ABOUT CARDIFF
Cardiff is the Capital City of Wales
Currency: Pound Sterling
Population: over 372,000
Telephone Code: Country code: 44, area code: 029
Time Zone: GMT (GMT+1 in summertime)
Languages: English and Welsh (Cymraeg)
Twinned with: Nantes, France; Stuttgart, Germany; Xiamen, China; Vestland, Norway; Lugansk, Ukraine.
Distance from London: Under 2 hours by rail and approx. 3 hours by car.
Major Airports: Cardiff Airport is only 25 minutes from the city centre. Bristol Airport is within an hour’s drive away and London Heathrow accessible within a 3 hours’ drive.
CITY CENTRE SEE & DO
Bute Park
The City Centre is jam-packed full of great things to explore…
CARDIFF CASTLE
Cardiff Castle is one of Wales’ leading heritage attractions, and is not to be missed. Be sure to take a tour around the Castle grounds and the spectacular Victorian living quarters. Along the way, discover more about the Bute family –once the richest industrialists in the world!
NATIONAL MUSEUM CARDIFF
A bit of a history buff? Don’t forget to visit the National Museum Cardiff. Prepared to be blown away by one Europe’s finest art collections, natural history and geology collections, and temporary exhibitions. Did we mention admission is free?
PRINCIPALITY STADIUM TOURS
No trip to Cardiff is complete without at least one rugby activity. Learn about the inner workings of the 74,000-seater ground; home to Welsh Rugby. Join a behind the scenes tour, including the press-room and VIP hospitality suites. Or if you are looking for adventure, try their new attraction Scale and choose from a stadium roof walk, zip wire or drop (or do all three).
BUTE PARK
Fan of a tranquil, leisurely stroll? Bute Park, behind Cardiff Castle, offers an extensive area of mature parkland, boasting numerous natural play features, an education centre and a wealth of horticulture and wildlife. Refuel half-way with a coffee and a bite to eat in one of the cafes.
BBC CYMRU WALES TOURS
Ever wondered how sound effects are added to your favourite podcasts? Or what it’s like to read the news? Join the guides for an exclusive behind the-scenes tour of BBC Cymru Wales. Visit the stateof-the-art television and radio studios to discover the secrets of making BBC programmes.
THE MUSEUM OF CARDIFF
The Museum of Cardiff is the first museum where visitors can discover the story of the city through the eyes of those who know it best – its people. The museum tells the tale of how Cardiff was transformed from a small market town in the 1300s, to one of the world’s biggest ports in the 1900s, to the cool, cosmopolitan capital we know today.
For more information about things to see and do in the city centre check out visitcardiff.com/see-do
CARDIFF BAY SEE & DO
The Waterfront, Cardiff Bay.
What a difference a Bay makes!
Once industrial docklands, it is now a vibrant waterfront around a scenic freshwater lake. Take a stroll and enjoy the picturesque view from the Barrage, admire the many pieces of public art, or discover nature at the Wetlands Reserve.
TECHNIQUEST
Discover science at Techniquest and get lost in two floors of mind-boggling exhibits where you can launch a rocket, sink an oil rig, move half a ton of granite and still have energy for a spot of stargazing. Best of all, it’s fun for both adults and kids.
WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE
An iconic arts and cultural destination, it boasts a large theatre that hosts award winning shows, alongside exciting event spaces including Ffwrnais cafe bar and Cabaret. Take a look at their ‘What’s On’ guide or join one of the regular behindthe-scenes backstage tours.
CARDIFF BAY BARRAGE
Perfect for a relaxing stroll or bike ride, the Barrage embankment is situated in a stunning maritime setting and offers spectacular views over Cardiff Bay and the Severn Estuary. Thanks to its flat gradient and lack of steps, it’s accessible for visitors.
THE SENEDD
Want to find out more about how Wales is governed? The Senedd, the Parliament for the people of Wales, is open for visitors and houses the debating chamber and committee rooms; you can even listen to the discussions from the public gallery.
