Eat, drink, shop & play at Mermaid Quay, spend the day enjoying a leisurely lunch, delicious dinner or drinks with a view at one of our excellent restaurants, bars and cafés. Catch a film at Everyman Cinema or enjoy award-winning stand-up comedy at The Glee Club. Finally, why not relax and unwind on a scenic boat trip around the Bay, indulge in some shopping, or treat yourself to a pampering session at the award-winning Ken Picton Salon.
Bwytewch, yfwch a mwynhewch yng Nghei’r Fôrforwyn, gan dreulio’r diwrnod yn mwynhau cinio hamddenol, swper blasus neu ddiodydd gyda golygfa yn un o’n bwytai, bariau a chaffis rhagorol. Gwyliwch ffilm yn Sinema Everyman neu mwynhewch sioe gomedi stand-yp arobryn yn The Glee Club. Yn olaf, beth am ymlacio a dadflino ar daith cwch o amgylch y Bae, mwynhau ychydig o siopa, neu sesiwn faldod yn y Salon Ken Picton arobryn.
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“Cardiff
You’re missing out if your trip to Cardiff doesn’t include the Vale of Glamorgan—right next door with dynamic coastlines, rolling countryside, and a warm culture that shines through its people and places.
1. OUR BEACHES
The Vale is home to stunning beaches that everyone loves. For traditional family fun, head to Barry Island, famous for its beautiful beach and iconic Beach Huts at Whitmore Bay—also the filming location for Gavin and Stacey. Experience the breathtaking Glamorgan Heritage Coast, where 14 miles of natural beauty and cliff-top walks await. Don’t miss Penarth Pier, a majestic spot overlooking the Bristol Channel.
2. A WALKERS PARADISE
The Wales Coast Path stretches along our dramatic coastline, including 14 miles of the stunning Glamorgan Heritage Coast. Start with a leisurely stroll from Cardiff Bay to Penarth . For a more in-depth experience, explore our 10 Vale Trails, which lead you through beautiful landscapes and charming spots, complete with cozy cafés and pubs to recharge.
3. SPEND A PENNY OR TWO...
Whether you’re in Penarth, Cowbridge, Llantwit Major, or Barry, you’ll find fantastic shopping. Cowbridge offers a vibrant mix of independent shops, while Penarth is packed with delightful gifts and great eateries. Barry High Street was recently voted one of the UK’s top independent shopping destinations, and Llantwit Major combines shopping with the historic charm of its old town and St. Illtud’s Church.
4. PLACES TO EXPLORE
For a dose of culture, visit Fonmon Castle with its rich history and beautiful gardens, or enjoy scenic walks at Cosmeston Country Park Porthkerry Country Park offers stunning woodlands and coastal views, perfect for picnics. Don’t miss St. Donats Castle, Nash Point Lighthouse, and the National Trust’s Dyffryn House & Gardens. Discover Welsh history at various CADW sites and walk in the footsteps of Celtic saints at St. Illtyds Church. Finally, take in the charm of Penarth Pier.
5. FILM MAKERS DREAM
Barry is famously known for the beloved TV show Gavin and Stacey, attracting fans to filming locations like Marco’s Café and Gwen’s house. The Vale has also been a backdrop for popular shows like Doctor Who, Sherlock, Brave New World, and His Dark Materials
Ready to explore the Vale? You won’t want to leave Cardiff without experiencing all it has to offer!
@visitthevale / @ymweldarfro tourism@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk 01446 704867
www.visitthevale.com / www.ymweldarfro.com
This region is a foodie’s paradise with a host of fantastic restaurants, cafés and pubs – so make sure you bring a healthy appetite.
Only here for the weekend? Fear not! Here are some ideas for a memorable short break.
Culture vultures assemble! This region offers the perfect mix of galleries, museums, exhibitions and festivals.
The night-time economy here is thriving, packed with clubs, pubs, bars and live venues.
Although this region has more than enough to keep you busy, a journey further afield can be an adventure.
OPENING TIMES
10AM – 4PM
MONDAY –SUNDAY
In our fun, free and interactive galleries, discover how Cardiff was transformed from the small market town of the 1300s, to one of the world’s biggest ports in the 1900s, to the modern, cosmopolitan capital we know today.
Yn ein horielau sy’n hwyl, yn rhyngweithiol ac am ddim, gallwch ddysgu sut y trawsnewidiwyd Caerdydd o fod yn dref farchnad fach yn y 1300au i fod yn un o borthladdoedd mwyaf y byd yn y 1900au, i’r brifddinas fodern a chosmopolitaidd a welir heddiw.
Museum of Cardiff, The Old Library, The Hayes, Cardiff CF10 1BH Tel: 029 2034 6214
Amgueddfa Caerdydd, Yr Hen Lyfrgell, Yr Aes, Caerdydd CF10 1BH
Email: cardiffstory@cardiff.gov.uk | storicaerdydd@caerdydd.gov.uk | Web: www.cardiffmuseum.com Facebook: facebook.com/cardiffstory | Twitter: @thecardiffstory
This wonderful region draws visitors back like a magnet year after year
Welcome to Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan, a region which is constantly evolving and growing in terms of tourism and culture.
The £675 million St David’s shopping development has made Cardiff the number three for footfall and one of the top five shopping destinations in the UK.
Cardiff has always been the ‘15-minute city’, with everything within a stone’s throw of the city centre. Cardiff Castle, in the heart of the city, offers 2,000 years of history crowned by the magnificent 19th-century staterooms of the Marquess of Bute. Close by are the Principality Stadium and the must-visit National Museum Cardiff which houses one
of the finest collections of Impressionist works outside Paris.
A short walk, bus or taxi ride takes you from the city centre to Cardiff Bay, where cultural and sporting needs are catered for in equal measure. The Wales Millennium Centre is an arts village in its own right, with eight resident organisations, including Welsh National Opera and the BBC National Orchestra and Chorus of Wales.
The Vale of Glamorgan is the most southerly point in Wales, and stands in contrast to its neighbour, Cardiff. If you’re in the capital, take time to strike out a bit further and enjoy the stunning coast and countryside. Please enjoy your stay – and come back soon! ■
Yn 2024, dechreuodd y camerâu rolio unwaith eto ar Ynys y Barri wrth i griw Gavin & Stacey gyfarfod am y tro olaf am antur newydd sbon, gan greu cyffro ymhlith cefnogwyr y rhaglen sydd wedi bod yn aros am fwy o ddrama doniol, llinellau byth cofiadwy, ac efallai hyd yn oed “What’s occurin?” bach oddi wrth Nessa ei hun!
Yn seiliedig ar y rom-com rhwng hogyn digywilydd hwyliog o Essex a chariad y Barri Stacey, daeth Gavin & Stacey â nid yn unig eu anturiaethau doniol ond hefyd cyflwynodd y byd i wir seren y sioe—Ynys y Barri! Bellach yn fan enwog, mae’r cyrchfan arfordirol bywiog hwn wedi dod yn safle pererindod i gefnogwyr sy’n methu aros i ail-greu eiliadau eiconig a chymryd selfies yn y lleoedd ffilmio chwedlonol.
Awydd chwarae’r slotiau lle bu’r gang unwaith? Ewch draw i arcêd ar yr Ynys. Eisiau hel glecs dros paned o de? Caffi Marco yw’r lle i fod. Ac os ydych chi’n awchu am fwyd Prydeinig clasurol, peidiwch â methu Sglodion Boofy – y caffi pysgod a sglodion sy’n annwyl i Gavin and Stacey.
A beth yw ymweliad ag Ynys y Barri heb ddiwrnod ar y traeth? Gallwch chi amsugno’r haul, tasgu yn y môr, neu ymlacio ar y tywod euraidd. Gallwch hyd yn oed sefyll lle dechreuodd y cyfan, yn Y Sgwâr, lle neidiodd Stacey ar ‘Dave’s Coaches’ am ei chyfarfod cyntaf un gyda Gavin!
P’un a ydych chi’n gefnogwr enfawr neu dim ond eisiau diwrnod o hwyl yn y haul, mae gan Ynys y Barri bopeth. A’r rhan orau? Dim ond taith gyflym ar y trên o Gaerdydd yw hi – o fewn 30 munud, fe allech chi fod yn adeiladu cestyll tywod neu’n bwyta pysgod a sglodion yn eich cwt traeth eich hun.
‘What’s occurin? Llawer o hwyl ar Ynys y Barri! Dyna beth.
Ewch ati i gynllunio eich ymweliad a darganfod beth sy’n digwydd ar www.ymweldarfro.com/gavinastacey
@YmweldArFro tourism@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk www.ymweldarfro.com
In 2024, cameras rolled once again in Barry Island as the Gavin & Stacey crew reunited one last time for a brand-new adventure, sparking buzz among fans who’ve been eagerly awaiting more hilarious antics, unforgettable one-liners, and maybe even a cheeky “What’s occurin’?” from Nessa herself!
Based on the ultimate rom-com between a cheeky Essex lad and Barry’s sweetheart Stacey, Gavin & Stacey brought us not only their lovable misadventures but also introduced the world to the true star of the show—Barry Island!
Now a famous hotspot, this lively seaside resort has become a pilgrimage site for fans who can’t wait to recreate iconic moments and grab selfies at legendary filming locations. Fancy playing the slots where the gang once did? Head over to Island Leisure Amusement Arcade. Got a hankering for some gossip with a side of tea? Marco’s Café is the place to be.
And if you’re in the mood for classic British grub, don’t miss Boofy’s Chip Shop—the fish and chip haven loved by Gavin and Stacey. And what’s a visit to Barry Island without a day at the beach? You can soak up the sun, splash in the sea, or simply relax on the golden sands. You can even stand where it all began, at The Square, where Stacey hopped onto Dave’s Coaches for her very first meeting with Gavin!
Whether you’re a mega-fan or just want a day of fun in the sun, Barry Island’s got it all. And the best part? It’s just a quick hop from Cardiff—within 30 minutes, you could be building sandcastles or munching on fish and chips in your own beach hut.
What’s occurin’? A whole lot of fun at Barry Island!
Get planning your visit ‘now, in a minute’ and find out ‘what’s occurin’ at: www.visitthevale.com/ gavinandstacey
@VisitTheVale tourism@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk www.visitthevale.com
Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan offers an abundance of things to do with days out and top attractions for the whole family to enjoy
Looking to spend your days soaking up history in castles and stately homes? Not a problem. Rather spend your time communing with the countryside? You can do that too. Not only is the Vale of Glamorgan full of wild natural beauty, it’s also rich in history, and that means everything from ancient Roman sites to opulent mansions to coal mines. If that’s not enough for you, head to Cardiff for some world-class museums.
