Roald Dahl Plass: Cardiff Bay's Cultural Heart and Iconic Waterfront Plaza
A dynamic waterfront plaza in Cardiff Bay celebrating Roald Dahl’s legacy with iconic architecture, cultural events, and TV fame.
Roald Dahl Plass is a vibrant, oval-shaped public plaza in Cardiff Bay, Wales, named after the famed Cardiff-born author Roald Dahl. Set on the site of the former Oval Basin dock, this waterfront space features a striking 70-foot stainless steel Water Tower fountain and is surrounded by key cultural landmarks including the Senedd Welsh Parliament building and the Wales Millennium Centre. Its bowl-like design makes it a popular amphitheatre for open-air concerts and public events, blending historic dock heritage with contemporary urban regeneration.
A brief summary to Roald Dahl Plass
- Cardiff, Cardiff, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit in the evening to see the illuminated pillars and Water Tower fountain spectacularly lit.
- Check the event schedule for open-air concerts and festivals held regularly in the amphitheatre.
- Explore nearby Mermaid Quay for dining, shopping, and additional photo opportunities.
- Fans of Doctor Who and Torchwood should look for the Water Tower and the 'Torchwood' pavement slab.
- Bring children along; the plaza offers open space and attractions suitable for families.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Frequent Cardiff Bus services run to Cardiff Bay, including route 8, connecting from Cardiff city centre with a journey time of approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses stop near Mermaid Quay, a short walk from Roald Dahl Plass. Tickets cost around £2-£4 GBP one way.
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Train
Cardiff Bay railway station is about a 5-minute walk from Roald Dahl Plass. Trains from Cardiff Central take approximately 7 minutes. Train tickets cost around £3-£5 GBP one way. The station is accessible and well-signposted.
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Car
Several public car parks are available within a 5-10 minute walk of Roald Dahl Plass, including Mermaid Quay car park. Parking fees vary but typically range from £1.50 to £3.50 per hour. Note that traffic can be busy during events.
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Walking
From Cardiff city centre, Roald Dahl Plass is reachable by a pleasant 20-30 minute walk along pedestrian-friendly paths via Lloyd George Avenue. The route is flat and accessible, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Roald Dahl Plass location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Roald Dahl Plass
A Waterfront Legacy Transformed
Roald Dahl Plass occupies the site of the former Oval Basin, once a bustling dock integral to Cardiff's status as the world's largest coal-exporting port in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The dock was part of the West Bute Dock complex, which handled thousands of ships at its peak. After decades of decline following World War II and the coal industry's downturn, the area was filled in and regenerated during the 1980s and 1990s, transforming the derelict dock into a modern public space. The name honors Roald Dahl, whose Cardiff-born heritage and Norwegian roots are reflected in the Norwegian word "Plass," meaning "place" or "square."Architectural and Artistic Features
Designed by artist William Pye alongside Nicholas Hare Architects, Roald Dahl Plass opened in April 2000 as an oval-shaped amphitheatre with a gravel surface covering the original dock basin. The space is encircled by illuminated pillars that create a striking visual effect, especially at night. Dominating the northern end is the Water Tower, a 70-foot (21-meter) stainless steel sculpture with an intermittent stream of water cascading down its surface, symbolizing the area's maritime heritage. This tower also gained fame as a filming location for the TV series "Doctor Who" and "Torchwood," where it is known as the "Torchwood Tower."Cultural and Political Hub
Roald Dahl Plass is more than a public square; it is a focal point for Welsh culture and governance. It houses the Senedd building, home of the Welsh Parliament, and is adjacent to the Wales Millennium Centre, a renowned performing arts venue. The bowl-like shape of the Plass makes it an ideal amphitheatre for open-air concerts, festivals, and cultural events such as the Cardiff Food Festival and the National Eisteddfod. The plaza’s design encourages community gatherings and celebrations, reflecting Cardiff Bay's vibrant urban renewal.Pop Culture and Fan Pilgrimage
The plaza’s association with "Doctor Who" and its spin-off "Torchwood" has made it a pilgrimage site for fans worldwide. The Water Tower serves as a recognizable landmark from the series, and an "invisible lift" beneath the fountain provides access to the fictional Torchwood headquarters. Nearby, at Mermaid Quay, fans leave tributes to characters such as Ianto Jones. These connections add a unique layer of contemporary cultural significance to the historic and political importance of the site.Surrounding Attractions and Atmosphere
Roald Dahl Plass is bordered by modern developments like Mermaid Quay, offering a lively mix of shops, bars, and restaurants, as well as historic buildings such as the Pierhead Building. The plaza’s open design and waterfront location provide scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular spot for families, tourists, and locals alike. Its amphitheatre steps invite visitors to sit and soak in the surroundings, whether during a quiet day or an energetic event.Honoring a Literary Legacy
The naming of the Plass pays tribute to Roald Dahl’s Cardiff origins and Norwegian heritage, linking the space to the nearby Norwegian Church Arts Centre. Dahl’s early life in Cardiff, his family’s maritime connections, and his imaginative storytelling are subtly echoed in the plaza’s maritime design elements and cultural vibrancy. The space stands as a celebration of local history, literature, and community spirit.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ship Weather Vane - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
0.2 km
A dynamic copper and steel ship weather vane celebrating Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage atop the historic Pilotage Office.
Premier Inn Cardiff Bay hotel
0.2 km
Comfortable, accessible, and modern hotel steps from Cardiff Bay’s cultural and waterfront attractions.
The Scott Antarctic Memorial Cardiff Bay
0.4 km
A poignant memorial in Cardiff Bay honoring Captain Scott and his Antarctic expedition, set against a historic maritime backdrop.
