Things to Do in Cardiff

Opulent and luxurious, the Cardiff Castle shines at the heart of the city. With a fascinating history that spans over 2000 years, stunning interiors that bring out the romantic in even the hardest hearts and a wealth of visitor-friendly activities, this enchanting castle is a must visit.

The first inhabitants of the land were the Romans, who used the space as a defensive ground during 50’s A.D. They constructed four forts, this land being used for one of them as archaeologists discovered. The Roman Wall still stands today, as a testament to the first residents. This was followed by the Norman conquest, which resulted in the creation of the castle’s keep and further medieval fortifications. The castle was passed from many a noble hand until it fell under the ownership of the Bute Family and it was in this period when the castle was transformed into a ravishing thing of great beauty. Following the death of the Fourth Marquess of Bute, the castle and its land was gifted to the city and has since then become one of Wales’ most beloved sites.

Today, the Castle attracts visitors from all around the world thanks to its beautiful interiors, fascinating guided tours and the breathtaking view of Cardiff from the top.

• Kids will have a blast on the ‘Castle Quest’, a treasure hunt styled adventure complete with map that’ll have them scurrying through the rooms and across the grounds.
• Take the 50 minute ‘House Tour’ and prance through the highly decorated rooms and stunning interiors. Each room has a story, such as the Winter Smoking Room, Lord Bute’s Bedroom and The Roof Top Garden. You’ll especially enjoy the captivating designs of the furniture.
• Are you a TV buff? Then you’ll be thrilled to know the castle has been used as a film location in Doctor Who, Sherlock, Torchwood and The Sarah Jane Adventures. There’s a special 40 minute guided tour, at £4 per head, that will take you through the rooms that have been aired on TV. You’ll find it hard to believe that extra-terrestrial and inter galactic scenes were shot in this olden day castle!
• If you feel adventures, explore the numerous tunnels that intersect the interiors of the Castle. These were used as hiding places during the Second World War, and a special 30 minute tour will take you around these nooks and crannies.
• The Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier commemorates over 300 years of battle. Immerse yourself in an intriguing mix of historical information, exhibits, hands on activities and lively programs.

There are free audio guides for those who wish to explore the castle at their own pace. These are available in 10 languages, namely English, Welsh, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Russian, Mandarin Chinese and Portuguese. 

With a life sized TARDIS, a range of colourful costumes right out of the show and Dalek and Cyberman models of every type, the Doctor Who Experience in Cardiff Bay will have you yelling “Allons-y!” Get ready to step into the world of the Doctor, in all his different avatars through the ages and surrounded yourself with every creation made in the Doctor Who universe.

The exhibit opened its doors to the London public in 2011 and was moved to Cardiff the next year. This is fitting as the show is filmed in and around the city, including a new BBC studio that’s opened up on Cardiff Bay. Designed by Sarner Ltd., the Experience is a multi-sensory amusement exhibit, with videos narrated by the present day Doctor, Matt Smith. Fans of all ages will relish this exhibition, and make sure to book your tickets in advance as on the spot tickets aren’t available many times.

The adventure begins as you step inside the TARDIS and prepare yourself for an interactive ‘episode’. A short film briefs you, as a group of Weeping Angels and Daleks, led by the 11th Doctor, pass by. This spectacular quest will call upon your services to help the last of the Doctors defeat his foes! After visitors are done with their escapade, they’re free to roam around the rest of the exhibitions which span across two floors.

• This collection is the world’s most extensive gathering of original objects from the show. There’s a de-activated chess playing Cyberman and a giant Christmas snow globe containing the newest doctor and partner should take you down the memories of the episodes they’re from.
• Fans will be thrilled at the sight of original costumes from all 11 seasons of the show. Space age props, alien costumes and prosthetics, sonic devices and the interiors from previous models of the TARDIS are all on display, amongst many other artefacts.
• Specially crafted sets and imagery will allow you to get a first-hand experience of Doctor Who, behind the scenes. You’ll learn how the special effects that make this tv show iconic are created and the thought process behind each of the scary monsters that exist in this world.
• Museum goers are also invited to take photos in front of a green screen that will transform your surroundings into the back drop of your choice. You can be reclining at Trotter’s Lane or battling monsters, all from the safety and comfort of the museum!

