• Home
  • About
    • Work with Me
  • Travel Planning & Itineraries
  • Destinations
    • England
    • France
    • Italy
    • Scotland
    • United States
    • Wales
  • Mental Health
  • Lifestyle
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Bloglovin
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
Life Well Wandered

Life Well Wandered

5 February 2017 · 14 Comments

Day Trips from London: Cardiff

Destinations· Wales

Share this post:

Share on Twitter Share on Facebook Share on Pinterest Share on LinkedIn Share on Email

Welcome back to my Day Trips from London series! Previously I’ve covered St. Albans, Salisbury & Stonehenge, and Cambridge and I’m excited to write a bit about another lovely location now: Cardiff, Wales.

My family and I decided to go to Cardiff for the day after learning that our family ancestry traces back to the area. I’d been obsessed with Wales for awhile after visiting different parts of southern Wales earlier that year and was so excited to go back.

cardiff wales street

Cardiff is a fairly large city, and can surely be tackled in a couple of days if you have the time or if you want to see everything. However, if you only have a day, you can definitely see plenty of sights and enjoy the Welsh atmosphere!

A little history

Cardiff was settled by the Romans in 55AD and not much is known about what happened in the city until the Normans occupied it from 1091-1216. After its founding, it experienced many centuries of battle and changes of power. By the 19th century, it was the largest coal exporting port in the world. Because of its prominence in the industrial sector, Cardiff saw the world’s first £1 million deal in its Coal Exchange in 1907.

Today, Cardiff has more green space per person than any other city in the UK. It is a thriving city filled with a mix of modern developments like Millennium Stadium and charming streets, markets, and attractions. It has experienced a revitalisation of national pride and culture and the number of people who speak Welsh is actually increasing (just try and have a crack at pronouncing the Welsh signs!).

Getting to Cardiff

Trains from London Paddington to Cardiff Central station leave several times a day and cost anywhere from £20-40 depending on when you wish to travel. Most train rides are only two hours long so if you leave early in the morning you can get there and have a nice long day in Cardiff!

What to see in Cardiff

There is plenty to do in Cardiff and I really think you can cater your day trip to your specific interests. History lover? Visit Cardiff Castle. Culture lover, visit the Millennium Centre. Whatever you decide to do, take some time to wander around the streets of Cardiff, enjoy some delicious food, and try to decipher the Welsh signs.

See also  Walking Around The Quiraing On The Isle of Skye

Cardiff Castle

Much of the history of Cardiff Castle coincides with the history of Cardiff itself. Cardiff Castle began its history as a Roman fort in 55 AD. It was occupied by the Normans, who built the motte, or giant mound, surrounded by a moat that you see in the photo. If you want to read a more detailed history of Cardiff Castle, check out this post.

cardiff castle motte wales

Entry to the castle is a reasonable £12 for adults, £9 for children, and £10.50 for students and seniors. As my family and I are obsessed with castles and history, we spent about two hours wandering around the castle grounds. Climb the to the top of the tower for views of Cardiff and the surrounding countryside and be sure to visit the tunnels of the castle wall, which were used as bunkers during the Second World War. If you’re interested, the castle grounds also have a historically accurate replica of a 13th-century trebuchet.

view from cardiff castle

The castle you see below houses the castle apartments and was originally built in the 15th century. It was transformed in the late 1800s into the structure we see today. The library inside is magical. Be sure to stop by the Arab room—the ceiling is beautiful!

cardiff castle wales

cardiff castle apartments library

Millennium Stadium

The Millennium Stadium opened in 1999 and has since welcomed over 1.3 million visitors each year. If you’re a fan of rugby or football (soccer), you should definitely book tickets for a tour. Another option: check their events page and see if there’s a match or show you’d like to see while you’re in Cardiff! You can even see the stadium from different vantage points in Cardiff Castle.

cardiff castle millennium stadium view

Doctor Who Experience

Obviously, you must stop here if you are a Doctor Who fan. But beware: it will be closing in summer 2017!!

Cardiff Central Market

cardiff central market wales

Cardiff Central Market is in the city centre and opened in 1891. It’s two storeys and houses hundreds of stalls whose vendors sell fresh produce, meat, fish, pastries, flowers, and clothing. My family and I stopped by for a quick wander and my dad even bought a nice little hat.

