National Museum Cardiff
Europe's finest art meets Welsh natural history in Cardiff's grand civic museum—free admission, world-class collections.
Housed in Cardiff's elegant civic centre, this world-class museum showcases five centuries of art alongside Wales's natural history, geology, and archaeology collections. From Impressionist masterpieces by Monet and Renoir to dinosaur skeletons and Roman artifacts, the museum offers something for every visitor. Free admission, diverse galleries, and family-friendly exhibits make it one of Wales's most essential cultural destinations.
A brief summary to National Museum Cardiff
- Cardiff, CF10 3NP, GB
- +443001112333
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday afternoons after 3pm to experience the galleries with fewer crowds and a more tranquil atmosphere.
- Allocate 2–3 hours for a thorough exploration of the main collections; longer visits allow deeper engagement with specific galleries or special exhibitions.
- Collect a gallery trail guide at the entrance to navigate the museum's diverse sections and discover curated pathways through the collections.
- Check the museum's website for first-Thursday extended hours (until 8pm) and special holiday activity rooms for families with children.
- The main hall coffee shop offers an excellent vantage point to appreciate the building's architectural grandeur while enjoying refreshments.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Lockers
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By Train
Cathays Station is approximately 5 minutes walk from the museum. Great Western Railway operates high-speed intercity and regional services to Cardiff Central Station, from which the museum is a 20-minute walk. From Cardiff Bay train station, take the direct train to Cardiff Queen Street station and walk approximately 880 meters to reach the museum.
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By Bus
From Cardiff Central Train Station, walk to Wyndham Arcade on St Mary Street and take bus number 35 directly to the museum. From Cardiff Bay, take the Bay Car bus number 6 to the city centre, then transfer to bus number 35 from Wyndham Arcade. Journey times vary from 10–20 minutes depending on traffic and starting point. Service runs regularly throughout the day.
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By Car
Access via Junction 32 of the M4; use postcode CF10 3NP for satellite navigation. A visitor car park is situated behind the museum off Museum Avenue. Parking costs £6.50 per day, payable by card only (credit/debit cards except American Express, or Apple/Android Pay) at the rear pay-station. Blue Badge holders park free; disabled parking is also available at the front on Gorsedd Gardens Road.
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On Foot or Bicycle
The museum is a 20-minute walk from Cardiff Central Train Station through the city centre. Cycling routes are available; consult Sustrans for detailed cycle path information. The location is easily reached from most central Cardiff areas on foot, making it accessible for those without vehicles.
National Museum Cardiff location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about National Museum Cardiff
A Treasury of Welsh and European Art
National Museum Cardiff stands as one of Europe's finest art repositories, housing an extraordinary collection spanning five centuries of paintings, drawings, sculpture, silver, and ceramics. The art galleries feature celebrated works by Impressionist masters including Monet, Renoir, and Cézanne, alongside contemporary pieces by Welsh and international artists. The ceramics collection is particularly noteworthy, offering a comprehensive journey through ceramic art from 1900 to the present day. With fifteen dedicated art galleries, the museum provides visitors with an immersive experience of artistic achievement across multiple periods and styles.Natural Wonders and Geological Heritage
The natural history galleries present a compelling narrative of Wales's diverse wildlife, geological past, and evolutionary story. Visitors encounter impressive displays of flora, fauna, and geological specimens, including the museum's iconic elephant skeleton—one of the most recognizable exhibits. The Evolution of Wales galleries take guests on a chronological journey from prehistoric times to the present, featuring dinosaur displays that captivate younger visitors while educating all ages about the region's deep natural heritage. These carefully curated exhibits combine taxidermied specimens, detailed scenarios, and accessible explanations that bring Wales's natural world to life.Archaeological Insights and Cultural Narratives
The archaeology section provides profound insights into Roman Britain and early Welsh settlements, with significant artifacts that illuminate the region's ancient past. These collections connect visitors to the civilizations that shaped Wales, offering tangible connections to history through carefully preserved objects and scholarly interpretation. The museum's approach to archaeology emphasizes storytelling, allowing visitors to understand not just what was found, but why it matters to Welsh cultural identity.Architecture and Civic Grandeur
The museum building itself is an architectural statement, situated prominently within Cardiff's elegant civic centre at Cathays Park. The grand structure features a magnificent main hall with soaring spaces that create an atmosphere of cultural importance. The building's design reflects Victorian civic pride, with its imposing entrance and carefully proportioned galleries creating an environment that enhances the visitor experience. The main hall houses a welcoming coffee shop, allowing visitors to pause and absorb the building's architectural splendor while enjoying refreshments.Visitor Experience and Practical Amenities
Admission is entirely free, making the museum accessible to all visitors, though some special exhibitions may carry charges. The Oriel Restaurant on the lower ground floor serves hot and cold lunches using local Welsh products, while the main hall coffee shop offers cakes, sandwiches, and beverages. The museum shop provides unique gifts and souvenirs. Facilities include accessible restrooms, lockers for luggage storage (with a refundable £1 token deposit), and a buggy park for families with young children. Wheelchair access is available to all galleries, and the museum welcomes assistance dogs. The layout is intuitive and clearly marked, making navigation straightforward for visitors of all ages and abilities.Programming and Extended Access
Beyond its permanent collections, the museum hosts a dynamic program of temporary exhibitions, events, and activities throughout the year. Special exhibitions have included major shows exploring Welsh cultural themes and contemporary art. The museum extends its hours until 8pm on the first Thursday of each month, providing additional evening access for those unable to visit during standard daytime hours. During school holidays, the museum frequently opens special activity rooms equipped with hands-on learning experiences, including fossil handling, gemstone examination, and craft stations that transform the museum into an interactive learning environment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
City Hall
0.1 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
South African War Memorial
0.2 km
A poignant bronze and stone tribute in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who served in the Second Boer War, embodying peace, war, and grief.
