The Senedd: Heart of Welsh Democracy and Architectural Innovation
Discover the Senedd, Cardiff’s iconic sustainable parliament building where Welsh democracy meets stunning waterfront views and open public access.
The Senedd in Cardiff Bay is the striking home of the Welsh Parliament, renowned for its sustainable design and transparent architecture. Opened in 2006, it offers free public access to parliamentary debates, exhibitions, and guided tours, all set against scenic waterfront views. The building symbolizes openness and democracy with its timber roof and glass walls, while providing accessible facilities and a welcoming café for visitors.
A brief summary to The Senedd
- Senedd, Pierhead St, Cardiff, CF99 1SN, GB
- +443002006565
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book free guided tours in advance to secure a spot, especially during busy periods.
- Visit the café on the upper level for local Welsh cakes and refreshments with a view of Cardiff Bay.
- Check the Senedd website for current opening hours and any temporary closures or construction updates.
- Allow extra time for airport-style security screening before entering the building.
- Families can enjoy the play area and interactive trails designed for children aged 5-7.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Several Cardiff Bus services, including routes 6 Baycar, 8, 305, 1, and 2, stop within a 3-minute walk of the Senedd at the Wales Millennium Centre bus stop. Travel times from Cardiff city center range from 10 to 20 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2-£3 one way.
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Train
Cardiff Bay railway station is about a 10-minute walk from the Senedd. Services run regularly from Cardiff Queen Street and Pontypridd, with journey times around 5-10 minutes. Train tickets typically cost £2-£4.
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Car
Driving to the Senedd is convenient with several nearby public car parks such as Roald Dahl Plas. Parking fees apply, typically £1-£3 per hour. Note that the area can be busy during peak times and some parking requires advance booking.
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Walking
A scenic walk from Cardiff city center to the Senedd takes approximately 20-30 minutes along accessible, mostly flat paths. This route offers views of Cardiff Bay and is suitable for most visitors, including wheelchair users.
The Senedd 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 The Senedd
A Symbol of Modern Welsh Democracy
The Senedd stands as the vibrant seat of the Welsh Parliament, embodying the principles of transparency and public engagement. Officially opened on St David’s Day in 2006 by Queen Elizabeth II and architect Lord Richard Rogers, it replaced older government buildings with a modern space designed to welcome the public into the heart of Welsh governance. The debating chamber, known as the Siambr, along with committee rooms, feature public galleries that allow visitors to observe live parliamentary sessions, fostering a unique connection between citizens and their elected representatives.Architectural Excellence and Sustainability
Designed by Lord Richard Rogers, the Senedd is celebrated for its innovative and environmentally friendly architecture. Its most distinctive features include an undulating timber roof made from Welsh oak, expansive glass walls symbolizing openness, and a rotating cowl on the roof that enables natural ventilation without power. The building incorporates local materials such as Llan Ffestiniog slate, Pembrokeshire oak, and Port Talbot steel, emphasizing regional identity. Rainwater is harvested for toilet flushing, and geothermal heating maintains warmth, making it one of the world’s most sustainable parliamentary buildings.Engaging Visitor Experience
Visitors to the Senedd can explore the spacious public areas, including the Neuadd lobby with panoramic views of Cardiff Bay through floor-to-ceiling glass. Free guided tours are offered multiple times daily, providing insights into Welsh politics, the building’s design, and its role in democracy. Exhibitions above the chamber and in the nearby Pierhead Building showcase Welsh history and culture. A friendly reception team assists visitors, and the on-site café invites guests to enjoy Welsh cakes and refreshments while overlooking the waterfront.Accessibility and Inclusivity
The Senedd is fully accessible, featuring step-free access, lifts, hearing loops, and wheelchair provisions in public galleries. It offers gender-neutral toilets, a Changing Places facility with adult changing bed and hoist, and quiet rooms for sensory needs. The building is neurodiverse-friendly, with staff prepared to support visitors who may find security checks or crowds challenging. Family-friendly amenities include a play area for young children and interactive trails designed to engage younger visitors.Setting and Surroundings
Situated on Cardiff Bay’s waterfront, the Senedd enjoys a prime location adjacent to the historic Pierhead Building and close to the Wales Millennium Centre. The area is lively with cafés, shops, and scenic promenades, making it a vibrant cultural hub. The building’s transparent design creates a seamless connection between the indoor spaces and the natural beauty of the bay, enhancing the visitor experience with iconic views and a tranquil atmosphere.Community and Cultural Significance
Beyond its governmental function, the Senedd serves as a cultural landmark celebrating Welsh identity and heritage. It hosts talks, workshops, and events related to governance, politics, and social issues throughout the year. The public artworks and meeting spaces encourage civic participation and dialogue, reinforcing its role as a meeting place for democracy and community engagement in Wales.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Premier Inn Cardiff Bay hotel
0.2 km
Comfortable, accessible, and modern hotel steps from Cardiff Bay’s cultural and waterfront attractions.
