Visit

Many visitors come down to the Bay just to stroll along the water’s edge and soak up the atmosphere, but if you’re looking for places to visit there’s plenty of choice. From small attractions in historic locations to huge engineering and architectural feats the Bay has a wide range of free and paid attractions to keep you entertained throughout the year.

Pierhead

Pierhead, the beautiful, neo-gothic, red brick building formerly the headquarters of Bute Dock Company. It now functions as a unique visitor, events and heritage centre. The building is open seven days a week and offers a glimpse into Cardiff’s past.

Y Senedd

The Senedd, home of the National Assembly for Wales. Open seven days a week, you can explore the debating chamber, committee rooms and our wonderful café. We offer free guided tours every day for groups of all sizes.

Wales Millennium Centre

Wales Millennium Centre is Wales’ national home for the performing arts and home to eight residents including the BBC National Orchestra and Welsh National Opera. With more than 1.5 million visitors every year, it's also one of the UK’s top cultural attractions.

Inside you'll find Europe's largest theatre stage where theatre-goers can watch world-class performances including: musicals, ballet, opera, stand-up comedy and live music. Visitors can also enjoy art exhibitions, workshops, free performances, kids craft sessions, backstage tours, conferences, events facilities, coffee shops and restaurants.

Cardiff Bay Barrage

Boasting stunning sea views, the Barrage is the perfect location for a scenic stroll or bike ride. You’ll also find Hafren Cafe, free exhibitions, the Enormous Crocodile bench, a play area, skate plaza, adiZone outdoor gym and lots more!

Techniquest - Science Discovery Centre

Sensational science in Cardiff Bay. Over 100 mind-boggling hands on exhibits, and exciting Science Theatre Shows for all the family at the weekends and school holidays.

Norwegian Church Arts Centre

Formerly a Norwegian Seamen’s church, this is one of Cardiff’s most iconic buildings. Offering a varied events calendar, regular exhibitions, unique conferencing space and a coffee shop (with an outside terrace) open 7 days a week.

Makers Guild in Wales - Craft in the Bay

Displaying and selling high quality craft and art by members of the Makers Guild in Wales and invited national and international artists. Practical craft workshops, art parties, conference facilities, workshop room hire, café.

Cardiff Bay Water Activity Centre (CBWAC)

Whether you’re a seasoned sports enthusiast or looking to try out something new, CBWAC offers a range of action-packed activities and courses from two fantastic Bay locations. It provides a multitude of sports, such as rowing, sailing, canoeing, windsurfing and fishing in a safe, exhilarating environment.

Flat Holm Island

Not strictly in Cardiff, but just five miles off the coast, the tranquil island of Flat Holm is a different world with a wealth of history and wildlife. Enjoy a boat trip, guided tour and a drink at The Gull and Leek, Wales’ most southerly pub.

Challenge Wales - Wales’ Tall Ship

Jump aboard and experience your own big boat sailing adventure. Take the helm, hoist the sails and get involved in all aspects of sailing. No experience necessary and a variety of voyages available, lasting from 1 day to longer, for those aged 12 – 75 years. Take part on your own, with friends or colleagues.

Pedal Power

Support our charity whilst having fun! Wide variety of inclusive adult and child bikes for hire, plus child-seats, tagalongs, buggies. Open weekends and school holidays.

Cardiff Boat Tours

Princess Katharine - covered 90-seat waterbus, linking Cardiff Bay and the city centre, also offering relaxing hour-long river cruises.

Barrage Café

This summer make a pit stop at the café on the Barrage. Enjoy a range of hot and cold beverages and delicious food, against a scenic backdrop.
029 2070 8556

Cardiff Bay Trail and Pont y Werin

This 10km walking and cycle trail around Cardiff Bay includes Pont y Werin bridge between the ISV and Penarth.

Wetlands Reserve

The Cardiff Bay Wetland Reserve covers approx. 8 hectares of former salt marsh and supports a rich diversity of plants and animals. It is easily accessible via a gravel walkway and boardwalk and boasts a viewing area that extends out over the water.