Cardiff Castle — Attraction in Sully and Lavernock

This review relates specifically to the venue being used as a place to hold a gig. We went to see Weezer and Smashing Pumpkins. The location itself is beautiful and an incredible setting to see your favourite bands. However, I have to say we found the experience to have negative aspects which very nearly ruined our experience. The first and major issue was how long it took to get into the venue. It took over 45 minutes, which meant we ended up missing three songs by Weezer, the band we'd travelled from London to see. This was due to an extremely poor security setup where the incoming footfall was hearded like cattle through barrier after barrier. Just as we thought we'd reached the end of the queue, another appeared. The pinnacle of this incredibly frustrating experience was when we realised everyone was crossing over what I assume used to be the old moat on a very narrow footbridge. To make matters worse, the very same footbridge was being used to get vehicles in and out of the venue. Which meant they closed the barrier to let the cars through, slowing down the queue even more. The worst part of this was when they shut down the bridge to allow one family through who appeared to have backstage passes. It honestly felt at that point as if there may be some sort of peasant revolt. Quite apt given the setting. Once we were into the venue, there were very few food stalls and the toilet situation was diabolical. Nowhere near enough provision for a sold-out gig which meant any trip to the toilet was slow and painful, especially for the women in our group, but even for the men. The men's urinals were like something from a North Korean prisoner of war camp, cramped and claustrophobic. Of course this led to a lot of urinating against fences (not by me) which is just awful. I couldn't help but think of all the families who'll be visiting this site long after the concert rig had been dismantled. Also worth mentioning how badly planned and communicated getting the crowd out of the venue was at the end of the performance. Despite there being two exits we were stuck at the exit furthest away from the stage. They kept telling us there were two exits but  of course, we assumed that the crush we were experiencing was the same as at both exits. We were forced to abandon our crush and went to the exit behind the stage which was absolutely fine. It would have been nice to have had clearer communication on this. Anyway, this all sounds very negative, despite all this we actually had an amazing time. Both Weezer and the smashing pumpkins were brilliant, but the experience was very nearly ruined by the poor provision. I'm sure this has nothing to do with the castle itself and the organisation who run usual tourist experience. That said, they should take on some responsibility for what they host at their venue. I'm not saying I'll never go to a concert here again, but something needs to change. Information about the concert was extremely hard to come by before the gig and it would have been helpful to warn people how long it takes to get in and out. It wasn't a cheap gig (is there any such thing these days?) but it was clear the money was not being spent in the right places. Photo added to illustrate how beautiful the setting...

Cardiff Castle Rocks! (Music Venue Review)

We recently went to a couple of gigs at Cardiff Castle and had an absolute blast! This venue is not only in a great location, right in the heart of the city, but the castle walls create a unique and picturesque setting for a concert. You feel like you're in your own world, away from the hustle and bustle.

The organisation was fantastic on both occasions. Yes, there's a bit of a walk to the main entrance (around what I'd consider the back of the castle), but once we arrived, we didn't have to queue long to get inside. The venue itself is spacious with a large stage and big screens, so we had no trouble getting close to the action. Honestly, I reckon if I wasn't with a group, I could have easily made my way to the front. We found a decent spot on the grass with plenty of room to sit and relax before the music started. It did get busier later on, but it never felt overcrowded. There was plenty of space to move around freely.

The sound quality was top-notch, and I could clearly see the stage (I'm 6ft 2") from anywhere in the venue. There was a small elevated section for VIP ticket holders, but it didn't seem worth it as it was still standing and further back from the stage than we were.

The bars were a pleasant surprise. The service was fast, friendly, and efficient. I never had to wait more than a few minutes to get served (admittedly, I avoided going during act intervals). The toilets were also well-maintained (as much as any port-a-loo can be!), and the queues were never too long.

Of course, like any venue, a captive audience means higher prices, but they weren't ridiculous. Drinks were around £7-£10, depending on what you ordered. We ate beforehand, which saved us some money.

My only small gripe (and it's not a showstopper) was the amount of time it took to leave the venue. On one occasion, it started raining, and it felt like ages to get out (probably around 20 minutes). But I understand that it takes time to evacuate that many people.

Overall, Cardiff Castle is a fantastic music venue with a lively atmosphere, perfect for a concert. The stunning scenery, great acoustics, and efficient organisation make it a truly memorable experience. Just be prepared for a bit of a wait to exit after the show!

Helpful hints and tips: -Arrive early to secure a good spot. -Bring a blanket or something to sit on if you want to relax before the music starts. -Be prepared for higher drink prices. -Factor in extra time for exiting the venue...

I had the absolute pleasure of visiting Cardiff Castle, and it truly exceeded all my expectations! This stunning castle is a must-visit for anyone exploring Cardiff. Also, the Castle 🏰🏯 is in the heart of the Main Cardiff City,

The combination of ancient history and architectural marvels is truly captivating. The well-preserved medieval keep transports you back in time, offering a glimpse into the castle's storied past. The guided tours are informative and engaging, providing a deep understanding of the castle's significance in Welsh history.

The surrounding grounds are a beautiful oasis in the city. The lush greenery, charming gardens, and picturesque views make for a perfect stroll. Don't miss the breathtaking views from the top of the Norman Keep - it's like stepping into a fairy tale.

The castle hosts various events throughout the year, and if you have the chance to attend one, I highly recommend it. From concerts to historical reenactments, there's always something exciting happening here.

There are few places where you need it but tickets however there are a few places it's free to visit. You can roam around the castle for free of cost and if you need to go inside then you need to pay, and I think the ticket cost is around 14 Pounds. The Castle closes around 6 Pm every day. So, you need to plan accordingly.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Cardiff Castle is the place to be. It's a treasure trove of culture and history right in the heart of the city. Don't miss this incredible landmark - it's an experience you'll cherish forever!

Pro Tip: Check the castle's website for any special events or exhibitions happening during your visit - it can make your experience even more memorable. Enjoy your time at Cardiff Castle! 🏰🌟

If you are driving Parking, is the biggest problem. There are few private MLCP parking's but it's very expensive. Visiting Castle, Local Shopping and Street Food would be the best fit for a Weekend. If you are visiting Cardiff, then it's a must...