Cardiff International White Water: Premier Urban White Water Adventure
Experience thrilling white water rafting and kayaking adventures at Cardiff’s premier urban water sports centre.
Cardiff International White Water (CIWW) is a world-class white water rafting and kayaking centre located in Cardiff Bay, Wales. Offering Olympic-standard rapids, it caters to all skill levels with activities such as rafting, river boarding, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The facility features clean changing rooms, hot showers, secure lockers, and a vibrant social atmosphere, making it ideal for families, groups, and thrill-seekers alike.
A brief summary to Cardiff International White Water
- Watkiss Way, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF11 0SY, GB
- +442920829970
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Book your session online in advance to guarantee your spot and avoid additional fees.
- Wear swimwear under your wetsuit and bring a towel and dry clothes for after your activity.
- Check the daily flow levels and session times, especially if you plan to try the 'Park and Play' pass.
- Arrive early to enjoy the changing facilities and attend the safety briefing before your water session.
- Consider joining one of the social paddleboarding or freestyle kayaking events for a community experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Lockers
- Drinking Water
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take Cardiff Bus services 6 or 61 from Cardiff city centre to the Cardiff International White Water stop near Watkiss Way. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, and a single fare costs around £2.50 GBP. Note that service frequency may reduce in the evenings and on weekends.
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Train and Walk
Arrive at Cardiff Central railway station, then take a 30-minute walk or a short taxi ride (around 5 minutes) to Cardiff International White Water. The walk follows well-marked urban paths along Cardiff Bay and is accessible for most travelers. Train services to Cardiff Central are frequent from across Wales and the UK.
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Car
Driving to CIWW is straightforward via the A4232 and Cardiff Bay area roads. Parking is available on-site or nearby, but spaces can be limited during peak times. Expect to pay around £5-10 GBP for parking. The journey from Cardiff city centre typically takes 10-15 minutes depending on traffic.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are convenient options for direct access to the centre, especially if carrying equipment. A trip from Cardiff city centre usually takes 10-15 minutes and costs approximately £8-12 GBP, depending on traffic and time of day.
Cardiff International White Water 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
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Cardiff International White Water
A Hub for White Water Sports and Adventure
Cardiff International White Water is a leading outdoor activity centre specializing in white water rafting, kayaking, and related water sports. Situated in the heart of Cardiff Bay, the facility boasts an Olympic-standard white water course that is adjustable to different flow levels, providing thrills for beginners and experts alike. The venue offers a range of activities including river boarding, duckies (inflatable kayaks), ringos (inflatable rings), and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), ensuring a diverse experience for water enthusiasts.Facilities and Visitor Experience
Visitors benefit from excellent on-site amenities such as clean changing rooms, hot showers, and secure lockers, enhancing comfort before and after activities. The centre provides wetsuits, helmets, and buoyancy aids, with clear safety briefings and expert instruction to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The 'Park and Play' pass grants flexible access to the water and facilities, allowing paddlers to practice skills or enjoy recreational sessions seven days a week during opening hours.Community and Events
CIWW is not only a sports venue but also a vibrant social hub. It hosts regular events like the SUP Race Fun 5K and PaddleFest, attracting paddlers and spectators for competitive and fun gatherings. The centre supports local clubs and freestyle kayaking communities, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for both newcomers and seasoned athletes. Its location in Cardiff Bay adds to the lively environment, with nearby cafes and scenic waterfront views.Accessibility and Safety
The facility is designed to be accessible, welcoming families, groups, and individuals of varying abilities. Safety is paramount, with qualified staff supervising sessions and ensuring compliance with safety protocols. Age restrictions apply depending on the activity, typically starting from six years old for some water sports. Booking in advance is recommended to secure spots, especially for popular sessions like white water rafting.Environmental and Recreational Setting
Set against the backdrop of Cardiff Bay, CIWW combines urban convenience with natural water features. The water is fresh and clean, making it suitable for open water swimming and triathlon training. The centre encourages responsible use of the environment, with notices and guidelines to protect the waterway and surrounding habitats.Year-Round Operation and Seasonal Variations
Open daily from 9:00 to 16:00, with extended hours on select evenings, CIWW operates year-round, adapting to seasonal conditions. Some sessions and events occur in the evenings or weekends, offering flexibility for visitors. Weather rarely disrupts activities, as many are designed to proceed safely in various conditions, ensuring a dependable adventure destination.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ship Weather Vane - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
1.9 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
2.0 km
A poignant memorial in Cardiff Bay honoring Captain Scott and his Antarctic expedition, set against a historic maritime backdrop.
