Age of Coal Exhibition in Cardiff Bay
Discover Wales’ coal mining heritage through immersive displays and personal stories at Cardiff Bay’s Age of Coal Exhibition.
The Age of Coal Exhibition in Cardiff Bay offers a compelling journey through Wales’ rich industrial heritage, showcasing the pivotal role coal mining played in shaping the region’s economy and culture. Through engaging displays and authentic artifacts, visitors gain insight into the lives of miners and the transformative impact of coal on Welsh society. Located in the vibrant Cardiff Bay area, this free attraction connects history with the present-day waterfront atmosphere.
A brief summary to Age of Coal exhibition
- Cardiff Bay Trl, Cardiff, CF10 4GA, GB
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 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 during weekdays to enjoy a quieter experience and more time to explore the displays.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Cardiff Bay to experience its vibrant waterfront and cultural venues.
- Look out for interactive exhibits that provide hands-on learning about mining technology and history.
- Bring children along for an educational outing, as the exhibition offers engaging content suitable for all ages.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walk
Take a train to Cardiff Central Station from major cities like Bristol or London, then enjoy a 20-minute walk along the scenic Cardiff Bay Trail to the exhibition. Trains run frequently with ticket prices ranging from £10 to £30 depending on origin.
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Bus
Use local Cardiff bus services such as routes 6 or 8, which connect the city center to Cardiff Bay. The bus journey typically takes 15–25 minutes with a single fare around £2.50. Buses run regularly throughout the day.
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Car
Driving to Cardiff Bay is straightforward via the A4232. Parking is available in nearby public car parks with fees approximately £5–£10 per day. Note that traffic can be heavy during peak hours.
Age of Coal exhibition location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Age of Coal exhibition
Exploring Wales’ Coal Mining Legacy
The Age of Coal Exhibition immerses visitors in the story of Wales’ industrial past, focusing on the coal mining industry that fueled the nation’s growth during the Industrial Revolution and beyond. This exhibition highlights the significance of coal as a vital resource that powered factories, heated homes, and shaped communities. Through carefully curated artifacts, photographs, and interpretive displays, the exhibition reveals the challenging working conditions miners endured and the social fabric of mining towns.Setting and Atmosphere at Cardiff Bay
Situated in the dynamic Cardiff Bay area, the exhibition benefits from a waterfront location that blends history with modern urban life. Cardiff Bay itself is a hub of cultural and leisure activities, providing visitors with a lively backdrop to their exploration of industrial heritage. The exhibition’s setting invites reflection on the transition from a coal-powered economy to the contemporary regeneration of the bay area, symbolizing Wales’ resilience and adaptability.Educational and Engaging Displays
The exhibition features a variety of engaging displays designed to educate visitors of all ages. Interactive elements and authentic mining tools bring the story to life, offering hands-on learning opportunities. The narrative also touches on the technological advancements in mining and the environmental impact of the industry, providing a comprehensive understanding of coal’s role in Welsh history.The Human Stories Behind the Industry
Central to the exhibition are the personal stories of miners and their families, illustrating the human cost and community spirit forged underground. Oral histories, photographs, and memorabilia convey the daily realities of mining life, from the camaraderie among workers to the dangers they faced. This focus on individual experiences adds emotional depth and connection to the broader historical context.Linking Past and Present
The Age of Coal Exhibition not only preserves the memory of Wales’ coal mining heritage but also connects it to contemporary issues such as economic change and cultural identity. Visitors can appreciate how the legacy of coal mining continues to influence Welsh society today, fostering a deeper appreciation for the region’s industrial roots amidst Cardiff Bay’s modern vibrancy.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
The exhibition is free to enter and suitable for visitors of all ages, making it an accessible and enriching cultural destination. Its location in Cardiff Bay allows easy access to nearby amenities, restaurants, and other attractions. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, the Age of Coal Exhibition offers a meaningful glimpse into a defining chapter of Wales’ past.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Scott Antarctic Memorial Cardiff Bay
0.8 km
A poignant memorial in Cardiff Bay honoring Captain Scott and his Antarctic expedition, set against a historic maritime backdrop.
Roath Lock
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Discover Roath Lock, Cardiff’s iconic BBC drama village blending cutting-edge production with waterfront heritage charm.
Ship Weather Vane - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
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A dynamic copper and steel ship weather vane celebrating Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage atop the historic Pilotage Office.
Premier Inn Cardiff Bay hotel
1.3 km
Comfortable, accessible, and modern hotel steps from Cardiff Bay’s cultural and waterfront attractions.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
2.5 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
2.5 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
2.8 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
John Batchelor Statue
3.0 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Fogo's Free Tours
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Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
Principality Stadium
3.0 km
Experience the energy and excitement of Principality Stadium, Cardiff's premier venue for sports, concerts, and unforgettable events.
HMP Cardiff
3.0 km
Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
8 St Mary St
3.1 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of 8 St Mary St in the heart of Cardiff, a must-see for every traveler.
Museum of Cardiff
3.1 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.