BOAT TOURS
Head to Waterfront for a variety of boat trips – whizz around the Bay on a speedboat, set sail for a visit to Flat Holm Island, indulge in an afternoon tea at sea or go for a relaxing tour around the harbour.
INTERNATIONAL SPORTS VILLAGE SEE & DO
Bordering the freshwater lake created by Cardiff Bay Barrage, the Sports Village has two Olympic standard sporting facilities, both of which were used as training venues for the London games in 2012. Alongside these you will find Vindico Arena, completed in March 2016.
CARDIFF INTERNATIONAL WHITE WATER
CIWW, as it’s known locally, is an exhilarating adventure facility boasting the only on demand white water rafting course in Wales. Visitors can experience range of water sports including rafting, kayaking, stand-up-paddle boarding and more!
CARDIFF INTERNATIONAL POOL & GYM
Splash around on the slides and lazy river in the leisure pool, or dive into a swimming session in the impressive 50m swimming pool. The state-of-the-art gym can also be used on a ‘pay as you go’ basis.
VINDICO ARENA
Whether you’re a novice or a future Olympics contender, the public ice-skating sessions are a great way to have fun on the ice. The venue is also home to The Cardiff Devils, a professional Elite League Ice Hockey team.
FUN HQ
The area’s newest addition to its adventure activity lineup. The attraction, based in Vindico Arena, boasts a variety of fun and colourful ‘clip and climb’ activities suitable for all ages and abilities.
CARDIFF BAY TRAIL
The circular trail for cyclists and walkers is 10km (6.2 miles) long. It runs around the Bay and across to the seaside town of Penarth via Pont Y Werin, a 140m bridge providing a link for pedestrians and cyclists between Penarth and the International Sports Village.
CARDIFF NEIGHBOURHOODS SEE & DO
Roath Lake, Roath.
VISIT CARDIFF GUIDE
The City Centre, although iconic, is only a tiny piece of the vast culture Cardiff has to offer. It’s time to live like a local.
CANTON AND VICTORIA PARK
One of the most up-and-coming places to live, the area boasts a variety of independent cafes and restaurants. Attractions include independents The Corp Yard and Chapter Arts Centre. Why not fuel up on delicious sweet treats from Let Them See Cake before a stroll around Victoria Park?
CATHAYS
Due to its vicinity to the University, this bustling area is popular with students. It also boasts venues such as the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, and the Sherman Theatre. Head to Crwys Road for a variety of tasty restaurants serving up global cuisines.
RIVERSIDE & GRANGETOWN
Just a short stroll from the city centre, visitors can head to the Tramshed for live music gigs, pop to the Neighbourhood Bar & Kitchen for a bite to eat with guest chefs, or on a Sunday explore the popular Riverside farmer’s market.
LLANDAFF
The birthplace of Roald Dahl, Llandaff is a historic City within a City. Soak up the culture in the magnificent Llandaff Cathedral or the Insole Court mansion house. This area is jam-packed with fantastic food but the Heathcock is renowned for using the very best ingredients in each of its dishes.
PONTCANNA
Located a stone’s throw away from the city centre, discover independent shops, and award-winning restaurants - including Tom Simmons and Heaney’s. Head to Sophia Gardens to watch Glamorgan Cricket play or enjoy one of their family friendly events. Feeling thirsty? Cathedral Road is lined with traditional pubs, including the Cricketers and the Pontcanna Inn
WHITCHURCH
Amazing character and vibrancy all within a quaint village setting and everything you need within close proximity. This area has many scenic walks in such places as Whitchurch Common and Forest Farm Country Park – an excellent option for dog walkers. Take a stroll along Merthyr Road for delicious restaurants like The Brook Bistro and Santiago’s Tapas.
ROATH
Explore the bustling streets of Albany Road and Wellfield Road for a range of local shops, cafés and pubs. Fancy a night out? Try The Globe - an intimate venue with an eclectic range of gigs. Though one of the most popular reasons to visit this part of the city is for Roath Park. Discover its scenic parkland, botanical garden, and boating lake with the iconic lighthouse.