Situated upon River Taft is the enormous and magnificent Millennium Stadium. With a capacity of up to 70,000 people and a sliding roof to boot, this arena has played host to innumerable legendary football matches, concerts and has become synonymous with rugby. Whether you’re here to watch an event, reminisce about the past or just take a guided tour, you won’t be disappointed.

The Stadium was built as a replacement for The Arms Park in 1999. Since its inception, numerous events have taken place that cemented this stadium in the hearts and minds of the Welsh. The massively popular Rugby World Cup inaugurated these beautifully maintained grounds, and it was here where Wales beat South Africa for the first time in 12 matches during the 1999 Rugby Union matches. History was made in 2007, when one of the biggest nights in boxing attracted 50,000 people to the arena to witness the night when Joe Calzaghe was emerged the Best Boxer in the World in the middleweight category. The prestigious FA Cup Finals enthralled the fans to bits within these walls from 2001-2006. Besides a huge array of legendary sporting nights, the arena has hosted concerts features world famous artists such as The Rolling Stones and Madonna. The Stadium’s even appeared in certain episodes of Doctor Who!

• If you visit during a rugby match, be sure to buy tickets. The true heart and soul of the stadium pours out when this nationwide favourite sport is played. The electric energy levels make this enormous stadium almost feel cramped!
• You can take guided tours around the arena during empty days, and you’ll be able to experience the dressing rooms, where numerous famous athletes and musicians have prepped before show time. You’ll get to sit in the Royal Box and hear the roar of tens of thousands of fans you walk down the players' tunnel towards the turf.
• You’ll get to learn a lot of trivia and fun facts about the several events that have taken place here.

Art, natural history and geology intertwine to form the captivating National Museum and Gallery, a sight that’s perfect for inquisitive explorers and art enthusiasts alike. Its unparalleled exhibitions and events, including a highly visually pleasing depiction of the evolution of Wales, thrill all kinds of people, from curious college kids to festive families.

Founded in 1905, it came into being when the city was gifted the “Welsh Museum of Natural History, Archaeology and Art” Its doors were opened to the public in 1927 and today, its vast collection of archaeology, botany, fine and applied art, geology and zoology make it stand out.

A visit to the museum today will keep you busy. Hung at eye level, you can study each soft stroke and lovingly created composition as you walk through the exhibits which display over 500 years of work.

• You’ll be able to surround yourself with a great variety of artwork, from local artists whose works document the changing Welsh society, to internationally renowned painters such as Money, Sisley, Bonnard and Hogarth.
• There are different collections of beautifully painted porcelain tea sets from China as well as locally made. Combined with intricately patterned silverware, delicate glasswork and some contemporary ceramics, the Applied Art section is quite exquisite.
• Wales was once filled with woolly mammoths, dinosaurs and a host of other great beasts! ‘The Evolution of Wales’ is a fantastic exhibit that spans the birth of the country, right from the Big Bang and 4,600 million years hence, which is where we stand today.
• Explore the colourful woodlands, the darkness beneath the seas, Skomer Island and the variety of life that thrives on, in and under all these areas in the Natural History section. You’ll marvel and the sheer enormousness of the huge models of the Basking Shark and Humpback Whale and stare in awe at the eerie pitcher plant and 1.2 meter giant earthworm.
• The Clore Discovery Centre is where you can actually study fossils, insects and ancient weaponry under microscopes and even bring in your own objects for identification. There’s also a section where all kinds of talks, performances and live demonstrations take place.

Have you ever thought that when you buy tickets for National Museum and Art Gallery of Cardiff tours, you will be offered an engaging world of art and natural history and geology at one place only! National Museum and Art Gallery tickets offer you a plethora of knowledge domains in comparison to the small amount that is charges. Tickets for National Museum and Art Gallery assure you a session of enlightenment regarding the present and past world around us. And if you are thinking what are the National Museum and Art Gallery ticket prices, you can visit our tickets section for detailed information.

