Cardiff Castle and Crafts: A Family-Friendly Tour
Discover family fun in Cardiff, where adventure awaits!
19 July 2023
Lucie Collins
UK Travel Writer
A family-friendly trip to Cardiff, United Kingdom offers a delightful combination of history, culture, and recreational activities for everyone. Explore the magnificent Cardiff Castle and its fairy-tale-like surroundings, or dive into the interactive exhibits at Techniquest Science Discovery Centre. The city also boasts picturesque parks, such as Bute Park, where families can enjoy picnics, cycling, and walking along the River Taff.
Day trip plan
Getting latest place information
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- Start the day with a visit to Cardiff Castle, a magnificent medieval fortress with lavish interiors and picturesque gardens. Don't forget to climb the Keep for panoramic views!
- Head to St Fagans National Museum of History, where you can step back in time and explore traditional Welsh buildings. From the Celtic village to the Victorian schoolhouse, it's a living history lesson.
- Stop for a delightful lunch at Pettigrew Tea Rooms, housed in a charming station building. Indulge in their scrumptious scones and finger sandwiches, accompanied by a pot of Welsh brew.
- Wander through the bustling Cardiff Central Market, where you can browse unique crafts and local produce. From Welsh lovespoons to traditional Welsh tapestry, there's a treasure trove of souvenirs to be found.
- Take a leisurely stroll along Cardiff Bay Barrage, admiring the waterfront scenery and gliding sailboats. Don't miss a visit to the Norwegian Church Arts Centre, which hosts exhibitions and events.
- Finish the day with a delicious dinner at The Potted Pig, a quirky restaurant set in a former bank vault. Savor their flavorsome nose-to-tail dishes, paired with local beers or craft cocktails. A truly unique gastronomic experience!
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Cardiff by plane is to fly into Cardiff Airport, which is located about 12 miles southwest of the city center. Several airlines, including British Airways, Ryanair, and KLM, operate regular flights to Cardiff from destinations across the UK and Europe.
Car
Cardiff is easily accessible by car, and there are several major routes that connect the city to other parts of the UK, including the M4 and the A470. Driving to Cardiff from London takes around 3 hours, while Manchester is around 4 hours away.
Train
Cardiff has excellent rail links with other major cities in the UK, including London, Bristol, and Birmingham. The main station in the city is Cardiff Central, which is located in the heart of the city and is served by several train companies, including Great Western Railway and Arriva Trains Wales.
Boat
Cardiff is one of the UK's busiest port cities, and there are several ferry services that operate from the port to destinations across the UK and Europe. The main ferry terminal in Cardiff is located at the port, which is located about 2 miles south of the city center.
Bus
National Express operates regular coach services to Cardiff from cities across the UK, including London, Manchester, and Birmingham. The main bus station in the city is Cardiff Central Bus Station, which is located in the city center and is served by several local bus operators.