Each neighbourhood has its own unique quality, to find out more head to visitcardiff.com/neighbourhoods
CITY CENTRE EAT & DRINK
VISIT CARDIFF GUIDE
Cardiff is the ideal destination for experiencing diverse dishes with a Welsh twist. To help with your decision, here are some particular hot-spots…
MILL LANE
One of the city’s most popular locations for delicious food and stylish cocktails. For food, why not try Pitch Bar & Eatery, a fun, friendly spot to savour the flavour of Wales, dishes made with local produce. Or, head to Las Iguanas for a Latin American vibe with unique sizzling creations and 2FOR1 cocktails. Not forgetting the fantastic Côte offering an unforgettable evening of French dining. Don’t end the night there, Heidi’s is open until 3am serving up large beers and offering an authentic apres-ski atmosphere.
CASTLE QUARTER
Cardiff’s High Street has quickly become a bustling area with independent cocktail bars and delicious casual dining restaurants. Check out Temple Bar for some Guinness and live music! For a taste of Wales, head to the Welsh House. An independent restaurant, with a menu inspired by traditional Welsh dishes. Feeling peckish? Try modern cuisine at The Potted Pig, did we mention you’ll be dining in an underground former bank vault?
CHURCH STREET
Following a recent development, this street has become one of the go-to places for good grub in the City Centre.
From refreshing cocktails to street food to global cuisine – this is the place to be for a diverse range of delicious dining. Church St boasts many well-known names as The Botanist, Honest Burgers and Pho, as well as a few much-loved independents such as the Italian Café Citta. Take a stroll down the busy street next time you’re peckish –you won’t be disappointed.
CITY OF ARCADES
Cardiff is home to seven unique Victorian and Edwardian arcades, where you’ll be spoilt for choice with more than 100 local eateries and retailers to choose from. If you’re a gin or rum connoisseur try the contemporary bars Gin & Juice and Rum & Fizz in the Castle Arcade. Start your day right with brunch at the popular Uncommon Ground in the Royal Arcade. Or, with its own in store bakery, Waterloo Tea in the Wyndham Arcade is a tasty choice.
CARDIFF MARKET
The beating heart of the city, where you can taste fresh produce, alongside warm, local charm. Trading since the 1700s, the Market is still filled with local independent businesses selling traditional Welsh cuisine, artisan coffee and street food like Ffwrnes Pizza. No trip to Cardiff is complete without sampling a Welsh cake from Cardiff Bakestones. Need a Vegan option? Don’t forget to try the delicious menu at The Greenery.
CARDIFF BAY EAT & DRINK
MERMAID QUAY
For dinner with a water view, Mermaid Quay is hard to beat with more than 30 restaurants, cafes and bars. Pay the Botanist a visit for drinks after work, or grab lunch with the family, and enjoy the relaxing horticultural theme. Coffi Co has an envious waterfront location and unique vibe. Experience movie night with a difference at Everyman Cinema, swap your soft drink for a nice glass of red wine and a slice of freshly made pizza.
RED DRAGON CENTRE
Visit the Red Dragon Centre for big brand favourites such as Costa and Five Guys, alongside independent restaurants like Spice Route.
Don’t forget it’s also your one stop destination for entertainment boasting an iMAX cinema and bowling alley. For over 18s, visit the restaurant in Grosvenor Casino and enjoy a cocktail and a bite to eat, against the backdrop of the gaming floor. After food you could try your hand at the tables or the slot machines.
EXPLORE THE REST OF THE BAY…
Serving Italian food at its best, Giovannis in the Bay still captures an authentic atmosphere and provides delicious traditional dishes. Just opposite the iconic Wales Millennium Centre, Côte serves up delicious French food with a modern twist.
Mermaid Quay
SHOPPING DISCOVER
City of Arcades
Calling all shop-a-holics!
Cardiff has it all: department stores, designer brands and high street favourites. The beauty of shopping in the centre is that the majority of it is close together and pedestrianised, so it’s easy to get around.
