Cardigan Castle and its History

Our Main Project – Cardigan Castle

Whilst the trust has the ability and remit to look at other buildings of historic significance within Cardigan; the Castle itself is the current primary focus. It opened its gates to the public in 2015 after years of dedicated efforts from Cardigan’s people.

Originally completed by Lord Rhys in 1176, Cardigan Castle’s restoration is a remarkable story of community spirit and volunteer dedication. A historic site of national importance, the Castle itself, Castle Green House the Georgian mansion and the grounds had fallen into significant disrepair by the late 20th century. Recognizing the need to preserve this iconic landmark, local residents, historians, and enthusiasts united to form a grassroots movement to save it. Their vision was not only to restore the Castle to its former glory but also to transform it into a vibrant cultural and community hub.

The journey began with a small group of volunteers determined to raise awareness about the Castle’s plight. They organized events, fundraisers, and public meetings to rally support. Their passion resonated widely, and soon, they garnered the attention of local authorities, heritage organizations, and the public. Over time, this growing coalition formed the Cadwgan Building Preservation Trust, the charity responsible for overseeing the restoration. The Trust became a beacon of hope, bringing together people from all walks of life who shared a common goal: to restore Cardigan Castle for everyone to enjoy.

The restoration itself was a labour of love, involving countless hours of hard work from volunteers. Architects, archaeologists, and tradespeople who collaborated with community members, who contributed their skills, time, and enthusiasm. Local schools, artists, and businesses also played a role, integrating the project into the fabric of the community. The effort was supported by significant funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and other financial sources, but at the heart of the project the drive towards its success remained the volunteers’ dedication under the governance of successive boards of Trustees.

Today, Cardigan Castle stands as a testament to what a committed group of people can achieve. It has been transformed into a thriving venue for events, education, and tourism while preserving its historical significance. The Castle’s story is not only about replacing stonework and reviving the main house but about the power of community collaboration and the enduring importance of preserving heritage for future generations.

Who owns Cardigan Castle and the cottages, houses and other buildings on site?

Ceredigion County Council own the Castle site, the Castle itself, Castle Green House and the other buildings within the site, Ty Mari, The Stables, The Coach house, The Gardener’s cottage, Ty Castell, The two Cottages and the Brew House.

The site is leased to the Trust for an initial 125-year period.

The Trust has established a commercial arm – Cardigan Castle Enterprises which runs the Bed and Breakfast and Self-Catering operation, the Weddings, Shop and Conference Centre.

Any profit from the revenues raised is passed on as a donation to the Charity annually. This enables the Trust to continue to renovate, maintain and support the running costs of the Castle site.

Future Projects – Developing the castle

The Castle has gradually been renovated in a way which is sympathetic to the strict guidelines and restrictions in place to protect an ancient monument, and where those buildings on the site are afforded a listed title. This limits the amount of work that can be done in some ways but preserves the historic elements architecturally and respects the priceless heritage of the site.

The lower section of the site where the stable area and children’s play area are positioned, is now under consideration for further development. The aim being to create ‘areas of interest’ which will draw the visitors down past the East Wing of Castle Green House, to see and enjoy which in the past have not been developed to their full potential. These attractions will be unique to the site and reflect the cultural and specific aspects of Cardigan and Ceredigion life. Plans are well underway – the next step will be to secure funding to enable the development.