Cosmopolitan Cardiff offers everything from museums to historic sites, with some street art, sports venues and gardens thrown into the mix.
Cardiff owes much of its existence to the discovery of coal. In the heyday of ‘black
Cardiff Bay sits around the waters of a lagoon, corralled by the barrage
gold’, Cardiff exported millions of tons of coal annually, and one of the main beneficiaries was the Bute family – then owners of Cardiff Castle.
Beautiful buildings
The 3rd Marquess of Bute went on a massive spending spree, commissioning the renowned architect William Burges to oversee the ultimate fantasy castle makeover. A tour of the castle reveals in no uncertain terms how the upper crust lived in the late 19th century.
One of the city’s most beautiful buildings is Llandaff Cathedral. It’s set on one of the oldest Christian sites in Britain, dating back to the 6th century. Work began on the
current cathedral in 1107, spurred on by Bishop Urban, the first bishop appointed by the Normans. It’s particularly known for the splendid statue by Jacob Epstein, Christ in Majesty.
Cardiff Bay sits around the captive waters of a large lagoon, corralled by the barrage. Old and new cluster around the harbour, including the Grade 1-listed Pierhead Building, and the attractive, white-washed Norwegian Church, giving a nod to the area’s seafaring past.
Landmarks & memorials
The waterfront’s most prominent modern landmark is the Senedd, the home of the Welsh Government. Designed by Richard Rogers it’s constructed from traditional Welsh materials such as slate and oak.
Combining a stroll with some art appreciation is always a good idea, and you can discover some beautiful pieces around Cardiff Bay. They include People Like Us in Mermaid Quay, a bronze sculpture of a couple and their dog; and the touching Merchant Seaman’s Memorial in front of the Senedd, which features a timeless face on the hull of a sunken ship.
A statue of Cardiff-born composer Ivor Novello sits behind the Pierhead Building;
while Mahatma Gandhi sits out on Lloyd George Avenue; and the World Harmony
Peace statue of a monk holding a flaming torch invites visitors to hold the torch and offer a silent prayer for peace.
The eclectic National Museum Cardiff houses one of the largest collections of Impressionist paintings outside Paris, and there’s also a stunning natural history section. Follow the poignant story of the stranded leatherback turtle; witness how the basking shark filters its food; or follow Wales’s l
OPENING TIMES
10AM – 4PM
MONDAY –SATURDAY
As a visitor to Cardiff you want to make the most of your time here and the Museum of Cardiff is a great starting point. Located in the Grade-II* listed Old Library building in the city centre, the museum tells the story of the city from the perspective of those who know it best – its people.
Since opening in 2011, the Museum of Cardiff has been welcoming visitors from around the world. With a packed diary of events and exhibitions, there’s always something new to experience. Exploring the museum and its galleries couldn’t be easier. Set over two floors, the museum is divided into distinct areas, allowing you to discover the history of the city and the stories it has to tell.
There is always something new to see in our temporary exhibition space, so check our website cardiffmuseum.com to find out what’s on.
City Showcase is a gallery for community groups to share their Cardiff stories and create their own exhibitions.
The beautiful tiled corridor was the original entrance to the Old Library, in which the Museum of Cardiff is housed, and demonstrates Victorian Cardiff’s wealth and ambition.
Discover how Cardiff transformed from a small market town in the 1300s, to one of the world’s largest ports in the 1900s, to the modern, cosmopolitan capital we know today. The Cardiff in Context gallery takes you on a journey through the ages, filled with objects, photographs and film.
Don’t miss the miniature doll’s house that rotates to show the passing generations of a typical Cardiff home. The tiny rooms light up and come alive with intricate period design.
City Lab is a unique area enabling visitors to investigate Cardiff’s rich heritage. Here you will find ‘Action Stations’ with puzzles and games that will help you piece together Cardiff’s past.
Come and have a look for yourself and don’t miss the ceramic drinking fountains and other decorative features throughout the building. Once you’ve explored the museum it’ll be time for you to go out and discover Cardiff for yourself.
A hand-held audio guide featuring Detective Dewi, who will take kids on an adventure around the museum, looking for clues and solving puzzles. The interactive guide is a great way of encouraging children to explore and learn.
Adult audio guides are also available in English, Welsh, French, Spanish, Arabic and Mandarin Chinese. A British sign language guide and an enhanced audio description guide are also available.
The Museum is available for hire. Why not hold your next event in a truly unique space? Contact us for details.
Museum of Cardiff, The Old Library, The Hayes, Cardiff CF10 1BH Tel: 029 2034 6214
Email: cardiffstory@cardiff.gov.uk | storicaerdydd@caerdydd.gov.uk Web: www.cardiffmuseum.com | www.amgueddfacaerdydd.com Facebook: facebook.com/cardiffstory | Twitter: @thecardiffstory
incredible journey from the Big Bang to the present day, in the Evolution of Wales gallery. The Clore Discovery Centre is a fun, hands-on children’s gallery where kids can run riot.
Go back in time at St Fagans National Museum of History, which is just a short drive or bus ride from the centre. More than 40 historic buildings have been re-erected in 100 acres of parkland – stepping inside them is like climbing inside a time machine.
A row of six terraced cottages shows how life evolved from the mid-19th century to the 1970s, and you can freak out the kids by introducing them to the strict discipline of a Victorian school. There’s also a working bakery, a Tudor merchant’s house and a wonderful late-12th-century church.
Science centre
Travelling with the kids? There’s no reason for them to cry boredom when they come to Cardiff, especially if they’d like to fire a rocket, race an electric car, watch a bubble race, or test their reaction times. They can do all this at Techniquest, the UK’s longest-established science centre. It boasts some 160 handson exhibits, which do a pretty good job of entertaining kids and adults alike.
Wales is famous for its rugby and one of the best places to see a match is the Principality
Stadium, a dramatic modern building on the banks of the River Taff, seating almost 75,000. It’s the country’s national stadium, home of Welsh Rugby Union and a fantastic place to soak up all the excitement of the rugby – particularly during the Six Nations. Can’t score a ticket to a match? Make time for a stadium tour. You’ll get to visit the dressing rooms, hang out in the VIP box and stride through the tunnel towards the pitch.
With bucolic countryside and a windswept coastline, the Vale is ripe for hikes and bike l
Mae Sir Pen-y-bont yn chwa o awyr iach.
Mae’r draethlin yn gartref i syrffio gydol y flwyddyn, traethau baner las a golff o’r radd flaenaf. Mae harddwch naturiol mewndirol yn frith o safleoedd a chwedlau hanesyddol.
Bridgend County is a breath of fresh air. The shoreline is home to year-round surfing, blue-flag beaches and world-class golf. Inland, natural beauty is dotted with historic sites and legends.
Look closely and you’ll find the spirit of a nation. Everything that people enjoy and expect from Wales is alive here in the county of Neath Port Talbot.
A place of extreme diversity, where urban east meets rural west of Wales. Valleys and coast, waterfalls and waves, beauty and grit, all combine to form an unexpected and unforgettable experience. Walk, ride, swim or surf, to explore our natural theatre here in the Dramatic Heart of Wales
Our coastline is one of dramatic contrasts, Aberavon Seafront, has one of Wales’ longest sandy beaches, backed by a modern easily accessible promenade
that’s great for a leisurely stroll, or cycle. Aberavon has all the essentials for a family day: cafes, ice cream parlours, and restaurants. For something a little more active try the Adventure Golf Course, Aqua Splash, Skateboard Park, Adventure Playground or Toddler Playground.
Our heritage lives on at Margam Country Park with its imposing Castle, Cistercian Abbey ruins and 18th century Orangery. Within its 800 acres of beautiful parkland you will discover child size cottages, an adventure playground, train rides, farm trails, wild deer and plenty of outdoor pursuits including a zip wire, paddle boarding and pedal powered go karting.
Our five valleys have seen a lot over the centuries with the comings and goings of Romans, monks and coal barons. The rise and fall of industrial empires. They’re the birthplace of poets, performers and a patron saint.
Coal mining came late to the Afan Valley, and left early: so we did something else instead! We turned it into a huge adventure playground for outdoor activities, and Afan Forest Park is now a brilliant place for hiking, leisure cycling, and mountain biking, where you will find some of the most popular mountain bike trails in the UK. Re-live coal mining history at the South Wales Miners Museum
The Vale of Neath was the most beautiful and interesting valley in the world, according to 19th-century naturalist and explorer Alfred Russel Wallace. The former mines, mills, metal works and abbey are now picturesque woodland ruins, set around canals and waterfalls. For a glimpse of a natural wonder, visit the impressive Melincourt Waterfall at Resolven.
The Dulais Valley was once home to the world’s deepest anthracite coal mine, our miners and tinplate workers have long since left the valley. Today it’s altogether more tranquil. A little further up the valley you will find Sarn Helen an ancient Roman Road in the village of Banwen – there’s good evidence that this was the birthplace of St Patrick, Patron Saint of Ireland.
The Swansea Valley is set in rural splendour with lots of small villages and wildlife in abundance. The Swansea Canal provides the perfect setting for a wildlife walk as does the pretty wooded valley at Cwm Du Glen. The vibrant valley town of Pontardawe is a cultural hotspot of music, arts and festivals.
The Upper Amman Valley is the most rural and Welsh-speaking of all our valleys, and sits at the gateway to the Black Mountains in the Brecon Beacons National Park. The village of Tairgwaith is a hotbed for the sport of harness racing, offering a quirky change to traditional horse racing.
Neath Port Talbot is located in the centre of south Wales only 30 minutes by car from Cardiff, Carmarthenshire, Swansea and the Gower Peninsular, and only a 50 minute drive from the Pembrokeshire coast. Our location as the Dramatic Heart of Wales makes us the perfect base for your next stay in the South Wales Region
VISITOR CENTRE CAF É WALKS SAILING PADDLEBOARDING CANOEING KAYAKING COLD WATER DIPPING SWIMMING
rides. But history buffs will be kept happy too, thanks to a heap of ancient houses, towns and villages.
The Taff Trail wends its way for 55 miles from Cardiff inland to the attractive market town of Brecon, in the heart of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (formally known as Brecon Beacons National Park). Bikes can be hired by the hour from Pedal Power in Cardiff if you feel like cycling part of the trail – it’s flat and easy, as it follows the river Taff through the city.
