St David's Metropolitan Cathedral, Cardiff
Historic Gothic Revival cathedral in Cardiff’s city centre, a serene spiritual hub and home to the renowned Metropolitan Cathedral Choir.
St David's Metropolitan Cathedral is the Roman Catholic mother church of the Archdiocese of Cardiff, located in the heart of Cardiff city centre. Built in 1888 in striking red and rocky pennant sandstone, it became a cathedral in 1916 and was restored after WWII bombing. The cathedral offers a serene place of worship and is home to the Metropolitan Cathedral Choir, hosting liturgies and concerts.
A brief summary to St David's Metropolitan Cathedral
- 38 Charles St, Cardiff, Saint Davids Centre, CF10 2SF, GB
- +442920231407
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during weekday mornings to experience a peaceful atmosphere and attend daily Mass at 12:45 PM.
- Check the cathedral’s schedule for choir concerts to enjoy exceptional sacred music performances.
- Explore the surrounding Saint Davids Centre area for dining and shopping before or after your visit.
- Allow time to appreciate the intricate Gothic Revival architecture and the restored interior details.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take Cardiff Central train station, located about 1.2 km from the cathedral, with frequent services from across South Wales and beyond. From the station, a 15-minute walk through city streets leads to the cathedral. Bus routes serving the city centre also stop near Saint Davids Centre, with ticket prices typically around £2–£4.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber operate widely in Cardiff city centre. A trip from Cardiff Central station to the cathedral takes approximately 5 minutes depending on traffic, costing around £5–£8.
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Walking
If staying nearby in Cardiff city centre, the cathedral is accessible on foot via paved, flat streets suitable for all mobility levels. Walking times vary from 5 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point.
St David's Metropolitan Cathedral location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about St David's Metropolitan Cathedral
Architectural Heritage and Historical Significance
Completed in 1888 by the renowned architectural firm Pugin and Pugin, St David's Metropolitan Cathedral stands as a fine example of Gothic Revival architecture. Its exterior features rugged pennant sandstone dressed in vibrant red sandstone, which gives the building a distinctive and enduring presence in Cardiff's cityscape. Elevated to cathedral status in 1916, it serves as the spiritual heart of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cardiff, which encompasses a broad region including South East Wales and Herefordshire.Resilience and Restoration
The cathedral endured significant damage during the Second World War due to bombing raids, necessitating extensive restoration work. These efforts preserved its architectural integrity and ensured that it continued to serve as a place of worship and community gathering. Today, the cathedral’s restoration is a testament to the resilience of the local community and their dedication to maintaining this historic landmark.Spiritual and Cultural Role
St David’s Cathedral is more than just an architectural landmark; it is a vibrant centre of faith and culture. It offers daily Mass and serves as a place for quiet reflection and spiritual encounter for residents, workers, and visitors in Cardiff. The cathedral is also home to the Metropolitan Cathedral Choir, which enriches liturgies and hosts concerts, adding a rich musical tradition to the visitor experience.Location and Surroundings
Nestled within the bustling Saint Davids Centre area at 38 Charles Street, the cathedral is easily accessible and surrounded by Cardiff’s lively city centre amenities. Its location makes it a peaceful sanctuary amid urban life, offering visitors a chance to step away from the city’s pace into a tranquil and sacred space.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to St David’s Metropolitan Cathedral often note its calming and welcoming atmosphere. The interior’s design and acoustics create a serene environment ideal for contemplation and appreciation of sacred art and architecture. The cathedral’s choir performances further enhance the sensory experience, making visits memorable both spiritually and culturally.Community and Events
Beyond worship, the cathedral plays an active role in the local community through various events and services. It stands as a symbol of faith continuity and cultural heritage in Cardiff, inviting people of all backgrounds to engage with its history, music, and spiritual offerings.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Capitol Cardiff
0.2 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.
0.2 km
A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
Fogo's Free Tours
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
0.2 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.3 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
HMP Cardiff
0.4 km
Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
Cardiff Town Wall
0.4 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Nereid Statue
0.4 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
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.
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.
James Howell's House
0.5 km
Historic landmark in Cardiff celebrating James Howell’s retail legacy and Cardiff’s commercial heritage.
City Hall
0.6 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
0.6 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
0.7 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Wales National War Memorial
0.8 km
A solemn Gothic Revival monument in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who sacrificed their lives in both World Wars.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
Canal Quarter
0.1 km
Cardiff's revitalized waterfront destination where historic canals meet modern leisure and culture.
Exitus Escape Rooms
0.1 km
Challenging and immersive escape rooms in Cardiff with themed adventures, friendly hosts, and a lively social atmosphere.
Queen St
0.2 km
Cardiff’s bustling Queen Street blends historic arcades with modern shopping and vibrant cafés in a lively pedestrian-friendly city centre hub.
Carousel in Queen Street
0.2 km
A charming and nostalgic carousel delighting families in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street.
Lightning Bolt
0.2 km
A towering modern art beacon energizing Cardiff’s vibrant St David’s Centre with bold design and urban flair.
RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, Cardiff
0.2 km
A vibrant Pentecostal parish in Cardiff blending historic charm with dynamic worship and community spirit.
St David's Hall
0.2 km
Experience world-class acoustics and bold brutalist design at Cardiff’s iconic St David’s Hall, a vibrant cultural landmark in the city centre.
Museum of Cardiff
0.3 km
Explore Welsh art, natural history, and archaeology in Cardiff’s grand historic museum with free admission and rich cultural treasures.
