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Castles
The Principality is littered with majestic castles and spectacular fortresses, many dating back to the Middle Ages. Wales can rightly claim to be home to the most romantic castles in the UK and few can argue after witnessing amazing Caernarvon and Conway castles. Cardiff itself houses a fabulous castle over 900 years old and also the fairytale folly of Castle Coch.
Scenic Rail Journeys
The most fun and rewarding way of getting out into the wonderful Welsh countryside is to take a magical vintage railway journey. Romantic and ever so relaxing, Wales offers some of the most alluring scenery and a number of glamorous steam train branch lines such as the famous Ffestiniog Mountain railway. City breaks in Cardiff should definitely include a serene trip on the Brecon Railway at nearby Merthyr Tydfil.
Beaches
The coastline surrounding Cardiff has a surprising number of idyllic sandy beaches and is extremely popular during warm summer days. Llantwit Major, Penarth and fun loving Barry are pretty seaside resorts with excellent beach facilities and safe swimming. All offer a peaceful escape from the busy city streets with many secluded coves and bays to discover that are rarely explored outside the weekend.
Cardiff Nightlife
Cool Cardiff is renowned as one of the UK's leading drinking and party destinations and it attracts youthful groups and stag weekenders in droves looking for all action nightly entertainment. The most vibrant districts are St Mary's Street which can boast almost 50 pubs and restaurants in one street alone. Mermaid Quay is another lively quarter which houses bohemian waterfront cafe bars, live music and stylish late night clubs.
Millennium Centre
The Millennium Centre is the much heralded showpiece of Welsh artistic pride and Cardiff's new found prosperity and regeneration. It is the official home to the Welsh National Opera and 6 other leading performing arts companies. It is sleek and modern in design and features a wide variety of cultural and populist entertainment from classical proms, west end musicals, live rock music and opera. There are permanent art exhibitions and regular events for children.
Mining Tours
Anyone with a passing interest in Welsh social history will love a visit to the Valleys for a fascinating day touring the old coal and tin mines. It offers an amazing journey back into the recent past where traditional village life is vividly recreated complete with its famous choirs and brass bands. The preserved mining village of Hafod is the finest example and features wonderful Victorian cottages and an exciting children’s amusement centre.
Gower Peninsular
No visit to South Wales would be complete without a day experiencing the natural spectacle of the Gower Peninsular. This coastal wilderness is filled with secluded coves, pristine sandy beaches and towering limestone cliffs. Adrenaline junkies can enjoy sea kayaking, coasteering and abseiling here or simply explore on foot its numerous bird sanctuaries and nature reserves.
Historic Cardiff
The Welsh capital features a fabulous variety of art, architecture and historic landmarks to enjoy during a cultured short break in Wales. There is no denying the impact of its fascinating Norman castle which dominates the skyline and is an absolute must see. The old city also highlights a golden age of design during the Georgian period with fine examples of large terraced houses and covered shopping arcades. Art lovers will want to explore in detail the Welsh National Museum and Gallery which shows off an amazing range of ancient artefacts and decorative artwork.
Adventure Sports
Just a short drive from Cardiff opens up a world of fearless fun and activity for adventurous types. The Valleys and the Brecon hills north of the city are prime locations for quad biking, rafting, hiking and horse riding. This is also the hang gliding capital of the UK. There are a number of all inclusive adventure activity centres based here which provide full weekends of excitement and rewarding fun and are exceedingly popular with young groups and even families.
Welsh National Folk Museum
A great fun family day out can be had at the National Folk Museum which is incredibly educational and inspiring for all ages. It features a variety of traditional crafts and historic architecture from across Wales illustrated in hands on workshops and with colourful cultural performances. There are also ancient pagan rites recreations and plenty of feasting and music with plenty for youngsters to see and do.
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