Nereid Statue
0.3 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.3 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
Cardiff Town Wall
0.5 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Capitol Cardiff
0.5 km
Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
James Howell's House
0.5 km
Historic landmark in Cardiff celebrating James Howell’s retail legacy and Cardiff’s commercial heritage.
Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries Cardiff.
0.5 km
A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
Historical Wales
0.5 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
Fogo's Free Tours
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
0.7 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
HMP Cardiff
0.8 km
Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
AdventureRooms Escape Games Cardiff
0.8 km
Dive into adventure at AdventureRooms Escape Games Cardiff, where teamwork and excitement come together in thrilling escape challenges for all ages.
Principality Stadium
0.9 km
Experience the energy and excitement of Principality Stadium, Cardiff's premier venue for sports, concerts, and unforgettable events.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
1.1 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gorsedd Gardens
0.1 km
Cardiff's tranquil civic heart: historic stones, exotic blooms, and urban serenity.
Gorsedd Gardens Rd
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s serene Gorsedd Gardens, home to a historic stone circle celebrating Welsh culture amidst vibrant floral beauty.
Cardiff International Film Festival
0.1 km
Where world cinema meets Welsh culture—a premier festival celebrating global storytelling and filmmaking excellence.
Parc Mackenzie
0.2 km
A tranquil urban park in Cardiff honoring Wales’ first female professor with serene green spaces and academic heritage.
New Theatre
0.2 km
Historic Cardiff theatre blending rich heritage with vibrant live performances in a welcoming city centre setting.
Museum Ave
0.3 km
A serene, tree-lined avenue in Cardiff’s civic heart, flanked by iconic museums and historic architecture.
Alexandra Gardens
0.3 km
A serene Edwardian garden in Cardiff’s Civic Centre, rich with memorials and vibrant floral displays, offering a tranquil urban retreat.
Wales National War Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn and beautifully designed memorial in Cardiff’s Cathays Park honoring Welsh war heroes of the World Wars.
Carousel in Queen Street
0.4 km
A charming and nostalgic carousel delighting families in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street.
Queen St
0.4 km
Cardiff’s bustling Queen Street blends historic arcades with modern shopping and vibrant cafés in a lively pedestrian-friendly city centre hub.
Exitus Escape Rooms
0.4 km
Challenging and immersive escape rooms in Cardiff with themed adventures, friendly hosts, and a lively social atmosphere.
Aneurin Bevan Statue by Robert Thomas (1987)
0.5 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Cardiff to Aneurin Bevan, visionary founder of the NHS, sculpted by Robert Thomas in 1987.
Cardiff Castle
0.5 km
Discover nearly 2,000 years of history and stunning architecture at Cardiff Castle, the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital city.
Canal Quarter
0.5 km
Cardiff's revitalized waterfront destination where historic canals meet modern leisure and culture.
Rummer Tavern
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich local culture at Rummer Tavern, a must-visit pub in the heart of Cardiff.
Essential places to dine
Laguna Kitchen & Bar Cardiff
0.2 km
Elegant modern dining with Welsh flair in the heart of Cardiff’s Park Plaza Hotel, featuring seasonal menus and a stylish cocktail bar.
Daffodil
0.3 km
Stylish gastro pub in Cardiff offering seasonal Welsh dishes, creative cocktails, and a serene garden terrace in the city centre.
Revolución de Cuba Cardiff
0.3 km
Experience authentic Cuban cuisine and vibrant culture at Revolución de Cuba Cardiff - your gateway to Havana's flavors in the heart of Wales.
Bellini's
0.4 km
Authentic Italian dining in Cardiff's cultural quarter, celebrated for exceptional service and romantic ambiance.
Valentino's
0.4 km
Cozy Italian restaurant in Cardiff city center offering authentic dishes, warm service, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Welsh House Cardiff
0.6 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
The Botanist Cardiff
0.6 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cardiff city centre where botanical décor, creative cocktails, and live music bloom together.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
0.6 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
Cafe Citta
0.6 km
Cozy Italian eatery in Cardiff city center serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and pasta in an intimate, stylish setting.
