Audio Tour of Cardiff’s Bay and Barrage

Cardiff is a city where Roman fortifications, Norman conquests, and Victorian industrialists have all left their mark. On this self-guided audio tour, you'll discover how coal and maritime trade transformed a sleepy market town into Wales' vibrant capital. The tour starts at Cardiff Castle, an extraordinary structure that began as a Roman fort before being transformed by the wealthy Bute family into a Gothic Victorian fantasy. You'll stroll past the whimsical Animal Wall with its stone creatures and continue to Westgate Street, where you'll learn how the River Taff was actually moved to make way for development. As you walk, you'll see how coal wealth shaped the city, from elaborate architectural details to the imposing Principality Stadium. The tour ends at Cardiff's magnificent Civic Centre, home to the Portland stone City Hall with its impressive dome topped by a protective dragon overlooking the Welsh capital.

1. 1

   Norwegian Church Arts Centre

   Pass by

   Discover this iconic white timber church, built in 1868 to serve Norwegian sailors visiting Cardiff's bustling coal port. Step inside to explore the arts centre it became, birthplace of author Roald Dahl who was baptised here in 1916.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   Pass by

   Marvel at this striking bronze statue honouring Captain Robert Falcon Scott, who departed from Cardiff in 1910 on his fateful expedition to the South Pole. Stand at the waterfront and reflect on the courage of the Terra Nova crew as you take in views across Cardiff Bay.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   Pass by

   Pass this landmark five-star hotel, once the heart of Cardiff's transformation from working docklands to a world-class waterfront destination. Admire its sleek modern architecture, a symbol of the regeneration that turned Tiger Bay into the vibrant bay area you see today.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   Pass by

   Explore this purpose-built complex on the waterfront, home to an Olympic-standard velodrome, ice rink, and watersports facilities. Walk the promenade and see how Cardiff has reinvented its former industrial docklands as a hub for world-class sport and recreation.

5. 5

   Cardiff Bay Barrage

   Pass by

   Walk across this impressive engineering feat stretching nearly a kilometre across the mouth of the Taff and Ely rivers. Learn how this tidal barrage, completed in 1999, created the permanent freshwater lake that made Cardiff Bay's entire regeneration possible.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   Pass by

   Spot this colourful sculpture celebrating Cardiff's most beloved literary export, author Roald Dahl, born just steps away at the Norwegian Church. Enjoy the playful installation, a favourite with families and a reminder of how Cardiff honours the man who gave the world Charlie Bucket, Matilda, and the BFG.

7. 7

   Stop 7

   Pass by

   Stroll out onto this elegant Victorian pier stretching gracefully into the Bristol Channel, opened in 1894 and one of Wales' most treasured landmarks. Enjoy sweeping views back across Cardiff Bay and breathe in the sea air as you walk in the footsteps of Edwardian day-trippers.

8. 8

   Stop 8

   Pass by

   Admire this handsome Victorian building that once stood at the heart of Cardiff's thriving coal export trade, processing the ships that made Cardiff one of the world's busiest ports. Step inside the beautifully restored interior, now a lively pub and restaurant that still echoes with the energy of its seafaring past.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.