SCALE at Principality Stadium: A Thrilling Roof Adventure in Cardiff
Experience the thrill of climbing Cardiff’s iconic Principality Stadium roof with SCALE—where panoramic views meet sporting legend.
SCALE is an exhilarating roof tour experience atop Cardiff’s iconic Principality Stadium, offering visitors a unique perspective of Wales’ national stadium. This guided adventure lets you climb the stadium’s retractable roof, enjoy panoramic city views, and learn fascinating facts about the stadium’s engineering and history. Perfect for thrill-seekers and sports fans alike, SCALE combines adrenaline with cultural insight in the heart of Cardiff.
A brief summary to SCALE
- Principality Stadium, Cardiff, CF10 1NS, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book your SCALE roof tour in advance, as slots are limited and popular, especially during weekends and school holidays.
- Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as the roof climb is outdoors and physically active.
- Combine your SCALE tour with a guided interior stadium tour to get a complete behind-the-scenes experience.
- Check the stadium’s event schedule before booking, as tours may be limited or unavailable on match or concert days.
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
From Cardiff Central Station, the stadium is a five-minute walk. The station offers mainline services from London, the Midlands, and West Wales. Expect possible queues after events; plan accordingly. Tickets range from £5 to £20 depending on origin.
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Bus
City bus routes serve stops within a short walk of the stadium. During events, some stops may change due to road closures. Single fares typically cost £2 to £3. Check Cardiff Bus schedules for event day adjustments.
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Car
The stadium is approximately 15 minutes from junction 28 of the M4 via the A48. There is no dedicated stadium parking, but city center car parks and Park & Ride facilities are available, with prices ranging from £5 to £15 per day.
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Walking/Cycling
For locals or nearby visitors, walking or cycling is convenient and encouraged, with bike racks available nearby. Walking from central Cardiff takes about 10-15 minutes over flat terrain.
SCALE location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about SCALE
Discovering the Iconic Principality Stadium
The Principality Stadium, formerly known as the Millennium Stadium, stands as Wales’ premier sporting and entertainment venue in Cardiff. Opened in 1999, it was built on the site of the old National Stadium and quickly became famous for its revolutionary fully retractable roof—the first of its kind in the UK. This 74,500-seat arena hosts a variety of events, from international rugby matches to major concerts featuring global stars like U2 and Rihanna. Its towering stands and unique architecture have reshaped Cardiff’s skyline, making it a landmark of modern Welsh pride.The SCALE Experience: Climbing Above It All
SCALE is a guided roof adventure that invites visitors to ascend the stadium’s impressive retractable roof structure. As you climb, you gain rare access to the stadium’s uppermost vantage points, where sweeping panoramic views of Cardiff and its surroundings unfold. The tour is rich with fascinating insights into the stadium’s construction, the mechanics of its roof, and the history of the sporting legends who have graced its pitch. This immersive experience combines physical challenge with storytelling, making it a memorable highlight for adventurous visitors.Engineering Marvel and Architectural Highlights
The stadium’s engineering is a marvel of modern design. Constructed with 56,000 tonnes of concrete and steel, it was designed to accommodate large-scale events in any weather, thanks to its sliding roof. The pitch itself is built on moveable concrete blocks, allowing it to be removed for concerts and other events. SCALE offers a close-up look at these features, revealing the complexity behind maintaining such a versatile venue. The roof climb also showcases the intricate steel framework and the sheer scale of the structure that supports thousands of spectators safely.Visitor Engagement and Tour Features
Apart from the roof adventure, visitors can explore other parts of the stadium through guided tours that include the players’ dressing rooms, the press conference suite, and the tunnel leading onto the pitch. The SCALE tour complements these by focusing on the stadium’s exterior and roof, providing an adrenaline-pumping perspective that contrasts with the interior’s historic and cultural narrative. Safety is paramount, and participants are equipped with harnesses and guided by expert staff to ensure a secure and enjoyable climb.Location and Accessibility in Cardiff
Situated in central Cardiff, the Principality Stadium is easily accessible by public transport, including a short walk from Cardiff Central train station and multiple bus routes. While there is no dedicated parking at the stadium, ample city center parking and Park & Ride options are available. The stadium’s location near major city landmarks makes it a convenient stop for visitors exploring Cardiff’s vibrant cultural scene.Memorable Moments and Cultural Significance
SCALE not only offers breathtaking views but also connects visitors to the rich sporting heritage of Wales. The stadium is the heart of Welsh rugby, and climbing its roof symbolizes reaching new heights in experiencing Welsh culture and pride. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, architecture lover, or thrill-seeker, SCALE provides a unique way to engage with one of the UK’s most celebrated stadiums, leaving you with unforgettable memories and stunning photographs.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
0.3 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Historical Wales
0.4 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
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.
