Top 10 Things to do in Cardiff

Things to do in Cardiff

Welcome to the vibrant and bustling city of Cardiff! This Welsh capital is brimming with history, culture, and exciting activities that are sure to leave you captivated. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something new to discover in this dynamic city. In this blog post, we’ve compiled the top 10 things to do in Cardiff that will help you make the most out of your time here. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, get ready for an adventure-filled journey through the streets of Cardiff!

1. City Hall

City Hall is an iconic landmark in the heart of Cardiff that draws visitors from all over the world. This stunning building boasts a unique blend of Edwardian and Baroque architecture, making it a must-see attraction for history buffs and design enthusiasts alike. One of the most striking features of City Hall is its clock tower, which stands at an impressive 200 feet tall. The tower houses a bell that weighs over three tons and rings on special occasions such as New Year’s Eve.

Inside City Hall, you’ll find elegant marble floors, ornate ceilings, and intricate woodwork that reflect the grandeur of its time. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the history behind this magnificent building while admiring its opulent interiors. The grounds surrounding City Hall are equally impressive with beautifully landscaped gardens featuring fountains, sculptures, and lush greenery. You can relax on one of the benches or take a stroll through these serene gardens to soak up some sun or enjoy a picnic with friends. Whether you’re fascinated by architecture or simply looking for an interesting place to visit in Cardiff, City Hall is definitely worth adding to your itinerary.

2. Royal Arcade

The Royal Arcade is a must-visit attraction in Cardiff. It opened in 1858 and boasts beautiful Victorian architecture. The arcade runs off the High Street and offers an alternative shopping experience for visitors. As you enter, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time with its stained-glass windows and wrought iron balconies. But don’t be fooled by the historical charm – there’s something for everyone here!

From independent boutiques to high-end designer shops, the Royal Arcade has it all. You can find everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewellery, making it a shopper’s paradise. But that’s not all – foodies will love this place too! There are several cafes and restaurants serving up delicious treats, including traditional Welsh cakes. If you’re looking for unique souvenirs or just want to indulge in some retail therapy, then the Royal Arcade should definitely be on your itinerary when visiting Cardiff.

3. Water Tower

Located in the heart of Cardiff, the Water Tower is a popular attraction that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. The tower was built in 1886 to provide water supply for the nearby Roath area and was later converted into an observation tower. The climb up to the top of Water Tower may be challenging, but it is definitely worth it once you reach the viewing platform. From there, visitors can enjoy breath taking views of Cardiff Bay, Penarth and even as far as Bristol on a clear day.

One interesting fact about this tower is that during World War II, its height made it an ideal location for an observation post against German air raids. Today, tourists can learn more about its wartime history through exhibitions held inside. Visitors should also take note that access to Water Tower is limited since it only opens on certain days or upon special request. Nonetheless, if you’re looking for a unique way to see Cardiff from above and want to learn more about its history at the same time – visiting Water Tower should definitely be on your list!

4. Heath Park

Heath Park is one of the most expansive and popular parks in Cardiff. It spans over 140 acres, making it the perfect location for a picnic or a leisurely stroll with friends and family. The park has something to offer everyone, including sports facilities, playgrounds, and plenty of green spaces. One of the biggest draws of Heath Park is its stunning botanical gardens. These gardens are home to an impressive collection of plants from all over the world, including exotic orchids and towering palm trees. Visitors can explore these beautiful gardens at their own pace while enjoying the fresh air and natural surroundings.

For those who love sports, Heath Park has plenty to offer as well. There are several tennis courts available for use by visitors as well as a large cricket field that often plays host to local matches during the summer months. If you’re looking for more laid-back activities, there are several designated picnic areas throughout Heath Park where you can relax with your loved ones on warm sunny days. Additionally, there’s also a children’s play area complete with swings and slides that will surely keep your little ones entertained for hours on end. If you’re looking for an enjoyable outdoor experience in Cardiff then look no further than Heath Park!

5. Insole Court

Insole Court is a beautiful mansion located in the heart of Llandaff. The house was built in 1856 for the coal tycoon James Harvey Insole and has since been restored to its former glory. Visitors can explore the Victorian Gothic architecture, historic gardens, and learn about the history of this grand estate. The mansion is surrounded by 18 acres of landscaped gardens that are perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic with family and friends. The gardens include an orchard, formal lawns, woodland walks, and a walled garden filled with seasonal flowers.