Like oxygen enriched veins, foot paths lined with leafy trees criss cross through the city’s green heart, Bute Park. Just beyond the legendary Cardiff Castle, this park is one of the largest in Wales and is home to urban woodland, sports fields, an arboretum and a river corridor. Ideal for bonding with nature and a picnic or two, this park contrasts beautifully with the busy city.

Built by gardener and horticulturist Andrew Pettigrew, the 130 acre parkland was built between 1873 and 1903 as a private oasis of pleasure for the Bute Family. It was created right in the center of Cardiff, and is surrounded by the gushing River Taft, Pontcanna Fields and Sophia Gardens. The Bute family gifted this jewel of a park to the city in 1947 and it’s now managed by the local government.

The Park is huge and home to innumerable breeds of local trees and vegetation, with some of the strongest and largest specimens of plant-life throughout the U.K. Whether you want a fun picnic in the lush greenery, a sporty day out or some alone time with Mother Earth, this park will relax, rejuvenate and invigorate your senses.

• Hunters of the historical will love the sites and buildings that date back to Roman and medieval times, such as the Animal Wall, the enchanting Gorsedd Stones and the Blackfriars site. Dating as far back as the 12th century, you’ll definitely have a multitude of historical, architectural and natural facts and features waiting for you dig them up.
• Nature lovers will be able to appreciate the mix of unique, ornamental trees that were specially planted here in 1947. Huge, healthy and constantly growing, these trees are some of the finest examples of their kind in the country. It’s only natural that such beautiful trees and the nearby river will attract a host of life that thrives on them, and the park is also home to otters, tree creepers, woodpeckers, herons, leaping salmon, damselfly and all kinds of fungi.
• The Education Centre is unique in the sense it teaches you about the park’s incredibly rich past and diverse flora and fauna. Craft activities, artwork, trails and maps, free Wi-Fi and a whole host of other features elaborate upon the qualities of the park.
• There are tons of festivals, concerts and marathons held at the park on almost every day of the year. LGBT pride festivals, Family Walks and numerous other themed events happen, so no matter when you decide to visit, there will be an event taking place. With two resident cafes and a tearoom, expect delicious snacks and drinks to accompany you on your day out.

A day by the lake side, armed with picnic basket and board games, is a great way to unwind and spend quality time with your loved ones. It’s even better if you get to see the best attractions the city has to offer just a few kilometers away from you, and it’s the best if you’re down at Cardiff Bay, near the barrage, to do all these things and more.

This dam, built in 1999, transformed the area from mushy, swampy mudland to dry, fertile land surrounding a pretty lake. Though the barrage scheme met with a lot of opposition, building it thankfully had more positive effects than negative, and the area transformed into a bustling hive for business and entertainment. The barrage tself is 1.1 km long and extends from Cardiff docks to Penarth and provides a safe route for pedestrians and bikers to amble along. There are quite a few sights on the barrage and close to it worth seeing.

• Barrage Circles by FeliceVarini, is a unique art installation which creates an optical illusion of circles. The artist painted upon different parts of the barrage so as to create an illusion of numerous circles when viewed from a particular angle.
• Imagine spending a few hours in perfect silence, fishing. You can do that at the designated Sea Angling zone at the northern arm of the barrage. If you’d rather just view some salmon and sea trout happily swimming around, you can see the specially designed ‘fish pass’, with its underwater cameras, motion and audio equipment.
• There are special barrage educational trails for families and groups, which take you down the area but this time, with the eyes of an environmental investigator. There’s also a play area for the small ones.
• There are two fascinating exhibitions, one titled ‘The Age of Coal’ and the other, ‘Captain Scott’. Using props and literature, you’ll be able to study how minerals and crystals are unearthed by the mining industry in the Welsh valleys as well as the Captain’s dangerous voyages to the poles.
• There’s the Skate Plaza which replicates the features of the best skating destinations from around the globe! Skaters, cyclists, joggers and runners will enjoy coming here.
• Cardiff Bay’s Water Activity Centre will provide you with the opportunities and equipment required to set sails and get your knees accustomed to the seas! This is based in the Environment Centre in the area.

