There’s plenty for families to see and do in Cardiff. In the heart of the city, Cardiff Castle is a great day out. Kids will love exploring the castle grounds, and the interactive exhibitions inside. For something a little different, head to the Cardiff International White Water Centre, where you can go canoeing, white water rafting and more. Or explore one of Cardiff’s many museums, like the National Museum Cardiff, or the Cardiff Story Museum.
Outside of the city, there’s even more to explore. The Brecon Beacons National Park is a short drive away, and is perfect for a day of hiking and picnicking. Or pay a visit to Cardiff Bay, where you can take a boat ride, see the animals at the Sea Life Centre, or just enjoy the views.
Whatever you do, you’re sure to have a great time in Cardiff with the kids.
10 Fun & Kid-Friendly Things To Do In Cardiff, United Kingdom
1. Visit Cardiff Castle
Cardiff castle is a medieval castle and Victorian Gothic revival mansion located in the city centre of Cardiff, Wales. The original castle was built in the 11th century by Norman invaders, but the majority of the buildings which stand today date from the 19th century, when the castle was rebuilt in a Gothic revival style. The castle grounds include a formal garden, a large park and an animal farm.
2. Take a tour of the National Museum of Wales
The National Museum of Wales is a museum located in Cardiff, Wales. The museum has seven floors of galleries displaying art, archaeology, natural history and geology. The museum also has a library and archives.
3. Visit the Cardiff Bay Visitor Centre
The Cardiff Bay Visitor Centre is a visitor centre located in Cardiff Bay. The centre has interactive exhibits about the history of Cardiff Bay and its transformation from an industrial area to a leisure and residential area. The centre also has a café and a shop.
4. Go on a boat cruise
Boat cruises are available from the visitor centre in Cardiff Bay. The cruises last for around an hour and give views of the bay and its iconic buildings, including the Millennium Centre and the Senedd.
5. Walk or cycle around Bute Park
Bute Park is a large park located in the centre of Cardiff. The park has gardens, grassy areas, a river and a castle. The park is also home to a variety of animals, including ducks, geese and swans.
6. Visit the Norwegian Church Arts Centre
The Norwegian Church Arts Centre is located in Cardiff Bay. The centre is a converted church which now houses a gallery, café and shop. The centre hosts exhibitions and events throughout the year.
7. Play in the water at Splashpad
Splashpad is an outdoor water play area located in Roath Park. The area has Splash and Play fountains, water jets, spraying canons and sprinklers. The Splashpad is open daily during the summer months.
8. Visit the animals at Cardiff Zoo
Cardiff Zoo is a Zoo located in the centre of Cardiff. The Zoo has over 140 different species of animals, including lions, tigers, gorillas and penguins. The Zoo also has a café, a shop and a playground.
9. Have fun on the rides at Barry Island Pleasure Park
Barry Island Pleasure Park is an amusement park located on Barry Island, in the Vale of Glamorgan. The Park has a variety of rides and attractions, including a rollercoaster, a carousel and a Ferris wheel. The Park also has a café and a shop.
10.Explore Bute Park by Segway
Segway tours of Bute Park are available from the visitor centre in Cardiff Bay. The tours last for around an hour and give views of the park and its gardens, grassy areas, river and castle.