Attractions and Places To See around Cardiff - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Cardiff, the capital of Wales, offer a blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. The city features ancient castles, modern arts venues, and expansive green spaces. Its diverse range of attractions includes significant historical sites, waterfront developments, and vast parks. Cardiff provides varied opportunities for exploration, from urban walks to riverside trails.
Best attractions and places to see around Cardiff
- The most popular attractions is Garth Summit, a viewpoint that offers commanding views just outside Cardiff with a trig pointed summit. It is a UK listed Marilyn.
- Another must-see spot is Pierhead Building, Cardiff Bay, a historical site with French Gothic-Renaissance architecture. It is a 19th-century Grade I listed building now housing a Welsh history museum and galleries.
- Visitors also love Cardiff Bay Barrage, an other man-made structure completed in 1999. It impounds freshwater from the rivers Ely and Taff to create a large freshwater lake.
- Cardiff is known for its historical sites, natural features, and cultural venues. Visitors can explore castles, waterfront developments, and extensive parklands.
- The attractions around Cardiff are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 150 upvotes and over 50 photos shared.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
Garth Summit
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Cardiff Bay Barrage
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Pierhead Building, Cardiff Bay
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
Blackweir Bridge and Weir
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
Fforest Fawr Woodland Trail
Highlight • Trail
Along the tracks, you may notice some mounds and hollows which are iron-mining workings and their adjacent spoil tips, now overgrown with vegetation.
Fforest Fawr is a mixed woodland and it has patches of bluebells, wood anemones and wild garlic in the spring.
The woodland is frequently used as a film location – scenes from Merlin and Sherlock have been shot here.
Tip by
Castell Coch
Highlight • Historical Site
Entry to the castle costs £7.70 for adults, £4.60 for children, £6.10 for seniors, and £21.60 for families. For more information, visit: cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/castell-coch.
Tip by
The Enormous Crocodile Statue (Roald Dahl)
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
The Animal Wall
Highlight • Monument
The carving of the animals began in the late 1880s. Architect William Frame brought the wall to life, based on sketches byarchitect William Burges who was employed by the 3rd Marquess of Bute.
The original wall was built in the 1890s directly outside the castle. Original animals included: a pair of lions holding shields, a lioness, a lynx, a bear, a sea lion, a wolf, a pair of apes and a hyena. You can tell these apart from their later cousins because they have glass eyes.
The wall was moved and relocated west of the Castle in 1923 due to the widening of Duke Street, and six extra animals were added. The six additional animals were the vulture, beaver, leopard, a pair of raccoons, a pelican and an anteater.
bute-park.com/attraction/the-animal-wall
Tip by
Castle Arcade
Highlight • Rest Area
And additional info about how the stunning floor was painted:
facebook.com/kera1kera1/videos/floorpainting/2516649811951875
If you’d like to see pictures of some of the other arcades Cardiff is famous for, or discover them in real life, the following ‘city arcades stroll’ might be of interest for you: komoot.com/tour/1226672662
Tip by
Cardiff Bay Barrage
Highlight (Segment) • Structure
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Cardiff.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Cardiff
Cambrian Way — Hike the highest, wildest and most beautiful trail in Wales
Pedal through time – Britain’s landscapes & history by bike
6,000 years of history – Valeways Millennium Heritage Trail
Crossing Bannau Brycheiniog from Cardiff — the Taff Trail
Gravel bike in the UK's wildest landscapes with Wild Cycles
Around the edge in 80 days — cycling the coastline of Britain
Spectacular rides in Wales and south-west England – e-bike trials by Halfords
My favourite Welsh off-road rides — Gravel heaven in Wales
Train to trail — Exploring the UK's bike parks by rail
Hiking around Cardiff
Other adventures around Cardiff
Tips from the Community
This wall extends from the castle and has stone carvings of various animals which would have been very exotic when it was created. Much fun 🙂
0
0
The Barrage connects Penarth to the Cardiff peninsula. It offers stunning views across the sea to one side, and the freshwater bay on the other. One of the highlights of the Cardiff Bay tour
0
0
Great place to capture some photos of the River Taff. Scenic all year round
0
0
The publisher – which publishes the German edition – advertises the children's book by Roald Dahl (1916 to 1990), which serves as the literary inspiration for this statue, as follows: "The giant crocodile is hungry, insatiably, tremendously hungry! What could be more convenient for him than a few crunchy, juicy, delicious children? But they're not so easy to catch; it takes a few clever tricks! At first, everything goes according to plan for the crocodile and his nasty traps, if it weren't for the other animals in the jungle who tirelessly rush to the children's aid. So the crocodile finally receives the punishment it deserves, and courage and helpfulness win the day! Dauntless heroes full of strength and imagination who make children strong: No matter who or where you are, no matter who wants to belittle you, with imagination, determination, and courage, you can take charge of your own crazy story and be anything you want! A picture book to look at and read aloud for witty, strong children ages 4 and up and all Roald Dahl fans. A brilliant new translation by Andreas Steinhöfel.
2
0
Every day, this narrow crossing offers a new perspective on life. It's a unique place where you feel enveloped in blue. Love it!