Ship Weather Vane - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
0.3 km
A dynamic copper and steel ship weather vane celebrating Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage atop the historic Pilotage Office.
The Scott Antarctic Memorial Cardiff Bay
0.3 km
A poignant memorial in Cardiff Bay honoring Captain Scott and his Antarctic expedition, set against a historic maritime backdrop.
Roath Lock
0.3 km
Discover Roath Lock, Cardiff’s iconic BBC drama village blending cutting-edge production with waterfront heritage charm.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
1.5 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
1.5 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
1.9 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
HMP Cardiff
2.0 km
Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
John Batchelor Statue
2.0 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Fogo's Free Tours
2.0 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
Museum of Cardiff
2.1 km
Explore Cardiff’s vibrant history and culture in the heart of the city at the Museum of Cardiff, housed in the historic Old Library.
8 St Mary St
2.1 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of 8 St Mary St in the heart of Cardiff, a must-see for every traveler.
Principality Stadium
2.1 km
Experience the energy and excitement of Principality Stadium, Cardiff's premier venue for sports, concerts, and unforgettable events.
The Cardiff Market
2.2 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, Cardiff
2.2 km
Experience the warmth of community and spirituality at RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, a welcoming Church of Christ in the heart of Cardiff.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pierhead Building
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff's iconic Victorian Gothic Revival Pierhead Building, a vibrant museum and landmark overlooking the scenic Cardiff Bay waterfront.
Giant Ferris Wheel
0.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and dazzling light shows atop Cardiff’s iconic 35-meter Giant Ferris Wheel at Harbour Drive.
The Open Boat 'Daffodil'
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff Bay’s beauty and history aboard the charming open-air steam launch, The Open Boat 'Daffodil', for a unique and intimate cruise experience.
Roald Dahl Plass
0.1 km
A dynamic waterfront plaza celebrating Cardiff’s heritage, culture, and Roald Dahl’s legacy with iconic architecture and vibrant events.
Cardiff Cruises
0.1 km
Explore Cardiff Bay’s iconic waterfront with Cardiff Cruises—offering scenic tours, themed cruises, and unique maritime experiences from Mermaid Quay.
Wales Millennium Centre
0.1 km
Wales's premier arts venue showcasing world-class opera, ballet, dance and musicals in Cardiff Bay.
Cargoes Poem
0.2 km
Experience Cardiff’s maritime legacy through John Masefield’s Cargoes Poem brought to life by striking sculptures at Mermaid Quay.
Ianto's Shrine
0.2 km
A heartfelt fan-made memorial on Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay honoring Ianto Jones, a beloved character from the cult TV series Torchwood.
Mermaid Quay
0.2 km
Vibrant Cardiff Bay waterfront alive with dining, shopping, comedy, and bay views—maritime heritage meets modern leisure in this regenerated gem.
Norwegian Church Arts Centre
0.2 km
Historic Norwegian Church turned vibrant arts centre with panoramic Cardiff Bay views, Nordic cuisine, and a rich cultural legacy.
Panorama Stone - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
0.2 km
Discover Panorama Stone, a symbolic bronze sculpture linking Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage with global connections on the vibrant Cardiff Bay Art Trail.
Landsea Square - Cardiff Bay
0.3 km
A peaceful, art-filled square nestled in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant waterfront, perfect for quiet moments and scenic views.
Landsea Gardens Cardiff Bay Viewing Deck
0.3 km
A serene garden retreat with stunning panoramic views over Cardiff Bay’s waterfront and city skyline.
Techniquest
0.3 km
Explore hands-on science, immersive shows, and family fun at Techniquest, Cardiff’s premier interactive discovery centre in vibrant Cardiff Bay.
Mount Stuart Square
0.4 km
Historic Victorian square in Cardiff Bay centered on the iconic Coal Exchange, showcasing maritime heritage and architectural grandeur.
Essential places to dine
Demiro's
0.1 km
Lively Italian dining with a Mediterranean twist, set in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay waterfront.
Côte Cardiff Bay
0.1 km
Experience the elegance of modern French dining with classic flavors and waterfront views at Côte Cardiff Bay in Mermaid Quay.
Las Iguanas - Cardiff - Mermaid Quay
0.2 km
Sizzling Latin American flavors and killer cocktails meet Cardiff Bay's waterfront sparkle at this fiesta-ready hotspot.
Signor Valentino
0.2 km
Handcrafted Italian dining with panoramic Cardiff Bay views from an elevated Mediterranean terrace.
Cosy Club
0.2 km
Stylish and relaxed dining with eclectic decor and a vibrant bar in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay.
Giggling Squid - Cardiff Bay
0.2 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and botanical charm in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay.
Hub Box Cardiff
0.2 km
Lively American-style burger bar with waterfront views, bold flavors, and inclusive menu options in the heart of Cardiff’s Mermaid Quay.
The Botanist Cardiff Bay
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Cardiff Bay - where live music meets delicious British cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.