Close to the River Taff, in the ancient ‘City of Llandaff’, stands the small, grey and unquestionably beautiful Llandaff Cathedral. Steeped in history and marvelous to behold, this beauty is situated in a tranquil conservation area, untouched by the modernity of the rest of the city. Immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of the cathedral and recharge your batteries with all the positive vibes that will surround you.

The Cathedral that stands today was built upon a pre-existing church, which was created by the Welsh saints Dyfrig, Teilo and Euddogwy. They are considered the church’s patron saints, along with Saint Peter and Saint Paul. Since its conception in 1290, the church has faced many trials and tribulations in the form of warfare and had to be rebuilt several times throughout its history. A rebellion in 1400, the English Civil War and World War Two saw much damage made to the church. It’s because of the numerous times it has had to be rebuilt that the church which stands today is a stunning mixture of different designs. There are also many features worth exploring, from towers to separate mini churches, and medieval tombs of saints, you can easily spend a few hours on these hallowed grounds.

• As you leave the city centre and drive up to the Cathedral, you’ll first notice the charming little village and grassy lawns that surround it. Beautiful, neat and serene, you’ll want to spend a few minutes just taking in the scenery.
• Upon entering, the arch with a masterful sculpture of Christ, will first catch your eye. The nave and the rest of the cathedral are just as pretty, as are the Prichard Tower with its tall spire, the Lady Chapel and Presbytery and the numerous stained glass windows.
• The church organ is special as well, and Choir-singing has a special connection with this Church. The Cathedral School, Llandaff, is the only dedicated choir school in Wales. The Church is known for its large choir, comprising of children, men and women from the area. Try and catch them serenading during a service.
• The Garden of Remembrance, with standing stone, is a tribute to a crater left by a bomb during the war.

The heart of cosmopolitan Cardiff, welcome to the recreation and retail hub of the city, Mermaid Quay. Your senses will be met by a vast array of delicious smells wafting from the numerous restaurants situated here, the beautiful sight of the glittering bay, and sounds of music and laughter. There’s no lack of diversity here, with fine dining options as well as snack bars that are easy on the wallet. Shops range from stylish boutiques to quaint little stores and there are a few gems here, such as the Glee Club and Ken Picton’s award winning hair salon and spa.

Mermaid Quay was opened in August 1999 and was the center of the developmental projects around the bay. Today, the area is known to be chic, captivating and a particularly pretty waterfront area. Eat, drink, primp, pamper and indulge yourself in retail therapy at some of the biggest brands in U.K. Pet friendly and family focused, this neighborhood has something for everyone.

• If you’re tired, jet lagged or want to spend a special day pampering yourself or loved ones, you’ll be delighted at the top quality spas and salons on the Quay. Gift someone a massage or get your hair done, all while overlook the blue waters of the bay.
• For foodies, Mermaid Quay will be a definite delight. Japanese, Italian, South American, French, Turkish, Oriental, Mediterranean, Portuguese and Welsh cuisines will create fireworks upon your palate! There’s even a Gourmet Burger Kitchen! Whether you want a healthy, crunchy submarine sandwich or some sinfully delicious pastries, you’ll find it all. There are a few eateries which locally source their food as well.
• If there’s a last minute gift you need to pick up or a memento for home, there are numerous galleries and fashionable gift shops from where you can buy sweet little trinkets, fancy chocolates and Welsh handicrafts. 

Experience the historical metamorphosis of Wales as you wander around St. Fagans National History Museum. With each path begging to tell you a story, this open air museum has been named the most fascinating sight in the country numerous times, and for good reason.

It all started in 1946, when the Earl of Plymouth donated the land and St. Fagans Castle. The museum opened to the public in 1948 and was initially called the ‘Welsh Folk Museum’, which is still its name in the local tongue. It was built with the Swedish ‘Skansen’ museum in mind, but is considered to be a more ambitious creation since most of its buildings were created in hard to de-assemble masonry.

Today the museum is a 100 acres expanse of land, filled with luscious greenery, quaint tea stalls and more than 40 re-erected buildings from around the country. Each of these marvellously built structures is an example of a different period and phase in the country’s lifetime, from rural life to the industrial period. There are even some secret buildings hidden away in the corners and only those exploring the area on foot will be able to find them. Fans of TV show ‘Dr. Who’ will find this sight particularly delightful, as two episodes of the show (‘Human Nature’ and ‘The Family of Blood’) were filmed here.