Victorian arcades

There are six Victorian arcades hidden throughout the city centre and I definitely recommend seeking them out. Morgan Arcade houses Spillers Records, the oldest record store in the world (from 1894).

Millennium Centre

If you’re not into sports, check out the Millennium Centre, named Wales’ #1 visitor attraction. Check their website for what’s on.

Bute Park

If the weather in Cardiff behaves, go to Bute Park, adjacent to Cardiff Castle. We visited Cardiff in the dead of winter and it was FREEZING so we didn’t venture in, but I really wanted to (I just couldn’t convince my parents and brother…)!

See also  Places to Visit in South Wales

Bonus Excursion from Cardiff:

Llandaff Cathedral

Llandaff Cathedral is just a few miles north of Cardiff and is one of the oldest Christian sites in Britain. We visited because my family ancestors are buried there, but if you love history and a good church, it’s definitely worth a visit.

llandaff cathedral wales

The cathedral has a long history, dating back to 1120. It has been remodelled, damaged by bombs in World War II, re-remodeled many times, and used as a post office by Oliver Cromwell. It also houses the tomb of St. Teilo, a cousin of St. David and founder of the first church at Llandaff Cathedral in the 500s. I won’t go into the specifics of the whole history as it’s very long and complex, but the cathedral is a mix of both medieval and contemporary which was new to me!

llandaff cathedral interior wales

If you want to learn a bit more about my family history, check out this post—it includes pictures of me laying down next to the effigy of the first person in my family, buried in 1484 ;)

Where to eat

The Goat Major

the goat major pub cardiff wales

You MUST have lunch at this pub if it’s the only thing you do in Cardiff. My brother, probably the pickiest eater in the world, was obsessed with this place after our delicious meal. The Goat Major is a cozy pub on High Street only serving delicious, award-winning pie and chips. Hands down one of the best meals I had during my ten months in Europe!

Stuff to buy and try

Love spoons

love spoons cardiff wales

Love Spoons are carved wooden spoons that Welsh peasantry would give to their loved ones. Certain designs have certain meanings. So, for example, a spoon with carved leaves represents growing love. They think that the English term “spooning” comes from this tradition! So cool. No one knows exactly what was meant by the giving of a love spoon: some believe it was a sign of the beginning of a courtship while others believe it was a sign of an engagement.

Bara brith

Bara brith is a Welsh fruit loaf made with tea. It is delicious, in my opinion! Give it a try.

Welsh rarebit

Welsh rarebit is basically cheese on toast, with the cheese mixed with butter, mustard, beer or wine. The cheese can either be melted and then poured on the toast or the cheese can be grilled on the toast. There are many varieties but all are delicious.

cardiff city street at night

As I said before, Cardiff does make a great day trip from London. There’s so much to do that you can easily pick and choose your favourites. However, depending on your interests, you might need to budget more than a day there. I’m looking forward to returning one day so I can explore more of Wales’ capital city.

See also  10 Days in the UK & Ireland: A Travel Journal Part 1

Looking to spend longer in Wales? Check out some other sights in South Wales!

Have you visited Cardiff before? Let me know!

 Cardiff, Wales makes a perfect day trip from London. When you visit and see all that it has to offer you will never want to leave!

You may also like

Share this post:

Share on Twitter Share on Facebook Share on Pinterest Share on LinkedIn Share on Email
Previous Post: « Mantras for a Happy and Healthy 2017
Next Post: Places to Visit in South Wales »

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Kath says

    5 February 2017 at 18:28

    Love your review of Cardiff.. However, please be aware that people from Wales are Welsh and not English. England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales are separate entities with their own language.

    Reply
    • almathews says

      5 February 2017 at 18:39

      Thank you so much! I definitely understand the difference (for example, my family lineage is primarily Welsh and not English). Is there anything in my post that makes it unclear about the distinction? I would love to clarify if needed.

      Reply
      • Kath says

        7 February 2017 at 06:18

        You’re welcome! No, no changes required. It’s great as it is. I’ve noticed during my travels that many people mistake Wales for England and possibly believe that the whole of UK is England/English only. I’m hoping by posting a comment more people would be aware of the difference.
        Pleased you’ve enjoyed your travels though as the world is an exciting place.

