Background

Mermaid Quay: Cardiff's Vibrant Waterfront Hub

A vibrant waterfront destination in Cardiff Bay blending global dining, boutique shopping, and rich maritime heritage.

4.5

Mermaid Quay is a lively waterfront shopping and leisure district in Cardiff Bay, Wales, offering over 30 restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops. Opened in 1999 as part of Cardiff’s urban regeneration, it features stunning bay views, diverse international cuisine, boutique shopping, entertainment venues, and public art. Its maritime-inspired architecture and vibrant atmosphere make it a top destination for dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.

A brief summary to Mermaid Quay

  • Mermaid Quay, Cardiff, CF10 5BZ, GB
  • +442920480077
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 4 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Book tables in advance at popular restaurants, especially on weekends, to secure waterfront seating.
  • Explore the public art installations scattered around the quay for a cultural experience.
  • Use public transport or waterbus services to avoid limited parking during busy periods.
  • Visit The Glee Club for live comedy or the Everyman cinema for boutique film screenings.
  • Stroll along the waterfront promenade to enjoy scenic views and the quay’s maritime atmosphere.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Train

    Regular train services run every 12 minutes between Cardiff Bay and Cardiff Queen Street stations, connecting to Cardiff city center and surrounding regions. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes, with tickets costing around £2-£4.

  • Bus

    Cardiff Bus operates frequent services to Mermaid Quay, including the BayCar shuttle from the city center every 10 minutes Monday to Saturday and every 20 minutes on Sundays and evenings. Travel times range from 15 to 25 minutes, with fares around £2-£3.

  • Car

    Visitors arriving by car can use the 380-space car park near Mermaid Quay. Parking tariffs range from £2.20 for up to 1 hour to £20 for 12-24 hours. Travel time from Cardiff city center is approximately 10-15 minutes, but parking can be limited during peak times.

  • Waterbus

    The Aquabus and Cardiff CATS waterbus services connect Mermaid Quay to Cardiff city center and Penarth. Trips offer scenic views and take about 20 minutes. Tickets typically cost £3-£5 for a single journey.

Mermaid Quay location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions

Unlock the Best of Mermaid Quay

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Mermaid Quay

Transformation of Cardiff Bay Through Mermaid Quay

Mermaid Quay stands as a symbol of Cardiff Bay’s remarkable regeneration, emerging from the derelict docklands that once dominated the area. Opened in 1999, this 14,000 square meter waterfront development was a key project by the Cardiff Bay Development Corporation, created to revitalize the former coal exporting port into a thriving urban space. The quay’s design by Benoy architects reflects its maritime heritage, featuring elements like decking, towers, balconies, terraces, colonnades, and bridges that evoke the spirit of the sea.

A Culinary and Retail Destination with Global Flavors

Home to more than 30 restaurants, bars, and cafes, Mermaid Quay offers an extensive range of dining options that cater to all tastes and budgets. Visitors can enjoy Welsh ice cream, Japanese sushi, stone-baked pizzas, French cuisine, Latin American dishes, Italian specialties, and Portuguese PERi-PERi chicken, among others. The quay also hosts a variety of shops, from independent boutiques selling handmade Welsh gifts and traditional Welshcakes to popular high street brands and essential services like Tesco Express. The presence of the Ken Picton Salon adds a touch of luxury to the shopping experience.

Entertainment and Cultural Experiences Along the Waterfront

Beyond dining and shopping, Mermaid Quay is a vibrant entertainment hub. It features The Glee Club, Cardiff’s premier comedy venue, and the Everyman boutique cinema with five screens. The quay is dotted with public art installations, including 22 galvanized steel sculptures inspired by John Masefield’s sea poem "Cargoes" and the Captain Willows clock commemorating an aeronautical pioneer. Regular events and live performances enliven the atmosphere, making Mermaid Quay a cultural hotspot within Cardiff Bay.

Scenic Setting and Connectivity

Set on the waterfront, Mermaid Quay offers picturesque views across Cardiff Bay, perfect for leisurely strolls along the promenade. Its location places visitors near other major attractions such as Techniquest, Roald Dahl Plass, and the Wales Millennium Centre. The quay is well-connected by train, bus, waterbus, and car, with a 380-space car park nearby. Waterbus services link Mermaid Quay to the city center and Penarth, enhancing its accessibility.

Architectural Character and Atmosphere

The quay’s architecture is inspired by its maritime past, blending modern design with historic references. Its open-air layout, with terraces and bridges, creates a relaxed yet lively environment. The combination of waterfront views, diverse eateries, and cultural venues fosters a welcoming and dynamic atmosphere suitable for families, couples, and solo visitors alike.

Community and Sustainability Focus

Mermaid Quay is more than a commercial center; it reflects the cultural heritage and community spirit of Cardiff Bay. The Butetown Community Quilt displayed in the atrium celebrates local history and diversity. The quay supports sustainable transport options with cycle parking and public transport links, encouraging eco-friendly access to this urban waterfront gem.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near Mermaid Quay

Popular Hotels near Mermaid Quay

Select Currency