Cardiff, Wales Cardid, city and capital of Wales. Cardiff exists as both a city and a county within the Welsh Unitary Government System of Local Government. It is located in the historic county of Morgannwg on the Bristol Channel at the mouth of the River Tuff, about 150 miles west of London. The origin of the name is disputed, but it is generally believed to be an English translation of the original Welsh title Caer-Taff (Fort on the Tough).
Culture & History
Cardiff has a lengthy history dating back at least 8,000 years, making it a populated area. You may still visit the city’s 900-year-old castle because the Romans thought the location was significant enough to warrant the construction of a fort there. Cardiff’s docks and neighboring coal mines helped to improve its economy in more recent times, transforming it into the thriving metropolis it is today.
Wales’s commercial, political, and economic center is Cardiff. It serves as the financial and commercial hub for Wales and is home to the Synedd Cymru (Welsh Parliament). Additionally, it draws a lot of domestic and foreign tourists. Cardiff is home to a number of well-known people in practically every industry, including football player Gareth Bale, novelist Roald Dahl, and businessman Sir Michael Moritz.
5 Reasons to Visit Cardiff
Cardiff Bay
The Cardiff Bay Restoration Project has transformed the waterfront area formerly known as Tiger Bay without losing its historic highlights. You can still see the splendid Norwegian church where the writer Roald Dahl was baptized, and his Neo-Gothic pier next to gleaming modern buildings such as the enormous Welsh Millennium Center and the Welsh National Assembly. I can.
Its musical legacy
The Cardiff area has produced some of the world’s top rock bands such as Super Furry Animals and Manic Street Preachers. The oldest record store in the world is here: Spillers Records in Morgan Arcade, founded in 1894. In addition to this, here are some of the best live music venues in Wales. Fans of rock, hip-hop, and alternative should try Womanby Street’s Full His Moon. Jazz lovers should visit Cafe His Jazz located in the Sandringham Hotel on St Her Mary Street. Or head to Clwb Ifor Bach to hear the latest local bands.
Non-stop shopping
His six Edwardian arcades in Cardiff are chock-full of bookstores, clothing stores, art galleries, and antique shops. When it’s time for a break, find the perfect cup of coffee at The Plan at Morgan Arcade.
Cardiff Castle
The city is famous for its five castles, Cardiff Castle being its crowning glory. Once home to the famous Bute family, the castle played a central role during the city’s most important period of growth, from the 19th century to the early 20th century. You can visit the charming apartments, stroll the gardens and attend one of the many concerts and events held on the palace grounds. 5. Great beaches nearby
Take the train to Barry Island for a taste of an authentic British seaside resort. Barry has shed his kitschy holiday camp label, and while you can still find must-see amusement parks and arcades, you’ll also discover a picturesque pier and one of Britain’s finest blue-flag beaches, Whitmore Bay. can.
Things to do in Cardiff
Cardiff Castle: Return to World War II
In the city center is Cardiff Castle. Take a guided tour of the house and discover the network of tunnels between the ground floor and the battlement floor, which was a WWII air raid shelter. Explore the amazing castle apartments and marvel at the opulent interiors. Savor the chef’s daily specials at Caffi’r Castell and enjoy stunning views of the castle’s three fortresses. Before you leave, pick up a variety of beautiful castle-themed souvenirs and gifts at the gift shop. The castle is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
Wales Millennium Center: The Ultimate Entertainment Experience
Located on Cardiff Bay, the Wales Millennium Center is known as one of the country’s premier performing arts centers and Cardiff’s major cultural landmark. The Wales Millennium Center covers nearly five hectares and hosts a wide range of performances, including music concerts, comedy shows, ballet performances, and music productions. Eat and drink at the Court Brasserie, and shop for lovely souvenirs at the Portmeirion Gift Shop.
National Museum Cardiff: an exclusive art center
Located in Cardiff’s impressive Civic Centre, the National Museum Center houses the country’s art, geological, natural history, and archaeological collections. Step back in time to when dinosaurs existed and marvel at the rich display of Bronze Age weapons and fossils. Admire a magnificent collection of pottery, sculptures, and paintings spanning five centuries. Worth noting is the spectacular collection of Impressionist art. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Doctor Who Experience: Who will save the universe?