Roath Lock
0.4 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
1.4 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
1.4 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
1.8 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
1.9 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
1.9 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Fogo's Free Tours
1.9 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
Museum of Cardiff
2.0 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.
Principality Stadium
2.0 km
Experience the energy and excitement of Principality Stadium, Cardiff's premier venue for sports, concerts, and unforgettable events.
8 St Mary St
2.0 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of 8 St Mary St in the heart of Cardiff, a must-see for every traveler.
The Cardiff Market
2.1 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
2.1 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.
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.
The Senedd
0.1 km
Discover the Senedd, Cardiff’s iconic sustainable parliament building where Welsh democracy meets stunning waterfront views and open public access.
Cargoes Poem
0.1 km
Experience Cardiff’s maritime legacy through John Masefield’s Cargoes Poem brought to life by striking sculptures at Mermaid Quay.
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.
Mermaid Quay
0.1 km
Vibrant Cardiff Bay waterfront alive with dining, shopping, comedy, and bay views—maritime heritage meets modern leisure in this regenerated gem.
Ianto's Shrine
0.1 km
A heartfelt fan-made memorial on Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay honoring Ianto Jones, a beloved character from the cult TV series Torchwood.
Landsea Square - Cardiff Bay
0.2 km
A peaceful, art-filled square nestled in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant waterfront, perfect for quiet moments and scenic views.
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 Gardens Cardiff Bay Viewing Deck
0.2 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
0.3 km
Historic Victorian square in Cardiff Bay centered on the iconic Coal Exchange, showcasing maritime heritage and architectural grandeur.
Norwegian Church Arts Centre
0.3 km
Historic Norwegian Church turned vibrant arts centre with panoramic Cardiff Bay views, Nordic cuisine, and a rich cultural legacy.
Essential places to dine
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.
Demiro's
0.1 km
Lively Italian dining with a Mediterranean twist, set in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay waterfront.
Signor Valentino
0.1 km
Handcrafted Italian dining with panoramic Cardiff Bay views from an elevated Mediterranean terrace.
Las Iguanas - Cardiff - Mermaid Quay
0.1 km
Sizzling Latin American flavors and killer cocktails meet Cardiff Bay's waterfront sparkle at this fiesta-ready hotspot.
Giggling Squid - Cardiff Bay
0.1 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and botanical charm in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay.
Cosy Club
0.1 km
Stylish and relaxed dining with eclectic decor and a vibrant bar in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay.
Hub Box Cardiff
0.1 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
0.1 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
0.2 km
Historic waterfront dining with colorful charm, seasonal British classics, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff Bay.
Culley's Kitchen & Bar
0.3 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
0.4 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
1.2 km
Experience fine dining with panoramic city views while supporting Cardiff’s future chefs at The Classroom.
Viva Brazil Cardiff
1.6 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
1.7 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
0.1 km
Discover dotted delights at this whimsical Cardiff Bay gift shop, where polka patterns meet playful souvenirs in a cozy waterfront nook.
Zia Boutique
0.1 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
0.3 km
Discover unique Scandinavian-inspired gifts in the historic Norwegian Church Arts Centre, a cultural gem overlooking Cardiff Bay.
Hearth & Co
0.3 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
1.7 km
Value-packed shopping hub amid Cardiff Bay's waterfront allure—superstores, groceries, and easy parking for practical pit stops.
B&M Home Store
1.7 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
1.8 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
1.8 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
1.8 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
elephants and flowres
1.8 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Welcome Things
1.8 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
1.8 km
Discover unique reworked vintage fashion in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at Sobeys Vintage Clothing, where creativity meets sustainability.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
1.9 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Menkind
1.9 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts for men at Menkind Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Shopping Centre.
Morgan Quarter
1.9 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city 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 Eli Jenkins
0.1 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 Packet
0.1 km
Traditional Cardiff Bay pub with 160 years of history, darts, games, real ales, and homely vibes amid modern surroundings.
The Dock
0.1 km
Lively live music bar and restaurant in Cardiff Bay with panoramic waterfront views and an extensive drinks selection.
The Waterguard
0.3 km
Sam Smith's dockside gem in Cardiff Bay: crisp ales, pub grub, dog-friendly gardens, and panoramic harbor views for effortless waterfront unwinding.
Lo Lounge
0.6 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
1.7 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
1.7 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and a heated outdoor terrace in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Heidis Bier Bar Cardiff
1.7 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
1.7 km
Lively cocktail bar in Cardiff city centre with 100+ drinks, happy hours, masterclasses, and a buzzing party atmosphere.
Retro
1.7 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
1.7 km
Sophisticated cocktails and vibrant nightlife meet in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre at Dirty Martini.
The Grange Pub
1.7 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
1.7 km
A dynamic three-floor cocktail bar in Cardiff offering inventive drinks, lively music, and unforgettable nights out.
The Philharmonic
1.7 km
A bustling multilevel pub and nightclub in Cardiff city centre, offering cocktails, brunches, rooftop vibes, and lively entertainment.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cabaret at Wales Millennium Centre
0.1 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 Vaults
0.2 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.
Popworld - Cardiff
1.9 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Metros
1.9 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
Pulse
2.1 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.
For Your Eyes Only
2.1 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Clwb Ifor Bach
2.2 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
2.2 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Revolution Cardiff
2.2 km
Discover the energy of Revolution Cardiff, where delicious food and innovative cocktails meet vibrant nightlife in the heart of the city.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
2.3 km
Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of The Live Lounge Cardiff, where live music, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife await.
The CUBE
2.3 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
2.3 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.
Yates - Cardiff
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Yates in Cardiff, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a lively setting.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
2.3 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The Globe
3.4 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