        Reply
        • almathews says

          7 February 2017 at 18:59

          Yeah I totally understand. I wish more people knew there was actually a difference between England, Wales, Ireland and Scotland…

          Reply
      • Kath says

        7 February 2017 at 06:20

        P.s. Love the fact that you have Welsh Ancestors :-)

        Reply
  2. Tanja (the Red phone box travels) says

    6 February 2017 at 03:59

    Cardiff castle looks amazing!

    Reply
    • almathews says

      6 February 2017 at 19:17

      It is! I really liked how they had both the really old tower on top of the motte and the newer castle apartments. It was a nice combination.

      Reply
  3. Sian says

    8 February 2017 at 05:45

    Really love this review of my city, I have lived here most of my life but it is nice seeing it through the eyes of an outsider, you really do need to go to Bute park if you are here in the spring or summer, my son loves it as there is plenty of space to run around, there is also a little bench with a photo frame that is fun to take photos in, whenever we have visitors from abroad we always take them.

    Reply
    • Sian says

      8 February 2017 at 05:49

      https://www.ephotozine.com/images/bbcode/6144/bute-park—city-ctre-15-05—-1.jpg

      Reply
    • almathews says

      9 February 2017 at 20:29

      Aww thank you, that’s so good to hear–especially from a local! That frame you sent a picture of is BEAUTIFUL! I wish we were there in warmer weather to take advantage of it, but I guess I’ll just have to return :)

      Reply
  4. David says

    8 February 2017 at 07:29

    Cardiff also has a fantastic array of real ale and cider pubs. For example:

    Hopbunker
    Tiny Rebel (formerly “Urban Tap House”)
    City Arms
    Brewdog
    Cambrian Tap
    The Lansdowne
    Y Mochyn Du (a lovely pub in Sophia Gardens which is also great for food)
    Small Bar
    …and many more

    Also, for culture lovers and artsy folk, I’d definitely recommend you check out Chapter Arts Centre in the Canton area of the city. Music lovers should check out the annual HUB festival in Womanby Street.

    Reply
    • almathews says

      12 February 2017 at 20:14

      Thanks for these! I will definitely check them out next time I’m in Cardiff. I love a good pub.

      Reply
  5. Cardiff Cruises says

    4 June 2018 at 07:48

    Great info!! Thanks for sharing your Cardiff review. I love Cardiff Castle looking awesome.

    Reply
    • almathews says

      15 June 2018 at 14:05

      Thank you very much!

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

Welcome to Life Well Wandered

alex life well wandered

Welcome to my corner of the internet! Life Well Wandered is a travel blog where you'll find a little bit of everything. I love sharing itineraries from past trips, secret spots I've discovered on my travels, histories of places I find fascinating, and stories about my mental health.

  • Bloglovin
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
Life Well Wandered

Search

What’s New

  • A Guide to Stow-on-the-Wold in the Cotswolds
  • The Real-Life Inspiration for Moria? Exploring St. Edward’s Church in Stow-on-the-Wold
  • A Lord of the Rings Guide to the Cotswolds: Places That Inspired Tolkien’s World
  • Day Trips from London: Stonehenge & Salisbury
  • Visiting Upper Slaughter in the Cotswolds: A Guide
Follow
college tourist

Note: We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Please check our disclosure page for more information.