In addition to exploring the grounds, visitors can also enjoy various events at Insole Court throughout the year such as concerts, art exhibitions, workshops and children’s activities. There’s always something new and exciting happening here! For those interested in local history, there’s also a museum on site showcasing artefacts from Cardiff’s past including pottery collections from nearby kilns. Overall Insole Court offers a unique experience for visitors looking to escape into nature while learning about Cardiff’s rich cultural heritage.

6. Cardiff Central Market

Cardiff Central Market is a vibrant and bustling indoor market located in the heart of the city. It’s one of the oldest markets in Wales and has been trading since the 1700s. The market is home to over 100 independent traders offering a wide range of fresh produce, meat, fish, cheese, baked goods, clothing, souvenirs and much more. The lively atmosphere inside Cardiff Central Market makes it an ideal place for tourists and locals alike to experience authentic Welsh culture at its best. Whether you’re looking for traditional Welsh cakes or want to try some local delicacies like laverbread or cockles, this market has got you covered.

One of the standout features of Cardiff Central Market is its beautiful Victorian architecture which includes a stunning glass roof that lets natural light flood into the building. The intricate ironwork on display throughout the market adds to its charm and character. Aside from food stalls and shops selling various goods, visitors can also find cosy cafes where they can relax with a cuppa while taking in all that Cardiff Central Market has to offer. It’s definitely worth visiting if you’re looking for an authentic taste of Wales!

7. Cardiff Castle 

Cardiff Castle, located in the heart of the city, is a must-visit attraction for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. The castle was built in the 11th century by Norman invaders on top of a Roman fort. One of the most striking features of Cardiff Castle is its Victorian Gothic revival architecture. The interiors are just as fascinating with intricately decorated rooms like the Arab Room and Banqueting Hall.

While exploring this historic site, visitors can also take part in guided tours to learn about its rich past. Some notabl  events that have taken place at Cardiff Castle include hosting King Edward VIII’s investiture ceremony and being used as an air raid shelter during World War II. Apart from admiring the stunning interior design and learning about its history, there are many other activities to enjoy within its walls. Visitors can attend concerts or outdoor cinema screenings held regularly within its grounds or simply relax with a picnic while taking in the picturesque views. Cardiff Castle offers a unique glimpse into Welsh history and culture making it one of the top things to do when visiting Cardiff.

8. Principality Stadium

Located in the heart of Cardiff, Principality Stadium is a world-renowned sports and entertainment venue. The stadium can seat up to 74,500 spectators and has hosted numerous high-profile events such as Rugby World Cup 2015 and UEFA Champions League Final 2017. With its state-of-the-art facilities, it’s no wonder why Principality Stadium is one of the most iconic venues in Wales. From the retractable roof that allows games to be played in any weather conditions to the natural grass playing surface that provides an optimal game experience for players, everything about this stadium screams excellence.

But it’s not just about sports at Principality Stadium – musicians like Beyoncé and Ed Sheeran have performed there too! And with its central location within walking distance from shops and restaurants, visitors can easily make a day out of their trip to this impressive arena. Whether you’re a sports fan or simply looking for an exciting event space for your next big concert or conference, Principality Stadium should definitely be on your list of top things to do in Cardiff.

9. Castell Coch

Castell Coch, also known as the Red Castle, is a striking landmark located just north of Cardiff. This fairy-tale-like castle was built in the late 19th century on the site of an earlier medieval fortress. Designed by architect William Burges for John Crichton-Stuart, the third marquess of Bute, Castell Coch is a stunning example of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture. From its striking red exterior to its intricately decorated interior spaces, every detail has been carefully considered and executed with precision.

Upon entering Castell Coch, visitors are greeted by a grand staircase leading to lavishly decorated rooms including an impressive banqueting hall and ornate bedrooms. The castle’s intricate wood carvings and stained-glass windows are among some of its most notable features. In addition to touring the beautiful interiors of Castell Coch, visitors can enjoy panoramic views from its hilltop location overlooking the surrounding countryside. Guided tours are available throughout the year. Visiting Castell Coch is truly like stepping into a storybook world. Its unique design and rich history make it one of Cardiff’s must-see attractions for tourists and locals alike!

10. Mermaid Quay

Last but not least, we have the picturesque waterfront destination of Mermaid Quay. Located in Cardiff Bay, this bustling area features an array of restaurants, bars, shops and attractions that are sure to keep you entertained. Spend the day exploring the boutiques and art galleries before grabbing a bite to eat at one of the many eateries overlooking the water. Alternatively, catch a show at one of the theatres or take a boat tour around Cardiff Bay for fantastic views of the surrounding area.

No matter what your interests are, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Mermaid Quay. So be sure to add it to your list when visiting Cardiff!