Fogo's Free Tours
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
0.5 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Nereid Statue
0.7 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
South African War Memorial
0.7 km
A poignant bronze and stone tribute in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who served in the Second Boer War, embodying peace, war, and grief.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
0.8 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
City Hall
0.8 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
0.8 km
Historic bronze statue in Cardiff honoring the visionary who transformed the city through the development of its docks and industrial growth.
Wales National War Memorial
0.9 km
A solemn Gothic Revival monument in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who sacrificed their lives in both World Wars.
National Museum Cardiff
0.9 km
Explore National Museum Cardiff, where art, history, and science converge in a stunning cultural experience for every traveler.
Capitol Cardiff
0.9 km
Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, Cardiff
1.0 km
Experience the warmth of community and spirituality at RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, a welcoming Church of Christ in the heart of Cardiff.
The Gathering - Cardiff
1.0 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
Unmissable attractions to see
Principality Stadium
0.1 km
Wales’ national stadium with a retractable roof, iconic rugby heritage, and world-class events in the heart of Cardiff.
Cardiff Arms Park
0.1 km
Historic rugby stadium in Cardiff, home to Cardiff Rugby and a cornerstone of Welsh sporting heritage since the 1870s.
Animal Wall
0.3 km
A whimsical Victorian stone menagerie along Cardiff’s Bute Park, featuring 15 expressive animals carved into a historic wall near Cardiff Castle.
Castle Quarter Arcades
0.3 km
Explore Cardiff’s historic Castle Quarter Arcades—Victorian charm, independent shops, and vibrant dining in the city’s heart.
River Cruises
0.3 km
Explore Cardiff Bay’s stunning waterfront on a relaxing, eco-friendly Aquabus river cruise with accessible, modern catamarans.
Blue Bell
0.4 km
Discover the charm of The Blue Bell, Cardiff's premier pub for traditional food, local ales, and a warm atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Cambrian Way Plaque Cardiff
0.4 km
Discover the gateway to Wales’ epic mountain trail at the Cambrian Way Plaque in Cardiff’s historic Bute Park.
8 St Mary St
0.4 km
Historic Victorian commercial site in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, blending rich heritage with vibrant city life.
Firing Line Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier
0.4 km
Discover the rich military heritage of Wales beneath Cardiff Castle in this immersive museum dedicated to the Welsh soldier.
Charter for Trees Woods and People
0.4 km
A symbolic pole in Cardiff’s Bute Park celebrating the enduring bond between people, trees, and nature’s future.
Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Castle
0.4 km
Discover Cardiff Castle, a majestic blend of Roman roots, Norman strength, and Victorian splendor in the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital.
Cardiff Castle Museum
0.4 km
Wales' capital castle where 2,000 years of Roman, Norman, and Victorian history converge in the heart of Cardiff.
High Street Arcade
0.4 km
A beautifully preserved Victorian shopping arcade in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, filled with independent boutiques, vintage shops, cafés, and historic charm.
The Cardiff Market
0.4 km
Discover Cardiff Market’s vibrant Victorian charm, where fresh local produce and unique stalls create a lively city-centre shopping experience.
Cardiff Market
0.4 km
A bustling Victorian indoor market in Cardiff city centre, alive with fresh produce, street food, vintage finds and local character under a grand glass roof.
Essential places to dine
Bar 44 Cardiff
0.2 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in Cardiff's vibrant Castle Quarter.
Casanova
0.3 km
A long-standing Cardiff trattoria serving authentic regional Italian food with warm service and an excellent all-Italian wine list.
Asador 44 Spanish Grill & Wine House
0.3 km
Authentic Spanish charcoal grilling and fine wines in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Maison de Bœuf
0.3 km
An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
The Sorting Room Restaurant
0.3 km
Elegant modern European dining in Cardiff’s city centre, celebrated for Welsh beef specialties and refined brasserie ambiance.