HISTORIC ARCADES
The real highlights of the retail scene are the Victorian and Edwardian arcades, full of independent shops and cafes, and even worth a visit just for a look at the amazing architecture! Jian Chen’s FINE ART sells whimsical, colourful paintings of Cardiff scenes – why not take a little piece of the ‘Diff home with you?
CARDIFF MARKET
Cardiff Market is an impressive Victorian structure, and has been trading since the 1700s. Under the striking glass roof you will find a wealth of products including street food, artisan coffee, vintage clothing, and fresh produce.
Why not take a look around Kelly’s Records on the upper balcony? Founded in 1969, it sells rare and collectible vinyl – you might just find a hidden gem!
ST DAVID’S DEWI SANT
Shop until you drop, under one roof, this shopping centre is Wales’ leading shopping destination, with millions of visitors pouring through the doors each year. It has a mix of designer brands and the best of the high street makes St David’s the perfect place to indulge a passion for fashion.
QUEEN STREET
Explore the pedestrianised areas of Queen Street and The Hayes to find a range of the nation’s favorite high street names and retail giants.
John Lewis Department Store
A SPORTING CITY DISCOVER
Cardiff has been put on the sporting map thanks to the 2015 Rugby World Cup, 2017 UEFA Champions League Finals, the 2018 Volvo Ocean Race, and the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup. Whether you want to watch or play, Cardiff’s sporting offer is hard to beat!
WELSH RUGBY UNION
The Capital City is home to Wales’ regional Rugby Team. Why not book a guided tour of the stadium, it’s been described as the “best rugby venue in the world” – certainly not to be missed.
CARDIFF RUGBY
Cardiff Rugby is a successful professional rugby union team, competing in the United Rugby Championship and playing their home games at Cardiff Arms Park. The passionate fans flock to Arms Park to watch their matches under the shadow of the Principality Stadium.
CARDIFF DRAGONS
They are one of the UK teams that take part in the Netball Super league. As the only Welsh team in this prestigious league, the Dragons combine the finest players
from all over Wales with a mix of international talent blended into the group.
CARDIFF CITY FC
Cardiff City FC has over 100 years of history, known affectionately by its fans as the Bluebirds. Since 2009, they have played their home matches at Cardiff City Stadium. Fancy going pitch-side and visiting the dugout for yourself? Tours are available.
CARDIFF DEVILS
The Devils are a professional Elite League Ice Hockey team and play their home matches at the Vindico Arena. If you want to experience a very different kind of sporting event, check out their fixtures from August to March.
GLAMORGAN CRICKET
Cardiff is no stranger to cricket, we played host to the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2019. We’re also home to Glamorgan Cricket, the only first-class cricket club in Wales and play their home matches at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff City Centre. #GoGlam
Welsh rugby match, Westgate Street
MUSIC CITY DISCOVER A
The Bay Series, Cardiff Bay
Music is woven into Cardiff’s identity and history. It’s a city that proudly shouts about groundbreaking new homegrown talent, whilst also welcoming major international touring artists. Offering an array of worldclass live music across grassroots stages, concert venues, through to stadium spectaculars, Cardiff is an exciting, noisy, and energetic hub for culture and entertainment.
KEY MUSIC VENUES
PRINCIPALITY STADIUM
Memories are made at the iconic stadium. Major superstars like Bruce Springsteen, Taylor Swift and Foo Fighters included the venue on their tours.
UTILITA ARENA CARDIFF
Cardiff’s multi-purpose venue, and the place to go to watch all the biggest names in music, comedy and sports!
THE GREAT HALL
A legendary 1600 capacity gig venue for major concerts, located on the 1st floor of the Cardiff Student Union building.
CLWB IFOR BACH
Since 1983, Clwb Ifor Bach has been a musical focal point in Cardiff and Wales, welcoming all musical styles and genres through its doors.
TRAMSHED
A huge Grade II listed space renovated into a creative hub featuring a 1,000 capacity venue, cinema, restaurant and workspace.
PORTERS
A characterful, vibrant, and diverse entertainment venue for rising stars, plus, a lot of fun, themed nights. Good people. Good times.