New Theatre
0.3 km
Historic Cardiff theatre blending rich heritage with vibrant live performances in a welcoming city centre setting.
St John The Baptist City Parish Church
0.3 km
Cardiff’s oldest medieval church, blending historic grandeur with vibrant community spirit in the city centre.
Wally's Delicatessen
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff’s premier gourmet deli and café, where global flavors meet local charm in the historic Royal Arcade.
Morgan Arcade
0.3 km
Step into Morgan Arcade, Cardiff’s enchanting Victorian shopping arcade where historic charm meets modern boutiques and cozy cafes.
Aneurin Bevan Statue by Robert Thomas (1987)
0.3 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Cardiff to Aneurin Bevan, visionary founder of the NHS, sculpted by Robert Thomas in 1987.
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
Steak of the Art
0.2 km
A fun, art-filled Cardiff steakhouse serving generous cuts, indulgent sides and strong cocktails in a vibrant city-centre setting.
Ciliegino Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Sicilian pizza and pasta in Cardiff's premier shopping destination.
Bellini's
0.2 km
Authentic Italian dining in Cardiff's cultural quarter, celebrated for exceptional service and romantic ambiance.
Cosy Club
0.2 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
0.2 km
Savor premium Argentine steaks and vibrant South American flavors in Cardiff’s sleek, modern steakhouse at St Davids Centre.
Valentino's
0.2 km
Cozy Italian restaurant in Cardiff city center offering authentic dishes, warm service, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Smoke Haus
0.3 km
Experience bold American barbecue flavors and hearty portions in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant St Davids Centre.
Giovanni's Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Italian cuisine in Cardiff's heart, where tradition meets warm hospitality.
The Ivy Cardiff
0.3 km
Experience elegant British dining in a stunning 1920s-inspired botanical setting at The Ivy Cardiff, a vibrant city-centre brasserie and cocktail bar.
The Ivy Asia Cardiff
0.3 km
Experience exquisite Asian flavours and glamorous dining in the heart of Cardiff at The Ivy Asia, where culinary artistry meets stunning design.
Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
0.3 km
Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
Laguna Kitchen & Bar Cardiff
0.3 km
Elegant modern dining with Welsh flair in the heart of Cardiff’s Park Plaza Hotel, featuring seasonal menus and a stylish cocktail bar.
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.
Daffodil
0.3 km
Stylish gastro pub in Cardiff offering seasonal Welsh dishes, creative cocktails, and a serene garden terrace in the city centre.
Cornerhouse Cardiff
0.3 km
Elevated British gastropub cuisine in Cardiff's city centre, where gourmet sensibility meets welcoming warmth.
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.
Cardiff Creative Shop
0.2 km
A vibrant Cardiff gift shop showcasing handmade crafts and designs by local Welsh artists in the heart of the city centre.
Ganesha
0.2 km
Discover ethically sourced Indian and Nepali handicrafts, jewelry, and vibrant clothing in the heart of Cardiff's Queen Street shopping scene.
Flamingos Vintage Cardiff
0.2 km
Discover sustainable style and unique vintage treasures by weight at Flamingos Vintage Cardiff in the Capitol Shopping Centre.
Menkind
0.2 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts for men at Menkind Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Shopping Centre.
Urban Outfitters
0.3 km
Curated lifestyle retail celebrating creativity, fashion, and cultural expression in Cardiff's city centre.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Little Welsh Company
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
The Works
0.3 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Rokit Cardiff
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
Sobeys Vintage Clothing
0.3 km
Discover unique reworked vintage fashion in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at Sobeys Vintage Clothing, where creativity meets sustainability.
Knight Vintage
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Welcome Things
0.4 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
0.4 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dead Canary
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s secret cocktail haven where mythical-inspired drinks meet vintage charm in an intimate, expertly crafted experience.
Henry's Cafe Bar Cardiff
0.2 km
A relaxed, long-standing Park Place bar offering cocktails, local beers and approachable British food from brunch through late-night.
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.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
0.3 km
Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
Glassworks
0.3 km
Lively Cardiff pub offering classic British fare, a vibrant atmosphere, and a welcoming spot for locals and visitors alike.
Lab 22
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff’s award-winning Lab 22, where science meets cocktail artistry in a stylish, innovative, and immersive bar experience.
Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
0.4 km
A lively, multi-level cocktail bar and casual-restaurant on The Friary — made for groups, brunch and evening drinks in central Cardiff.
Boom Battle Bar Cardiff
0.4 km
Cardiff’s ultimate bar for games, street food, cocktails, and late-night fun in a lively, interactive setting.
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.
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.
Tonight Josephine - Cardiff
0.4 km
A vibrant, pink-hued cocktail bar in Cardiff known for creative drinks, themed brunches, and a lively party atmosphere.
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.
Retro
0.4 km
A lively multi-floor nightclub in Cardiff celebrating retro hits, wild parties, and unforgettable nights until the early morning.
Kapu
0.4 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant tiki cocktail bar and nightclub with expertly crafted drinks and a lively tropical atmosphere.
Brewhouse
0.4 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant live music scene with great food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere at Brewhouse in the Old Brewery Quarter.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Pulse
0.1 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.
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.
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.
Metros
0.3 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
0.4 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
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.
Clwb Ifor Bach
0.5 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
0.5 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
The Globe
1.6 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
11.8 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
11.8 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
16.0 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
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly