Cardiff,Wales

Although occupied since the Middle Ages, Cardiff really came into its own during the Industrial Revolution as an important dock town used for the distribution of iron and coal in Wales. Since becoming the Welsh capital in 1955 and subsequently the seat of the Welsh National Assembly, Cardiff has undergone a massive transformation from a forgotten industrial port to a vibrant, modern and cosmopolitan capital city.



Nowhere is the growth and development of the city more evident than in the Cardiff Bay area, a massive new commercial development and urban regeneration project. The trendy waterfront district known as Mermaid's Quay is home to striking modern architecture and modern art, as well as chic shops and boutiques, top-class restaurants, and plenty of clubs and bars. The Quay also provides a great launch site for numerous cruises and boat tours, ranging from serene paddleboats to thrilling speed boat rides.





These modern amenities lie alongside some impressive historical sites, including the Cardiff Castle, which was built by the wealthy third Marquis of Bute. The castle is located in the centre of Cardiff on a site used by both the Romans and the Normans as a strategic point of defence. Visitors can still explore the Norman Keep, set on top of a small hill overlooking the city.



Other popular attractions in Cardiff include the National Museum and Gallery, St David's Hall, Llandaff Cathedral, the outdoor Museum of Welsh Life and the Millennium Stadium - the home of the Welsh Rugby Union and host-to-be of football matches at the 2012 Olympics. There are also many historical attractions and points of interest just outside the city, including several Neolithic sites, and the area is resplendent with natural beauty.



This fast-growing urban centre is an uncommon tourist destination, but more and more travellers are flocking to enjoy the sights, sounds and 24-hour buzz of the Welsh capital.

Cardiff Attractions Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Located in the southwest corner of Wales, the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park runs along a coastline riddled with rugged cliffs, superb sandy beaches, rocky coves and tiny fishing villages. There is some spectacular scenery and wonderful coastal walks, including the well-trodden 167-mile (269km)...  see full details Cardiff Castle Cardiff Castle is a unique complex of historical buildings incorporating a medieval castle, a Victorian Gothic mansion and a Norman keep, which in turn was built over a Roman fort standing guard over on a cliff above Cardiff. The city itself may...  see full details Techniquest This fascinating hands-on science museum is a must for those who are young at heart, perpetually intrigued and amazed by the power of science. Techniquest was voted 'Europe's best science centre' in an industry survey, and it continues to thrill all those...  see full details St. Fagans National History Museum This open-air museum located in St Fagans chronicles the historical lifestyle, architecture and cultural heritage of the people of Wales, and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. The 16th-century manor house in which the museum stands bears testament...  see full details Wales Millennium Centre Nicknamed 'the Armadillo', this arts centre located in the Cardiff Bay area hosts performances such as operas, ballet and dance recitals, stand-up comedy and musicals. Known as one of the world's iconic arts and cultural destinations, it features a world-class stage and also...  see full details Llandaff Cathedral The Llandaff Cathedral, located on the western edge of Cardiff, is one of Wales' premier sights, not to be missed by visitors to the Welsh capital. Situated in what used to be the tiny village of Llandaff, the area surrounding the cathedral still...  see full details