Discover the Splendor of Cardiff Bay
Explore the stunning Cardiff Bay, a vibrant hub of culture, history, and scenic views, perfect for an unforgettable Welsh experience.
Cardiff Bay is a stunning waterfront destination that offers a blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and exciting activities. Ideal for tourists, this picturesque bay is home to a variety of attractions, including the iconic Wales Millennium Centre and the tranquil waterfront promenade, perfect for leisurely strolls and scenic views.
A brief summary to Cardiff Bay
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Local tips
- Visit during sunset for breathtaking views and great photo opportunities.
- Take a boat tour to see the bay from a unique perspective.
- Check the schedule for local events and festivals happening during your visit.
- Explore the nearby restaurants for the best fresh seafood dishes.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the long promenade and exploring the area.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the city center, start at Cardiff Central Station. Exit the station and head towards St. Mary Street. Continue walking straight until you reach the large shopping area known as The Hayes. From The Hayes, turn left onto Queen Street and walk until you reach the end. Here, you will find a pedestrian bridge leading to the Cardiff Bay area. Cross the bridge, and you will be greeted by stunning views of the bay. Continue walking straight, and you will eventually arrive at the waterfront area where various attractions are located.
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Bus
From Cardiff Central Station, you can catch the Cardiff Bus service number 6 or 8 towards Cardiff Bay. The bus stop is located just outside the station. Make sure to check the bus schedule for the next available departure. The journey takes approximately 15 minutes. Once you arrive at the Cardiff Bay stop, you will be just a short walk from the waterfront, where you can explore the many attractions and enjoy the scenic views.
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Train
Begin your journey at Cardiff Central Station. Take the train heading towards Cardiff Bay Station. This is a short ride that takes about 10 minutes. Once you arrive at Cardiff Bay Station, exit the station and follow the signs towards the waterfront. You will find yourself in the heart of Cardiff Bay, with numerous attractions and dining options nearby.
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Cycling
If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bike from one of the many bike rental stations around Cardiff. Start from the city center and head towards the Taff Trail, which will lead you directly to Cardiff Bay. The ride is scenic and takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Once you reach the bay, there are designated bike parking areas where you can securely park your bike.
Discover more about Cardiff Bay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Scott Antarctic Memorial Cardiff Bay
1.0 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
1.0 km
A dynamic copper and steel ship weather vane celebrating Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage atop the historic Pilotage Office.
Roath Lock
1.2 km
Discover Roath Lock, Cardiff’s iconic BBC drama village blending cutting-edge production with waterfront heritage charm.
Premier Inn Cardiff Bay hotel
1.4 km
Comfortable, accessible, and modern hotel steps from Cardiff Bay’s cultural and waterfront attractions.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
2.4 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
2.4 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
2.6 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
2.9 km
Experience the energy and excitement of Principality Stadium, Cardiff's premier venue for sports, concerts, and unforgettable events.
John Batchelor Statue
2.9 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Fogo's Free Tours
2.9 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
8 St Mary St
3.0 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of 8 St Mary St in the heart of Cardiff, a must-see for every traveler.
Museum of Cardiff
3.0 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.
The Cardiff Market
3.0 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
HMP Cardiff
3.0 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
3.0 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
Scott of the Antarctic Exhibition
0.4 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
0.4 km
Step into the enchanting world of Roald Dahl in Great Missenden, where stories come alive through interactive exhibits and original manuscripts.
Age of Coal exhibition
0.5 km
Discover Wales’ coal mining heritage through immersive displays and personal stories at Cardiff Bay’s Age of Coal Exhibition.
The Jetty
0.5 km
A peaceful waterfront escape in Cardiff Bay blending natural beauty, wildlife, and urban vibrancy in a scenic setting.
Cardiff Bay Trail Walk
0.6 km
Explore Cardiff Bay’s vibrant waterfront on a scenic 10km trail featuring iconic landmarks, tranquil parks, and family-friendly activities.
Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve
0.6 km
A serene 8-hectare freshwater wetland reserve in Cardiff Bay, offering rich biodiversity and peaceful birdwatching amidst urban surroundings.
Cardiff Bay Barrage
0.8 km
A modern engineering masterpiece offering scenic waterfront walks, vibrant leisure activities, and fascinating maritime operations in Cardiff Bay.
Cardiff Bay Barrage Locks
0.8 km
Explore the impressive Cardiff Bay Barrage Locks, a stunning engineering marvel offering scenic waterfront views, dynamic lock operations, and family-friendly recreation.
Hamadryad Park
0.9 km
Urban sanctuary where maritime heritage meets wetland wilderness in Cardiff's regenerated waterfront.
Landsea Gardens Cardiff Bay Viewing Deck
1.0 km
A serene garden retreat with stunning panoramic views over Cardiff Bay’s waterfront and city skyline.
Norwegian Church Arts Centre
1.0 km
Historic Norwegian Church turned vibrant arts centre with panoramic Cardiff Bay views, Nordic cuisine, and a rich cultural legacy.
Techniquest
1.0 km
Explore hands-on science, immersive shows, and family fun at Techniquest, Cardiff’s premier interactive discovery centre in vibrant Cardiff Bay.
Panorama Stone - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
1.0 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
1.0 km
A peaceful, art-filled square nestled in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant waterfront, perfect for quiet moments and scenic views.
Cardiff International White Water
1.0 km
Experience thrilling white water rafting and kayaking adventures at Cardiff’s premier urban water sports centre.