DEPOT
A versatile and creative venue in Cardiff, hosting festivals, screenings, parties, live music and more.
Plus, unmissable shows at venues that showcase exciting new and raw talent, including Fuel, Cornerstone, Tiny Rebel, The Moon, Sustainable Studios... to name a few.
OPEN SUMMER SPACES
During the summer season, the city’s outdoor spaces come alive with music. The Bay Series outdoor live events take place at Alexandra Head , with stunning views across Cardiff Bay. Inside the grounds of Cardiff Castle, discover a packed programme of major international stars, supported by diverse cultural programming in Bute Park. Cardiff is also home to vibrant festivals such as Pride Cymru and Tafwyl, a huge, free celebration of Welsh culture and art.
CARDIFF MUSIC CITY FESTIVAL
This autumn, Cardiff hosts a three weeklong celebration, which provides platforms and showcases for radical ideas, sounds and collaborations. Featuring the renowned new music festival Sŵn, the Welsh Music Prize and Wales Millennium Centre’s international arts festival Llais as part of the programme.
Find out more at cardiffmusiccity.wales
WHERE TO STAY CARDIFF
Voco St David’s Hotel, Cardiff Bay.
When it comes to accommodation
Cardiff has it all, so whether you’re looking for 5-star luxury or beds on a budget we’ve got you covered.
BIG BRANDS
Like to stick with what you know? Cardiff has many globally recognised brands bursting with high quality bedrooms and facilities, all topped off with a warm Welsh welcome - including the Hilton, the Radisson Blu, the Marriott and more!
BOUTIQUE HOTELS
Looking for something unique, but still want all of the amenities? Cardiff has many stylish boutique hotels - from Parador 44 in the centre, to the Pontcanna Inn in one of the city’s tree lined neighbourhoods.
SPA HOTELS
Whether you’re celebrating or you just want a treat, stay at one of Cardiff’s many spa hotels. If you like the hustle and bustle of the city then the Park Plaza and Voco St David’s are perfect. Want to escape to the country? Just a short drive away you will find the award winning Vale Resort and Spa.
DOG FRIENDLY HOTELS
Don’t leave your furry friend at home. Did you know that many of the hotels in Cardiff welcome pets as well as humans?
BUDGET HOTELS
Travelling on a tight budget? No problem, Cardiff is often voted one of the best value cities in the UK. Home to many budget hotels located centrally, no need to account for the added taxi fares!
HOSTELS
Hostels are a great way to explore new cities, and offer a sense of community you wouldn’t usually find in hotels. Mrs Potts on thriving St Marys street is perfect if you want to be in the middle of it all, and the Riverhouse in the shadow of Principality Stadium is ideal for after a rugby match!
SELF CATERING
For a home-away-from-home, why not stay at one of the city’s serviced apartments? They are great for both short city breaks or longer stays. Urban Space offer a hasslefree booking process with modern and beautifully decorated rooms.
CAMPSITES
How many cities can say they have a campsite in the city centre?! Cardiff Caravan & Camping Park is just around the corner from Sophia Gardens cricket ground – and a short walk from Cathedral Road with traditional pubs popular with locals.
For full accommodation listings head to visitcardiff.com/stay
HOW TO FIND US GETTING HERE
M4 Motorway, Prince Of Wales Bridge.
Cardiff is an easily accessible city; with so many ways to travel here, there’s really no excuse for not paying us a visit!
BY AIR
Cardiff Airport offers direct flights to UK and European destinations including Edinburgh, Belfast, Dublin, Alicante, Faro, Amsterdam and more, as well as connecting routes to more than 900 destinations worldwide.
Getting from Cardiff Airport…
Flightlink Wales offers reliable airport shuttle services, either exclusive or shared, taking you directly from the arrivals hall to your hotel.
BY RAIL
Cardiff is under two hours from London by train, with services every 30 minutes. Transport for Wales, GWR and CrossCountry all operate at Cardiff Central Station. The station is very conveniently located in the city, close to shops, restaurants, and many hotels, as well as top attractions.
BY ROAD
• Cardiff is easily accessible via the M4 motorway
• From the Midlands, the North of England and Scotland, drive via the M6, M5 and M50/M4.
• From the South and South West of England the approach is by the M5 and M4.
• Access from West Wales is by the M4.
BY COACH
Many coach operators including Megabus, National Express and Flixbus offer travel to and from the city. There are pick up & drop off points conveniently located around the City Centre and surrounding areas.
BY SEA
If you’re lucky enough to have your own boat, and you plan to sail into Cardiff Bay, there are short-term moorings in the local marinas. To find out more about day and overnight mooring locations – and the procedures to enter the Bay via the Barrage visit the Harbour Authority website.
GETTING AROUND CARDIFF EASY TRAVELS
ON FOOT
Cardiff is a compact, flat city. Large parts, including the major shopping streets are pedestrianised, so it’s easy to explore on foot. Why not explore one of Cardiff’s traffic-free footpaths, including the incredible Taff Trail which runs for nearly 60 miles from Cardiff Bay, all the way to Brecon? For maps visit our website.
BY BUS
Cardiff Bus runs an extensive system throughout Cardiff and the local area, travelling to Penarth and Barry. To pay by cash you need the exact change. You can also pay by contactless card. To view the latest timetables and prices, visit cardiffbus.com or search Cardiff Bus in your app store.
TRAINS
Cardiff Central is the main transport hub for trains around the region. Hop on board a Transport for Wales service to explore attractions outside of the city including
Barry Island, the Welsh Mining Experience in the Rhondda, and Caerphilly Castle. For Cardiff Bay, regular shuttle services operate between Cardiff Queen Street Station and Cardiff Bay every 12 minutes.
BY BIKE
Cardiff is flat, compact and easily negotiated by bike. You’ll find plenty of bike racks around the city centre and cycle paths like the Taff Trail provide traffic-free routes. Organisations such as Keeping Cardiff Moving & Sustrans have useful information on bike hire and safe routes.
WATER BUS
Two water bus services operate between Bute Park in the city centre, and the Inner Harbour in Cardiff Bay. Also, if you hop on board the Princess Katherine hourly service, you can enjoy a commentary about the city. For timetables and seasonal information check www.cardiffharbour.com
Bute Park
MEET CARDIFF EVENTS WITH
Are you looking for a city to host a conference or event?
The Meet Cardiff team offer a professional and tailormade support service for all aspects of the meetings, conference, incentive and major event business.
If you work with the Meet Cardiff team, you will benefit from…
• Venue finding and developing delegate experience
• Securing best accommodation rates and allocations
• Providing an easy to use, bespoke accommodation booking service for delegates
• Introduction to local suppliers and best packages to support your event
• Support to prepare Bid documents and presentation
• Providing marketing materials to promote Cardiff to future delegates
• Support to prepare Bid documents and presentation
• Arranging site visits and advice on 3D virtual tours
• Local expertise and industry knowledge
• Event marketing, PR and social media support
• Local expertise and industry knowledge Discover more at www.meetcardiff.com
THE REGION DISCOVER
Zip World Tower, Hirwaun.
Just outside Cardiff, there are many other attractions to discover, all with easy transport links.
ST FAGAN’S NATIONAL MUSEUM OF HISTORY
Just a short drive from the city centre, St Fagans has been Wales’ most popular heritage attraction for many years. Explore history through people’s everyday lives, take a glimpse inside buildings frozen in time. Check out the Abernodwydd Farmhouse or the Blaen-waun Post Office - and even a fish and chip shop for when you get peckish.
THE ROYAL MINT EXPERIENCE
Head to Llantrisant and prepare to unlock 1,100 years of history and explore the fascinating coin making process from preparing blank metal discs to striking your very own coin. Taking the kids? The Royal Mint Experience regularly host educational fun events for all the family.
THE VALE RESORT & HENSOL CASTLE
The Vale Resort is set amidst over 650 acres of beautiful Welsh countryside. Love your golf? The hotel has two championship golf courses. For a more indulgent experience, there’s always the award winning spa to treat mind, body and soul! Or experience a guided tour and make your own gin at Hensol Castle Distillery.
