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Cardiff City GuideCardiff, having already successfully hosted a World Cup, is a city full of life and passion, none more so than for the game itself. With recent developments in the city only adding to the already vibrant mood you will never be at a loss for something to do...
Town: The origins of the name for Cardiff's capital city are mixed, with the most popular view being that it stems from the Welsh name, Caerdydd. The translation is split into two, Caer and Dydd. Caer is the Welsh for fort or castle and Dydd is believed to be a corruption of Taff, giving the cities name the following meaning, The fort on the river Taff.
Originally a small town until the break of the nineteenth century Cardiff developed at a rapid speed with the development of the coal industry in the region. It was declared a city in 1905 by King Edward VII and became the capital of Wales in 1955, a honor bestowed by Home Secretary Gwilym Lloyd George. The battles between the Normans, who at the time occupied the lowlands of Wales, and the Welsh for the Uplands has led to Cardiff having the highest concentration of castles in any city worldwide.
The most famous of these castles being Cardiff Castle itself, situated at the heart of the modern city. Originally built for Robert Fitzhamon in 1091 the castle was a development of the Roman fort that already stood there. The castle has been the focus of many historical events, including the imprisonment of Robert, Duke of Normandy and Llywelyn Bren, the latter for revolting against the English.
Since then the castle has experienced many renovations, the most notable being in the early nineteenth century carried out by William Burges in a Gothic Revival style. the Winter and Summer Smoking Rooms, the Chaucer Room, the Arab Room, Lord Bute's Bedroom, the Roof Garden, repeatedly illustrates Burges' supreme skill as an art-architect. It is said his work on Cardiff Castle is unrivaled.
The city today is a hub of activity, and with the development of Cardiff Bay into a thriving economic and social center there is a bright future for Cardiff. Tourist attractions: With recent developments bringing the city up-to-date Cardiff has a whole host of activities and sights to keep you occupied. Ranging from natural beauty to Cardiff Bay there is never a shortage of fun to be had.
Cardiff Castle: As explained in the city history Cardiff Castle is a fine example of Gothic renovation and there will be plenty to keep the whole family occupied for an afternoon.
Cardiff Bay: Until recently Cardiff Bay was the industrial center of the city. However recent developments have ensured now it is a prime tourist attraction. As well as shops and restaurants you will be able to enjoy a boat trip around the Bay and marina.
Roath Park: Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll or fancy an excursion on the boating lake Roath Park is a perfect place to relax for the afternoon. Visit the rose gardens or enjoy drinks looking out over the tranquil lake.
Castle Coch: Having been used in various TV shows and films the castle is set in the rural outskirts of Cardiff and is surrounded by woodland with various walks in the vicinity. A nice change to the hustle and bustle of the city.
National Museum: Home to an amazing collection of art it will be celebrating its centenary in 2007 and is an exceptional way to wile away a morning, even if it is just to see the portrait of Oliver Cromwell.
Transport connections:
By Air: Cardiff Airport is situated roughly 12 miles from the city itself. The X96 Shuttle bus will take you from the airport to Cardiff Bus Station which is a two minute walk from the Millennium Stadium. The bus will cost you no more than £5 and will take around 45 minutes. The other option is to use a taxi from the airport which will cost around £20-25 but will be a lot quicker than the bus, around 20 minutes.
By Car: Leave the M4 at J29A and follow the signs on the A49 into the city center. Once in the city the stadium is clearly signposted and can also be seen from most places such is its height in structure.
By Rail: Trains run directly from London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol and Swansea to Cardiff Central. The stadium is a two minute walk from the station. Be warned on match days though that the station can be very busy and can take time to exit the area.
By Bus: The bus services within Cardiff run on a regular basis and depending where you are based in the city will cost no more than £2 to reach the stadium. The stadium is very close by to the bus station.
Transport information:
Train Enquiries: 0044 (0)8457 484950. www.cwlfly.com
Post-match hostelries:
Walkabout. St Marys Street
A top notch Australian sports bar with a vast capacity. The biggest screen in all of Cardiff and excellent beer to boot. On match day head their early to avoid the disappointment of not getting in. Easily the most popular match day venue for sport and beer.
Dempseys. Castle Street.
A lively Irish bar within throwing distance of the stadium itself. When the noise picks up inside the stadium it can be heard in the bar adding to the vibrant atmosphere. A wide selection of beer and bitter and good food. Again go early to avoid disappointment.
Prince of Wales. St Marys Street.
Another popular pub with the locals with an outstanding selection of food and local ales. Prices are the cheapest in town but the downside is the screens are slightly small.
Incognitos. Park Place.
A more upmarket wine bar that serves traditional local food and boasts a fine selection of Wales' finest ales and beers. A sizeable beer patio and a large screen for the game.
The Scrum. Park Place.
A suitably named rugby themed pub in the heart of town. Screens showing rugby from the past and present but when it is game time only one game is shown on every screen, including the big screen.
Clubs:
Their are various clubs in Cardiff city center and vary in genre and cost. Nowhere is more than £10 for entrance and most will remain open until 2am. Drinks can be slightly expensive and after an international places fill up very quickly, so it is best to get in early.
Accommodation:
Luxury:
The Hilton. Kingsway. 0044 (0)2920 646300
The Thistle Inn. Park Place. 0044 (0)870 333 9157
Park Plaza. Greyfriars Road. 0044 (0)2920 111111
Mid Range:
Sandringham Hotel. St Marys Street. 0044 (0)2920 232161
Angel Hotel. Castle Street. 0044 (0)2920 649200
Holiday Inn. Castle Street. 0044 (0)870 4008140
Budget:
Millennium Lodge. St Marys Street. 0044 (0)2920 374377
Village Hotel. Pendwyalt Road. 0044 (0)2920 744177
Anchorage Guest House. Fitzhamon Embankment.
0044 (0)2920 228904
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