Essential places to dine
Tir a Môr
0.8 km
Savor the fusion of Welsh land and sea at Tir a Môr, Cardiff’s stylish coastal restaurant celebrating local flavors and traditions.
Bill's Cardiff Bay Restaurant
1.0 km
Historic waterfront dining with colorful charm, seasonal British classics, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff Bay.
Cedar Tree Farm - Farmhouse Inns
1.1 km
A family-friendly pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, famed for its hearty carvery, legendary desserts, and welcoming atmosphere.
The Botanist Cardiff Bay
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Cardiff Bay - where live music meets delicious British cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.
Las Iguanas - Cardiff - Mermaid Quay
1.1 km
Sizzling Latin American flavors and killer cocktails meet Cardiff Bay's waterfront sparkle at this fiesta-ready hotspot.
Hub Box Cardiff
1.1 km
Lively American-style burger bar with waterfront views, bold flavors, and inclusive menu options in the heart of Cardiff’s Mermaid Quay.
Cosy Club
1.1 km
Stylish and relaxed dining with eclectic decor and a vibrant bar in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay.
Signor Valentino
1.1 km
Handcrafted Italian dining with panoramic Cardiff Bay views from an elevated Mediterranean terrace.
Giggling Squid - Cardiff Bay
1.1 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and botanical charm in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay.
Demiro's
1.1 km
Lively Italian dining with a Mediterranean twist, set in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay waterfront.
Côte Cardiff Bay
1.1 km
Experience the elegance of modern French dining with classic flavors and waterfront views at Côte Cardiff Bay in Mermaid Quay.
Harvester Cardiff Bay Penarth
1.2 km
A lively family-friendly British bar & grill in Penarth offering hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere near Cardiff Bay.
Culley's Kitchen & Bar
1.3 km
Historic charm meets fresh Welsh flavors in Cardiff Bay’s Culley's Kitchen & Bar, a must-visit for seasonal dining and craft cocktails.
Thomas Restaurant Cardiff Bay
1.7 km
A stylish Cardiff Bay restaurant blending modern British cuisine with warm hospitality and local flavors in a vibrant waterfront setting.
Home
2.0 km
Experience innovative fine dining with a warm, intimate atmosphere at Home by James Sommerin in Penarth’s historic Royal Buildings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gallery Gift Shop at the Norwegian Church
1.0 km
Discover unique Scandinavian-inspired gifts in the historic Norwegian Church Arts Centre, a cultural gem overlooking Cardiff Bay.
Hearth & Co
1.0 km
Discover handcrafted wonders blending Norwegian heritage and Welsh artistry at this gem within Cardiff Bay's iconic Norwegian Church Arts Centre.
Zia Boutique
1.1 km
Discover handpicked jewellery, homeware, and gifts at this independent gem in Cardiff Bay's Mermaid Quay—a stylish haven since 2011.
Polka Dot
1.1 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
1.3 km
Value-packed shopping hub amid Cardiff Bay's waterfront allure—superstores, groceries, and easy parking for practical pit stops.
B&M Home Store
1.5 km
Discover incredible deals on home essentials and unique items at B&M Home Store in Cardiff Bay - your go-to discount shop!
Gifts At No. 9
1.7 km
Discover charming, beautifully curated gifts with personal service at Penarth’s beloved boutique on Windsor Road.
The Queen B Boutique
1.9 km
Elegant occasion wear and personalized service combine at The Queen B Boutique, Penarth’s charming fashion and gift destination.
Antoinette Antiques and Vintage Clothing
2.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s largest vintage hat collection and timeless antiques in a historic Pumping Station setting.
Shore
2.1 km
A charming coastal gift shop on Penarth’s Esplanade, perfect for seaside souvenirs and nautical-themed treasures with a local touch.
Ganesha Handicrafts
2.8 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
2.8 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
2.8 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
elephants and flowres
2.8 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Welcome Things
2.8 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lo Lounge
0.8 km
Industrial-chic waterfront bar in Cardiff Bay serving cocktails, street food, and live tunes amid stunning sunset views and pet-friendly vibes.
The Dock
1.0 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 Waterguard
1.1 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
1.2 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 Packet
1.2 km
Traditional Cardiff Bay pub with 160 years of history, darts, games, real ales, and homely vibes amid modern surroundings.
Bar One
1.2 km
Harborside bar beside Wales Millennium Centre, blending terrace views, inclusive eats, cocktails, and theatre-ready vibes in Cardiff Bay's lively waterfront scene.
Gin 64
2.0 km
Discover Penarth’s chic gin bar offering extensive selections, expert cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
The Grange Pub
2.2 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Peppermint Bar
2.6 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and a heated outdoor terrace in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Mocka Lounge
2.6 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
2.6 km
Lively cocktail bar in Cardiff city centre with 100+ drinks, happy hours, masterclasses, and a buzzing party atmosphere.
Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
2.6 km
Sophisticated cocktails and vibrant nightlife meet in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre at Dirty Martini.
Heidis Bier Bar Cardiff
2.6 km
Experience authentic Bavarian fun and lively nightlife at Heidi's Bier Bar, Cardiff’s quirky hotspot on Mill Lane open late every day.
Retro
2.6 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
2.6 km
A dynamic three-floor cocktail bar in Cardiff offering inventive drinks, lively music, and unforgettable nights out.