The Alchemist Cardiff
0.3 km
Experience the magic of mixology at The Alchemist Cardiff, where innovative cocktails meet exquisite dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Turtle Bay Cardiff
0.3 km
Caribbean soul meets Welsh hospitality—bold jerk, tropical cocktails, and island warmth in Cardiff city centre.
The Potted Pig
0.4 km
A stylish underground eatery in Cardiff serving seasonal Welsh-inspired modern British cuisine in a unique former bank vault setting.
Lezzet Turkish Kitchen
0.4 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
The Welsh House Cardiff
0.4 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
0.4 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
Neighbourhood Kitchen & Cocktails
0.4 km
Intimate Riverside restaurant with rotating menus, exceptional seafood, and craft cocktails in Cardiff.
Cafe Citta
0.4 km
Cozy Italian eatery in Cardiff city center serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and pasta in an intimate, stylish setting.
The Botanist Cardiff
0.4 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cardiff city centre where botanical décor, creative cocktails, and live music bloom together.
Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
0.4 km
Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Great Welsh Gifts
0.3 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.
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
0.4 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Mojo King
0.4 km
Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
Knight Vintage
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Morgan Quarter
0.4 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Hobos Vintage
0.4 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.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
0.5 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.
Ganesha Handicrafts
0.5 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
0.5 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
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.
elephants and flowres
0.5 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Welcome Things
0.5 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
0.5 km
Discover unique reworked vintage fashion in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at Sobeys Vintage Clothing, where creativity meets sustainability.
The Works
0.5 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Urban Outfitters
0.5 km
Curated lifestyle retail celebrating creativity, fashion, and cultural expression in Cardiff's city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff’s vibrant craft beer scene and lively pub culture at Tiny Rebel, a hub for award-winning brews and eclectic events.
The Bootlegger
0.3 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
Revolution Cardiff
0.3 km
A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
Penny
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
Rum & Fizz
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff’s rum haven with over 200 rums, crafted cocktails, cozy elegance, and live jazz every Friday in Castle Arcade.
The Libertine Cocktail Bar
0.4 km
A stylish Cardiff cocktail bar blending gothic charm with expertly crafted drinks and a lively city center vibe.
Flight Club Cardiff
0.4 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant city nightlife at Flight Club Cardiff’s unique multi-level bar and rooftop terrace.
Mary's Cardiff
0.4 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife at Mary’s, a lively bar and nightclub blending modern lounge vibes with energetic party spirit.
Main Stage
0.4 km
Cardiff's vibrant gay bar and cabaret club with lively drag shows, DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Slug & Lettuce - St Mary St Cardiff
0.4 km
Vibrant Cardiff cocktail bar on St Mary Street, famed for bottomless brunches, creative mixes, and lively nights in the city heart.
Glassworks
0.4 km
Lively Cardiff pub pouring Greene King ales, serving pub classics, and screening sports in the heart of the city center—perfect for meals, pints, and pre-event vibes.
Coyote Ugly Saloon Cardiff
0.5 km
Neon-lit, party-first American saloon on St Mary Street — loud music, bar-top dancing and grill fare for groups and celebrations.
Brewhouse
0.5 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant live music scene with great food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere at Brewhouse in the Old Brewery Quarter.
Kapu
0.5 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant tiki cocktail bar and nightclub with expertly crafted drinks and a lively tropical atmosphere.
The Philharmonic
0.5 km
A bustling multilevel pub and nightclub in Cardiff city centre, offering cocktails, brunches, rooftop vibes, and lively entertainment.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fuel Rock Club
0.3 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Clwb Ifor Bach
0.3 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
Popworld - Cardiff
0.4 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
For Your Eyes Only
0.4 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Metros
0.5 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
The CUBE
0.7 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
0.7 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
0.8 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.
Pulse
0.9 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.
The Vaults
1.9 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
2.2 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 Globe
2.2 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.
Coco Cubanas
11.1 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
11.1 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.
Eclipse Nightclub
15.7 km
Experience Pontypridd’s vibrant midweek nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community come alive every Wednesday night.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Scenic
- Unique
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Adults Only
