The former mudflats around Cardiff Bay have been transformed into an attractive lake thanks to the Cardiff Bay Barrage. Built it the 1990s, it was one of the grandest engineering projects in Europe when it was constructed. Visitors can walk or cycle across the barrage, which links Cardiff city with nearby Penarth. For more detailed information about the history of the area, you can join a guided walking tour.
The popular Doctor Who Experience, the Norweigian Church Arts Centre and the Wales Millennium Centre (home to the Welsh National Opera) can be found at Mermaid Quay on the Cardiff city side of the Barrage. For children there’s a play area, skate park and outdoor gym.
Cardiff Bay Barrage lies across the mouth of Cardiff Bay, between Penarth Marina and Queen Alexandra Dock. It’s accessible on foot or by bike from both the Penarth and Cardiff sides. There’s car parking nearby. Public buses run from Cardiff Central to the Millennium Centre at Mermaid Quay, a short walk from the barrage.
The barrage is open all year round, although is best enjoyed in spring, summer, and autumn, when the weather is most pleasant. For the Doctor Who Experience or other nearby attractions, check opening times before you visit.
Once the ground of Cardiff Castle and now transformed into an expansive public park alongside the River Taff, Bute Park is the ideal place to get some fresh air when on a visit to the city. Explore the ruins of the 13th century Blackfriars Priory, stroll the Castle Green designed by famous landscape architect Capability Brown, and visit the arboretum with its wide collection of tree species.