• Gaze at beautiful architecture as you pass by structures created by Welsh builders of old, and how their craft evolved over time, with the designs of a Unitarian chapel, a tollbooth, a cockpit and a tannery as examples. The medieval parish church of Saint Teilo, a Tudor merchant’s house and a historic Vulcan public house are also aesthetically pleasing buildings.
• Take a look at the life of the average artisan, as a functional blacksmith’s forgery, a pottery, a weaver and two working water mills, highlight traditional crafts. There are real life craftsmen who will take you through each trade with on the spot demonstrations. There’s even a small working farm filled with native breeds of livestock! Picnic on the lush, green garden grounds afterwards, all that work is sure to whip up an appetite.
• The industrial period, probably the most impactful time in the world, is highlighted by a row of workers cottages, Oakdale Workmen’s Instititute and a post-war, pre-fabricated bungalow. Hunters of historical sites will find these most interesting.
• There’s a small playground for children that’s sure to be a hit, while grown-ups can relax and enjoy some tea after all that walking and exploring.
• There are traditional festivals, music and dance events held year throughout the year. It’ll be worth catching a program on these giant grounds, so do check the ‘Festivals’ section on the City Page. 

A smorgasbord of experiences for your senses awaits you at the exciting Cardiff Bay! Let delicious food tantalize you, water expeditions bring out your inner adventurer, explore the different buildings dedicated to science, entertainment, nature and art and a cycle down the barrage that separates the lake from the sea. Whether you’re sporty, artsy, like science or science fiction, or just want a fun day outside, the Bay is the place to visit.

This Bay, once called ‘Tiger Bay’, was home to sailors and workers from over 50 different countries, with residents of Somalian, Norwegian, Spanish, Italian, Caribbean, Irish and Greek heritage. It was once used to export coal and was thus a key player in powering the Industrial Age but started fading away post the Second World War. It was the 1990’s that saw the Bay transform into the incredible entertainment hotspot that it is today. Restaurants and pubs share space alongside numerous famous and important buildings. Outdoors or indoors, there are numerous activities to choose from alongside casual sight-seeing.

• Want some fun in the sun, with the wind in your sails? Then hop onto a ferry and sail across to the Penarth to begin sight-seeing. Boats coming in from the Bristol Channel and mooring near the barrage will greet you, as will the sunny skies and refreshing winds if it’s a good day. If you want to take command of your own vessel, the Boathouse Self-Drive Boat Hire will help you do just that but if you want a guided tour, visit Cardiff Boat Tours. For a mix of both, set sail as a part of the crew on ‘Challenge Wales’.
• Another way of viewing all the sights on the Bay is by renting a bike from Pedal Power and pedaling powerfully down the Cardiff Bay Barrage.
• If you’re hungry for a bite of Welsh history, then the Pierhead and the National Assembly for Wales will satisfy you. The former is a stunning public space, done up in green and terracotta, where visitors can witness the Bay’s change of landscape over the years. The National Assembly, or Y Senedd, offers a range of facilities for visitors which will enable you to learn more about the political machinery of the country.
• Techniquest, the UK’s longest established science centre, will enthrall people of all ages and tickle the scientist in you. Whether you’re a fan or not, the famous Doctor Who Experience, which is a multi sensory exhibit, is sure to be a hit.
• Art lovers, ahoy! The Wales Millenium Centre, Craft*folK, The Norwegian Church Arts Centre and the Makers Guild are home to various exhibitions and galleries. You can also spend time appreciating the fine craftsmanship of the boatmen who built the vessels in World of Boats.
• Nature lovers can treat themselves to a scenic view of Flat Holm Island on high speed RIB boats, courtesy Bay Island Voyages. You can also immerse yourself in the beautiful local flora and fauna of Wales in the stunning Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve.
• There are numerous ways to entertain yourself, from pubs and shops to The Glee Club, which is like honey to bees who like musical concerts and comedy nights.

