ABOUT THE CITY OF CARDIFF:Until development of the south Wales coal industry from beginning of the 19th century, Cardiff was a small coastal town with modest trading and fishing interests. That soon changed, with the town becoming a major port, a city in 1905 and capital of Wales in 1955.
Cardiff has expanded continuously for two centuries, and now includes extensive suburbs, which have contributed to social deprivation in the old inner-city working class area in the south of the city. But Cardiff is the political, cultural, sporting and economic centre of Wales, and has recently experienced a significant (and ongoing) regeneration programme that aims to revitalize a somewhat run-down place.
It is succeeding. Sparkling modern architecture is springing up everywhere – just look at the Welsh Assembly, Wales Millennium Centre, Millennium Stadium or the extraordinary ‘Tube’, actually the Cardiff Bay Visitor Centre, where it’s possible to see a scale model of the evolving city. These and other development reinforce Cardiff’s credentials as a vibrant modern city that’s going places fast, and the energy is palpable.
Buy there’s plenty of heritage for those who prefer more traditional attractions. Llandaff Cathedral has been a focal point since it was begun in the 12th century, and now sits at the heart of a peaceful conservation area close to River Taff. Cardiff’s splendid Catholic Cathedral dates from 1887. Cardiff’s Castle incorporates Roman remains, a Norman keep and lavish interiors created during 19th century refurbishment for the ultra-rich Marquis of Bute. He also donated the park named after him, adjacent to the castle, which is a large green area at the heart of the city. Those of athletic bent may be interested in the Taff Trail, a scenic off-road cycleway connecting Cardiff to Brecon.
SERVING AIRPORTS:Cardiff International Airport [CWL]
DON’T MISS IN CARIDFF:- The National Museum
– with one of the largest collections of Impressionist paintings outside Paris.
- Castell Coch
- on the north of the city, a wonderful Victorian Gothic Revival castle built on genuine 13th century foundations.
- A walk through leafy Cathay’s Park
- on a sunny day, to admire Cardiff’s Imposing City Hall, said to be among the best civic buildings in Britain.
- Fantasyland
– a tour of the Millennium Stadium (sadly not available on match days), to include a walk down the players’ tunnel and short rest on the Queen’s seat in the Royal Box.
- The redevelopment docklands
- now a trendy waterfront area with all the usual attraction (cafes, bars, restaurants).
- St Fagans National History Museum
– A large park containing historic buildings brought from all over Wales and rebuilt here.
YOU SHOULD KNOW:Children’s author Roald Dahl was christened at Cardiff’s charming Norwegian Church, now a cafe and art gallery.
Disclaimer:
By its very nature much of the information in our destination guides is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they are relying with the relevant authorities. Corona Holidays [UK] Limited cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.
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