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Cardiff, Wales

Surrounded by a low wall with sculpted bears, lions and wolves, Cardiff’s castle lies in the heart of the city. Originally built as a fort in the first century AD by the Romans, the castle has had many owners and roles. In the late 1800s, the Third Marquess of Bute and his renowned architect William Burges made some improvements to the castle. The design of the improvements were a mixture of Gothic and Greek designs. The marvelous Clock Tower with its colourful artwork contrasts dramatically with earlier stonework at the castle. The National Museum of Wales in Cathays Park is simply unmissable. The courtyard galleries provide a splendid setting for the Museum’s impressive art collections containing works by some of the world’s most famous artists. The fascinating "Evolution of Wales" exhibition takes visitors on a spectacular journey that traces the development of Wales and the world from the very beginning of time. There are displays of Bronze Age gold, early Christian monuments, Celtic treasures, silver coins and medals, ceramics, fossils and minerals, archaeological finds and even dinosaur skeletons. Techniquest - the UK’s leading Science Discovery Centre - and the Museum of Welsh Life are also well worth a visit.

Cardiff is also a good place to base yourself for excursions to Castle Coch - the fairytale red castle five miles to the north of the city - Caerphilly Castle, the Museum of Welsh Life at St Fagans, Rhondda Valley & Heritage Park and Caerleon Roman Fortress. Back in the city, enjoy a pint of the local brew - Brains SA. Sample Welsh specialties such as rarebit (the Welsh version of cheese on toast) and laverbread. There are plenty of coffee shops and bistros to choose from. Rugby is Cardiff's most popular form of entertainment. Catch a game at Cardiff Arms Park on Saturday afternoon.

Top ten attractions in Cardiff

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