Coastal scenery
A must-do for outdoorsy types is the Glamorgan Heritage Coast, 14 miles of stunning coastal scenery stretching from Aberthaw to the seaside town of Porthcawl. The area’s weather-worn limestone cliffs, open stretches of golden sand, wind-gnarled wooded valleys and attractive pubs and villages make this area irresistible.
The best way to travel is on foot, taking time to absorb the peace and tranquillity and watch the seabirds soaring. The dune system at Merthyr Mawr is spectacular, and has been designated as a national nature reserve, sheltering rare butterflies and moths, as well as the enigmatic glow worm. Nearby is the quaint thatched village of the same name, and
THE METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL OF ST DAVID
Welcome to the Metropolitan Cathedral Church of St David, Cardiff.
a ruined castle with stepping stones across the River Ogmore.
If you fancy yourself as a surfer dude, head for Rest Bay in Porthcawl, or for a gentler, family day out try Jackson Bay in Barry. Barry Island is also famous for its funfair and the fact that much of cult comedy Gavin and Stacey was filmed there.
An adventurous 12-mile round trip from Cardiff takes you to Castell Coch (Red Castle), an enchanting structure perched on a treeclad hillside. This was yet another flight of l
The cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Cardiff and is located in the heart of Cardiff City Centre.
The cathedral is also home to the Metropolitan Cathedral Choir, who sing at liturgies and perform concerts within the Cathedral Church.
TIMES OF MASS
Saturday – 5.30pm (Vigil)
Sunday – 11.00am (Solemn) & 5.30pm (Quiet)
Holy Days of Obligation – 6pm (Vigil), 12:30pm & 6pm
Weekdays – Monday to Friday 12.45pm, Saturday 10.00am
SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION
Monday to Friday – 12.00pm to 12.30pm
Saturday – 10.30am to 12.00pm & 4.30pm to 5.15pm
Sunday – 10am to 10.30am
EXPOSITION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT
Saturday – 10.30am to 12.00pm
Sophia Gardens is a 15,000-seater stadium in the centre of Cardiff and proud home of Glamorgan County Cricket Club, Welsh Fire and England International cricket matches. The venue has state-of-the-art player facilities, a media centre, and conference, event and hospitality spaces attracting visitors to Wales from around the world. Although a short walk from Cardiff Central train station, Sophia Gardens is also nestled in the idyllic Bute Park. It’s within easy reach of the M4 motorway with ample parking and easily accessible by air, train and road for UK-wide groups as well as overseas visitors.
Whether you choose the intimate exclusivity of a private executive box or the vibrant atmosphere of one of the superb hospitality lounges, you are guaranteed an unforgettable matchday experience. Glamorgan’s award-winning hospitality elevates every moment, allowing you to indulge in luxury while connecting with
like-minded individuals. Immerse yourself in the excitement of the game, all while enjoying the comfort of a relaxed, sophisticated setting designed to impress your clients and guests. From the finest cuisine to impeccable service, every detail is crafted to ensure your experience is nothing short of extraordinary.
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CARDIFF – SOUTH WALES
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BEDFORDSHIRE • BERKSHIRE • BIRMINGHAM • BRISTOL & BATH, SOMERSET • BUCKINGHAMSHIRE
CAMBRIDGESHIRE • CARDIFF, SOUTH-WALES • CHESHIRE • CORNWALL • CUMBRIA
DERBYSHIRE • DEVONSHIRE • DORSET
ESSEX
GLOUCESTERSHIRE
HAMPSHIRE • HEREFORDSHIRE • HERTFORDSHIRE
KENT
LANCASHIRE • LEEDS • LEICESTERSHIRE • LINCOLNSHIRE • LIVERPOOL • LONDON
MANCHESTER
NEWCASTLE • NORTHAMPTONSHIRE • NORFOLK • NORTHUMBERLAND • NOTTINGHAMSHIRE
OXFORDSHIRE
SCOTLAND • SHEFFIELD • SHROPSHIRE • STAFFORDSHIRE • SUFFOLK • SURREY • SUSSEX
TEES VALLEY
WARWICKSHIRE • WILTSHIRE • WORCESTERSHIRE • WREXHAM
YORKSHIRE
fancy constructed by William Burges for the super-rich 3rd Marquess of Bute, who used it as an occasional summer residence.
A short train ride from Cardiff is moated Caerphilly Castle – a real medieval must-see and the second largest castle in Britain. It featured in BBC TV series Merlin and has a wonky tower to rival Pisa’s. It also hosts outdoor performances and cinema.
Also within easy reach of Cardiff are the spectacular remains of Tintern Abbey, one of the UK’s most dramatic monastic ruins, set in the lush Wye Valley. This Cistercian monastery was wealthy and successful until it was laid waste by Henry VIII, when he embarked upon the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 1530s. The ruins are so atmospheric, they’ve inspired a poem by Wordsworth, a famous painting by Turner and a music video by Iron Maiden.
The Roman remains at Caerleon are among the finest in Europe. Once an important legionary fortress, Isca, the remains incorporate a Roman Baths Museum, where clever technology gives the visitor a flavour of their former grandeur.
The baths were created to give homesick soldiers a home from home, as was the colossal amphitheatre, seating 6,000 spectators. Now people sunbathe and picnic
on its grassy perimeter, a peaceful scene that belies its grisly gladiatorial past.
Nearby Newport has several attractions, including the National Trust-owned mansion, Tredegar House, with its dazzling state rooms, exquisitely carved oak panelling and glorious parkland.
To see the opposite end of the spectrum, a trip to Big Pit National Coal Museum in Blaenavon, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is well worth it. An underground visit gives insight into how it might have l
Discover this vibrant nature reserve, where rare Shrill Carder Bees play, Bitterns boom and Starlings swirl in the skies above. With scenic trails, fun family activities and a delicious café, you can be sure of a great day out.
Plan your visit today
amgueddfa.cymru museum.wales
Amgueddfa Genedlaethol Gaerdydd a Sain Ffagan Amgueddfa Werin Cymru National Museum Cardiff and St Fagans National Museum of History
Mynediad am ddim, ond mae’n bosibl y codir tâl ar gyfer rhai digwyddiadau ac arddangosfeydd.
Free entry. Charges may apply for some events and exhibitions.
Email: enquiries@beaconparkboats.com Tel: +44 (0)1873 858277
Family run, 5 star boating holidays on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, just an hour from Cardiff.
With 19 totally unique luxury narrowboats, self-contained and packed with character, we offer an experience you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you need a four-poster bed, real wood burning stove or an on-board hot tub, we want you to feel inspired to get out there and see the Wales you love from a new perspective.
Whether your passion is stargazing, relaxing in a cosy pub or exploring the local trails, a holiday cruise through the stunning scenery of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal is an experience that you can shape to best suit you. Choose where you wake up each morning, take your time and be immersed in the beauty of the canal from the comfort of a hand-crafted, charming narrowboat. You don’t have to go far to get away from it all.
If a day trip is more your style, we offer a variety of options; day boats, pedal boats and canoes for an intimate experience on the canal. However, you want to do it, we can get you out on the water and as close to nature as you can get.
www.beaconparkdayboats.co.uk
The Boathouse, Hillside Road, Llangattock, Powys, NP8 1EQ, Wales, UK www.beaconparkboats.com
Flat Holm conserves the island’s natural features, from grasslands to seabird colonies
felt to toil below ground for a living. The tours are conducted by ex-miners, who are knowledgeable and happy to answer questions.
Blaenavon Ironworks is another gem. Established in the late 18th century, it was one of the leading Welsh ironworks, and played a key role in the technological development of the iron industry during the Industrial Revolution.
The market town of Cowbridge lies in the centre of the rural ‘Vale’, and boasts medieval town walls, a physic garden and some cool pubs and delis. Penarth, just around the headland from Cardiff Bay, is a charming town with a beautifully restored Victorian Pier, clifftop walks and ornamental gardens. Penarth Pier’s crowning glory is a fabulous Art Deco pavilion housing a cinema, tea house and gallery.
Cardiff and Penarth overlook the island of Flat Holm, a nature reserve which welcomes visitors with trips running from Cardiff between March and October. Flat Holm is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest and its Flat Holm Project conserves the island’s natural and cultural features, from maritime grassland to Victorian barracks and seabird colonies to wartime bunkers.
There’s no chance of being bored in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan. From history to nature to culture, it has you covered. ■
More than just a good day out
Cardiff Bay is one of the city’s most cosmopolitan destinations, offering plenty of exciting opportunities for visitors of all ages to spend an enjoyable day and night. Formerly a thriving tidal dock, the area is now a vibrant, popular waterfront destination.
The Grade I listed Pierhead Building and the attractive, white-washed Norwegian Church give a nod to the area’s seafaring past, whilst the waterfront’s most prominent modern landmark, the Senedd, is the home of the Welsh Government.
Mermaid Quay and The Red Dragon Centre offer a great selection of restaurants, bars, cafes, boutique shopping and entertainment offerings.
While Giovanni’s in the Bay provides a little taste of Italy overlooking the fabulous Roald Dahl Plass and Lo
Lounge offers stunning sunset bay views and hosts a full calendar of exciting events.
Top attractions to visit include Techniquest Science Discovery Centre, Craft in the Bay – a unique space selling high quality craft and art by members of the Makers Guild in Wales, the Norwegian Church Arts Centre, and Wales Millennium Centre – a stunning international arts centre.
Cardiff International Pool and Gym is also a great activity hot spot and boasts an impressive leisure pool with slides and features.
Walkers and cyclists will not be disappointed thanks to the Cardiff Bay Barrage and 10km, circular Bay Trail, while wildlife enthusiasts should make a visit to Flat Holm Island which lies just five miles from the mainland. Cardiff Boat and
Cardiff Cruises also offer a fabulous range of boating activities, heritage tours, private hire, and trips to the city centre.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in the Cardiff Bay area, then there are plenty of fantastic options to choose from.
Voco St. David’s Hotel offers a stylish five-star spa hotel waterfront experience. The Coal Exchange Hotel is a listed building located in the heart of the bay and offers guests the opportunity to take a step back in time and explore one of Wales’ most significant buildings. Future Inn Cardiff boasts spacious bedrooms, free parking and an onsite restaurant, whilst the Holiday Inn Express is ideally located between Cardiff Bay and the city centre.
