Roald Dahl Plass: Cardiff Bay’s Cultural Heart and Historic Dockland
A vibrant waterfront plaza in Cardiff Bay honoring Roald Dahl, blending historic dock heritage with cultural events and iconic landmarks.
Roald Dahl Plass is a vibrant, oval-shaped public plaza in Cardiff Bay, Wales, named after the famed Cardiff-born author Roald Dahl. Once the Oval Basin dock of a thriving coal port, it has been transformed into a lively amphitheatre-style space surrounded by illuminated pillars, the iconic 70-foot Water Tower, and cultural landmarks such as the Senedd and Wales Millennium Centre. It hosts open-air concerts, festivals, and serves as a popular filming location, notably for the Doctor Who spin-off Torchwood.
A brief summary to Roald Dahl Plass
- Cardiff, Cardiff, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit in the evening to see the illuminated pillars and Water Tower, creating a spectacular visual display.
- Check local event listings for open-air concerts and festivals held regularly at the Plass.
- Explore nearby Mermaid Quay for dining and shopping options before or after your visit.
- Fans of Doctor Who and Torchwood should look for the Water Tower, a famous filming location.
- Use restrooms at the Wales Millennium Centre, as none are available directly on the plaza.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Cardiff Bay train line to Cardiff Bay Station, then walk approximately 5 minutes on flat terrain to Roald Dahl Plass. Trains run frequently, and a single journey ticket costs around £2.50.
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Bus
Several Cardiff Bus routes serve Cardiff Bay, including route 8, which stops near Roald Dahl Plass. Buses run every 10-20 minutes, with a fare of approximately £2.50. The bus stop is about a 3-minute walk from the plaza.
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Car
Driving to Roald Dahl Plass is possible with several public car parks nearby, such as the Mermaid Quay car park. Parking fees typically range from £3 to £8 depending on duration. Note that Cardiff Bay can be busy during events, and some roads may have restrictions.
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Walking
From Cardiff city centre, it is a pleasant 25-35 minute walk along flat, paved paths through the city and along Lloyd George Avenue to the bay area. The route is accessible and suitable for all fitness levels.
Roald Dahl Plass location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Roald Dahl Plass
From Industrial Dock to Cultural Plaza
Roald Dahl Plass occupies the site of the former Oval Basin, once a bustling dock integral to Cardiff’s rise as the world’s largest coal-exporting port in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The basin was part of the West Bute Dock complex, which handled thousands of ships annually, fueling Cardiff’s industrial boom. However, after World War II, the area fell into decline and dereliction. In the late 20th century, extensive regeneration transformed this historic dockland into a modern public space, reopening in 2000 as Roald Dahl Plass, named to honor the city’s famous literary son and his Norwegian heritage.Architectural and Artistic Features
The Plass is an oval-shaped open space designed as an amphitheatre with concrete steps encircling the bowl, making it ideal for outdoor performances and gatherings. Seventeen illuminated pillars surround the area, creating a striking visual effect, especially at night. Dominating the northern end is the Water Tower, a 70-foot-high stainless steel sculpture with water cascading down its surface. Designed by Nicholas Hare Architects and sculptor William Pye, this tower is a local landmark and a recognizable symbol from the TV series Torchwood, often called the "Torchwood Tower" by fans.A Hub for Events and Cultural Life
Roald Dahl Plass serves as a dynamic venue for concerts, festivals, and cultural celebrations. Its amphitheatre shape and central location in Cardiff Bay make it a favored spot for open-air music events and community gatherings. The plaza was central to Cardiff’s bid for European Capital of Culture 2008 and continues to host major events such as the Cardiff Food Festival and the National Eisteddfod. Nearby, the Wales Millennium Centre and the Senedd building add to the cultural vibrancy of the area.Connections to Roald Dahl and Local Heritage
