Cardiff Bay
About
Cardiff Bay is the transformed docklands area that has become the city's waterfront playground. The freshwater lake created by the Cardiff Bay Barrage in 1999 turned a tidal mudflat into a gleaming waterfront lined with restaurants, bars, cultural venues, and the eye-catching Welsh Parliament building (the Senedd). It's where Cardiff goes to eat, drink, and enjoy being by the water. Mermaid Quay is the main eating and drinking hub — chains and independents side by side with outdoor seating overlooking the water. The Norwegian Church Arts Centre (where Roald Dahl was christened) is a charming café and gallery. The Barrage itself is a great walk or cycle — over a kilometre long with views across to Penarth and the Bristol Channel. The bay is home to some of Cardiff's key cultural venues including Wales Millennium Centre, the Pierhead Building, and the Doctor Who Experience (now closed, but the Ianto Jones shrine remains a pilgrimage for fans). The water taxi connects the Bay to the city centre via the river. On a sunny day, the combination of water, food, and culture makes this one of the best waterfront destinations in the UK.
Opening Times
Open 24 hours. Individual venues have their own hours.
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