For more information about things to do and events around the Bay, head to the Visit Cardiff Bay website.
https://x.com/VisitCardiffBay
Our top things to see and do when visiting this picturesque region
Discover science with the kids I Take the kids to Techniquest, the UK’s longest-established science centre, that has been bringing the joys of the scientific world to a wider audience for more than 30 years. If you’d like to fire a rocket, watch a bubble race, check yourself out in a distorting mirror, or test your reaction times, then this is the place for you. Adults find the place as engrossing as the kids do.
The city’s network of Victorian and Edwardian arcades have helped Cardiff build a reputation as one of the UK’s top shopping destinations, and house dozens of fantastic independent shops, restaurants and cafés. The arcades are also delightful architecturally.
The Wales Millennium Centre is a lively arts village in its own right. Home to world-renowned Welsh National Opera, visiting West End musicals and eight other organisations, including the BBC National Orchestra of Wales. Or you could book a concert at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama’s dazzling auditorium. The acoustics are perfect for classical music.
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Visit Llandaff Cathedral and see Jacob Epstein’s famous Christ in Majesty, a moving statue of the tortured Christ on the cross. The attractive Llandaff village also has a green surrounded by handsome stone houses, atmospheric ruins, cafes, pubs, restaurants and shops, to add a lighter note to the jaunt.
5
Walk the Glamorgan heritage coast
The Glamorgan Heritage Coast is the perfect place for a day out whether you want to walk the stunning coast path, indulge in a spot of surfing, or simply chill out on the beach and have a swim. Summer or winter, the jagged cliff scenery is awe inspiring.
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See fine art collections
Thanks to the generosity of wealthy spinster sisters, Gwendoline and Margaret Davies, who reputedly inherited £500,000 each – a fabulous figure in 1908 – the National Museum Cardiff houses a fine collection of Impressionist paintings. Works the sisters donated to the gallery include Renoir’s tender portrait of the girl in blue, La Parisienne; three of Monet’s Waterlilies series; along
with magnificent pieces by Pissarro, Manet, Sisley, Morisot, Cezanne and Van Gogh.
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Cycle the Taff Trail
Hire a bike from Pedal Power in Pontcanna and take a spin along the Taff Trail. If you are bursting with energy, you can pedal all the way to the market town of Brecon in the heart of the beautiful Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (formally known as Brecon Beacons National Park) – a one-way journey of 55 miles.
Dyffryn Gardens in the Vale of Glamorgan is a magnificent 55-acre Edwardian garden
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Discover Cardiff’s ancient heritage k Cardiff Castle presents a fairy-tale presence, right in the heart of the city, overlooking the main shopping centres. The Castle you see today, is at once a Roman fort, an impressive Norman castle and an extraordinary Victorian Gothic fantasy palace, created for one of the world’s richest men.
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democracy in action
While you’re there, visit the Senedd, the seat of Welsh democracy. Wales narrowly voted for devolution in September 1997 – following which, then First Minister, Rhodri Morgan, aimed to put “clear red water” between Wales and Westminster. The Senedd building, designed by Richard Rogers (mastermind of the iconoclastic Pompidou Centre in Paris),
was the first step on that journey.
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Glorious gardens I Dyffryn Gardens in the Vale of Glamorgan, owned by the National Trust, is a magnificent 55-acre Edwardian garden with an arboretum full of beautiful mature trees; a lovely Italianate terrace; formal lawns, waterways and fountains. There’s also a splendid mansion presiding over the lawns, which is slowly being restored to its former majesty and is closed to the public. ■
Shopaholics will love this region for its eclectic mix of boho-chic boutiques, high-street staples and quirky independents
Shopping in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan is a whole heap of fun. The city’s nice and compact and many of the retail areas are pedestrianised, so you can shop until you drop but not until you’re footsore! Out in the Vale, there are farm shops, antique shops and boutiques, set deep in the bucolic countryside.
Cardiff has a strong, independent spirit and its shops are no different. You’ll find plenty of quirky gems all over the city, selling everything from vinyl to clothing. Head away from the big smoke and into the countryside and you’ll find all the fine food and quirky gift
Morgan Arcade is home to many independent stores & boutiques
stores you could wish for.
If you love a bit of individuality when it comes to shopping, make a beeline for Cardiff’s Grade 2-listed Victorian and Edwardian arcades, and the little shops within them. Some of the most eccentric offerings are housed under the glass-domed roof of the Castle Arcade.
Troutmark Books spreads out over two levels, selling an eclectic range of limitededition books and second-hand novels, while Rules of Play is devoted to computer, role play and board games. While you’re here,
check out Diba, which offers bespoke clothes for both kids and grown-ups, and has a nice line in leather goods. And don’t miss Wally’s Liquor Cellar, an offshoot of Wally’s famous independent deli in the Royal Arcade.
On the upper gallery, you’ll find Cardiff Violins, where walls of gleaming stringed instruments create a fiddler’s Nirvana. As well as buying a new instrument, you could also get your old one restored or repaired. An incredible 14 rooms on the arcade balcony are devoted to this special business.
Coffee Barker, with its candlelit tables out in the arcade and its cosy corners inside, makes a great pitstop for coffee or a bite to eat. They serve breakfast and light lunches and, if you fancy something a little stronger to fortify you, they also own the Gin and Juice bar, which stocks an awe-inspiring 350 gins.
Check out Castle Welsh Crafts, opposite Cardiff Castle, who specialise in handcrafted, traditional Welsh lovespoons alongside a fantastic range of Welsh gifts and locally made crafts.
The oldest of Cardiff’s arcades is the Royal Arcade, linking St Mary Street and The Hayes. Built in 1858, its façade reflects the opulence of Victorian architecture. Some of the original shop fronts inside still survive too.
You can’t visit the Royal Arcade without
stopping to salivate at Wally’s Delicatessen and Kaffeehaus. A Cardiff institution for more than 50 years, it stocks over 100 salamis and cold meats alone. Over the years, it’s won a whole host of awards, including the Best Deli in Wales award and the Small Retailer of the Year award in the Observer Food Monthly magazine. Sadly, the eponymous Wally has passed away, but his son is carrying on the family tradition in style and a Viennese-style café graces the upper level.
Eco-friendly gifts
For products that don’t cost the Earth, in any sense of the word, check out Ganesha Handicrafts, which stocks eco-friendly and Fairtrade goods, such as candles, carvings and cards.
If you want a break from all those emails, head to The Pen and Paper Stationery Company, where you can buy beautiful pens and paper and try your hand at writing a letter – if you can still remember how to do so! There are some pretty expensive pens here but think of them as a family heirloom and the price isn’t so eye-watering.
The Morgan Arcade sits alongside the Royal Arcade and houses its own collection of fascinating little stores. Spillers Records, the world’s oldest record shop, opened in 1894 l
L McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Bridgend j Morgan Arcade, Cardiff
30 traders under one roof in the pretty, historic market town of Cowbridge. An eclectic Aladdin's cave full of hidden treasures! Antiques, vintage, collectables, original rock and pop vinyl records, Welsh interest books, pottery, coins, militaria, jewellery and a wide selection of unique hand-crafted gifts... the list goes on!
Soak up the nostalgic music and atmosphere in Lilly’s Diner. One of the many independent shops and eateries in town.
Customer Review 2024
“Wonderful place to visit, with many quirky items for sale. There is a lovely cafe too with fantastic cakes”
Open 7 days a week
10-5 Mon-Sat, 11-4 Sundays & Bank Holidays.
Tel. 01446 771191
Find us just off the High Street, tucked behind The Duke of Wellington pub, Cowbridge CF71 7BB.
www.happydaysvintagehomestore.co.uk
in the former Queens Arcade. It moved to The Hayes in the 1940s, then to Morgan Arcade in 2010, where it still carries on its proud tradition of free gigs and eclectic music. It’s veritable vinyl heaven.
The Morgan Arcade is also home to other independent stores, luxury boutiques and some high-end chains. Browse ladieswear at Joules or you could also visit the Dr Martens store, if you fancy some trendy leather boots.
If you’re into vintage, make for The High Street Arcade where you can do some serious browsing at Hobo’s Vintage Clothing, which bills itself as a ‘deliciously different’ vintage clothing shop.
If you’re in the market for some 90s trainers or a shell suit, this is the place to come. Rather get something for the kids? Check out Galactic Attic, a treasure trove of toys.
Refreshment comes in the form of the New York Deli, where you can make like you’re in Manhattan and order a salt beef sandwich or a bagel. For something a little more refined, Barkers Tea House serves tea, cakes, light lunches and full-on afternoon tea. If you’re after some baked goods, head to The Wyndham Arcade to find Waterloo Tea, a fabulous tea shop with its own bakery.
Bargain hunters can have all kinds of fun at the flea market extraordinaire that is Jacobs
Antique Centre. Tucked away near Cardiff Central railway station on West Canal Wharf, it’s home to 30 individual stalls, spread out over three floors and selling everything from vintage fashion to comics to vinyl. They occasionally put on events, such as rooftop cinema screenings.
Markets & food
Step back into another eccentric world with a visit to the Cardiff Central Market, a handsome Victorian covered shopping centre that’s home to an oddball selection of retailers. It’s great for a wander and buying something is practically inevitable. The market has been trading since the 1700s, and while you can’t purchase a whole cow, like back in the old days, you can still sift through jewellery, plants, crafts, leather goods and homeware.
If you’re a foodie, you’ll be extra happy. There’s an excellent butcher and fishmonger here, as well as a cheese counter, vegetarian and vegan stalls and a bread stall selling mountains of freshly baked crusty rolls.
Follow the smell of baking and join the queue at Cardiff Bakestones, where they produce a range of Welsh cakes and other tempting treats right in front of you. If you’re keen to sample traditional Welsh fare, you can settle in for a full Welsh breakfast l
Anne Morgan Jewellery is a multi award-winning gallery that is both unique and distinctive for its creative and sustainable approach to making, curating and showcasing the finest handmade, contemporary jewellery designs.
Located in the vibrant artistic seaside town of Penarth, the gallery serves as a haven for both emerging and established jewellery designers, as well as a treasure trove for jewellery lovers. Its ethos revolves around the celebration of unique, handcrafted pieces that tell a story, emphasising the importance of individuality in a world dominated by mass production.
At the heart of the gallery's mission is a dedication to ethical practices. Anne Morgan believes in sourcing materials responsibly, prioritising recycled metals and ethically mined gemstones. This approach not only reduces environmental impact but also supports fair trade practices, ensuring that artisans and miners are treated fairly and sustainably.
Anne Morgan is herself a celebrated figure in the world of contemporary jewellery, whose signature style is renowned for its use of texture and reticulation. Anne’s own collections often feature organic shapes inspired by the natural world, and her ability to transform precious metals and gemstones into wearable art reflects her commitment to creativity and personal expression.
Alongside Anne's collections, the gallery showcases the work of over 40 of the finest independent designer makers from the UK and beyond, as well as exclusive curated exhibitions. The highlight of the calendar is their annual Sp-Ring Exhibition which has featured some of the most celebrated names in contemporary jewellery design, contributing their most innovative pieces to a showcase that draws attention throughout South Wales and beyond.
In addition to showcasing jewellery, Anne Morgan Jewellery offers bespoke design services, where customers can work closely with designers to create personalised pieces that reflect their individual style and story. This commissioning process highlights Anne Morgan's belief in meaningful, personal connections between art and the wearer.
The gallery's inviting atmosphere and personalised service create a memorable experience for visitors. Whether you're looking for a one-of-a-kind piece to commemorate a special occasion or simply wish to explore the beauty of handmade contemporary jewellery, Anne Morgan Jewellery is a must-visit destination. With its blend of artistry, sustainability, and community spirit, the gallery not only showcases beautiful jewellery but also embodies a philosophy of mindful creation. ■
Opening hours: Tues-Sat: 10am-5pm
Secrets of Wales, our vibrant shop that opened in November 2022, has recently relocated to the beautiful Morgan Arcade. This move marks an exciting new chapter, allowing us to showcase the finest local talent and craftsmanship in the perfect setting.
The Morgan Arcade has been a cornerstone of Cardiff shopping since 1899. Its historical charm and bespoke offerings create the perfect backdrop for Secrets of Wales and we are delighted to call it our new home.
In our new space, we will continue to offer a diverse range of products from small businesses across Wales. From artisanal condiments celebrating Welsh flavors to beautifully handcrafted items and unique artworks by local artists, our shop is a treasure trove of creativity.
We invite visitors to discover the best that Wales has to offer. Committed to connecting customers with the stories behind each product, we emphasise the importance of supporting local businesses, so whether you’re searching for a special gift or a treat for yourself, we promise a unique shopping experience that highlights the heritage of Wales. ■
Unit 4 Barry Lane, Morgan Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1FR 02920 022497 secretofwales.co.uk enquiries@awelshsecret.co.uk
featuring laverbread (seaweed) at the Bull Terrier Cafe on the balcony upstairs, overlooking the market.
For more market action, join Cardiff’s hipsters at Corp Market, out on Cowbridge Road in Canton. A selection of independent traders centred around a bar and coffee shop, it’s the place to come for high quality, individual finds. Among the stylish traders are a Sicilian deli, a plant shop, a zero-waste food shop and a bookshop aimed at promoting marginalised voices.
In the Vale, Cowbridge is awash with independent shops. For beautiful flowers try Gail Armytage Florist or The Bay Tree, both of whom create stunning flower displays for local businesses.
The award-winning, colourful Pencil Case features gifts and stationery aimed at young people, and then there’s the lovely Elephant & Bun Delicatessen, as well as bookshops, boutiques, jewellery shops and galleries. The Welsh Coffee Company has set up a coffee shop, Cortile Coffee, where Pebble Clothing shop used to be.
Head over to Penarth and you’ll find independent shops such as Hamptons, which occupies two storeys of a converted Victorian meeting house, sells a huge array of homewares and stages regular musical
evenings. Shore, located on the Esplanade, is devoted to all things coastal, so that shoppers can bring a touch of the seaside back home.
Nine miles southwest of Cardiff, Barry isn’t just known for its wide, golden beach. It’s also a popular independent shopping hub, bringing in punters from across the region. Your first stop should be Goodsheds, a former dockyard turned sustainable high street.
If cool, individual retailers are your bag you’ll have great fun browsing the independent traders, which are all housed in shipping containers and repurposed railway carriages. You’ll find stylish threads at Box Edit Boutique, beautiful tableware at Matthew Jones Ceramics and gifts and homewares at Annie & Lolo. You must make time to visit the hip food stalls while you’re here, too. They include Mexican, Greek and a parmesan fried chicken burger specialist.
Prefer to get your retail therapy at the mall or on the high street? You won’t be disappointed. You’ll find all the big brand names in and around Cardiff, whether you want to wander the high streets or head to an out-of-town mall. If you fancy some designer gear, you can find that here too.
It’s no wonder Cardiff is one of the top shopping destinations in the UK. The gleaming St David’s Dewi Sant has acres of l
Beautiful Jewellery Inspired By The Welsh Countryside. Certified To Contain Rare Welsh Gold.
The Welsh Gold Company make evocative, distinctive jewellery containing Rare Welsh Gold using the traditional techniques that have been handed down through generations of Welsh goldsmiths.
Each piece of WGC jewellery contains Rare Welsh Gold extracted from the Gwynfynydd Gold Mine, which is nestled deep in the mountains of North Wales.
space filled with stores to match every budget. Its flagship store is a sprawling John Lewis & Partners and there’s also a Boots and Primark.
Other stores include BOSS, AllSaints, Swarovski, Jo Malone London, and Castle Fine Art, a commercial gallery stocking work by local artists as well as prints by famous names such as Johnny Depp, Bob Dylan and Ronnie Wood. Who says you can only be good at one thing?
If you fancy a break from shopping, but still want to watch the world go by, head for the Hayes Island Snack Bar, an unpretentious hangout billed as the oldest snack bar in Wales. Or you could check out one of the many chain restaurants, which include Shake Shack, Prezzo and Slim Chickens. Further entertainment comes in the form of a Cineworld cinema and a Treetop Adventure Golf.
Opposite John Lewis is the Cardiff Central Library, a perfect place to chill if you have shopped and dropped. It was opened in 2009 with great fanfare and a visit from the Manic Street Preachers. Inside, it’s bright, modern and inviting. It houses 90,000 books and has a kids’ area and a relax and read zone.
If you feel a pang of familiarity as you enter the Queens Arcade, that could be because of its five minutes of fame on the small screen
– it was used as a location during the filming of Doctor Who. Inside, you’ll find shops including Kutchenhaus, Ryman and The Entertainer.
Looking for some designer threads? Then Flannels, on Churchill Way, is an excellent place to start. It has all kinds of luxury goods, including from classic designers such as Armani, Ralph Lauren, Paul Smith, Prada and Gucci.
On the outskirts of Cardiff, Cardiff Lifestyle Shopping Park is home to several big stores, including Home Sense, Boots, M&S and TK Maxx.
McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Bridgend lies to the west of the Vale, just off the M4 and reachable by bus from Cardiff. This bargain shopper’s paradise offers up to 60 per cent discounts, with over 90 high-street and designer brands, such as Calvin Klein, Helly Hansen, Boss and Levi’s. You can seek out your favourites away from the hustle and bustle of the high street, then take a break in one of the cafés or restaurants. Parents will appreciate the large children’s play area, and there’s even a cinema.
When it comes to shopping, Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan deliver the goods. Whether you’re into vintage, independent or high street, there’s lots to keep you going. ■
This region is a foodie’s paradise with a host of fantastic restaurants, cafés and pubs –so make sure you bring a healthy appetite
The appetite for fine food in Wales is growing. Eateries in Cardiff and throughout the Vale feature handcrafted cheese, pâtés, preserves and luscious fruit and vegetables on their menus, alongside salt-marsh Welsh lamb, Welsh black beef and sustainable fish and shellfish. Whether you’re fine dining or grabbing a pastry and a coffee, you’ll find top-quality ingredients and a commitment to going local.
Looking for hipster street food? You’ve got it. High-end dining in swish surroundings? Absolutely. A selection of cuisine from around the world? Most definitely. Whatever your foodie requests, it’s certainly easy to meet them in the cosmopolitan city of Cardiff.
If you fancy meeting some of Wales’ best food producers in person, head to the Riverside Market, held every Sunday on the
Fitzhamon Embankment, opposite the Principality Stadium. On a sunny morning, shoppers gather for coffee (Fairtrade, of course), home-made cakes and a chat, while buskers add to the lively atmosphere. They also have a night market on the last Wednesday of every month, from 5pm to 8pm, where you can eat everything from Malaysian rotis to Caribbean street food.
Mini farmers’ markets pop up throughout the city, including at Pontcanna’s King’s Road Yard every Saturday morning. Here you’ll find ethical meat alongside local honey and award-winning cheeses. King’s Road Yard also has a permanent collection of artists and small artisan businesses, including an organic coffee shop and a craft brewery.
Over in the city centre, The Potted Pig is hugely popular and has featured in the UK’s top 100 restaurants. Housed in the subterranean depths of a former bank vault on St Mary Street, this gem of a restaurant serves uncomplicated dishes that let the locally sourced ingredients sing. Think pork belly with apple and fennel purée or cod loin with cockles and samphire. For gin fans, there’s a great selection of over 30 to choose from.
Stylish eatery
Carnivores will love Pasture, a stylish eatery serving excellent mature beef sourced from farms in Wales and the South West, and dryaged for a minimum of 35 days.
For even more meat, make a trip up to the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse. As well as prime cuts of beef served straight from the grill, you can try top-notch burgers, fish and chips and hearty pies. You can wash it all down with fine wines or delicious cocktails.
Great British Menu chef Tommy Heaney opened his own place –Heaneys – in the smart suburb of Pontcanna. The restaurant specialises in seasonal, locally sourced food including herbs handpicked from the chef’s garden. A new addition next door is Uisce, an oyster and wine bar owned by the same team.
Set in a former park keeper’s bungalow at the entrance of Sophia Gardens is Kindle, which specialises in organic, ingredientled cooking. The owner’s aim is to be as sustainable as possible, using recycled materials in the restoration of the building, including glass and bricks, and supplying produce from their own kitchen garden
and greenhouse. Seasonal food is cooked over fire and there’s a small, regularly changing menu featuring dishes such as jerk duck leg and bream with squid tempura.
The owners of Kindle, Phill and Deb Lewis, are also behind neighbourhood bistro Nook, which serves seasonal dishes and natural wines in a site next to Victoria Park, and they also run Dusty’s Pizza, which serves proper Neapolitan pizzas in Llanishen.
There’s a clutch of excellent plantbased restaurants in the city, including Anna Loka
Y Dosbarth, or The Classroom is staffed by students from Cardiff and Vale College. The elegant European food has gained the approval of Observer food critic Jay Rayner, and features delicious dishes such as pan-fried brill with roasted Jerusalem artichoke.
If it’s a treat you’re after, make your way to the Castle Arcade and Coffee Barker, where you can get a caffeine fix and some excellent homemade cakes. Set in the High Street Arcade, its sister operation, Barker Tea Rooms, serves fancy afternoon tea. For cake and conversation, head to the leafy surroundings of Waterloo Gardens and grab a seat at Waterloo Tea, which has an in-house bakery and a fantastic collection of baked goods.
Cardiff’s food scene grows more and more diverse and that’s a great thing for vegans and vegetarians. There’s a clutch of excellent plantbased restaurants in the city, including Anna Loka, a laid-back l
café serving all-day breakfasts and burgers on Albany Road.
If it’s fuel for a night out you’re looking for, don’t miss Pieminster, the increasingly popular pie joint that started life in Bristol. Or, for a home-grown gourmet-burger experience, head for Cardiff’s own The Grazing Shed on Barrack Lane. The burgers come with a range of wild and wonderful toppings such as mozzarella and pineapple or chorizo and avocado mash. There are great vegetarian and vegan options available, too.
Should you have tickets for a performance at the Wales Millennium Centre, the city’s leading arts venue and home to the world-renowned Welsh National Opera, then try out Côte Brasserie –a chain it might be, but the standard is great. Another quality chain in the Bay is Bill’s, located in the lovely, listed Pilotage Building.
In tune with the multicultural flavour of the city, Cardiff is home to a host of curry houses, from simple takeaways to stylish eateries to authentic Indian veggie diners
with Formica tables and oodles of atmosphere.
Vegetarian Food Studio on Penarth Road serves Gujarati and other Asian-inspired specialities. It has featured in The Guardian’s UK Top 10 Veggie Eats, as well as gaining recognition in the Daily Telegraph and Sunday Times Most of their dishes are suitable for vegans too. l
Turkish cuisine is known for its delightful treats that offer small moments of pleasure. Keyif Restaurant has embraced this tradition with its delicious dishes and cozy atmosphere, creating an inviting experience for its guests.
Discover a hidden gem when at Bill’s Cardiff Bay. Follow your nose and the sound of clinking glasses, and you’ll find us nestled within the Pilotage Building, a historic building with colourful interiors that feel like home. We cater to your cravings from 8am ‘til late Monday to Saturday and 9am ‘til late on Sundays. Our menu features a range of your favourite dishes, all served with a touch of Bill’s magic.
Start your day with a cheerful ‘bore da’ at breakfast or wind down with a cosy ‘nos da’ after evening cocktails at Bill’s Cardiff Central. Dive into our diverse menu, where you’ll find a range of options for brunch, lunch & dinner, including vegetarian, vegan & glutenfree choices. Finding us is a breeze – we’re just a 5-minute walk from Cardiff Central station in the Wyndham Arcade. Whether you’re after a table for 10 on our outdoor terrace or a quiet booth for 2, we’ve got you covered. So, what are you waiting for? Head to Bill’s and let us treat you to an unforgettable dining experience. ■
Opening hours:
Monday - Wednesday: 8am - 10pm Thursday - Saturday: 8am - 11pm Sunday (& Bank Holidays): 9am - 10pm
Cardiff Bay address:
Bill’s Cardiff Bay Restaurant, Mermaid Quay, Pilotage Bldg, 5bw, Stuart St, Cardiff CF10 5BW
Cardiff Central address:
Bill’s Cardiff Central Restaurant, 27-39 Wyndham Arcade, Mill Ln, Cardiff CF10 1FH bills-website.co.uk
The nearest Cardiff has to a ‘curry mile’ is Cowbridge Road East. The star of the bunch is the Purple Poppadom, where the menu is far from standard Indian fare – think slow-braised lamb shanks, crispy soft-shell crab with curry leaves and duck poached in coconut sauce. Nearby Mattancherry serves fabulous Keralan food, including dosas, thalis and a special kid’s menu.
Cowbridge Road East is also home to Bangkok Cafe, a vibrant spot serving fragrant dishes from across Thailand, and Osaka, which specialises in sushi and noodles.
A little further out from the centre, Sushi Life, on Wellfield Road, has taken Cardiff by storm with its fresh authentic sushi and excellent service. For more Japanese treats, take a seat at one of the scrubbed pine refectory tables at Tenkaichi, on City Road. They serve up an array of sushi and noodle dishes, plus specialist Bento boxes. There are even more
international eats to be had on City Road, including Italian at Giardini di Sorrento, Syrian at Shaam Nights and South Indian at Ponnuswamy Restaurant.
For a sunlit taste of Portugal, visit Nata & Co, which has branches in the Castle Quarter Arcades and Clifton Street and offers pastries (including pastel de nata of course), bread and snacks. Cheap, cheerful and delicious!
The fabulous Curado Bar gives you an authentic taste of Spain with its excellent tapas, small plates and ruby-red Riojas. The casual, buzzy atmosphere makes you want to linger for hours, shooting the breeze with friends. And, if you want to take a taste of Spain home with you, there’s a deli counter crammed with goodies.
There’s also Bar 44, on Westgate Street, which serves top-notch tapas – perfect accompanied with one of their excellent wines or sherries.
If you’re after an authentic taste of Italy, head for Casanova, a small restaurant tucked away in a side street opposite the Principality Stadium. It serves hearty classics just like mama used to make. There’s also Café Citta, with its luscious daily specials and woodfired pizza oven.
For some of the best Danish pastries you’ll ever sink your teeth into, get down to Brød on Pontcanna’s Wyndham Crescent, which serves outstanding cinnamon buns and focaccia, alongside coffee, several kinds of sourdough, Danish rye loafs and a superb Danish afternoon tea. For something unusual, try the carrot and linseed bread.
The Vale of Glamorgan is characterised by comfortable, welcoming pubs serving hearty food. Many offer fine beer gardens, roaring fires, and a big welcome to the four-legged friends accompanying walkers. But there’s also a sophisticated side to this l
part of the world and you’ll find hip coffee shops and fine dining restaurants, too.
Among the best of the pubs in the Vale is the Fox & Hounds in the village of Llancarfan. It serves delicious seasonal food and has a lovely beer garden, plus some boutique bedrooms should you have one too many beers!
Set in a charming 14th-century inn, the Plough and Harrow in Monknash is perfect for a pint and some simple pub grub, in front of a roaring fire. Even better if you’ve just come from a windy walk along the Monknash coast.
The Hare & Hounds in Aberthin uses the best Vale of Glamorgan produce and makes everything from scratch, including their moreish sourdough bread. In fact, their bread proved so popular during lockdown that they set up the Hare & Hounds Bakery in Cowbridge, which also sells coffee and pastries and puts on fantastic cheese and charcuterie nights at weekends.
The Old Swan Inn sits in the winding streets of the seaside town of Llantwit Major. It’s a true community hub and serves traditional pub classics and well as daily specials. There’s a cosy, 12th-century lounge complete with wood beams and fireplace, as well as a sunny beer garden.
Over in Penarth, there’s elegant South Indian dining to be had at Mint & Mustard, which offers a twist on the usual classics, while Bar 44 (the sister restaurant to the Cardiff branch) has a nice line in tapas and sherries. For highend, Spanish-style meat and fish dishes, The Custom House at the marina is well worth a whirl. Fish is a speciality and there’s also an impressive 800-strong wine list.
The town’s star act, however, is Home, on Stanwell Road. Set on the seafront, this intimate Michelin-starred restaurant serves four and eight course tasting
menus as well as a ‘surprise’ menu. It’s committed to supporting local suppliers and serving seasonal produce.
Cowbridge also has a wealth of fantastic eating houses, such as The Penny Farthing, a Welsh and Mediterranean bistro with charming alcoves, window seats and an indoor well. There’s plenty of atmospheric pubs, too, including The Bear Hotel, a coaching inn that serves a legendary Sunday roast, and the Duke of Wellington, a traditional real ale pub that prides itself on simple pub food.
For a glimpse of Wales’ wineproducing capabilities, head for Llanerch Vineyard, near Hensol, where the delicious white – Cariad – is produced. There’s also a restaurant, accommodation, wine tasting sessions and a cookery school. The local produce around these parts is fabulous but so are the restaurants. Whether you’re after coffee and cake or a high-end blowout, it’s sure to be delicious. ■
Only here for the weekend? Fear not! Here are some ideas for a memorable short break
One of Cardiff’s most prominent landmarks is its castle, (shown right, from Bute Park) set in the heart of the city centre, and it makes perfect sense to start a sightseeing tour there. The Bute family – then owners of Cardiff Castle – benefited hugely in financial terms from the booming 19th-century coal industry. The 3rd Marquess of Bute spared no expense on an opulent makeover of the castle’s apartments.
Now you might be ready for some refreshment at Pettigrew Tea Rooms in Bute Park, once the castle gardens. After a reviving coffee and cake, stroll through this magnificent public park with its arboretum, herbaceous borders and nature reserve to the Civic Centre and the National Museum Cardiff.
Here, one of the largest collections of Impressionist paintings outside Paris is housed. There’s also a fantastic natural history section where you can follow the incredible journey of a leatherback turtle or a basking shark.
By now, lunch will be calling. Try the Viennese-style coffee house within Wally’s Deli in the Royal Arcade or Waterloo Tea in the Wyndham Arcade.
This brings us to another of Cardiff’s special features, its lovely Victorian and Edwardian arcades. What better way to while away an afternoon than to explore their charms.
Head for Bute Park and catch the waterbus down to Cardiff Bay. The waterfront’s most prominent modern landmark is the Senedd, the home of the Welsh Government, which is well worth taking a tour of.
Adjacent is the Wales Millennium Centre, the city’s lively performing arts centre, which is also the base for the world-renowned Welsh National Opera and the
National Dance Company of Wales.
The charming Norwegian Church is where writer Roald Dahl was christened. Now it houses a café and arts centre, and on a sunny day you can sit outside and enjoy a fabulous view of the waterfront as you eat lunch.
There’s plenty to keep you occupied in the Vale of Glamorgan, with
its rugged coastline and rolling, bucolic interior. Just across the water from Cardiff lies Penarth, which is home to a traditional pier, complete with an Art Deco pavilion, housing a cinema, gallery and café.
Nearby Cosmeston Lakes Country Park, a tranquil nature reserve, is a great place for a gentle stroll. More energetic walkers can stride out on the Glamorganshire Heritage Coast path, maybe taking a detour for lunch at the Plough & Harrow in Monknash.
