Located in the South of Wales, Cardiff became famous for the production and exporting of coal in the 20th century. It is the largest city in Wales and home to a Russell Group University, Cardiff University, as well as the world-renowned Welsh rugby and football teams. Despite it being Europe’s youngest capital, Cardiff is bursting with things to do and see; read on for a selection of places we think you should check out when you are next visiting Cardiff.
1. Cardiff Castle
Wales is known for being the castle capital of the world, and there are three main popular castles in Cardiff, one of which is Cardiff Castle. Cardiff Castle is situated right in the centre of the city and is owned by Cardiff Council. The castle is a shell keep medieval castle that is over 2,000 years old, with a Victorian Gothic revival mansion on the grounds. Both attractions can be explored by guests where they can discover more about the site’s interesting history - it is a must see when visiting Cardiff.
2. Roath Park
Roath Park is one of the first public parks opened in Cardiff and to this day it is still quintessentially Victorian. With 130 acres of land, a large lake, and a couple of gardens including a botanic and wild garden, there are plenty of places to explore when taking a break from work during your business trip to Cardiff.
3. Wales Millennium Centre
The Wales Millennium Centre is the national art centre for Wales. It opened in 2004 and was built as a ‘stage for Wales’. The design of the building aimed to represent the natural and industrial landscape of Wales. The art centre showcases an array of shows including the Welsh National Opera, theatre performances and comedy. With a café, shop, as well as free public performances, it is the perfect place to take some time out during a business trip to Cardiff.
4. Taff Trail
The Taff Trail is a popular walking and cycling path for both locals and tourists visiting Cardiff. The path runs between Cardiff Bay and Brecon, alongside the River Taff. The 55-mile walk is popular due to the sights and scenery visitors see during the walk from mountains to waterfalls, and lots of picnic spots.
5. Senedd
When visiting Cardiff the Senedd, also known as Welsh Parliament, is a must visit - it is the assembly for all 60 Welsh MPs, but it is also open to the public to explore. Offering self-guided audio tours and guided tours around the building, and featuring exhibitions curated by both locals and national organisations, visitors can even observe Plenary - a meeting attended by all Welsh MPs.
6. Cardiff Bay
What was once a thriving port that exported coal across the world, Cardiff Bay has now become an urban waterfront, just a short bus journey from the city centre. The Bay area is filled with a range of activities to partake in as well as award-winning restaurants to enjoy. There is also a multitude of boat tours available whilst visiting Cardiff providing guests with beautiful views of the city from the waterfront. But if guests would prefer to be on land to enjoy the view, then visit El Puerto, a brasserie that overlooks the sea and serves fresh fish from the Welsh waters.
7. The Pierhead
Just around the corner from the Senedd is the Pierhead, one of Cardiff’s most recognisable landmarks, with a multi-directional clock face with a likeness to Big Ben! This grade I listed building hosts events and conferences as well as ‘light’ exhibitions; it is used in collaboration with the work at the Assembly.
8. Llandaff Cathedral
In the outskirts of Cardiff is Llandaff Cathedral, an Anglican cathedral and parish church which was founded in 1290. It stands on one of the oldest Christian sites in Britain and features beautiful grounds, architecture, and a historical artefacts –providing plenty to see when on a business trip to Cardiff.
9. National Museum
Located in the heart of Cardiff city centre, National Museum Cardiff exhibits five hundred years of paintings, artefacts, and ceramics from both Wales and around the world. It is noted for having a magnificent collection of impressionist art and features a selection of temporary exhibitions, as well as hosting events and talks, perfect for filling free time during a business trip to Cardiff.
10. Cardiff Market
Cardiff Market is an indoor Victorian market with over 200 stores each selling a range of things from fresh local Welsh produce to vintage clothing to street food. The market has been located there for over 100 years and those visiting Cardiff can still take in some of its original features.
11. Principality Stadium
Principality Stadium is the national stadium of Wales, home to the Welsh rugby team and the national football team games. On top of this the stadium hosts music concerts, tours of the full stadium, and conferences can even be held. Opened in 1999, it was the first stadium in the UK with a fully retractable roof!
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