Discover the Wonders of Cardiff Bay Barrage
Explore Cardiff Bay Barrage, a stunning waterfront attraction blending nature, culture, and recreation in the heart of Wales.
Cardiff Bay Barrage is a stunning tourist attraction that connects the vibrant Cardiff Bay with the Severn Estuary, offering picturesque views, recreational activities, and a chance to explore the natural beauty of Wales. This architectural marvel is perfect for tourists seeking a blend of culture, nature, and leisure.
A brief summary to Cardiff Bay Barrage
- Queen Alexandra House, Cargo Rd, Penarth, Cardiff Bay, Cardiff, CF10 4LY, GB
- +442920877900
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during sunset for breathtaking views and perfect photo opportunities.
- Check the local event calendar to catch festivals and activities happening at the barrage.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the beautiful green spaces surrounding the barrage.
- Don’t forget your binoculars if you’re interested in birdwatching; the area is rich in wildlife!
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the heart of Cardiff Bay, head towards the Wales Millennium Centre, a prominent landmark. From there, walk along the waterfront promenade towards the Cardiff Bay Barrage. Enjoy the scenic views of the bay as you continue walking. The barrage is located approximately 1.2 kilometers away, which should take about 15-20 minutes on foot. Follow the signs directing you to the barrage.
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Public Transport - Bus
For those preferring not to walk, you can take a local bus from Cardiff Bay. Head to the nearest bus stop at 'Cardiff Bay Station' and catch the number 6 or 8 bus towards 'Penarth'. Make sure to pay for your ticket, which typically costs around £1.50 for a single journey. Request to get off at the 'Barrage' stop, and from there, it’s a short walk to the Cardiff Bay Barrage.
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Cycling
If you're up for cycling, Cardiff Bay offers bike rental services. You can rent a bike from various locations within the bay area. Once you have a bike, follow the cycle path that runs along the waterfront, leading directly to the barrage. The ride is approximately 1.2 kilometers and is quite enjoyable with views of the bay.
Discover more about Cardiff Bay Barrage
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Scott Antarctic Memorial Cardiff Bay
1.6 km
A poignant memorial in Cardiff Bay honoring Captain Scott and his Antarctic expedition, set against a historic maritime backdrop.
Ship Weather Vane - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
1.8 km
A dynamic copper and steel ship weather vane celebrating Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage atop the historic Pilotage Office.
Roath Lock
1.9 km
Discover Roath Lock, Cardiff’s iconic BBC drama village blending cutting-edge production with waterfront heritage charm.
Premier Inn Cardiff Bay hotel
2.1 km
Comfortable, accessible, and modern hotel steps from Cardiff Bay’s cultural and waterfront attractions.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
3.2 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
3.2 km
Historic bronze statue in Cardiff honoring the visionary who transformed the city through the development of its docks and industrial growth.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
3.4 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Principality Stadium
3.7 km
Experience the energy and excitement of Principality Stadium, Cardiff's premier venue for sports, concerts, and unforgettable events.
John Batchelor Statue
3.7 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Fogo's Free Tours
3.7 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
8 St Mary St
3.8 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of 8 St Mary St in the heart of Cardiff, a must-see for every traveler.
Museum of Cardiff
3.8 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.
The Cardiff Market
3.8 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
HMP Cardiff
3.8 km
Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
St David's Metropolitan Cathedral
3.9 km
Experience the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of St David's Metropolitan Cathedral, a must-visit spiritual landmark in Cardiff.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cardiff Bay Barrage Locks
0.1 km
Explore the impressive Cardiff Bay Barrage Locks, a stunning engineering marvel offering scenic waterfront views, dynamic lock operations, and family-friendly recreation.
Cardiff Bay Trail Walk
0.4 km
Explore Cardiff Bay’s vibrant waterfront on a scenic 10km trail featuring iconic landmarks, tranquil parks, and family-friendly activities.
Scott of the Antarctic Exhibition
0.6 km
Explore the heroic legacy of Captain Scott’s Antarctic expeditions in Cardiff Bay’s immersive and family-friendly exhibition.
Roald Dahl - The Enormous Crocodile
0.6 km
Step into the enchanting world of Roald Dahl in Great Missenden, where stories come alive through interactive exhibits and original manuscripts.
