Animal Wall
The Animal Wall runs along Castle Street beside Cardiff Castle, its parapet topped with fifteen carved stone animals peering over at passers-by. Designed by William Burges in 1866 for the third Marquess of Bute and Grade I listed, it is one of the city's most photographed free sights and a favourite with children.
Photos
Che Hong Tam
Burges's menagerie
William Burges, architect to the third Marquess of Bute, designed the wall in 1866. He died in 1881 and the wall was finished under William Frame, with the first nine animals carved by Thomas Nicholls: a hyena, a wolf, two baboons, a seal, a bear, a lioness, a lynx and two lions. Each animal is carved in close detail and positioned as if climbing over the parapet, which is what gives the wall its playful character. The Grade I listing, the highest category, reflects its importance as part of the Bute family's remodelling of Cardiff Castle.
Moved and extended
Road widening on Castle Street meant the wall was moved about 50 metres west to its current spot outside Bute Park. In 1931 the fourth Marquess commissioned Alexander Carrick to add six more creatures: a pelican, an anteater, two raccoons, a leopard, a beaver and a vulture. Spotting the difference in style between the two sets is part of the fun.
Seeing it
The wall is on the street, so you can see it at any time without a ticket. Walk its length from the castle entrance towards the river, then head through the gates into Bute Park, take a river cruise, or carry on to Cardiff Castle itself.
Highlights
- Designed by William Burges in 1866
- 15 carved stone animals
- Six added in 1931 by Alexander Carrick
- Grade I listed
- Free to see from Castle Street
Good to know
- Free and visible from the pavement at all times.
- The wall is on a busy main road; keep children close when stopping for photos.
Frequently asked questions
Nearby
Sources: en.wikipedia.org