The name "Plass" is Norwegian for "place," reflecting the Norwegian roots of Roald Dahl’s family and the nearby Norwegian Seamen’s Church, a historic cultural landmark. Dahl was born in Cardiff in 1916, and the area celebrates his legacy with the plaza serving as a symbolic link between the city’s maritime past and its creative future. The site also features a plaque commemorating its renaming and transformation from a dock to a public square.Surrounding Attractions and Atmosphere
The Plass is bordered by Mermaid Quay, a lively waterfront area filled with shops, bars, and restaurants, and is adjacent to the historic Pierhead Building and the modern Senedd. The combination of historic and contemporary architecture creates a unique urban environment. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of Cardiff Bay, relax on the concrete steps, or explore the waterfront promenade. The plaza’s lively atmosphere is enhanced by its role as a filming location for popular TV shows and its frequent cultural events.Visitor Experience and Practical Details
Roald Dahl Plass is accessible year-round and offers a welcoming space for families, culture enthusiasts, and fans of literature and television alike. While there are no public restrooms directly on the plaza, facilities are available nearby at the Wales Millennium Centre. The plaza’s open design and central location make it a convenient starting point for exploring Cardiff Bay’s other attractions, including the Norwegian Church Arts Centre and the vibrant Mermaid Quay.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ship Weather Vane - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
0.2 km
A dynamic copper and steel ship weather vane celebrating Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage atop the historic Pilotage Office.
Premier Inn Cardiff Bay hotel
0.2 km
Comfortable, accessible, and modern hotel steps from Cardiff Bay’s cultural and waterfront attractions.
The Scott Antarctic Memorial Cardiff Bay
0.4 km
A poignant memorial in Cardiff Bay honoring Captain Scott and his Antarctic expedition, set against a historic maritime backdrop.
Roath Lock
0.4 km
Discover Roath Lock, Cardiff’s iconic BBC drama village blending cutting-edge production with waterfront heritage charm.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
1.4 km
Historic bronze statue in Cardiff honoring the visionary who transformed the city through the development of its docks and industrial growth.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
1.4 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
1.8 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
HMP Cardiff
1.9 km
Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
John Batchelor Statue
1.9 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Fogo's Free Tours
1.9 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
Museum of Cardiff
2.0 km
Explore Cardiff’s vibrant history and culture in the heart of the city at the Museum of Cardiff, housed in the historic Old Library.
Principality Stadium
2.0 km
Experience the energy and excitement of Principality Stadium, Cardiff's premier venue for sports, concerts, and unforgettable events.
8 St Mary St
2.0 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of 8 St Mary St in the heart of Cardiff, a must-see for every traveler.
The Cardiff Market
2.1 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, Cardiff
2.1 km
Experience the warmth of community and spirituality at RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, a welcoming Church of Christ in the heart of Cardiff.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pierhead Building
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff's iconic Victorian Gothic Revival Pierhead Building, a vibrant museum and landmark overlooking the scenic Cardiff Bay waterfront.
Giant Ferris Wheel
0.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and dazzling light shows atop Cardiff’s iconic 35-meter Giant Ferris Wheel at Harbour Drive.
Cardiff Cruises
0.1 km
Explore Cardiff Bay’s iconic waterfront with Cardiff Cruises—offering scenic tours, themed cruises, and unique maritime experiences from Mermaid Quay.
Wales Millennium Centre
0.1 km
Wales's premier arts venue showcasing world-class opera, ballet, dance and musicals in Cardiff Bay.
The Senedd
0.1 km
Discover the Senedd, Cardiff’s iconic sustainable parliament building where Welsh democracy meets stunning waterfront views and open public access.
Cargoes Poem
0.1 km
Experience Cardiff’s maritime legacy through John Masefield’s Cargoes Poem brought to life by striking sculptures at Mermaid Quay.
The Open Boat 'Daffodil'
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff Bay’s beauty and history aboard the charming open-air steam launch, The Open Boat 'Daffodil', for a unique and intimate cruise experience.