The Deck
0.7 km
Modern Welsh dining and floating hotel rooms with stunning marina views in Penarth’s vibrant waterfront setting.
Cardiff Bay
0.8 km
Explore Cardiff Bay, Europe’s largest waterfront transformation blending culture, leisure, and scenic beauty in a vibrant urban setting.
Age of Coal exhibition
0.9 km
Discover Wales’ coal mining heritage through immersive displays and personal stories at Cardiff Bay’s Age of Coal Exhibition.
Cardiff International White Water
1.1 km
Experience thrilling white water rafting and kayaking adventures at Cardiff’s premier urban water sports centre.
Penarth Pier Pavilion
1.3 km
Discover Penarth Pier Pavilion, a stunning Art Deco cultural hub on the Welsh coast, blending seaside charm with art, cinema, and community spirit.
The Jetty
1.4 km
A peaceful waterfront escape in Cardiff Bay blending natural beauty, wildlife, and urban vibrancy in a scenic setting.
Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve
1.5 km
A serene 8-hectare freshwater wetland reserve in Cardiff Bay, offering rich biodiversity and peaceful birdwatching amidst urban surroundings.
Norwegian Church Arts Centre
1.7 km
Historic Norwegian Church turned vibrant arts centre with panoramic Cardiff Bay views, Nordic cuisine, and a rich cultural legacy.
Landsea Gardens Cardiff Bay Viewing Deck
1.8 km
A serene garden retreat with stunning panoramic views over Cardiff Bay’s waterfront and city skyline.
Hamadryad Park
1.8 km
Urban sanctuary where maritime heritage meets wetland wilderness in Cardiff's regenerated waterfront.
Panorama Stone - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
1.8 km
Discover Panorama Stone, a symbolic bronze sculpture linking Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage with global connections on the vibrant Cardiff Bay Art Trail.
Essential places to dine
Home
1.3 km
Experience innovative fine dining with a warm, intimate atmosphere at Home by James Sommerin in Penarth’s historic Royal Buildings.
Sid’s Restaurant and Bar With Rooms
1.5 km
Seaside dining and cozy stays with stunning views on Penarth’s historic Esplanade, blending fresh cuisine and warm hospitality.
Tir a Môr
1.6 km
Savor the fusion of Welsh land and sea at Tir a Môr, Cardiff’s stylish coastal restaurant celebrating local flavors and traditions.
Cedar Tree Farm - Farmhouse Inns
1.6 km
A family-friendly pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, famed for its hearty carvery, legendary desserts, and welcoming atmosphere.
Harvester Cardiff Bay Penarth
1.6 km
A lively family-friendly British bar & grill in Penarth offering hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere near Cardiff Bay.
Bill's Cardiff Bay Restaurant
1.8 km
Historic waterfront dining with colorful charm, seasonal British classics, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff Bay.
Las Iguanas - Cardiff - Mermaid Quay
1.8 km
Sizzling Latin American flavors and killer cocktails meet Cardiff Bay's waterfront sparkle at this fiesta-ready hotspot.
The Botanist Cardiff Bay
1.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Cardiff Bay - where live music meets delicious British cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.
Cosy Club
1.9 km
Stylish and relaxed dining with eclectic decor and a vibrant bar in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay.
Signor Valentino
1.9 km
Handcrafted Italian dining with panoramic Cardiff Bay views from an elevated Mediterranean terrace.
Hub Box Cardiff
1.9 km
Lively American-style burger bar with waterfront views, bold flavors, and inclusive menu options in the heart of Cardiff’s Mermaid Quay.
Giggling Squid - Cardiff Bay
1.9 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and botanical charm in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay.
Demiro's
1.9 km
Lively Italian dining with a Mediterranean twist, set in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay waterfront.
Côte Cardiff Bay
1.9 km
Experience the elegance of modern French dining with classic flavors and waterfront views at Côte Cardiff Bay in Mermaid Quay.
Culley's Kitchen & Bar
2.1 km
Historic charm meets fresh Welsh flavors in Cardiff Bay’s Culley's Kitchen & Bar, a must-visit for seasonal dining and craft cocktails.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gifts At No. 9
1.0 km
Discover charming, beautifully curated gifts with personal service at Penarth’s beloved boutique on Windsor Road.
