Cardiff, the capital of Wales, also referred to as the City of Arcades, is one of the UK cities with a large number of Edwardian, Victorian, and contemporary indoor shopping centres. The cultural scene involves live music every night at such places as Coal Exchange and Barfly. The largest shopping complex in the Welsh Capital is St David's Centre with more than 150 shops, cafes, and restaurants. It is also an ideal place for dining and entertainment. Did you know that the world's oldest record shop, Spillers, is found in Cardiff, dating back to 1894 when the wax was the main selling product for new phonographs? Then there is the Cardiff Bay, the largest waterfront project in Europe that has developed over 2,700 acres of land into some of the best attractions like the Techniquest (a science theatre and a planetarium featuring over 160 interactive exhibits). Other attractions at Cardiff Bay include Wales Millennium Centre, Wetland Reserve, and the Red Dragon Centre. To save you a long search for a hotel in Cardiff, Opodo works with the best guest houses, B & B lodges, and boutique hotels to bring to you the ideal getaway experience at the click of a button. The search tool on the homepage is all you need to find any deal including cheap hotels.
If you fancy stunning historical sights, cycle to the fairytale castle Castell Coch or the Red Castle which offers an exquisite rural setting for a picnic. Explore its 19th Century Gothic exterior as well as a stunning interior designed with the remains of a Roman castle. The castle is accessible by bike from the city centre through a path along River Taff. Head as a family to explore the ornately decorated chambers and enjoy outdoor photography in the lush woodland. In terms of sporting activities, Cardiff takes the crown with the remarkable Principality Stadium, home of Welsh football and rugby. It is also the regular playground for British Speedway Grand Prix. Go out shopping in independent shops at the Victorian shopping arcades before winding down with romantic dinner on the waterfront at the Mermaid Quay, just 5 minutes from Cardiff city centre. Right in the city centre is the Bute Park, a home of landscaped gardens that used to be the grounds of Cardiff Castle. You can also access Bute Park via Castle Street and be sure to see the Animal Wall that was constructed by the legendary architect William Burgess. Stop by Pettigrew Tearoom for a cup of tea, an ancient castle lodge, as you approach the park's entrance. Thousands of arboretum collections in Bute Park include catalogued species of trees and wildlife that should keep lovers of nature entertained. Walk along the paths beside River Taff and head to Pontcanna fields and Blackweir where you can ride a bike, run, or play tennis on grass courts.
In a thriving hub of sports, culture, and entertainment, you can enjoy the rich history just about anywhere, but there are some desirable neighbourhoods you should try out in your quest for a hotel in Cardiff. The middle of the city would be a perfect destination if you love jogging, walking, and sports thanks to River Tuff that runs through Bute Park. From the city centre, follow the route down the river, cross the bridge, and make a long lap all the way to Llandaff Fields. Book a hotel near the Secret Garden Café if you want to try traditional Welsh foods such rarebit, laverbread, Welshcakes, hot chocolate and cawl. To witness the latest city development, put Cardiff Bay in your itinerary. This is a world-class venue for live performances, music, and theatre scenes. It is packed with bars and restaurants so you will have plenty of dining options. The many hotel deals on Opodo should help you get the most out of your getaway in Cardiff.