Cardigan Castle holds an important place in Welsh culture, having been the venue for the first competitive National Eisteddfod, held on Christmas Day 1176 under the aegis of Rhys ap Gruffydd, ruler of Deheubarth. Neglected for years, a multi-million-pound refurbishment has once again elevated it into a major center of regional Welsh culture, with exhibitions on the castle, Cardigan and the Eisteddfod, live performances, festivals, language classes and more taking place within its lovely buildings and courtyard.
The Normans were the first to construct a castle on this site, building it out of wood. It was rebuilt in stone in 1171 after it fell to Rhys ap Gruffydd, making it the first stone castle erected by the Welsh.
The visit starts with the short film that plays in the room adjacent to the entrance. There is further interest in the displays in the Georgian Castle Green House on Eisteddfod history and, around the back, in the kitchen garden and circular medieval tower, parts of which survive from the 1171-built castle. The grounds also feature a playground, an oversized Eisteddfod chair and a WWII pillbox.
Lastly, there's an excellent restaurant, and pleasant B&B accommodation in the castle's old stables, coach house and other outbuildings.