Bill's Cardiff Bay Restaurant
0.3 km
Historic waterfront dining with colorful charm, seasonal British classics, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff Bay.
Culley's Kitchen & Bar
0.4 km
Historic charm meets fresh Welsh flavors in Cardiff Bay’s Culley's Kitchen & Bar, a must-visit for seasonal dining and craft cocktails.
Tir a Môr
0.5 km
Savor the fusion of Welsh land and sea at Tir a Môr, Cardiff’s stylish coastal restaurant celebrating local flavors and traditions.
Thomas Restaurant Cardiff Bay
0.6 km
A stylish Cardiff Bay restaurant blending modern British cuisine with warm hospitality and local flavors in a vibrant waterfront setting.
The Classroom
1.3 km
Experience fine dining with panoramic city views while supporting Cardiff’s future chefs at The Classroom.
Viva Brazil Cardiff
1.7 km
Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio and vibrant flavors in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre, perfect for groups and special occasions.
Pitch Bar & Eatery
1.8 km
Experience the best of Cardiff at Pitch Bar & Eatery – where delicious breakfasts meet exquisite cocktails in a lively setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Polka Dot
0.2 km
Discover dotted delights at this whimsical Cardiff Bay gift shop, where polka patterns meet playful souvenirs in a cozy waterfront nook.
Zia Boutique
0.2 km
Discover handpicked jewellery, homeware, and gifts at this independent gem in Cardiff Bay's Mermaid Quay—a stylish haven since 2011.
Gallery Gift Shop at the Norwegian Church
0.2 km
Discover unique Scandinavian-inspired gifts in the historic Norwegian Church Arts Centre, a cultural gem overlooking Cardiff Bay.
Hearth & Co
0.2 km
Discover handcrafted wonders blending Norwegian heritage and Welsh artistry at this gem within Cardiff Bay's iconic Norwegian Church Arts Centre.
Cardiff Bay Retail Park
1.8 km
Value-packed shopping hub amid Cardiff Bay's waterfront allure—superstores, groceries, and easy parking for practical pit stops.
B&M Home Store
1.8 km
Discover incredible deals on home essentials and unique items at B&M Home Store in Cardiff Bay - your go-to discount shop!
Ganesha Handicrafts
1.9 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
1.9 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.
Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
1.9 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
elephants and flowres
1.9 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Welcome Things
1.9 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
1.9 km
Discover unique reworked vintage fashion in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at Sobeys Vintage Clothing, where creativity meets sustainability.
The Thrift - Cardiffs Vintage Superstore
2.0 km
Discover Cardiff’s ultimate vintage warehouse with racks of unique, affordable, and rare fashion treasures in a fun, underground setting.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
2.0 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Menkind
2.0 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts for men at Menkind Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Shopping Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar One
0.1 km
Harborside bar beside Wales Millennium Centre, blending terrace views, inclusive eats, cocktails, and theatre-ready vibes in Cardiff Bay's lively waterfront scene.
The Waterguard
0.2 km
Sam Smith's dockside gem in Cardiff Bay: crisp ales, pub grub, dog-friendly gardens, and panoramic harbor views for effortless waterfront unwinding.
The Eli Jenkins
0.2 km
Lively Cardiff Bay pub in a historic building, with beer garden views, live sports, cask ales, craft beers, and hearty grub—perfect for sports fans and casual nights out.
The Dock
0.2 km
Lively live music bar and restaurant in Cardiff Bay with panoramic waterfront views and an extensive drinks selection.
The Packet
0.2 km
Traditional Cardiff Bay pub with 160 years of history, darts, games, real ales, and homely vibes amid modern surroundings.
Lo Lounge
0.5 km
Industrial-chic waterfront bar in Cardiff Bay serving cocktails, street food, and live tunes amid stunning sunset views and pet-friendly vibes.
Mocka Lounge
1.8 km
Lively cocktail bar and nightclub in Cardiff’s Mill Lane with great drinks, friendly service, and a vibrant social scene day and night.
Peppermint Bar
1.8 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and a heated outdoor terrace in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Heidis Bier Bar Cardiff
1.8 km
Experience authentic Bavarian fun and lively nightlife at Heidi's Bier Bar, Cardiff’s quirky hotspot on Mill Lane open late every day.
Be At One - Cardiff
1.8 km
Lively cocktail bar in Cardiff city centre with 100+ drinks, happy hours, masterclasses, and a buzzing party atmosphere.
Retro
1.8 km
A lively multi-floor nightclub in Cardiff celebrating retro hits, wild parties, and unforgettable nights until the early morning.
Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
1.8 km
Sophisticated cocktails and vibrant nightlife meet in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre at Dirty Martini.
The Grange Pub
1.8 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
1.8 km
A dynamic three-floor cocktail bar in Cardiff offering inventive drinks, lively music, and unforgettable nights out.
The Philharmonic
1.8 km
A bustling multilevel pub and nightclub in Cardiff city centre, offering cocktails, brunches, rooftop vibes, and lively entertainment.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
