A mere ten-minute drive from Cardiff City Centre lies Cardiff Bay, a buzzing 8-mile-long waterfront area located on the banks of a 500-acre freshwater lake. Boasting a unique blend of history, culture, entertainment and natural beauty, Cardiff Bay offers a myriad of adventures to keep visitors of all ages busy throughout the day and well into the night.
We’ve picked out some of our favourite places in Cardiff Bay to help you make the most of your visit.
1. Wales Millennium Centre
No day out in Cardiff Bay is complete without a trip to the magnificent Wales Millennium Centre. This architectural marvel, designed to resemble a giant copper-clad snail, is the Welsh national arts centre. The 5-acre site houses a theatre and smaller halls alongside restaurants, bars and shops. The Centre hosts a diverse array of large-scale events spanning everything from world class operas and West End musicals to workshops and free performances. Even if you don’t manage to catch a show, you can take a guided tour, browse the shops, grab a bite to eat and marvel at the iconic architecture.
2. Cardiff Bay Barrage
Cardiff Bay Barrage is a magnificent engineering feat connecting Cardiff Bay to Penarth. The perfect spot to take a relaxing stroll, enjoy a bike ride or simply take a peaceful moment of reflection, Cardiff Bay Barrage offers stunning views across the bay and the Bristol Channel beyond. With a children’s play area, skate plaza and outdoor gym, there’s plenty to keep you busy before heading to the café for a well-deserved drink and bite to eat.
3. Techniquest
Techniquest is a fascinating science discovery centre situated in the heart of Cardiff Bay. Set across two floors, the attraction is bursting with scientific information presented through a series of interactive displays, hands-on experiments and mind-boggling machines. Visitors young and old will have a whale of a time discovering the wonders of science in a fun, engaging way.
4. Mermaid Quay
If it’s top-notch cuisine you’re after, Mermaid Quay is the place for you. With over 30 eateries to choose from, serving everything from Sushi to steak, this bustling waterfront complex caters for all tastes and budgets. When you’ve eaten your fill, you can pick up a gift or two from one of the independent boutiques selling handmade Welsh gifts and Welsh Cakes before relaxing with a film at the Everyman cinema or a show at the Glee comedy club.
5. Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve
Situated on the Northern shore of Cardiff Bay, the Wetlands Reserve is a nature enthusiast’s paradise. The 8-hectare urban oasis is home to a rich variety of bird species, wildlife and plants.
Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk and observe the area’s inhabitants from the viewing area extending into the water. A beautiful sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature.
6. Norwegian Church Arts Centre
Once a meeting place for Norwegian sailors during the Industrial Revolution, this iconic building has been transformed into a vibrant centre for arts and culture. Visitors can enjoy exhibitions celebrating local art, catch a live performance or enjoy a coffee whilst marvelling at the awe-inspiring views of the bay.
7. Cardiff International White Water
Cardiff International White Water is South Wales only whitewater rafting course. The £13 million venue offers a wide selection of activities for thrill-seekers of all ages including paddle boarding, bodyboarding and, of course, white water rafting! Those who prefer their fun a little drier can head to the Air Trail and tackle the obstacle course situated high above the water.
8. The Senedd
Overlooking the Bay, the Senned building is home to the Welsh Parliament and offers a fascinating glimpse into the workings of Welsh democracy.
Visitors can take a seat in the public galleries to observe first-hand the live debates and discussions that shape Wales or partake in a guided tour to gain an insight into the legislative process.
The building is a unique architectural marvel, noted as one of the most environmentally friendly parliament buildings in the world. With a children’s indoor play area, café and shop, a trip to the Senned is a must when visiting Cardiff Bay.
Summary
With adventures to suit any taste, food and drink from around the globe and entertainment venues galore, a visit to Cardiff Bay is a perfect day out for all the family.