St David's Metropolitan Cathedral
3.1 km
Experience the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of St David's Metropolitan Cathedral, a must-visit spiritual landmark in Cardiff.
The Cardiff Market
3.1 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Roald Dahl - The Enormous Crocodile
0.2 km
Step into the enchanting world of Roald Dahl in Great Missenden, where stories come alive through interactive exhibits and original manuscripts.
Scott of the Antarctic Exhibition
0.3 km
Explore the heroic legacy of Captain Scott’s Antarctic expeditions in Cardiff Bay’s immersive and family-friendly exhibition.
Cardiff Bay
0.5 km
Explore Cardiff Bay, Europe’s largest waterfront transformation blending culture, leisure, and scenic beauty in a vibrant urban setting.
Cardiff Bay Trail Walk
0.5 km
Explore Cardiff Bay’s vibrant waterfront on a scenic 10km trail featuring iconic landmarks, tranquil parks, and family-friendly activities.
Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve
0.8 km
A serene 8-hectare freshwater wetland reserve in Cardiff Bay, offering rich biodiversity and peaceful birdwatching amidst urban surroundings.
Norwegian Church Arts Centre
0.8 km
Historic Norwegian Church turned vibrant arts centre with panoramic Cardiff Bay views, Nordic cuisine, and a rich cultural legacy.
The Jetty
0.8 km
A peaceful waterfront escape in Cardiff Bay blending natural beauty, wildlife, and urban vibrancy in a scenic setting.
Cardiff Bay Barrage
0.9 km
A modern engineering masterpiece offering scenic waterfront walks, vibrant leisure activities, and fascinating maritime operations in Cardiff Bay.
Cardiff Bay Barrage Locks
0.9 km
Explore the impressive Cardiff Bay Barrage Locks, a stunning engineering marvel offering scenic waterfront views, dynamic lock operations, and family-friendly recreation.
Landsea Gardens Cardiff Bay Viewing Deck
1.0 km
A serene garden retreat with stunning panoramic views over Cardiff Bay’s waterfront and city skyline.
Panorama Stone - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
1.0 km
Discover Panorama Stone, a symbolic bronze sculpture linking Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage with global connections on the vibrant Cardiff Bay Art Trail.
The Open Boat 'Daffodil'
1.0 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.
Landsea Square - Cardiff Bay
1.0 km
A peaceful, art-filled square nestled in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant waterfront, perfect for quiet moments and scenic views.
Cardiff Cruises
1.0 km
Explore Cardiff Bay’s iconic waterfront with Cardiff Cruises—offering scenic tours, themed cruises, and unique maritime experiences from Mermaid Quay.
Cargoes Poem
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Experience Cardiff’s maritime legacy through John Masefield’s Cargoes Poem brought to life by striking sculptures at Mermaid Quay.
Essential places to dine
Tir a Môr
0.8 km
Savor the fusion of Welsh land and sea at Tir a Môr, Cardiff’s stylish coastal restaurant celebrating local flavors and traditions.
Las Iguanas - Cardiff - Mermaid Quay
1.0 km
Sizzling Latin American flavors and killer cocktails meet Cardiff Bay's waterfront sparkle at this fiesta-ready hotspot.
Bill's Cardiff Bay Restaurant
1.0 km
Historic waterfront dining with colorful charm, seasonal British classics, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff Bay.
Signor Valentino
1.0 km
Handcrafted Italian dining with panoramic Cardiff Bay views from an elevated Mediterranean terrace.
Cosy Club
1.0 km
Stylish and relaxed dining with eclectic decor and a vibrant bar in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay.
The Botanist Cardiff Bay
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Cardiff Bay - where live music meets delicious British cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.
Hub Box Cardiff
1.0 km
Lively American-style burger bar with waterfront views, bold flavors, and inclusive menu options in the heart of Cardiff’s Mermaid Quay.
Giggling Squid - Cardiff Bay
1.0 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and botanical charm in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay.
Demiro's
1.0 km
Lively Italian dining with a Mediterranean twist, set in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay waterfront.
Côte Cardiff Bay
1.1 km
Experience the elegance of modern French dining with classic flavors and waterfront views at Côte Cardiff Bay in Mermaid Quay.
Culley's Kitchen & Bar
1.3 km
Historic charm meets fresh Welsh flavors in Cardiff Bay’s Culley's Kitchen & Bar, a must-visit for seasonal dining and craft cocktails.
Cedar Tree Farm - Farmhouse Inns
1.5 km
A family-friendly pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, famed for its hearty carvery, legendary desserts, and welcoming atmosphere.
Thomas Restaurant Cardiff Bay
1.6 km
A stylish Cardiff Bay restaurant blending modern British cuisine with warm hospitality and local flavors in a vibrant waterfront setting.
Harvester Cardiff Bay Penarth
1.7 km
A lively family-friendly British bar & grill in Penarth offering hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere near Cardiff Bay.
The Classroom
2.1 km
Experience fine dining with panoramic city views while supporting Cardiff’s future chefs at The Classroom.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gallery Gift Shop at the Norwegian Church
0.8 km
Discover unique Scandinavian-inspired gifts in the historic Norwegian Church Arts Centre, a cultural gem overlooking Cardiff Bay.
