Photograph by Ben Salter
Cardiff Castle’s iconic towers are a magical and mystical feature of the city centre, drawing hundreds to visit each week. Now, however, visitors will be able to see Cardiff Castle in a wholly new light, as torchlit ghost tours commence this Hallowe’en.
After dark, the castle grounds will be deserted and the buildings plunged into darkness. Ghost tour participants will then be guided by torchlight through the main house, the Norman Keep, and the Plantagenet Black Tower, to hear stories in the dark of the ghosts reported over many generations.
Such was the demand for tickets, the first tour sold out in two hours and all 2013 tours were full within a week. Bookings are now being taken for January 2014.
The tours are being organised and sold by “Cardiff History and Hauntings”, which seeks to lift the lid on the more obscure history, legends and ghost stories of Cardiff and Wales.
“I am delighted and buzzing with excitement over this one”, said Jim Cowan, Owner Operator of Cardiff History and Hauntings and a former Castle guide. “I have always been intrigued by the Castle’s ghost stories, so I am delighted that at last people from all over the world will have the chance to explore and share the intrigue and atmosphere of this place in the dark!”
“We have worked very hard to ensure the quality and historic integrity of the ghost tour, as well as the safety of participants and the precious building. We will visit parts of the building not visited by the public during the day, and other parts rarely visited before at night. There will be no gimmicks, no one “jumping out”: the atmosphere and stories will speak for themselves and hopefully get everyone looking over their shoulders!
Cabinet Member of Sport, Leisure and Culture, Councillor Ramesh Patel said: “This is a new venture which has really captured the imagination of the public. The Ghost Tours will appeal to tourists and local residents alike and offer a new and intriguing perspective of the Castle.’
Further information can be found at www.cardiffhistory.co.uk or by calling 07538 878609