1
0
The publisher – which publishes the German edition – advertises the children's book by Roald Dahl (1916 to 1990), which serves as the literary inspiration for this statue, as follows: "The giant crocodile is hungry, insatiably, tremendously hungry! What could be more convenient for him than a few crunchy, juicy, delicious children? But they're not so easy to catch; it takes a few clever tricks! At first, everything goes according to plan for the crocodile and his nasty traps, if it weren't for the other animals in the jungle, who tirelessly rush to the children's aid. So the crocodile finally receives the punishment it deserves, and courage and helpfulness win the day! Dauntless heroes full of strength and imagination who make children strong: No matter who or where you are, no matter who wants to belittle you, with imagination, determination, and courage, you can take charge of your own crazy story and be anything you want! A picture book to look at and read aloud for witty, strong children ages 4 and up and all Roald Dahl fans. A brilliant new translation by Andreas Steinhöfel.
0
0
The white noise from the crashing water makes this a perfect place to tune out of the world. Unique place!
0
0
This playful crocodile is a wonderful homage to Roald Dahl who was born in Cardiff and christened in the Norwegian Church just down the way.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some notable historical sites to visit in Cardiff?
Cardiff boasts a rich history. You can explore the stunning Victorian Gothic interiors of Cardiff Castle, or venture slightly outside the city to discover the fairy-tale towers of Castell Coch. The Pierhead Building in Cardiff Bay, a 19th-century Grade I listed building, now houses a Welsh history museum. Don't miss the elegant Edwardian Baroque architecture of Cardiff City Hall or the historic Llandaff Cathedral.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Cardiff?
Yes, Cardiff offers many family-friendly options. Kids will love the interactive exhibits at Techniquest in Cardiff Bay, or exploring the unique open-air museum at St Fagans National Museum of History. Within the city, you can find the whimsical The Enormous Crocodile Statue and the charming The Animal Wall. The Cardiff Bay Barrage area is also great for walks and cycling with children.
Where can I enjoy nature and green spaces in Cardiff?
Cardiff is home to several beautiful natural areas. Bute Park, adjacent to Cardiff Castle, offers vast green spaces for walks along the River Taff. Roath Park features a Victorian boating lake and extensive parkland. For woodland walks, head to Fforest Fawr Woodland Trail near Castell Coch, or explore the wildlife at Howardian Local Nature Reserve. The Cardiff Bay Barrage also provides stunning waterfront views and walking paths.
What outdoor activities can I do near Cardiff's attractions?
There are numerous outdoor activities available. You can enjoy cycling along the Taff Trail, which starts from Cardiff Bay and extends north, or explore routes like the 'Bute Park to Cardiff Bay loop'. For easy hikes, consider the 'Roath Park loop' or the 'River Taff loop from Cardiff Castle'. More challenging gravel biking routes, such as the 'Caerphilly mountain loop', are also accessible. Find more details on these routes in the Cycling around Cardiff, Gravel biking around Cardiff, and Easy hikes around Cardiff guides.
Are there any viewpoints offering panoramic views of Cardiff?
For commanding views, head to Garth Summit, a stunning little hill just outside Cardiff with a trig pointed summit. You can also climb the Norman keep at Cardiff Castle for panoramic city views. The Cardiff Bay Barrage offers expansive views across the freshwater lake and towards the city.
What cultural experiences can I find in Cardiff?
Cardiff is a vibrant cultural hub. The Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff Bay hosts world-class events, from musicals to opera. The National Museum Cardiff houses extensive collections of art, natural history, and archaeology, with free admission. You can also visit the Norwegian Church Arts Centre for exhibitions and live music, or the Chapter Arts Centre for cinema and performances. The Pierhead Building also houses galleries on Welsh history.
Where can I find unique shopping experiences in Cardiff?
Explore Cardiff's charming Victorian and Edwardian Arcades for a unique shopping experience. These historic passages, such as Castle Arcade, are home to independent shops, cafes, and boutiques. Don't miss Spillers Records, located in one of these arcades, which is recognized as the world's oldest continuously operating record shop. Cardiff Central Market also offers a taste of local produce and independent stalls.
What can I do in Cardiff Bay?
Cardiff Bay, one of Europe's largest waterfront developments, offers a variety of activities. You can take boat trips, visit the Wales Millennium Centre, or explore the Pierhead Building. For active visitors, Cardiff International White Water provides opportunities for white water rafting and kayaking. The Cardiff Bay Barrage is perfect for walks and cycling, and the Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve is ideal for birdwatching.
Are there any attractions accessible by public transport in Cardiff?
Many of Cardiff's central attractions are well-served by public transport. Cardiff Castle, Bute Park, the National Museum Cardiff, and the Victorian Arcades are all within walking distance of the city center's bus and train stations. Cardiff Bay attractions are also easily reachable by bus or water taxi from the city center. For attractions slightly further out, such as Castell Coch or St Fagans, local bus services are available.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gem' attractions in Cardiff?
Beyond the main highlights, consider visiting the Howardian Local Nature Reserve for a peaceful escape into nature, or exploring the unique engineering of the Blackweir Bridge and Weir, designed by Cardiff University students. The Radyr Weir also offers a picturesque spot along the River Taff, known for its hydropower scheme and wildlife.
What are some indoor activities for a rainy day in Cardiff?
If the weather turns, Cardiff has plenty of indoor options. Explore the extensive collections at the National Museum Cardiff, catch a show or exhibition at the Wales Millennium Centre, or delve into the city's past at the Museum of Cardiff. The Victorian and Edwardian Arcades offer covered shopping and cafes, and Techniquest provides interactive science fun for all ages.
Most popular routes around Cardiff
Most popular attractions around Cardiff
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