lifewellwandered

My favorite stop in Bruges was City Hall. Built in My favorite stop in Bruges was City Hall. Built in 1376, it is one of the oldest in the Low Countries and has been used as the seat of the city government for over 600 years. 🤓
Inside City Hall is the beautiful gothic hall. It was remodeled in the 19th century and decorated with beautiful murals and woodwork from floor to ceiling. The ceiling dates from 1385. The murals were painted in the 19th century and depict different people from Belgian history, including Jan Van Eyck, Brueghel, Rubens, and more. 😍 #lifewellwandered
If you fancy climbing up about 400 steps in a spir If you fancy climbing up about 400 steps in a spiral staircase, then consider visiting the Belfry in Bruges. From the top, you'll see just how beautiful Bruges is, with its winding streets and orange rooftops. 😍
Dating back to the 13th century, the Belfry is the most important tower in Bruges. At over 83 meters (272 feet) tall, it was an important status symbol in the Middle Ages. It formerly housed the treasury and city archives, as well as a market for the town. 🏰
At the top of the tower, you'll find a carillon—47 bells playable by hand with a keyboard—with bells ranging in weight from two pounds to 11,000 pounds. Historically, the bells were used not only to mark the passage of time but also to alert residents of fires, work hours, or important events. Today, if you visit at the top of the hour, you'll get to experience the ringing of the bells. 🛎 #lifewellwandered
In March of 2015, I began my biggest trip around E In March of 2015, I began my biggest trip around Europe to date. We had about 5 weeks off (during which we were supposed to be revising for exams) so my friend and I took the opportunity to see as much of Europe as possible while also getting to know each stop as well as possible. A hard balance to strike, but we did the best we could! 🇪🇺
Our first stop was Bruges. We visited on the day of a solar eclipse, but it was already cloudy and foggy so the lack of sunlight wasn’t noticed. We spent our day in Bruges wandering around the streets and eating waffles - not a bad start to a trip around Europe that would be characterized by eating and wandering! 🍽 #lifewellwandered
The last stop on my series of day trips around Eng The last stop on my series of day trips around England was Windsor. I had been close to Windsor once before but had yet to visit Windsor Castle or the town. Windsor Castle was overwhelming. 🏰
It is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, founded by William the Conqueror and the home of 39 monarchs. We spent hours walking around the various wings and exhibits, trying to absorb everything we could. Have you visited Windsor Castle before? 👑 #lifewellwandered
Bath is most famous for, well, its Roman baths. As Bath is most famous for, well, its Roman baths. As a Roman history nerd, Bath was on my to-visit list for ages and I spent my entire visit to the baths geeking out over all of the artifacts and ruins. 🤓
For thousands of years, 240,000 gallons of 115ºF water has risen into this spring, known as the Sacred Spring, daily. In Roman times, this phenomenon was believed to be the work of the Gods, so Romans built a temple dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva, a deity with healing powers, around the spring. Water from it feeds the Roman baths. 🛁 #lifewellwandered
Three churches have occupied the site of Bath Abbe Three churches have occupied the site of Bath Abbey since 757AD. There was first an Anglo-Saxon monastery, then a massive Norman cathedral (the foundations of which can be seen underground in one part of the Abbey) and then the present abbey church from the 1600s. ⛪️
The first King of England, King Edgar, was crowned here in 973 - his coronation set the precedent for the current coronation ceremony of all kings and queens of England. 👑 #lifewellwandered
I visited Winchester on what felt like the first w I visited Winchester on what felt like the first warm, sunny day in months. When you live in a place without regular sun, you always take advantage of beautiful days. Winchester made the perfect destination for a beautiful day spent walking around and exploring. 🤗
Winchester’s High Street is built along the original Roman street that led through the town. Today, it has buildings dating from the 16th century. The clock was presented after a visit from Queen Anne in 1713. 🕑 #lifewellwandered
Chances are, you’ve heard of the Knights of the Chances are, you’ve heard of the Knights of the Round Table. Did you know that the Round Table of King Arthur can be found in the Great Hall in Winchester? ⚔️
While this table was created around 1290, well after the death of King Arthur and his knights, it’s still impressive to visit. Weighing over one ton, it is thought to portray King Arthur on his throne surrounded by 24 places for his knights. King Henry VIII added a Tudor Rose during his reign. Swipe for a closer look at the table! 🤓 #lifewellwandered
In another edition of always visit the cathedral i In another edition of always visit the cathedral in the town you visit, I bring you Winchester Cathedral. One of the reasons why I chose to visit Winchester of all places was its connection to Jane Austen. Jane Austen spent the last weeks of her life in a house in Winchester and was laid to rest in its cathedral in 1817. ⛪️
Have you ever traveled somewhere because of a favorite author? 🤓 #lifewellwandered
Load More... Follow on Instagram
  • Home
  • About
  • Travel Planning & Itineraries
  • Destinations
  • Mental Health
  • Lifestyle

Copyright © 2023 · beloved theme by Restored 316