The Potted Pig
0.6 km
A stylish underground eatery in Cardiff serving seasonal Welsh-inspired modern British cuisine in a unique former bank vault setting.
Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
0.6 km
Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
Maison de Bœuf
0.6 km
An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
Steak of the Art
0.7 km
A fun, art-filled Cardiff steakhouse serving generous cuts, indulgent sides and strong cocktails in a vibrant city-centre setting.
The Alchemist Cardiff
0.7 km
Experience the magic of mixology at The Alchemist Cardiff, where innovative cocktails meet exquisite dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Asador 44 Spanish Grill & Wine House
0.7 km
Authentic Spanish charcoal grilling and fine wines in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ganesha
0.4 km
Discover ethically sourced Indian and Nepali handicrafts, jewelry, and vibrant clothing in the heart of Cardiff's Queen Street shopping scene.
Cardiff Creative Shop
0.4 km
A vibrant Cardiff gift shop showcasing handmade crafts and designs by local Welsh artists in the heart of the city centre.
Rokit Cardiff
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
Flamingos Vintage Cardiff
0.5 km
Discover sustainable style and unique vintage treasures by weight at Flamingos Vintage Cardiff in the Capitol Shopping Centre.
The Works
0.5 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Little Welsh Company
0.5 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
Hobos Vintage
0.5 km
A vibrant Cardiff vintage shop packed with retro fashion, trainers, and accessories from the 1950s to today – perfect for throwback style and bargain finds.
Flying Tiger
0.6 km
Discover quirky Scandinavian gifts and creative everyday essentials at Flying Tiger in Cardiff’s St David's Centre.
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
0.6 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Knight Vintage
0.6 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Great Welsh Gifts
0.6 km
Unearth authentic Welsh crafts, treats, and treasures on Cardiff's High Street—a delightful dive into Cymru's cultural heart at Great Welsh Gifts.
Mojo King
0.6 km
Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
Menkind
0.7 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts for men at Menkind Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Shopping Centre.
Urban Outfitters
0.7 km
Curated lifestyle retail celebrating creativity, fashion, and cultural expression in Cardiff's city centre.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
0.7 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pen & Wig
0.1 km
Traditional Cardiff pub haven: award-winning pies, real ales, and a heated beer garden moments from Queen Street's energy.
Yates - Cardiff
0.3 km
Lively sports bar and nightclub in Cardiff city centre with unbeatable sports coverage, great drinks, and a unique dancing doorman.
Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
0.3 km
A lively, multi-level cocktail bar and casual-restaurant on The Friary — made for groups, brunch and evening drinks in central Cardiff.
Henry's Cafe Bar Cardiff
0.3 km
A relaxed, long-standing Park Place bar offering cocktails, local beers and approachable British food from brunch through late-night.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
0.4 km
Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
Gassy's
0.4 km
A lively Cathays pub and kitchen offering affordable pub food, strong vegan choices, bottomless brunch and regular quizzes, live music and sports screenings.
The Vulcan Lounge
0.5 km
Boho pub vibes, craft pours, and hearty bites in Cardiff's student heartland – unwind with ales, pizzas, and pool in this eclectic Cathays lounge.
The Libertine Cocktail Bar
0.6 km
A stylish Cardiff cocktail bar blending gothic charm with expertly crafted drinks and a lively city center vibe.
The Woodville
0.6 km
Cathays' go-to pub for burgers, brews, sports screens, and unbeatable student specials in a lively, welcoming spot.
Revolution Cardiff
0.6 km
A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
Rum & Fizz
0.6 km
Discover Cardiff’s rum haven with over 200 rums, crafted cocktails, cozy elegance, and live jazz every Friday in Castle Arcade.
Penny
0.6 km
Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
Flight Club Cardiff
0.6 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant city nightlife at Flight Club Cardiff’s unique multi-level bar and rooftop terrace.
The Dead Canary
0.7 km
Discover Cardiff’s secret cocktail haven where mythical-inspired drinks meet vintage charm in an intimate, expertly crafted experience.
The Bootlegger
0.7 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
0.3 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
0.3 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.
The CUBE
0.3 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Pulse
0.5 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.
For Your Eyes Only
0.6 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Clwb Ifor Bach
0.7 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
0.7 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Metros
0.7 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
Popworld - Cardiff
0.8 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Walkabout - Cardiff
1.0 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience in Cardiff, offering vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and live sports in a lively atmosphere.
The Globe
1.2 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.
The Vaults
2.4 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.
Cabaret at Wales Millennium Centre
2.6 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.
Coco Cubanas
12.1 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
12.1 km
Experience Barry’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Bar Cocoa, a lively nightclub where music and dancing keep the party going until the early morning.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Relaxing
- Entertaining
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Modern Designs
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Wheelchair Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