Cowbridge, a thriving market town in the heart of the Vale, has plenty of independent shops, as well as great places to eat. The town’s Physic Garden is also worth a whirl, as it has been lovingly looked after by local residents.
For gardens on a grander scale, Dyffryn Gardens in St Nicholas, which was acquired by the National Trust, offer 55 acres of beautiful woodland, wild areas, formal lawns, wonderful water features, terraces, and herbaceous borders brimming with colour. ■
Culture vultures assemble! This region offers the perfect mix of galleries, museums, exhibitions and festivals
This little corner of the world sees some of the best music performance in the UK, thanks to a strong Welsh tradition of folk music and singing, and a plethora of live music venues in Cardiff. If you’re an art buff, you won’t be disappointed either. There are fabulous works on display, including a surprisingly great collection of Impressionist paintings. If you want the best live music in Wales, you’ve got to go to Cardiff. There’s everything from classical to rock to afrobeat to get you going. More of a theatre buff? Never fear. There’s everything from lively West
End shows to outstanding circus performances.
Flagship venues don’t get much better than the Wales Millennium Centre (WMC), located in Cardiff Bay. The gleaming copper-coloured building provides a permanent home to the mother of Welsh cultural organisations, the Welsh National Opera, as well as the highly regarded National Dance Company of Wales. The stunning auditorium, the Donald Gordon Theatre, is just as renowned for its aesthetics as it is for its acoustics.
Many would argue that the
auditorium at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama (RWCMD) gives the WMC a run for its money. What’s more, the college overlooks Bute Park, one of the loveliest urban parks in the UK. Come here to see everything from piano recitals to a recreation of a 17th-century tavern, complete with sea shanties and Purcell overtures. An eclectic mix of international artists have graced the RWCMD’s stage, including kora maestro Seckou Keita and innovative Welsh harpist Catrin Finch. The foyer hosts a free jazz concert – AmserJazzTime
– every Friday evening during term time, and in summer the terrace overlooking the park is the perfect place for a leisurely glass of wine.
Classical music takes centre stage at St David’s Hall in the city centre, also the home of the Welsh Proms. Classical performances are staged in the evening and at lunchtime. Mozart’s Requiem and the Mavron Quartet rub shoulders with a variety of other performances, such as Scottish folksters Breabach, beguiling fiddle player Jackie Oates and guitar supremo Martyn Joseph.
The Vale of Glamorgan Festival celebrates contemporary classical music and is devoted entirely to the music of living composers. Held annually in September, it celebrated its half century in 2019. The festival’s prestige attracts an international line-up of artists to incredible venues throughout the Vale and Cardiff.
For more live music head to the Tramshed in the lively suburb of Grangetown. It’s a century-old, Grade 2-listed building, which
was once the tram depot for West Cardiff. Hawkwind, blues legend Walter Trout, Kae Tempest, New Model Army, Napalm Death, Foo Fighters, Twin Atlantic, Pearl Jam and Sham 69 have all featured on the programme. The venue also houses a café and office space.
In addition to opera and dance, the Wales Millennium Centre stages West End productions such as the massive hit War Horse, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s The King and I, We Will Rock You and Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Smaller theatres within the complex hold more intimate performances – plays, dance, comedy – and the foyer has a regular free concert for those who happen to be strolling through.
Cardiff’s New Theatre hasn’t been new for many years. With its Edwardian baroque architecture and its air of faded opulence, it has the stately grace of a dowager duchess. Its back catalogue of performing artists is impressive – Sarah Bernhardt, Anna Pavlova, Laurel l
and Hardy – while Harold Pinter’s play The Homecoming had its world premiere there in 1965.
These days, it’s the place to catch touring productions, such as The Girl on the Train, An Inspector Calls and Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever, plus big names such as Jimmy Carr and Dawn French, not to mention the annual panto.
The Sherman Theatre, on Senghenydd Road, is noted for its brave, artistic productions, partnerships and community works. Never afraid to push boundaries, the Sherman is the first producing theatre in Wales to see its work transferred to the National Theatre in London.
For a well-established, multifunctional arts venue that’s unafraid to stage the avant garde, take a trip to Chapter Arts Centre, in the suburb of Canton. Live performances of music, drama and dance are coupled with three cinemas and an art gallery. There’s also a bustling café bar that’s always humming with people of all ages, even toddlers.
At the other end of town, The Gate Arts and Community Centre, just off the bustling City Road, offers a wide range of facilities, including a 350-capacity performance theatre space, dance studio and art gallery.
Ever fancied running away with the circus? Head for NoFit State, the UK’s leading contemporary circus troupe. They’re based in a beautifully restored church on Four Elms Road, Adamsdown. In addition to regular performances, often staged in Big Top in Cardiff Bay, NoFit State runs well-loved community projects and circus skills classes.
Outside Cardiff, The Memo Arts Centre, formerly known as The Barry Memorial Hall & Theatre is currently the largest multi-arts venue in the Vale of Glamorgan. A registered charity, it programmes a wide array of live events and films, as well as dementia-friendly screenings.
Full of beautiful buildings and thought-provoking galleries, Cardiff is a place to let your creative juices flow. Or, at least, see the results of someone else’s creativity! With
workshops and art spaces aplenty, you won’t have trouble doing either.
The Norwegian Church Arts Centre in Cardiff Bay is a historic Lutheran church and a legacy of Cardiff’s industrial heyday, when the city’s port was one of the world’s busiest, and the Norwegian merchant fleet used it as a key operating centre. The most famous member of Cardiff’s Norwegian community was Roald Dahl, who was baptised at the church.
The Pierhead Building, built in 1897 as the headquarters of the Bute Dock Company, is Grade 1-listed, and houses fascinating images of Cardiff’s golden era as a busy port, when its docklands bristled with the masts of ships. It hosts exhibitions, events and debates.
You might not expect to find a world-class Impressionist art collection in Wales, but head to the Grade 1-listed National Museum Cardiff and you’re in for a real treat. It contains an incredible collection bequeathed by the Davies sisters, Gwendoline Davies (1882-1951) and
Margaret Davies (1884-1963). The sisters amassed one of the great art collections of the 20th century and bequeathed 260 major works to the gallery. Among these treasures are Renoir’s lovely picture of the girl l in blue, La Parisienne; one of Monet’s Waterlilies series; Van Gogh’s Rain-Auvers; and Manet’s The Rabbit.
Fans of photography should head to Ffotogallery, set in a former Methodist Sunday school on Fanny Street. It hosts a wide range of events like its bi-annual photo book fair, allowing artists to connect over their work, discover new creatives and refine their ideas.
Peaceful Progress is the umbrella organisation for the professional graffiti art in Cardiff, and the work of founder, Bryce Davies, can be seen in various locations around town.
If craft is your thing, then a must-see is Craft in the Bay, run by The Makers Guild in Wales. There’s a retail space as well as an exhibition area, and the organisation regularly hosts hands-on, creative
Opposite: The Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff. This page: St Donat’s Arts Centre
arts and crafts workshops, as well as demonstrations, talks and community-related activities. It’s housed in the Grade 2-listed ‘D’ Shed, previously a warehouse, located next to Bute East Dock.
For beautiful hand-made homewares, visit the village of Ewenny, near the town of Bridgend, South Wales. It’s home to the unique Ewenny Pottery, a familyrun endeavour that’s been going for at least eight generations. They continue the tradition today, making beautiful, hand-thrown, glazed earthenware pottery for the home.
Set in the United World College Atlantic College, St Donat’s Arts Centre has a spectacular location overlooking the Bristol Channel and the Somerset coast. It puts on a wide variety of events, including a series of Café Concerts, performed by the students of UWC Atlantic.
Theatres, concert halls, galleries… you name it. Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan are bursting with art and culture. You just need to get out and explore. ■
The night-time economy in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan is thriving, packed with clubs, pubs, bars and live music venues
The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. Cardiff rocks all year round, whether you’re looking to take in a show, bust a move to some live music or watch some avant garde theatre. There’s so much going on, you’ll barely know where to start.
Cardiff’s real ale scene is flourishing. You’ll find subperb microbreweries across the city as well as traditional pubs serving old-fashioned cask ales. Want something more sophisticated? Make like you’re in the Prohibition era and try one of the city’s cocktail
bars or speakeasies.
Let’s kick off with the city’s great beer scene. Welsh microbreweries are thriving, and in line with the rest of the UK, the public’s thirst is unquenchable. Tiny Rebel, on Westgate Street, showcases the eponymous brewery’s wares, as well as more than 200 other types of ale and cider, while theme nights include Americana, folk nights and retro video game nights.
Just a stone’s throw away, you’ll find Cardiff’s incarnation of BrewDog, with its 30-plus beers on tap. Nearby is microbrewery
and restaurant Zerodegrees, where you can tuck into delicious wood-fired pizza in industrial chic surroundings. The Crafty Devil’s Cellar, on Llandaff Road, Canton, has a cosy bar, shop and beer garden in which to sample their craft beers.
The award-winning Cambrian Tap, on St Mary Street, serves Brains craft ales, alongside pies and mash. It also puts on the popular Crafty Laughs comedy night on the first Tuesday of every month.
A family-run brewery in Cardiff since 1882, S A Brain runs traditional pubs like the City Arms
which offers classic and craft cask ales and old school pub grub. It’s a true glimpse of old Cardiff amongst all the hipster bars.
Fancy sinking a drink while you play a round of minigolf? You can at Par 59. It has two nine-hole mini golf courses, and there are even ‘caddies’ to take your order while you’re playing a round. Food comes in the form of burgers and fried chicken courtesy of Dirty Birdie.
If you are seeking speakeasies, search for a broken bird cage on Barrack Lane, ring the bell, and enter the award-winning Dead Canary, where you can soak up the 1920s atmosphere and some dragon-themed cocktails. You could also find the decadent Pennyroyal cocktail bar hidden behind a black door on High Street; or slip into Lab 22 on Caroline Street for awardwinning science themed drinks –you certainly won’t be disappointed.
Good times can be had at Porter’s Cardiff, tucked away near the Big Sleep Hotel and not easy to find –but worth it once you do. It puts on regular open mic, comedy and cabaret nights and incorporates the much-acclaimed Other Room – Cardiff’s first professional pub theatre, a tiny 45-seat space.