Mermaid Quay
0.1 km
Vibrant Cardiff Bay waterfront alive with dining, shopping, comedy, and bay views—maritime heritage meets modern leisure in this regenerated gem.
Ianto's Shrine
0.1 km
A heartfelt fan-made memorial on Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay honoring Ianto Jones, a beloved character from the cult TV series Torchwood.
Landsea Square - Cardiff Bay
0.2 km
A peaceful, art-filled square nestled in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant waterfront, perfect for quiet moments and scenic views.
Panorama Stone - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
0.2 km
Discover Panorama Stone, a symbolic bronze sculpture linking Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage with global connections on the vibrant Cardiff Bay Art Trail.
Landsea Gardens Cardiff Bay Viewing Deck
0.2 km
A serene garden retreat with stunning panoramic views over Cardiff Bay’s waterfront and city skyline.
Techniquest
0.3 km
Explore hands-on science, immersive shows, and family fun at Techniquest, Cardiff’s premier interactive discovery centre in vibrant Cardiff Bay.
Mount Stuart Square
0.3 km
Historic Victorian square in Cardiff Bay centered on the iconic Coal Exchange, showcasing maritime heritage and architectural grandeur.
Norwegian Church Arts Centre
0.3 km
Historic Norwegian Church turned vibrant arts centre with panoramic Cardiff Bay views, Nordic cuisine, and a rich cultural legacy.
Essential places to dine
Côte Cardiff Bay
0.1 km
Experience the elegance of modern French dining with classic flavors and waterfront views at Côte Cardiff Bay in Mermaid Quay.
Demiro's
0.1 km
Lively Italian dining with a Mediterranean twist, set in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay waterfront.
Signor Valentino
0.1 km
Handcrafted Italian dining with panoramic Cardiff Bay views from an elevated Mediterranean terrace.
Las Iguanas - Cardiff - Mermaid Quay
0.1 km
Sizzling Latin American flavors and killer cocktails meet Cardiff Bay's waterfront sparkle at this fiesta-ready hotspot.
Giggling Squid - Cardiff Bay
0.1 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and botanical charm in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay.
Cosy Club
0.1 km
Stylish and relaxed dining with eclectic decor and a vibrant bar in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay.
Hub Box Cardiff
0.1 km
Lively American-style burger bar with waterfront views, bold flavors, and inclusive menu options in the heart of Cardiff’s Mermaid Quay.
The Botanist Cardiff Bay
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Cardiff Bay - where live music meets delicious British cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.
Bill's Cardiff Bay Restaurant
0.2 km
Historic waterfront dining with colorful charm, seasonal British classics, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff Bay.
Culley's Kitchen & Bar
0.3 km
Historic charm meets fresh Welsh flavors in Cardiff Bay’s Culley's Kitchen & Bar, a must-visit for seasonal dining and craft cocktails.
Tir a Môr
0.4 km
Savor the fusion of Welsh land and sea at Tir a Môr, Cardiff’s stylish coastal restaurant celebrating local flavors and traditions.
Thomas Restaurant Cardiff Bay
0.6 km
A stylish Cardiff Bay restaurant blending modern British cuisine with warm hospitality and local flavors in a vibrant waterfront setting.
The Classroom
1.2 km
Experience fine dining with panoramic city views while supporting Cardiff’s future chefs at The Classroom.
Viva Brazil Cardiff
1.6 km
Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio and vibrant flavors in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre, perfect for groups and special occasions.
Pitch Bar & Eatery
1.7 km
Experience the best of Cardiff at Pitch Bar & Eatery – where delicious breakfasts meet exquisite cocktails in a lively setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Polka Dot
0.1 km
Discover dotted delights at this whimsical Cardiff Bay gift shop, where polka patterns meet playful souvenirs in a cozy waterfront nook.
