Cardiff city is quite unique in being the capital of Wales but also having a sizeable English and migrant population. This gives the place a very cosmopolitan feel along with its Celtic heritage. Having come out of a long period of neglect, Cardiff is now an emerging dynamic city. The UK government and Welsh national assembly are both investing large sums in the city. Despite this the era of decline is still noticeable with large run-down housing estates and soulless wasteland hard to avoid. Although neglect is apparent in some other cities, I feel Cardiff has slightly more of this than average, but as the development continues this will only improve.
--- Facilities ---
Cardiff is well endowed with facilities. Its most recent one being the Welsh Millennium centre, primarily an opera house, which is of world standard. Among the others include the Millennium Stadium host to world sporting events (including the FA cup until Wembly Stadium is finished being built) and concerts. Cardiff castle has architectural remains from many periods such as the Romans and Normans. The town centre has all the usual UK high street shops and some of the larger names (Virgin Megastores) additionally there are many good independent stores offering variety and Cardiff market has good value products especially in the food area.
Less notable places to explore include the recently improved Cardiff bay offering cafes and restaurants, the Welsh National Museum and Gallery and Welsh Assembly. There are numerous other attractions which while not individual to Cardiff do provide entertainment such as the ice skating rink, major cinema facilities, Jazz clubs, night clubs and places to eat out.
This brings me on to the nightlife. There are some very large nightclubs in Cardiff for those seeking more of a thrill and there are cosy smaller places which are more intimate. For families there are theatres, pubs, cinemas and plenty of choice to eat out from fast food outlets to international cuisine. The one thing which Cardiff is a let down on is the lack of any decent Swimming facilities.
--- Weather ---
The weather in Cardiff is very typical of Britain, mild wet winters, warm summers and long periods of overcast cloudiness. To get away from the weather bringing the visit down, there is stunning surrounding countryside only 20-40 mins drive out of the city.
--- Conclusion ---
Cardiff is located quite close to other population areas such as Bristol and Birmingham. So if you are visiting them, there is not far to travel. It is accessible by air (with its own airport), rail (in need of improvement compared to the rest of the UK), and motorway links. Do not expect to be wowed by simply turning up in Cardiff (unlike Prague for instance where just walking around the streets is interesting) you have to carefully plan and seek out the things you want to do to enjoy your stay.
--- Quick Facts ---
- Population: 327,500 - Capital of Wales (UK) - Located to the South East Coast of Wales - Notable facilities: Cardiff Castle, Millennium Stadium, town shopping, Welsh Opera House.
Pictures of Cardiff in general
Cardiff Castle
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Jan 16th, 2005
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