The Queen B Boutique
1.2 km
Elegant occasion wear and personalized service combine at The Queen B Boutique, Penarth’s charming fashion and gift destination.
Shore
1.3 km
A charming coastal gift shop on Penarth’s Esplanade, perfect for seaside souvenirs and nautical-themed treasures with a local touch.
Gallery Gift Shop at the Norwegian Church
1.7 km
Discover unique Scandinavian-inspired gifts in the historic Norwegian Church Arts Centre, a cultural gem overlooking Cardiff Bay.
Hearth & Co
1.7 km
Discover handcrafted wonders blending Norwegian heritage and Welsh artistry at this gem within Cardiff Bay's iconic Norwegian Church Arts Centre.
Zia Boutique
1.9 km
Discover handpicked jewellery, homeware, and gifts at this independent gem in Cardiff Bay's Mermaid Quay—a stylish haven since 2011.
Polka Dot
1.9 km
Discover dotted delights at this whimsical Cardiff Bay gift shop, where polka patterns meet playful souvenirs in a cozy waterfront nook.
Cardiff Bay Retail Park
1.9 km
Value-packed shopping hub amid Cardiff Bay's waterfront allure—superstores, groceries, and easy parking for practical pit stops.
B&M Home Store
2.1 km
Discover incredible deals on home essentials and unique items at B&M Home Store in Cardiff Bay - your go-to discount shop!
Antoinette Antiques and Vintage Clothing
2.6 km
Discover Cardiff’s largest vintage hat collection and timeless antiques in a historic Pumping Station setting.
Ganesha Handicrafts
3.6 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
3.6 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.
Royal Arcade, Cardiff
3.6 km
Experience Cardiff's Royal Arcade: A Victorian gem blending unique shopping, charming cafes, and rich history in the heart of the city.
Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
3.6 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
elephants and flowres
3.6 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gin 64
1.4 km
Discover Penarth’s chic gin bar offering extensive selections, expert cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
Lo Lounge
1.4 km
Industrial-chic waterfront bar in Cardiff Bay serving cocktails, street food, and live tunes amid stunning sunset views and pet-friendly vibes.
The Waterguard
1.8 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 Dock
1.8 km
A waterside bar and kitchen in Mermaid Quay — bright windows, bay views, live music and big‑screen sport for daytime dining through late-night sessions.
The Eli Jenkins
1.9 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
2.0 km
Traditional Cardiff Bay pub with 160 years of history, darts, games, real ales, and homely vibes amid modern surroundings.
Bar One
2.0 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 Grange Pub
3.0 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Peppermint Bar
3.5 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and a heated outdoor terrace in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Mocka Lounge
3.5 km
Lively cocktail bar and nightclub in Cardiff’s Mill Lane with great drinks, friendly service, and a vibrant social scene day and night.
Be At One - Cardiff
3.5 km
Lively cocktail bar in Cardiff city centre with 100+ drinks, happy hours, masterclasses, and a buzzing party atmosphere.
Heidis Bier Bar Cardiff
3.5 km
Experience authentic Bavarian fun and lively nightlife at Heidi's Bier Bar, Cardiff’s quirky hotspot on Mill Lane open late every day.
Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
3.5 km
Sophisticated cocktails and vibrant nightlife meet in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre at Dirty Martini.
Retro
3.5 km
A lively multi-floor nightclub in Cardiff celebrating retro hits, wild parties, and unforgettable nights until the early morning.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
3.5 km
A dynamic three-floor cocktail bar in Cardiff offering inventive drinks, lively music, and unforgettable nights out.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
The Vaults
2.1 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
3.7 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
3.7 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
3.9 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Clwb Ifor Bach
3.9 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
3.9 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Revolution Cardiff
4.0 km
Discover the energy of Revolution Cardiff, where delicious food and innovative cocktails meet vibrant nightlife in the heart of the city.
Pulse
4.0 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 Live Lounge Cardiff
4.1 km
Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of The Live Lounge Cardiff, where live music, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife await.
The CUBE
4.1 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
4.1 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
4.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Yates in Cardiff, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a lively setting.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
4.1 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The Globe
5.3 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.