This Doctor Who mecca sits next to the studio where the series was filmed. Join the adventure and travel the world of this famous BBC series. Find yourself on a real adventure trying to save the universe on board with Dr. Explore the exhibition halls and get a behind-the-scenes look at a variety of artifacts and props, including iconic costumes from 1963 to the present day. Get special gifts and souvenirs from the official Doctor Who shop. While you’re there, visit the World of Boats, which showcases a unique selection of ships from around the world.
Llandaff Cathedral: Stand the test of time
Located in the heart of the city, Llandaff Cathedral boasts magnificent medieval architecture. The cathedral was built in 1107 and is now a Grade I-listed building in the city of Llandaff. Marvel at Christ Carrying Christ, a stunning sculpture designed by Sir Jacob Epstein. A full tour of the cathedral is available, but be sure to book in advance. Llandaff Cathedral is open daily from 9 a.m. until the last service.
Where to eat in Cardiff?
Whether it’s fast food, curries, or haute cuisine, you’ll find it in Cardiff. Chain bars are popular. Try J.D. Wetherspoon’s Prince of Wales on St. Mary Street. Cavan Cardiff on Clifton Street offers vegetarian and vegan catering nightly. Curry fans can try fine dining at Mint and Mustard or Mango House. Looking for something special? Castell’s Restaurant at the Angel Hotel offers beautiful views of Cardiff Castle.
What about recreation?
Cardiff is well-known for its vibrant nightlife and bar culture. This covers pubs, clubs, and everything in between, so there is something for every student’s night out. As a cultural center, there is no shortage of concerts, comedy shows, or theater performances any night of the week.
What is the Best Time to Visit?
June to September are the best times of the year to travel, based on travel costs, weather, and peak travel times—all important things every traveler should know when visiting Cardiff. Average summer highs are around 19°C (66°F), but the hottest days of the year can reach 22°C (72°F). Winters are usually coldest in Cardiff, around 1°C (33°F). If you are a sun lover and want to visit Cardiff when the days are at their longest, consider visiting in July. If you don’t mind getting drenched, November is the wettest month of the year. So if you want to stay dry, visit her in April instead.
How to get to Cardiff?
- Plane
Cardiff Airport (CWL) is located in Vale, Glamorgan, just 12 miles southwest of the city. Buses from the airport to Cardiff Central and Cardiff Bay run every 20 minutes and cost £5 per ticket.
- Train
Cardiff is easily reached by train, as it is connected to the UK’s extensive rail network. All intercity trains stop at Cardiff Central Station, which is located in the heart of the city and close to many of the main attractions.
- Car
The easiest way to get to Cardiff from London and the southeast of England is via the M4 motorway and the Severn Bridge. The M4 is also a great route for drivers coming from Swansea and West Wales. If coming from the north or Scotland, take the M50 and M5 to join the M4 to Cardiff.
- Bus
If you’re on a budget, bus travel is an affordable alternative, with operators such as National Express and Megabus providing daily service into the city. A typical fare for the National Express from Victoria Coach Station in London is £12. National Express buses arrive at Sophia Gardens, a 15-minute walk from the city center. The Megabus service stops at Cardiff University, Park Place, near the entrance to Cathays Station. From there, you can catch the Arriva Trains Wales train to Cardiff Central for £2.40.
Living Expenses in Cardiff
Shopping avenue
Visit oddball stores like the Madame Fromage Cheese Shop in Castle Arcade, or visit Cardiff’s shopping centers to buy clothing, accessories, and technology. The largest indoor retail district in the United Kingdom is comprised of Queen Street, St. Mary’s Street, Hayes, and St. David’s Shopping Center. At Cardiff Central Market, peruse the Welsh slate crafts available, and browse the town’s gift shops for mementos.
Buying food and other
All of the major supermarkets in the UK have locations in Cardiff, along with late-night grocers and corner stores. The three most well-known supermarkets are Asda, Sainsbury’s, and Morrisons. Milk weighs 0.89 pounds per liter, while 12 eggs weigh 2.39 pounds.