Memory of Cardiff
“I fell in love with Cardiff on my first visit. I can honestly say you have a beautiful city.”
John Rutledge Smith, Charleston USA
Cardiff
Cardiff is the capital city of Wales, Europe’s youngest capital and one of the fastest-growing cities in Britain. Extensive re-development has given Cardiff world-class sporting and entertainment complexes. Add to this excellent shopping, diverse restaurants and plenty of art, history and culture, and Cardiff is an ideal destination to keep the family happy.
Culture and heritage
Wales is the land of castles, and Cardiff itself is home to a huge number of castles and historic sites. Cardiff’s history dates back to Roman times, and Cardiff Castle, right at the heart of the city, is well worth a visit, from its magnificent Norman keep to the decadent and luxurious interiors of the Victorian castle.
Attractions
When you visit Cardiff, you’ll find the ‘big 3’ attractions –
Cardiff Castle, the
Millennium Stadium and the
National Museum all close to each other in the city centre. But there are great attractions to be found all over the city – on Cardiff Bay there’s the Wales Millennium Centre and
Techniquest, and on the outskirts of Cardiff you’ll find the fairytale
Castell Coch.
Food and drink
As with most of Wales, Cardiff has a growing reputation for fine dining. This is down to great local chefs, and even better local produce – Welsh lamb and beef, fresh seafood and organic vegetables. In the city’s Brewery Quarter you’ll find a range of great restaurants with an endless choice of cuisine.
Shopping
If you come to Cardiff to shop, you won’t be disappointed. Queen Street is the city’s main shopping area, where you’ll find your favourite high street shops. If you prefer everything under one roof, head to St David’s Shopping Centre; and for unique boutiques and cafés, the Victorian Arcades are a must-see.
Sport
When it comes to sport, Cardiff is a genuine all-rounder. Cardiff is home to the world famous Millennium Stadium, home of Welsh football and rugby and the temporary home of the FA Cup final from 2001-2006. And for golf fans, the Celtic Manor Resort, just 20 minutes from Cardiff, will host the Ryder Cup tournament in 2010.
Music and nightlife
Cardiff’s lively nightlife scene centres around St Mary Street, which has a wide choice of bars, pubs and clubs all in one street. Greyfriars Road is home to great cocktail and wine bars, and Cardiff Bay is fast becoming the city’s most popular spot for nightlife.
Buy before you fly
There’s so much to see and do in Cardiff, so don’t waste time in queues, buy your travel passes and attraction tickets online! With the BritRail GB Flexi Pass you can hop on a train wherever and whenever you like, and explore the country at your own pace. And make sure you see all the castles Wales has to offer – the
National Trust Touring Pass (www.visitbritaindirect.com/en-gb/detail.aspx?ProductCode=TP3) gives you free entry to over 350 of England, Wales and Northern Ireland’s finest castles, historical homes and gardens. For more great offers, go to
VisitBritain Direct (www.visitbritaindirect.com/en-au/).