It’s one of Cardiff’s most photographed landmarks – yet many people pass it without ever really noticing. Sitting alongside Cardiff Castle and marking the edge of Bute Park, the Animal Wall is full of character, history and small details that reward a closer look.
It was designed by one of Victorian Britain’s great architects
The Animal Wall was designed by William Burges for the 3rd Marquess of Bute. His distinctive, imaginative style is still evident in the playful expressions of the animals today.
Burges never saw it completed
Burges died before the wall was finished. His vision was carried through by architect William Frame, who worked from Burges’ original designs.
It originally featured just nine animals
When first completed around 1892, the wall included only nine animals, each carefully modelled and approved before being carved.
The carvings came later
Although the wall itself was built first, the animal sculptures were not added until the late 1880s.
It used to stand in a different position
In the 1920s, increasing traffic around the castle led to the entire wall being dismantled and moved to its current location.
Six new animals were added in the 1920s
The move provided an opportunity to expand the wall, with six additional animals introduced at that time.
Some animals have glass eyes, some don’t
The original animals were given glass eyes, adding character and life. The later additions lack this detail, making the difference easy to spot.
The line-up is more unusual than you might think
Alongside lions and bears, you’ll find a pelican, anteater, raccoons, baboons, a lynx and even a sea lion.
It inspired a children’s story
In 1933, Dorothy Howard Rowlands brought the animals to life in a popular newspaper serial, capturing the imagination of children across South Wales.
It was restored in 2010
After years of weathering, the wall was carefully restored as part of a wider heritage project, ensuring it remains a feature for future generations.
It’s one of Cardiff’s best free discoveries
There is no ticket and no queue – just a wonderfully detailed piece of Cardiff’s history waiting to be noticed.
…
More Cardiff gems…
You’ll occasionally discover murals and other sculptures around Cardiff. Share your favourites with us at www.facebook.com/citylifecardiff – here’s one that popped up recently in Pontcanna: Click here. It’s commercial, but beautifully executed.
…
