A £260,000 investment to improve the visitor experience at Caerphilly Castle has been completed.
As part of Welsh Government plans to increase public access to Wales’ heritage, historic body Cadw has installed a series of new “interpretation experiences” at the 13th Century castle – ranging from sculptured heads of historical characters, to light projections and sound effects.
The castle, which is surrounded by a series of lakes, was built by Gilbert de Clare of Norman descent, and later restored by the third Marquess of Bute, son of Lord Bute.
The new visitor features combine art and traditional historical storytelling techniques.
John Griffiths, Minister for Culture and Sport, said: “From interactive siege warfare games and innovative touch screens, to models, sculptures and a 270 degree digital film, the new interpretation brings the stories to life – giving visitors an opportunity to learn about the monument in an imaginative and hands-on way.
“The development is part of a £19million Heritage Tourism Project (HTP), supported by the European Regional Development Convergence Fund, which aims to increase the economic value of heritage in Wales and also funding from the Visit Wales Digital Tourism Project.
Caerphilly Castle is the latest Cadw site to benefit from HTP funding, following successful interpretation projects at St David’s Bishop’s Palace, Conwy Castle and Denbigh Castle.”
Tony Payne, Head Custodian at Caerphilly Castle, is delighted by visitors’ reactions to the new technology.
He said: “Visitors seem to be getting so much more out of their trips to the castle since introducing the improved interpretation facilities.
“We’ve seen a big increase in the duration of visit – with some people staying for two hours or more. Visitors have fed back that they feel they are getting better value for money, and that the facilities enable them to learn much more about the stories behind the site.
“The interactive technology is also proving to be a real hit with children, who absolutely love the sound effects and the sculptures dotted throughout the monument, telling the story of the castle.
“The giant wooden model of the Marquess of Bute, which appears to be holding up the leaning tower of the castle, is sure to provide a photo opportunity or two.
“Caerphilly Castle is a fantastic monument and the improved facilities have strengthened the offer of the site as a key visitor attraction. Our team is proud of the enhanced experience and we hope it inspires visitors to get more involved in Wales’ history.”
Pitty about the rest of Caerphilly town ,for a market town it's not very interesting,plus the traffic jams. very few nice places to eat or stay.Once visitors have seen the Castle that's it