Travel Diaries: Cardiff
The transition from England to Wales is measured in the sudden rush of greenery and hills as the train rolls over the border, passing farms and estuaries as masked passengers nod off to the rhythmic clack of the tracks.
I was headed to Caerphilly, located in the countryside north of Cardiff and just a 30 minute drive from the city. Read on to discover what you can explore during a weekend in the city.
Photo credit: Charlotte Bird
Roath Park is a delightful place to wander around, with a well-tended rose garden and plenty of winding paths to explore on foot or bike. A walk around the 30-acre lake provided a good excuse for some exercise as I watched the baby swans shaking off their fluffy coats, whilst adventurous souls took to the water in pedalos and canoes, trying not to crash into the bank.
Of note to visit is the memorial garden to Captain Scott, commemorating his 1910 sailing from Cardiff to the Antarctic.
In the city centre is the impressive Cardiff Castle, an 11th century fortification that has been used as a defensive location since the Romans 1000 years earlier! The grandiose interior reflects its Victorian residents in stark contrast to the tunnels within the castle walls, which were used as air raid shelters during World War 2. The castle hosts tours, concerts and outdoor cinema screenings, so plan your visit before you go!
Queen Street and St David’s (Dewi Sant) mall are the shopping hotspots, but if you’re there for site-seeing, make sure to stop by the Principality Stadium – the home of Welsh rugby. If you’re a fan, make sure to book up a tour of the grounds to discover where the magic happens or keep an eye out for some of the world’s biggest names appearing there in concert.
If, like me, you’re more into nature, head down to Cardiff Bay. In good weather, there’s almost a Mediterranean feel as people enjoy alfresco dining to the sound of lapping waves and sea birds. Enjoy Welsh ice cream from Cadwaladers as you stroll the front, passing by the Senedd (Wales’ Parliament building) and the Norwegian Church, frequented by Roald Dahl. For Torchwood fans, this area of the Bay also appeared in numerous episodes – you’ll definitely recognise the Millennium Centre.
Further on, the Cardiff Bay Barrage provides ample opportunity to stroll, cycle, skateboard or simply sit at a café taking in the view. However, if you’re near the barrage and watching the boats pass through, keep an eye out for seals on the prowl, lazing on their backs whilst indulging in a salmon snack.
Photo credit: Charlotte Bird
It’s a long walk, but if you make it all of the way around, then you can pass through a lovely little harbour and visit the wetland reserve, developed due to habitat changes associated with the construction of the Barrage. Now the reserve is home to a menagerie of animals, including herons, kingfishers, carp and dragonflies, so bring your binoculars and a camera!
And finally, if you venture out to the countryside, be prepared for animals to constantly take you by surprise – I saw my first green woodpecker and badger in the wild, what a treat!
I hope you have been inspired to give Cardiff a try for a city break sometime soon. Don’t forget to share your adventures with us at City Girl Network and wherever you go – happy travelling!
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Written by Charlotte Bird
