A Guide to a Weekend in Cardiff

Enjoying a lazy weekend in the city with the family 

There are various cities in the UK which provide the perfect place for a weekend break. With the country’s rich history, excellent cultural resources and the fact it is finally catching up with the rest of Europe in the food stakes, Britain’s cities have a broad range of things to see and do for everyone. Cardiff, the newest capital is up there with the best with it’s regeneration, wealth of sports and places of historic interest. A weekend in Cardiff can be spent enjoying a range of fulfilling pursuits while holiday providers like UK Breakaways run mid-week murder mystery trips which are also a lot of fun. Here’s a suggested guide to what you could do with a weekend in Cardiff.

Street Food Sundays on St Mary's street during the summer

Friday

Friday afternoon and evening is best spent exploring Cardiff Bay, said to be the largest waterfront development in Europe. There’s a broad range of things to see in this district including a Science Discovery Centre, a variety of arts and crafts centres and galleries as well as bars, restaurants and hotels. In terms of cuisine there is plenty to choose from with Spanish, Italian, Turkish, Mexican and Chinese all on offer.

Mr A at the Science Centre - Techniquest 

Saturday

A saunter down the Hayes is the best way to spend Saturday morning. This scenic shopping street has some great designer and boutique stores as well as a few cafes to have a pit stop if the retail therapy is getting a bit much.  After seeing some of Cardiff’s oldest buildings including St John’s Church and Howell’s Department Store (not House of Fraser), you’ll need a spot of lunch. A short walk towards the River Taff will bring you to a nice place called Pettigrew Tea Rooms. This a nice place if you want to push the boat out a little bit.

The lovely Afternoon Tea at Pettigrew Tea Rooms

Now you are at the edge of Bute Park you are also close to Cardiff Castle. The castle is a must-see while in Cardiff with Roman and Norman elements it is a fantastic lesson in Welsh history. Take the 50-minute guided tour. After all that education you may feel you have earned yourself a drink and a bit to eat. The Migli Lounge on City Road is great for local produce in a relaxed environment.

Get some fresh air in Bute Park

Sunday

After shopping, taking in some culture and enjoying the culinary offer, you have Sunday to explore Cardiff’s sporting heritage. If there is not any live action on you still have a choice of activity. Just outside the city is a Go Ape adventure playground in Margam, there is also Cottrell Park Golf resort or you could go on self-guided walking tour of Cardiff’s sporting heritage or take a tour of the Millenium Stadium.

 

The Orangery at Margam Park

Inspired by UK Breakaways