Zia Boutique
0.1 km
Discover handpicked jewellery, homeware, and gifts at this independent gem in Cardiff Bay's Mermaid Quay—a stylish haven since 2011.
Gallery Gift Shop at the Norwegian Church
0.3 km
Discover unique Scandinavian-inspired gifts in the historic Norwegian Church Arts Centre, a cultural gem overlooking Cardiff Bay.
Hearth & Co
0.3 km
Discover handcrafted wonders blending Norwegian heritage and Welsh artistry at this gem within Cardiff Bay's iconic Norwegian Church Arts Centre.
Cardiff Bay Retail Park
1.7 km
Value-packed shopping hub amid Cardiff Bay's waterfront allure—superstores, groceries, and easy parking for practical pit stops.
B&M Home Store
1.7 km
Discover incredible deals on home essentials and unique items at B&M Home Store in Cardiff Bay - your go-to discount shop!
Ganesha Handicrafts
1.8 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
1.8 km
Bright, bold Welsh art and homewares in the heart of Cardiff’s Royal Arcade – perfect for souvenirs, gifts, and a splash of contemporary Welsh culture.
Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
1.8 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
elephants and flowres
1.8 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Welcome Things
1.8 km
Discover whimsical treasures in Cardiff's historic Royal Arcade at this eclectic gift shop, where unique Welsh-inspired finds meet global curiosities in Victorian splendor.
Sobeys Vintage Clothing
1.8 km
Discover unique reworked vintage fashion in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at Sobeys Vintage Clothing, where creativity meets sustainability.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
1.9 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Menkind
1.9 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts for men at Menkind Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Shopping Centre.
Morgan Quarter
1.9 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar One
0.1 km
Harborside bar beside Wales Millennium Centre, blending terrace views, inclusive eats, cocktails, and theatre-ready vibes in Cardiff Bay's lively waterfront scene.
The Eli Jenkins
0.1 km
Lively Cardiff Bay pub in a historic building, with beer garden views, live sports, cask ales, craft beers, and hearty grub—perfect for sports fans and casual nights out.
The Packet
0.1 km
Traditional Cardiff Bay pub with 160 years of history, darts, games, real ales, and homely vibes amid modern surroundings.
The Dock
0.1 km
Lively live music bar and restaurant in Cardiff Bay with panoramic waterfront views and an extensive drinks selection.
The Waterguard
0.3 km
Sam Smith's dockside gem in Cardiff Bay: crisp ales, pub grub, dog-friendly gardens, and panoramic harbor views for effortless waterfront unwinding.
Lo Lounge
0.6 km
Industrial-chic waterfront bar in Cardiff Bay serving cocktails, street food, and live tunes amid stunning sunset views and pet-friendly vibes.
Mocka Lounge
1.7 km
Lively cocktail bar and nightclub in Cardiff’s Mill Lane with great drinks, friendly service, and a vibrant social scene day and night.
Peppermint Bar
1.7 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and a heated outdoor terrace in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Heidis Bier Bar Cardiff
1.7 km
Experience authentic Bavarian fun and lively nightlife at Heidi's Bier Bar, Cardiff’s quirky hotspot on Mill Lane open late every day.
Be At One - Cardiff
1.7 km
Lively cocktail bar in Cardiff city centre with 100+ drinks, happy hours, masterclasses, and a buzzing party atmosphere.
Retro
1.7 km
A lively multi-floor nightclub in Cardiff celebrating retro hits, wild parties, and unforgettable nights until the early morning.
Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
1.7 km
Sophisticated cocktails and vibrant nightlife meet in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre at Dirty Martini.
The Grange Pub
1.7 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
1.7 km
A dynamic three-floor cocktail bar in Cardiff offering inventive drinks, lively music, and unforgettable nights out.
The Philharmonic
1.7 km
A bustling multilevel pub and nightclub in Cardiff city centre, offering cocktails, brunches, rooftop vibes, and lively entertainment.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
