WALES’ largest medieval fortress is to be transformed over the next three years as work begins on a £10m regeneration project.

The Caerphilly Castle regeneration project is part of a wider investment into Wales’ historic monuments - due to be complete by Summer 2026.

The 13th century castle will benefit from extensive improvements to facilities, visitor experience and conservation – bringing a state-of-the-art welcome centre, a new café, toilets and an education room.

Of the total investment, £1m has been allocated to develop a new interpretative scheme – telling the stories of people who built and lived in the castle through the centuries.

Caerphilly Castle will remain open throughout the project, with some areas restricted, so visitors can continue to enjoy its heritage and history.

Initial work began on the regeneration scheme in 2021 with the necessary conservation of the Inner East Gatehouse in preparation for Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the project.

Phase 1 will see improvement works to the inner ward of the castle and will commence on August 7 and is expected to be complete by July of next year.

This will include the refurbishment of the medieval great hall, installation of visitor access paths and ramps, comprehensive new interpretation and the construction of a wildflower garden.

Work will also be undertaken to conserve and open visitor access to the medieval watergate, which once provided access from the water’s edge to the medieval great hall. This atmospheric entrance with its long-covered passageway has not been in use since medieval times.

During this phase of the project, the great hall, central courtyard and some ground floor areas of the inner ward will be closed to visitors.

Once the regeneration of the inner ward is complete, Phase 2 of the project is expected to begin in Summer 2024 in the castle’s outer ward.

This will involve construction of a new sustainably built welcome centre, refurbishment of the Cadw shop and the installation of a children’s play area.

Dr Kate Roberts, Cadw’s chief inspector of historic monuments and buildings, said: “Caerphilly Castle is one of Wales’ most impressive historical landmarks with a rich past - it’s seen many sieges and battles and played an important role in the downfall of King Edward II.

“Our aim is to conserve this unique historic place - the first truly concentric castle in Wales and to transform the experience for the thousands of visitors that enjoy the attraction each year.”