Hearth & Co
0.8 km
Discover handcrafted wonders blending Norwegian heritage and Welsh artistry at this gem within Cardiff Bay's iconic Norwegian Church Arts Centre.
Zia Boutique
1.0 km
Discover handpicked jewellery, homeware, and gifts at this independent gem in Cardiff Bay's Mermaid Quay—a stylish haven since 2011.
Polka Dot
1.1 km
Discover dotted delights at this whimsical Cardiff Bay gift shop, where polka patterns meet playful souvenirs in a cozy waterfront nook.
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.
Gifts At No. 9
1.9 km
Discover charming, beautifully curated gifts with personal service at Penarth’s beloved boutique on Windsor Road.
B&M Home Store
1.9 km
Discover incredible deals on home essentials and unique items at B&M Home Store in Cardiff Bay - your go-to discount shop!
The Queen B Boutique
2.0 km
Elegant occasion wear and personalized service combine at The Queen B Boutique, Penarth’s charming fashion and gift destination.
Shore
2.2 km
A charming coastal gift shop on Penarth’s Esplanade, perfect for seaside souvenirs and nautical-themed treasures with a local touch.
Antoinette Antiques and Vintage Clothing
2.5 km
Discover Cardiff’s largest vintage hat collection and timeless antiques in a historic Pumping Station setting.
Ganesha Handicrafts
2.9 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
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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
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Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
elephants and flowres
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Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Cardiff Antique Centre
2.9 km
Discover unique antiques and collectibles at Cardiff Antique Centre, a must-visit destination for history lovers and treasure seekers alike.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lo Lounge
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Industrial-chic waterfront bar in Cardiff Bay serving cocktails, street food, and live tunes amid stunning sunset views and pet-friendly vibes.
The Waterguard
0.9 km
Sam Smith's dockside gem in Cardiff Bay: crisp ales, pub grub, dog-friendly gardens, and panoramic harbor views for effortless waterfront unwinding.
The Dock
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A waterside bar and kitchen in Mermaid Quay — bright windows, bay views, live music and big‑screen sport for daytime dining through late-night sessions.
The Eli Jenkins
1.1 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.
Bar One
1.1 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 Packet
1.2 km
Traditional Cardiff Bay pub with 160 years of history, darts, games, real ales, and homely vibes amid modern surroundings.
Gin 64
2.2 km
Discover Penarth’s chic gin bar offering extensive selections, expert cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
The Grange Pub
2.4 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Peppermint Bar
2.7 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and a heated outdoor terrace in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Mocka Lounge
2.7 km
Lively cocktail bar and nightclub in Cardiff’s Mill Lane with great drinks, friendly service, and a vibrant social scene day and night.
Be At One - Cardiff
2.7 km
Lively cocktail bar in Cardiff city centre with 100+ drinks, happy hours, masterclasses, and a buzzing party atmosphere.
Heidis Bier Bar Cardiff
2.7 km
Experience authentic Bavarian fun and lively nightlife at Heidi's Bier Bar, Cardiff’s quirky hotspot on Mill Lane open late every day.
Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
2.7 km
Sophisticated cocktails and vibrant nightlife meet in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre at Dirty Martini.
Retro
2.7 km
A lively multi-floor nightclub in Cardiff celebrating retro hits, wild parties, and unforgettable nights until the early morning.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
2.8 km
A dynamic three-floor cocktail bar in Cardiff offering inventive drinks, lively music, and unforgettable nights out.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cabaret at Wales Millennium Centre
1.1 km
Dive into Cardiff Bay's sizzling hub of drag, burlesque, comedy, and live music at Cabaret – where inclusive performances sparkle with pop culture magic and high-energy fun.
The Vaults
1.3 km
Dive into Cardiff’s iconic underground club housed in a historic former bank, where techno beats and vibrant nightlife come alive beneath the city streets.
Popworld - Cardiff
3.0 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Metros
3.0 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
For Your Eyes Only
3.2 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Pulse
3.2 km
A city-centre LGBTQ+-friendly bar that becomes a neon-lit nightclub after dark, blending casual daytime dining with late-night DJs and themed club nights.
Clwb Ifor Bach
3.2 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
Fuel Rock Club
3.2 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Revolution Cardiff
3.2 km
Discover the energy of Revolution Cardiff, where delicious food and innovative cocktails meet vibrant nightlife in the heart of the city.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
3.3 km
Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of The Live Lounge Cardiff, where live music, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife await.
The CUBE
3.3 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
3.4 km
Cardiff's largest nightclub ignites Greyfriars Road with 1,500-capacity energy, state-of-the-art production across themed rooms, and epic nights from club beats to private spectacles.
Yates - Cardiff
3.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Yates in Cardiff, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a lively setting.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
3.4 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The Globe
4.5 km
A compact Grade II-listed former cinema turned lively live-music venue and nightclub, famed for intimate gigs and energetic club nights on Albany Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Educational
- Cultural Heritage
- Scenic
- Relaxing
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
