St David's Hall: Cardiff's Iconic Brutalist Concert Venue
Experience world-class acoustics and bold brutalist design at Cardiff’s iconic St David’s Hall, a vibrant cultural landmark in the city centre.
St David's Hall in Cardiff is a premier concert hall renowned for its exceptional acoustics and striking late brutalist architecture. Opened in 1982, it features a unique polygonal auditorium with tiered seating arranged in a ‘vineyard style’ that maximizes audience proximity to the stage. Located in the heart of Cardiff’s St David’s Centre, it hosts a diverse range of performances from classical music to rock concerts, making it a cultural landmark in Wales.
A brief summary to St David's Hall
- 9-11 The Hayes, Cardiff, Saint Davids Centre, CF10 1AH, GB
- +442920878444
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance, especially for popular rock and classical concerts, as events often sell out quickly.
- Consider seating in the lower tiers for easier access and a closer connection to the stage.
- Check the venue’s schedule for classical music priority slots during September to May for a rich cultural experience.
- Be aware that the hall uses removable seating in the stalls area to allow flexible event setups without affecting sound quality.
- Explore nearby dining and shopping options in St David’s Centre before or after performances to complete your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take Cardiff Central train station, located about 1.5 km away, with frequent services from across Wales and England. From the station, a 20-minute walk or a short bus ride on routes 1, 2, or 8 will bring you to St David's Hall. Bus tickets cost approximately £2-£4 depending on the route.
-
Car
Driving to St David's Hall is convenient via the A470 or A4161 into Cardiff city centre. Nearby parking is available at St David’s Centre car park and John Lewis car park, with typical rates around £2-£4 per hour. Expect busy traffic during event times and limited evening parking.
-
Taxi / Ride-share
Taxis and ride-share services like Uber provide direct access to the venue from anywhere in Cardiff, with typical fares ranging from £5 to £15 depending on distance and time of day.
-
Walking
If staying nearby in Cardiff city centre, walking to St David’s Hall is pleasant and accessible, with flat, paved routes and clear signage. Walking times vary from 5 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point.
St David's Hall location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St David's Hall
Architectural Boldness and Design Innovation
St David's Hall stands as a distinguished example of late brutalist architecture, designed by the Seymour Harris Partnership and completed in 1982. Its bold concrete forms and sculptural presence mark a significant departure from traditional concert hall designs. The building’s polygonal auditorium is composed of thirteen cantilevered seating blocks arranged in two tiers around the stage, creating an intimate 'theatre in the round' experience. This layout, inspired by Hans Scharoun’s Philharmonie in Berlin, fosters a democratic seating arrangement where every audience member feels equally connected to the performance.Acoustic Excellence and Audience Experience
Celebrated globally for its outstanding acoustics, St David's Hall ranks among the top concert venues in the world. The hall’s design was carefully engineered by Sandy Brown Associates to ensure clarity and richness of sound, accommodating everything from delicate classical music to powerful rock performances. The staggered, multi-tiered seating ensures unobstructed views from every seat, enhancing the immersive experience. Recent upgrades include removable seating in the stalls to allow flexible use for different event types without compromising acoustic quality.A Cultural Hub in the Heart of Cardiff
Situated within the bustling St David’s Centre shopping complex, the hall is a cornerstone of Cardiff’s cultural life. It hosts a wide spectrum of events, including classical concerts, community performances, and major music festivals like the Welsh Proms. The venue balances its classical music heritage with contemporary programming, offering priority slots for classical events during peak seasons while accommodating diverse genres year-round.Visitor Amenities and Atmosphere
Visitors to St David's Hall enjoy a spacious, full-height foyer that sets an elegant tone before entering the auditorium. The venue provides comfortable seating across six levels, with facilities designed to support accessibility and audience comfort. Its central city location offers easy access to nearby dining, shopping, and entertainment options, making it an ideal destination for both locals and tourists seeking a rich cultural experience.Legacy and Recognition
In recognition of its architectural and cultural significance, St David's Hall was awarded Grade II listed status, safeguarding its unique design for future generations. The hall’s combination of innovative architecture, superior acoustics, and vibrant programming continues to define it as one of the UK’s most important performing arts venues, reflecting Cardiff’s growing prominence on the international cultural stage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fogo's Free Tours
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
0.1 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Cardiff Town Wall
0.3 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Historical Wales
0.3 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
Nereid Statue
0.4 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
Capitol Cardiff
0.4 km
Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries Cardiff.
0.4 km
A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.5 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
South African War Memorial
0.5 km
A poignant bronze and stone tribute in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who served in the Second Boer War, embodying peace, war, and grief.
City Hall
0.6 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
HMP Cardiff
0.6 km
Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
0.6 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
0.6 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
0.6 km
Historic bronze statue in Cardiff honoring the visionary who transformed the city through the development of its docks and industrial growth.
Cardiff International Film Festival
0.7 km
Discover the Cardiff International Film Festival, where cinema comes alive through captivating screenings and inspiring workshops in the heart of Wales.
Unmissable attractions to see
Museum of Cardiff
0.1 km
Explore Welsh art, natural history, and archaeology in Cardiff’s grand historic museum with free admission and rich cultural treasures.
St David’s Dewi Sant
0.1 km
Cardiff’s largest shopping centre with over 160 shops, dining, and entertainment all under one roof in the city centre.
St John The Baptist City Parish Church
0.1 km
Cardiff’s oldest medieval church, blending historic grandeur with vibrant community spirit in the city centre.
Cardiff Market
0.1 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.
The Cardiff Market
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff Market’s vibrant Victorian charm, where fresh local produce and unique stalls create a lively city-centre shopping experience.
Morgan Arcade
0.2 km
Step into Morgan Arcade, Cardiff’s enchanting Victorian shopping arcade where historic charm meets modern boutiques and cozy cafes.
8 St Mary St
0.2 km
Historic Victorian commercial site in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, blending rich heritage with vibrant city life.
Wally's Delicatessen
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s premier gourmet deli and café, where global flavors meet local charm in the historic Royal Arcade.
Royal Arcade
0.2 km
Step into Cardiff’s oldest shopping arcade, where Victorian charm meets unique independent shops in a beautifully preserved historic setting.
High Street Arcade
0.2 km
A beautifully preserved Victorian shopping arcade in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, filled with independent boutiques, vintage shops, cafés, and historic charm.
Cardiff Antique Centre
0.2 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at the Cardiff Antique Centre.
Royal Arcade, Cardiff
0.2 km
Step into Cardiff’s oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets unique independent shops and delightful eateries.
Aneurin Bevan Statue by Robert Thomas (1987)
0.2 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Cardiff to Aneurin Bevan, visionary founder of the NHS, sculpted by Robert Thomas in 1987.
St David's Metropolitan Cathedral
0.2 km
Historic Gothic Revival cathedral in Cardiff’s city centre, a serene spiritual hub and home to the renowned Metropolitan Cathedral Choir.
Rummer Tavern
0.2 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
Cosy Club
0.1 km
Chic British dining and all-day drinks in Cardiff’s St David’s Dewi Sant, blending timeless glamour with a welcoming atmosphere.
Gaucho Cardiff
0.1 km
Savor premium Argentine steaks and vibrant South American flavors in Cardiff’s sleek, modern steakhouse at St Davids Centre.
Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
0.1 km
Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
The Botanist Cardiff
0.2 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cardiff city centre where botanical décor, creative cocktails, and live music bloom together.
Ciliegino Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Sicilian pizza and pasta in Cardiff's premier shopping destination.
Giovanni's Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Italian cuisine in Cardiff's heart, where tradition meets warm hospitality.
Cafe Citta
0.2 km
Cozy Italian eatery in Cardiff city center serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and pasta in an intimate, stylish setting.
Lezzet Turkish Kitchen
0.2 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Tŷ Madeira Restaurant
0.2 km
Award-winning Portuguese dining in Cardiff's city centre, blending authentic tradition with modern culinary excellence.