Let music enthrall your ears, ballets delight your eyes and theatre tickle your ribs at the striking Wales Millennium Centre. With an itinerary filled with all kinds of programs throughout the year, this is the most happening Centre in the city. No matter when you go, there’s always something happening!

The creation of the Centre was meant to replace the failed Cardiff Bay Opera House projects. An international design competition was held and out of 268 applicants, Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid’s sleek, dazzling design won. Due to funding problems, the project was stalled for a while, but finally construction started, with Jonathan Adams as designer, thus resulting in the beautiful bronze Millennium Centre that stands today, with illuminated letters emblazoned across it. Its doors opened in 2004, and in just a matter of 10 years, it’s already considered one of the world’s most iconic arts and cultural sites. It comprises of one big theatre and two tinier halls filled with shops, bars and eateries.

• With an exterior made up of multi-coloured slate, glass and steel, a wooden framework and calligraphy across the front declaring "Creating truth like glass from the furnace of inspiration." in Welsh, the Centre’s exterior is a work of great beauty in itself. Take a look at each carefully crafted part and admire the kind of creativity and dedication it took to build such a structure.
• There are hour long guided tours which promise to help you discover the secrets of the Centre. You’ll get to see one of the biggest stages in all of Britain, the dressing rooms and much more.
• There are numerous free performances; all you need to do is turn up at the Centre, sit back and watch. Check their website for their show schedule and plan accordingly. Today, the Centre is home to nine arts organisations, including the Arts Council of Wales, The Welsh League of Youth and the National Dance Company of Wales.
• Visit the Milipwt's Den, their free, fun and friendly place for children to discover and explore, and meet the new additions to the family, Dyfi, Lecsi, Ponti and Ogi.

• Brown and grey bricks, topped with silver cones meet your eyes, standing almost sternly amongst the bright green grass. As you step closer to the looming castle, its serious façade may remind you of an austere lord. Then you enter and find yourself surrounded by luxurious, sophisticated furniture, paintings and decorations that are sumptuous enough to make the most frivolous spender blush! Welcome to the Castell Coch and feel like royalty as you explore it’s many chambers.
• What started out as a chieftain’s stronghold became architect William Burges’ creation for the 3rd Marquess of Bute. The Marquess desired a rural retreat that would complement the beauty of his castle and Burges complied with this Gothic masterpiece. It is situated on a hillside near the village of Tongwynlais, in the north of Cardiff. With its medieval appearance and working drawbridge, it impressively imitates a building style far older than the time it was created. Its interiors are dazzlingly styled in the High Victorian manner, thus creating a stunning contrast that impresses all who see it. This small castle looks like it belongs in a fairytale and you’ll definitely feel like you’re in one upon entering.
• Touring the castle is a favourite activity for both people who’re new to the city as well as newcomers. You’re provided a machine that gives commentary as you explore each room and tell you the stories behind each aspect.
• The castle has been used to film numerous movies and TV shows, most notably Doctor Who, The Scarlet Pimpernel and Robin Hood. Famous chef Heston Blumenthal used the castle in his cooking show ‘Heston’s Great British Food’. Try to see if you can spot the locations used on air by foot!
• The castle’s rooms are equipped with multi-sensory displays with touch screen technology, ensuring easiness of exploring and understand the different areas. Each room comes with an interesting history to it, so don’t miss out on all the physical details that compliment them. 

Beautiful and huge, Roath Park is a charming refuge for those who seek a few peaceful moments away from the city. With an enormous playground for children, numerous tennis courts, trampolines,golf green and other such features, the park provides a calming alternative to the rest of the city’s more hectic attractions. Pack a picnic basket, put your sports shoes on and take the whole family out to this Victorian styled park.

Opened in 1894, the park was built on 130 acres of reformed bog land and today, it’s a green dream. With a lighthouse that dates back to 1915 and a scale model of the famous ill-fated ship that journied to the Antarctic, helmed by Captain Scott, the park is full of history. It’s also full of diverse life forms, from birds to plant life. The park is also designed in a Victorian style, which adds visual beauty and romance to the site. While Bute Park is full of historical significance, this park is well known for its incredible beauty.

