Cardiff is one of the most exciting cities in the UK. It’s full of historic buildings, museums and galleries, and it’s also a great place to try new things like ice hockey or visit other places in Wales. Here are 5 things to do in Cardiff:
Techniquest
Techniquest is a children’s science museum that hosts interactive exhibits on everything from aviation to biology. It’s located in Cardiff Bay and has an outdoor play area, so your whole family can get involved! There are also cafes and gift shops for when you’re done exploring new worlds. The museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm, so you can plan your visit around lunchtime or afterward for an early evening stroll along the waterfront.
When you are done exploring science, why not explore Cardiff Bay afterwards? A popular tourist destination in it’s own right, this unique coastal location offers plenty of restaurants and bars as well as activities like water sports, sailing and kayaking. The bay also has an aquarium where you can learn more about marine life in the area. If you’re looking for a day at the beach, Cardiff Bay has one that’s only a short drive from the city and is perfect for swimming!
St. Fagans National History Museum
If you’re looking for a great day out, St. Fagans National History Museum is a definite must-see. It’s free and easy to get to, so it should be at the top of your list of things to do in Cardiff. The museum has a wide variety of interactive exhibits that will educate you and entertain you, all while giving you an insight into Welsh history and culture. There are also lots of things for kids to enjoy! For example:
- You can try on traditional costumes from around Wales
- Play games like “golf on the green” (a golf-like game played with long sticks) or “dragon boat racing” (a team sport involving paddling boats)
- Visit historical buildings like Glamorgan Castle which was originally built by Lord Rhys ap Gruffydd in 1277
Cardiff Castle
Right in the heart of the City sits majestic Cardiff Castle, a first Century Castle with an 11th Century keep. With beautiful gardens and historical tours, it’s one of Cardiff’s most popular attractions and often hosts special events. Definitely a must-see.
Shopping
The St. David’s shopping centre is the largest in Wales, housing over 180 shops and restaurants. It also contains a cinema, an aquarium and several floors of parking beneath it – but it’s definitely not the only place to shop. You’ll find most major chains in Cardiff, from John Lewis to Marks and Spencer, but also lots of trendy boutiques that are unique to the area.
Queen Street is Cardiff’s most famous shopping street and host to many independent boutiques from fashion to food – but perhaps best loved are the little arcades and walkways where you’ll find local gems, like Wally’s Delicatessen and Pretty Perfect Boutique.
However, it’s not all about the City Centre. Cardiff Bay has been revitalised as a tourist destination since 2000, with high end restaurants, bars and shops populating the waterfront area around Mermaid Quay, and Wellfield Road in Roath is a high street shopping destination in it’s own right, with high end independent shops and cafes.
Cardiff Devils Ice Hockey Team
If you are lucky enough to be visiting during a match, you should definitely head to the Ice Arena Wales to watch the Cardiff Devils. The city’s professional ice hockey team plays in the British Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL). The team was founded in 2003 and has won four league championships since then, including two in the last three years. It’s quite the experience to watch, be prepared for some gloves off action – but it’s often all in fun! The arena often opens up the rink after a game, you can hire skates and families head to the ice for some family fun after most games.
There are plenty of things to do in Cardiff
Cardiff is a great city to visit with many attractions and things to do.
For example, you can take advantage of the beautiful scenery by visiting Cardiff’s parks. In addition to the green spaces, Cardiff also has plenty of museums where you can learn more about Welsh history and culture.
We hope you enjoyed this list of 5 things to do in Cardiff. Please leave us a comment below and let us know what your favourite thing is!