JURASSIC WALES AT FONMON CASTLE
You will find this family attraction located on the grounds of Fonmon Castle. Whilst exploring the prehistoric walk visitors will encounter lifesized dinosaurs and animatronic raptors along the way. Your children will be amazed by just how impressive some of the prehistoric creatures are.
GO APE
Whether you are a thrill seeker looking for action-packed fun or simply after some quality time with friends and family, they have adventure covered. Just 40 minutes away from Cardiff it’s a cracking day out. In addition to tree top crossings and super-fast ziplines, Margam boasts Go Ape’s biggest Tarzan swing. A stomachwrenching leap of faith with a drop of six metres.
DYFFRYN GARDENS
A peaceful oasis on the outskirts of Cardiff, Dyffryn has something new to discover on every visit, from intricate themed garden rooms to sweeping formal lawns. The gardens host a number of different styles inspired by countries from all over the world, from a recognisable Italian influence in the Pompeiian Garden to the rainforestlike quality of the plants in the Exotics Garden.
RHONDDA CYNON TAFF
Visit the famous valleys and hills, discover unique days out at the Royal Mint Experience, Welsh Mining Experience and The National Lido of Wales. Take a tasting tour at the world famous Penderyn Whisky Distillery or simply relax and sample some of the award winning food at our many restaurants and cafes. There’s something for everyone in Rhondda Cynon Taff.
CAERPHILLY
Straddling the ancient counties of Glamorgan and Monmouthshire, it’s time to tread into Caerphilly County. Start by exploring the namesake town, with their high street overlooking Wales’ mightiest medieval Castle, get a feel for the area’s rich heritage at the Winding House Museum, pay your respects at the National Mining Memorial Garden and get on your bike trekking the epic Cwmcarn Forest.
FUN CARDIFF FACTS
10 FUN FACTS THAT MAY SURPRISE YOU...
1. The Welsh on the front of the Wales Millennium Centre is ‘Creu Gwir fel gwydr o ffwrnais awen, meaning ‘Creating truth like glass from the furnace of inspiration’. All materials used in the construction were sourced from around Wales.
2. Roald Dahl Plass in Cardiff Bay is named after the Cardiff born author Roald Dahl. Did you know he was also baptised in the Norwegian Church?
3. The world’s first £1million deal was signed in Cardiff’s Coal Exchange in 1907.
4. Cardiff is a city of parks and has more green space per person than any other UK core city.
5. Over 100 years ago, Captain Scott left Cardiff for ill-fated journey to the South Pole.
6. Cardiff is home to the world’s oldest record store – Spillers, which opened in 1894.
7. One of the most infamous pirates, Henry Morgan, was born in Llanrumney in Cardiff in 1635. Famous today as the face of a brand of spiced rum.
8. Guglielmo Marconi successfully transmitted the world’s first radio signals across water between Flat Holm and Lavernock near Cardiff in 1897.
9. The creator of the Daleks (no, not Davros), Terry Nation was born in Cardiff.
10. The Senedd is one of the most ecological buildings in Wales and one of the most ecological Parliamentary buildings in the world. 1000 tonnes of slate was used in and around the building from CwtyBugail Quary in the Ffestiniog area, North Wales.
TALKIN’ TIDY!
As you travel around Cardiff, you will often hear Welsh spoken and see Welsh signs everywhere. Here are some basic Welsh words that you may like to use. Don’t be scared, it’ll be fun to test out on the locals!
WELSH
Croeso
Diolch
Iechyd Da!
Hwyl Fawr
Bore Da
Prynhawn Da
Nos Da
Caerdydd
PRONUNCIATION
Kroyso
Deeolk
Yekeed dah
Hoil Vaawr
Borer-Dah
Prin-hown Dah
Noss Dah
Kair-deethe
ENGLISH
Welcome
Thank You
Cheers!
Good Bye
Good Morning
Good Afternoon
Good Night
Cardiff