairs and duck under low archways..

Operator: Cardiff Castle | Book directly (opens in new tab) | Phone: +44 (0)29 2087 8100

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Cardiff Market (3 min walk)
• Principality Stadium (10 min walk)
• National Museum Cardiff (18 min walk)

This activity is run by Cardiff Castle.

Book directly at their website (opens in new tab).

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation 48 hours before tour; non-refundable within 48 hours.

Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users - narrow tunnels, irregular stone flooring, and multiple descents make wheelchair access impossible. Not recommended for those with claustrophobia, respiratory issues, or severe mobility limitations. Visitors must be able to navigate stairs and duck under low archways..

Best time to go: Off-season tours (October-March) are less crowded; avoid summer groups when tunnels feel confined. Tours during school term typically run mornings; school holidays offer afternoon slots..

Is the Behind the Scenes tour accessible for people with claustrophobia?

No. The tour involves walking through narrow medieval tunnels for approximately 25 minutes with low ceiling clearance (6-7 feet in some sections) and limited natural light. Visitors must duck under stone archways. If you experience claustrophobia, this tour is not suitable - choose the Premium Tour instead.

What temperature can I expect underground in the WWII air raid shelter?

Underground areas maintain approximately 10°C (50°F) year-round due to stone construction and depth. Bring layers including a fleece or jacket. The temperature drop is significant compared to ground level, even in summer when Cardiff is warm.

How many people typically join the Behind the Scenes tour?

Groups are limited to maximum 12 people to maintain safety in narrow tunnels and allow adequate guide visibility with torches. Smaller groups (4-6 people) offer better experience and more personal guide attention. Book in advance as tours fill quickly, especially during school holidays.