Roath Lock
2.2 km
Discover Roath Lock, Cardiff’s iconic BBC drama village blending cutting-edge production with waterfront heritage charm.
Premier Inn Cardiff Bay hotel
2.3 km
Comfortable, accessible, and modern hotel steps from Cardiff Bay’s cultural and waterfront attractions.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
3.0 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
3.0 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
3.0 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
John Batchelor Statue
3.4 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Fogo's Free Tours
3.5 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
8 St Mary St
3.5 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
3.5 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Museum of Cardiff
3.5 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.
Animal Wall
3.6 km
Explore the Animal Wall in Cardiff, a historical landmark filled with whimsical animal sculptures that tell the story of the city's rich heritage.
Historical Wales
3.6 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
Cosmeston Lakes Country Park & Medieval Village
3.6 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical charm of Cosmeston Lakes Country Park & Medieval Village - a perfect getaway for nature lovers and history buffs.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Deck
0.7 km
Modern Welsh dining and floating hotel rooms with stunning marina views in Penarth’s vibrant waterfront setting.
Cardiff Bay
1.0 km
Explore Cardiff Bay, Europe’s largest waterfront transformation blending culture, leisure, and scenic beauty in a vibrant urban setting.
Cardiff Bay Barrage Locks
1.1 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 Barrage
1.1 km
A modern engineering masterpiece offering scenic waterfront walks, vibrant leisure activities, and fascinating maritime operations in Cardiff Bay.
Cardiff Bay Trail Walk
1.2 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
1.2 km
Explore the heroic legacy of Captain Scott’s Antarctic expeditions in Cardiff Bay’s immersive and family-friendly exhibition.
The Jetty
1.3 km
A peaceful waterfront escape in Cardiff Bay blending natural beauty, wildlife, and urban vibrancy in a scenic setting.
Roald Dahl - The Enormous Crocodile
1.3 km
Step into the enchanting world of Roald Dahl in Great Missenden, where stories come alive through interactive exhibits and original manuscripts.
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.
Age of Coal exhibition
1.5 km
Discover Wales’ coal mining heritage through immersive displays and personal stories at Cardiff Bay’s Age of Coal Exhibition.
Hamadryad Park
1.5 km
Urban sanctuary where maritime heritage meets wetland wilderness in Cardiff's regenerated waterfront.
The Pumping Station
1.5 km
Explore Cardiff’s premier antique hub with diverse vintage treasures, handcrafted furniture, and timeless collectibles under one roof.
Penarth Pier Pavilion
1.8 km
Discover Penarth Pier Pavilion, a stunning Art Deco cultural hub on the Welsh coast, blending seaside charm with art, cinema, and community spirit.
Techniquest
1.8 km
Explore hands-on science, immersive shows, and family fun at Techniquest, Cardiff’s premier interactive discovery centre in vibrant Cardiff Bay.
Landsea Gardens Cardiff Bay Viewing Deck
1.9 km
A serene garden retreat with stunning panoramic views over Cardiff Bay’s waterfront and city skyline.
Essential places to dine
Harvester Cardiff Bay Penarth
0.5 km
A lively family-friendly British bar & grill in Penarth offering hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere near Cardiff Bay.
Cedar Tree Farm - Farmhouse Inns
0.7 km
A family-friendly pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, famed for its hearty carvery, legendary desserts, and welcoming atmosphere.
Home
1.5 km
Experience innovative fine dining with a warm, intimate atmosphere at Home by James Sommerin in Penarth’s historic Royal Buildings.
Tir a Môr
1.7 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
1.9 km
Historic waterfront dining with colorful charm, seasonal British classics, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff Bay.
Sid’s Restaurant and Bar With Rooms
1.9 km
Seaside dining and cozy stays with stunning views on Penarth’s historic Esplanade, blending fresh cuisine and warm hospitality.
The Botanist Cardiff Bay
2.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Cardiff Bay - where live music meets delicious British cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.
Hub Box Cardiff
2.0 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
2.0 km
Stylish and relaxed dining with eclectic decor and a vibrant bar in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay.