Turtle Bay Cardiff
0.2 km
Caribbean soul meets Welsh hospitality—bold jerk, tropical cocktails, and island warmth in Cardiff city centre.
The Alchemist Cardiff
0.2 km
Experience the magic of mixology at The Alchemist Cardiff, where innovative cocktails meet exquisite dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Ivy Cardiff
0.2 km
Experience elegant British dining in a stunning 1920s-inspired botanical setting at The Ivy Cardiff, a vibrant city-centre brasserie and cocktail bar.
Cornerhouse Cardiff
0.2 km
Elevated British gastropub cuisine in Cardiff's city centre, where gourmet sensibility meets welcoming warmth.
The Ivy Asia Cardiff
0.2 km
Experience exquisite Asian flavours and glamorous dining in the heart of Cardiff at The Ivy Asia, where culinary artistry meets stunning design.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
0.2 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Flying Tiger
0.1 km
Discover quirky Scandinavian gifts and creative everyday essentials at Flying Tiger in Cardiff’s St David's Centre.
Urban Outfitters
0.1 km
Curated lifestyle retail celebrating creativity, fashion, and cultural expression in Cardiff's city centre.
Menkind
0.1 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts for men at Menkind Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Shopping Centre.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
0.1 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Knight Vintage
0.1 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Little Welsh Company
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
Mojo King
0.2 km
Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
Cardiff Creative Shop
0.2 km
Handcrafted Welsh wonders from 45+ local artisans await in Queens Arcade's creative gem—unique gifts that sparkle with personality and heritage.
Sobeys Vintage Clothing
0.2 km
Discover unique reworked vintage fashion in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at Sobeys Vintage Clothing, where creativity meets sustainability.
Great Welsh Gifts
0.2 km
Discover authentic Welsh crafts, artisanal foods, and unique souvenirs in the heart of Cardiff at Great Welsh Gifts.
The Works
0.2 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Hobos Vintage
0.2 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.
Morgan Quarter
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Welcome Things
0.2 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.
elephants and flowres
0.2 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Glassworks
0.1 km
Lively Cardiff pub offering classic British fare, a vibrant atmosphere, and a welcoming spot for locals and visitors alike.
Main Stage
0.2 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.
Flight Club Cardiff
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s secret cocktail haven where mythical-inspired drinks meet vintage charm in an intimate, expertly crafted experience.
Boom Battle Bar Cardiff
0.2 km
Cardiff’s ultimate bar for games, street food, cocktails, and late-night fun in a lively, interactive setting.
Lab 22
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s award-winning Lab 22, where science meets cocktail artistry in a stylish, innovative, and immersive bar experience.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
0.3 km
Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
Mary's Cardiff
0.3 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife at Mary’s, a lively bar and nightclub blending modern lounge vibes with energetic party spirit.
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.
Slug & Lettuce - St Mary St Cardiff
0.3 km
Vibrant Cardiff cocktail bar on St Mary Street, famed for bottomless brunches, creative mixes, and lively nights in the city heart.
The Libertine Cocktail Bar
0.3 km
A stylish Cardiff cocktail bar blending gothic charm with expertly crafted drinks and a lively city center vibe.
Brewhouse
0.3 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant live music scene with great food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere at Brewhouse in the Old Brewery Quarter.
Kapu
0.3 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant tiki cocktail bar and nightclub with expertly crafted drinks and a lively tropical atmosphere.
Tonight Josephine - Cardiff
0.3 km
A vibrant, pink-hued cocktail bar in Cardiff known for creative drinks, themed brunches, and a lively party atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Metros
0.1 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
0.2 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Popworld - Cardiff
0.2 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
The CUBE
0.3 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
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.
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.
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.
Pulse
0.3 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.
Fuel Rock Club
0.4 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
The Globe
1.7 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
1.8 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
2.0 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
11.6 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
11.6 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
15.9 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
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Brutalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Architectural Shots
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