It is a popular fishing spot and once can expect to see avid sailors rowing their boats gently upstream. Within the heart of conservation area, lays four islands. A large playground, numerous enchanting, multi-coloured floral displays and a glasshouse add to the parks charm.

• Roath Park Lake: 30 acres of manmade lake welcomes anglers and boaters alike. Imagine sitting in silence, along the banks of the river while the famous Scott Memorial Lighthouse shines in the distance. With the lighthouse as the lake’s centerpiece, just meandering along the banks of the lake is sure to provide beautiful scenery as well as some quiet time.
• Wild Garden: Surround yourself with sweet aromeas, and the sight of multicoloured indigenous wildflowers.The Wild Garden is a favourite among nature lovers and joggers alike.
• Llandennis Oval:  A 12th century pond lays in tranquil silence, perfect for a few soothing hours away from civilization.
• Botanic Garden: Home to all kinds of trees, flowers, shrubs and fungi, the garden is a prime example of Welsh fauna. Plus, the conservatory and a well-equipped adventure playground ensure the popularity of this garden.
• Pleasure Gardens: Want to play a game of tennis? It’s at the Pleasure Gardens you’ll be able to exert yourself, with a basketball field and bowls in the itinerary. Nearby, there are grounds where locals play Welsh baseball and rugby, as well.

Step through these doors and experience the mechanism behind life first hand! From the small, resilient ant to the greatness of outer space, Techniquest offers the kinds of scientific exhibitions that will make you appreciate even the smallest component of this huge eco-system we call the world. With an aim to educate the masses, you can expect a lot of fun and a lot of learning within the walls of the UK’s longest established Science Centre.

Techniquest first opened its doors in 1986, with 48 exhibits to its name. Just 7 weeks later and the museum were already welcoming its ten thousandth visitor! It shifted base numerous times and finally settled down in Cardiff Bay in 1995 and since then, it has attracted visitors from far and wide. Science lovers, families, college students and out of city tourists all find the site interesting as well as a refreshing change from the usual tourist attraction.

• With more than 130 interactive exhibits, including a giant rocket, a huge pop-gun and a hot air balloon, this science museum will keep you busy. Each exhibit is meant to stir up your interest and foster debate about technology and science and is accessible to anyone who wishes to learn.
• A well-equipped 360 degree planetarium, armed with a new projector, will enchant star gazers from everywhere.
• Since museums like these usually cater to children, Techniquest’s ; ‘After Hours’ is a novel idea, where the museum is specially opened to adults later in the night. You can chill out and watch the stars or explore the exhibits for yourself or take part in workshops or just witness the entertainment on for the night.
• There have been numerous exceedingly interesting workshops in the past, where demonstrators have set ice on fire, create elephant toothepaste and generate.

Most travelers will agree that one of the best parts of visiting new cities is learning about their unique histories. Though one could easily read about them online, there’s nothing quite comparable to the feeling of learning the legends of the land upon which your feet are firmly placed. As you breathe in the city’s air and soak in its vibrations, learning about its past just adds to the overall experience. Each town has its own tale to tell, and it can be quite insightful to learn as it helps us understand many details of the area we’re visiting. It gives us a look at the people who built the city from the ground up and the essence of the city itself.

Usually, in order to learn more about a city, you’d have to go from museum to library for information.. The best option would be to hear the tales of old from weathered senior citizens, as they reminisce and you listen in wonder over tea but finding such people isn’t a surety. Thanks to ‘The Cardiff Story’, you have the next best thing! This small museum tells us about the days when Cardiff was a small market town and traces the growth of the city into the metropolis that stands today.

• The museum has two permanent exhibitions, called ‘Cardiff in Context’ and ‘City Lab’. The former is divided into ‘A Port of Some Importance’, ‘Changing Cardiff’ and ‘Working Lives’ and tells us the whole story of the birth and development of Cardiff.
• There are numerous temporary exhibits that are shown throughout the year, such as ‘Cardiff at Play: Exploring the History of Leisure in the City’ and ‘Pop Culture Portraits by Nathan Wyburn’.
• There are also numerous arts and crafts events and themed events, which are worth experiencing if you’re in town.
• The exhibit is filled with up-to-date technology, such as an interactive map right at the beginning of the museum.