Las Iguanas - Cardiff - Mermaid Quay
2.0 km
Sizzling Latin American flavors and killer cocktails meet Cardiff Bay's waterfront sparkle at this fiesta-ready hotspot.
Giggling Squid - Cardiff Bay
2.0 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and botanical charm in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay.
Signor Valentino
2.0 km
Handcrafted Italian dining with panoramic Cardiff Bay views from an elevated Mediterranean terrace.
Demiro's
2.0 km
Lively Italian dining with a Mediterranean twist, set in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay waterfront.
Côte Cardiff Bay
2.0 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
Cardiff Bay Retail Park
1.1 km
Value-packed shopping hub amid Cardiff Bay's waterfront allure—superstores, groceries, and easy parking for practical pit stops.
Gifts At No. 9
1.2 km
Discover charming, beautifully curated gifts with personal service at Penarth’s beloved boutique on Windsor Road.
B&M Home Store
1.3 km
Discover incredible deals on home essentials and unique items at B&M Home Store in Cardiff Bay - your go-to discount shop!
The Queen B Boutique
1.4 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
1.5 km
Discover Cardiff’s largest vintage hat collection and timeless antiques in a historic Pumping Station setting.
Shore
1.8 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
2.0 km
Discover unique Scandinavian-inspired gifts in the historic Norwegian Church Arts Centre, a cultural gem overlooking Cardiff Bay.
Hearth & Co
2.0 km
Discover handcrafted wonders blending Norwegian heritage and Welsh artistry at this gem within Cardiff Bay's iconic Norwegian Church Arts Centre.
Zia Boutique
2.0 km
Discover handpicked jewellery, homeware, and gifts at this independent gem in Cardiff Bay's Mermaid Quay—a stylish haven since 2011.
Polka Dot
2.0 km
Discover dotted delights at this whimsical Cardiff Bay gift shop, where polka patterns meet playful souvenirs in a cozy waterfront nook.
Ganesha Handicrafts
3.3 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
3.3 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
3.3 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
3.3 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
elephants and flowres
3.3 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gin 64
1.5 km
Discover Penarth’s chic gin bar offering extensive selections, expert cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
Lo Lounge
1.8 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
1.9 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 Packet
2.1 km
Traditional Cardiff Bay pub with 160 years of history, darts, games, real ales, and homely vibes amid modern surroundings.
The Eli Jenkins
2.1 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 Waterguard
2.1 km
Sam Smith's dockside gem in Cardiff Bay: crisp ales, pub grub, dog-friendly gardens, and panoramic harbor views for effortless waterfront unwinding.
Bar One
2.1 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 Grange Pub
2.4 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Star Inn
3.1 km
Cosy village pub in Dinas Powys offering classic dishes, a friendly atmosphere, dog-friendly spaces, and seasonal celebrations year-round.
Peppermint Bar
3.2 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and a heated outdoor terrace in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
3.2 km
Sophisticated cocktails and vibrant nightlife meet in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre at Dirty Martini.
Be At One - Cardiff
3.2 km
Lively cocktail bar in Cardiff city centre with 100+ drinks, happy hours, masterclasses, and a buzzing party atmosphere.
Mocka Lounge
3.2 km
Lively cocktail bar and nightclub in Cardiff’s Mill Lane with great drinks, friendly service, and a vibrant social scene day and night.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
3.2 km
A dynamic three-floor cocktail bar in Cardiff offering inventive drinks, lively music, and unforgettable nights out.
Heidis Bier Bar Cardiff
3.2 km
Experience authentic Bavarian fun and lively nightlife at Heidi's Bier Bar, Cardiff’s quirky hotspot on Mill Lane open late every day.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cabaret at Wales Millennium Centre
2.1 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
2.2 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
3.3 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
3.4 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
Clwb Ifor Bach
3.5 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
3.5 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
For Your Eyes Only
3.5 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Revolution Cardiff
3.6 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
3.8 km
Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of The Live Lounge Cardiff, where live music, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife await.
Pulse
3.8 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 CUBE
3.8 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
3.9 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
Yates - Cardiff
3.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Yates in Cardiff, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a lively setting.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
3.9 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 Globe
5.2 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
- Adventurous
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Scenic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Sports complex
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Wheelchair Access