Showstopping, smoking cocktails and Gothic drama can be found at The Libertine Cocktail Bar on High Street, and at The Alchemist
At Zerodegrees, you can tuck into delicious woodfired pizza
on nearby St Mary Street. Of all the gin joints in all the world, you could sample from a huge range of flavours at Gin and Juice, in Castle Arcade.
The people in Cardiff are a talented bunch and they’ve got the live music and theatre venues to prove it. You’ll find all kinds of homegrown talent performing on stage here, as well as many international guests, keen to come and perform in this creative city.
The Live Lounge, as the name suggests, is a live music venue that has bands playing every night of the week. It showcases up-andcoming acts as well as bands that already have a foot firmly wedged in the touring circuit. Every night has a fresh vibe, so go there and take potluck. All-day food and luscious cocktails add to the mix.
One of Cardiff’s institutions is
Clwb Ifor Bach, known locally as the ‘Welsh Club’. The vibrant city centre club hosted Coldplay in 1991/2, before superstardom hit. It’s located on Womanby Street, one of the city’s oldest streets, where you’ll also find Fuel Rock Club, the city’s only live music venue dedicated to rock; The Moon, a bar and vegan kitchen that puts on an eclectic range of live music, from reggae to folk; and The Bootlegger bar, a swanky live lounge with music and decor inspired by the Prohibition era.
Womanby Street is known as the city’s beating heart for independent music clubs and was the subject of a campaign to prevent developers buying up venues and turning them into faceless blocks of flats.
Other great indie venues worth looking up are The Gate Arts and Community Centre, just off City Road; live music and comedy venue The Globe, on Albany Road; and Tramshed, on Clare Road, a listed building hosting live music, comedy, DJs and cinema.
Lively performing arts centre
The city’s leading cultural venue is the swish Wales Millennium Centre (WMC), a lively performing arts centre that also serves as a home to the world-renowned Welsh National Opera. The opera company’s production of Wagner’s Die Meistersinger, with the esteemed Bryn Terfel in the lead role, drew a standing ovation from a packed house. And the production of Donizetti’s Anna Bolena extracted tears and applause from a deeply moved audience, as did the wonderful Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves from Verdi’s Nabucco, Handel’s beautiful Orlando, and Janáček’s powerful From the House of the Dead.
Don’t be put off by St David’s Hall’s rather pedestrian exterior, it’s a wonderful place for classical music concerts – both lunchtime and evening performances – and is the home of the Welsh Proms. Stars from other genres have also graced its stage, including John Mayall, Michael Bolton, Petula Clark, Alison Moyet and Nick Cave.
For both music and beauty, l
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head to the immensely stylish auditorium at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama in Cardiff Castle’s grounds. It’s worth going for the aesthetics alone, but the acoustics are also stunning.
As well as magnificent classical productions, well-received shows have included a joint performance by elfin Welsh harp virtuoso Catrin Finch and Senegalese kora and drum maestro Seckou Keita; a show by jazz sax supremo Gilad Atzmon; and music from the Mercury Music Award-nominated Kit Downes. There’s also a free jazz event –AmserJazzTime – from September to December every Friday evening in the foyer, running from 5.30pm till 7pm.
The Richard Burton Company is the Royal Welsh College’s own in-house theatre company, and alumni of the conservatoire include Rob Brydon, Ruth Jones and Sir Anthony Hopkins.
The Donald Gordon Theatre has also hosted major shows, such as
War Horse, The Lion King, and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. The venue is noted for showcasing the very best in dance, too. Past hits have included The Netherlands Dance Company performing Matthew Bourne’s Lord of the Flies, and English National Ballet’s Strictly Gershwin, as well as a stage production of Dirty Dancing, and Birmingham Royal Ballet’s lovely production of timeless favourite Swan Lake. American singer/songwriter John Grant, and Portuguese fado singer Mariza, have also brought big crowds here.
The New Theatre hasn’t been new for some time – 1906, to be exact – but it had a facelift a few years ago. Touring favourites include The Mouse Trap, The Play That Goes Wrong, Thriller, and children’s shows such as Beauty and the Beast and Horrible Histories, as well as the annual panto. Slightly more outré performances find their way to the expensively refurbished Chapter Arts Centre, which also
houses a gallery, cinema, restaurant and bar.
The hit series Gavin and Stacey succeeded in alerting the world to Welsh comedy and brought terms like ‘cwtch’ and ‘lush’ into common parlance. The Welsh are known for their fantastic sense of humour, and the nation has produced a crop of notable stand-up stars, such as Rhod Gilbert, Chris Corcoran, Elis James and Lloyd Langford.
Mainstream venues for a good belly laugh include The Glee Club, which has hosted Alan Carr, Michael McIntyre, Sarah Millican, Ross Noble, Rhod Gilbert and many more. It also doubles up as a live music venue, and has attracted big names including Cerys Matthews, George Ezra, Teenage Fanclub and former Overtones vocalist, Lockie Chapman.
Whether it’s rock music, classical recitals or laugh-out-loud comedy shows that float your boat, you’ll find something to entertain you all year round in Cardiff. ■
Although this region has more than enough to keep you busy, a journey further afield can make for an exciting new adventure
Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan are great places to spend time, with loads to see, do and try. But one of the brilliant things about its location on the south coast of Wales is that it’s a fantastic base from which to explore.
If you are a keen walker, the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (formally known as Brecon Beacons National Park), one of three national parks in Wales, offers fabulous scenery to hike through. The highest peak in the area is Peny-Fan, 2,907 feet, 886 metres above sea level. On a clear day, the peak offers commanding views over the surrounding landscape.
In the Bannau Brycheiniog’s (Brecon Beacons) lively market towns, outdoorsy types rub along with writers and artists and the mood is gently alternative and modestly intellectual. A year-round programme of cultural events including the Hay Festival, Green Man, HowTheLightGetsIn and Brecon Jazz draws visitors from all over the world.
Dazzling staterooms
The city of Newport, just a 20-minute drive from Cardiff, has a number of attractions including the National Trust-owned mansion, Tredegar House, with its dazzling staterooms, exquisitely carved oak panelling, fascinating insights into ‘below stairs’ life, and glorious parkland.
There’s also the magnificent monument to the area’s rich industrial heritage, the Grade 1-listed Transporter Bridge, one of only 10 still operating worldwide. Nature fans can head for the Newport Wetlands, a wonderful RSPB nature reserve on the outskirts of the city.
Newport has been a port since medieval times, when the first Newport Castle was built by the Normans. It was also the scene of Britain’s last major uprising, that of the Chartists in 1839, and highly regarded street art in the city commemorates this battle by the working classes for improved conditions.
Nearby Newport, the fascinating Roman remains at Caerleon are among the finest in Europe. Once an important legionary fortress, Isca, the remains incorporate a museum, where clever technology gives the visitor a flavour of their former grandeur. The sumptuous baths were constructed to give homesick soldiers a home from home, as was the colossal amphitheatre, seating 6,000 spectators. Now people sunbathe and picnic on its grassy perimeter, creating a peaceful scene that belies the place’s somewhat grisly past.
Head north from Caerleon into Monmouthshire which offers atmospheric castles, lush gardens, walking trails, fascinating museums and vineyards to explore. Why not take a tour at Parva Farm Vineyard, step back in time at Chepstow Castle or enjoy Michelin-starred dining at The Whitebrook in Monmouth.
To the west of the Vale of Glamorgan there are miles of exquisite coastal path to explore, including along the remarkable Gower coastline, Swansea Bay and Carmarthen Bay. Think magnificent contrasts – golden beaches and pine forests, wildlife experiences and historic monuments.
Among those historic monuments are several castles, including Llansteffan, built in the 12th century by the Normans on the site of an iron age fort; Kidwelly
Kidwelly Castle dates back to Norman times
Castle, which dates back to Norman times; and Laugharne’s medieval castle-turned-mansion.
Speaking of Laugharne, its beauty is no secret – it is here most of the exterior shots for hit BBC TV drama, Keeping Faith, were filmed. But it was also in Laugharne that Welsh author and poet Dylan Thomas spent his final few years and wrote some of his most famous work.
Swansea and Carmarthenshire were Thomas’ birthplace and stomping grounds, respectively.
Visit No 5 Cwmdonkin Drive, in Swansea’s Uplands area to see where Thomas was born and raised. He lived there for 23 years with his parents, and it was in this inconspicuous house that he wrote much of his work. Today, the house has been restored to look as it did back in 1914 (when he was born in the front bedroom).
Of course, Thomas spent his final four years, 1949 to 1953, at the Boathouse in Laugharne with his wife Caitlin and their children. It was here, in a humble shed l
overlooking the estuary, that he wrote Under Milkwood. You can visit both the Boathouse and shed before grabbing a drink at Thomas’ favourite watering hole, Brown’s Hotel. Finish with a stroll in the gardens of Laugharne Castle, where Thomas was said to have put pen to paper.
If you have a longer break in mind, Pembrokeshire, home to the UK’s only coastal national park, is not to be missed. As well as glorious beaches and some stunning cliff scenery, the area is awash with splendid castles, lovely villages with cosy pubs, ancient burial sites and standing stones, and Carn Menyn, where the famous Stonehenge’s bluestones were quarried.
The coastal path is a big draw to visitors from all over the world, and wends its way along glorious clifftops, and down to sandy beaches and quiet coves. But walking is not the only entertainment available in this seaside paradise. There’s surfing, sailing, body boarding,
Pembrokeshire, home to the UK’s only coastal national park, is not to be missed
reintroducing endangered animals to the wild. You will be able to feed wallabies, walk with lemurs, pet giant rabbits and tickle pygmy goats. The keeper and mini-keeper experiences offer a glimpse behind the scenes.
swimming and riding on offer, and places to stay range from smart hotels to welcoming pubs, cosy cottages to campsites.
Wildlife spotting is easy in the natural wonderland of Pembrokeshire. Manor Wildlife Park offers the only walking safari in Wales, with conservation as the primary focus. The park works with animal organisations to assist with breeding programmes aimed at
You’ll find two working mills in Pembrokeshire that are well worth a visit. Melin Tregwynt has been weaving its magic since the 17th century and its products can be found in luxury homeware boutiques worldwide. Meanwhile, Solva Woollen Mill is a specialist weaver of wool floor rugs and runners.
Pembrokeshire’s produce is world-famous, from its organic fruit and vegetables to freshly caught fish, locally reared meat, and artisanal cheeses and honey. It’s hardly surprising the county’s food markets have won national awards. Keen to take an authentic taste of the county home? Keep your eyes peeled for products sporting the ‘Pembrokeshire Produce Mark’. ■
