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Cardiff, Newport and Barry Coast Guide

Cardiff, the capital of Wales, boasts grand public buildings, a renowned university, plenty of shops, cafes, and pubs. It is known for its lively nightlife and bustling streets no matter the weather.

Cardiff Bay

Cardiff's global recognition heightened when it hosted the Rugby World Cup in 1999. The magnificent Millennium Stadium, built exclusively for this event, has since become one of the UK's top venues, hosting various events including the FA Cup and numerous concerts.

Cardiff's history is not solely linked to rugby; it was once the UK's busiest port, shipping thousands of tons of coal each year. The decline of the coal industry led to a deterioration of the port area. However, recent transformations have made Cardiff Bay a significant tourist area, housing several new hotels and attractions. The Bay is also home to the Welsh Assembly, located in a state-of-the-art building.

Beyond the bustling city is Cardiff's seafront area, Penarth, which offers a beautiful promenade and beach access. A nearby seaside resort is located in Barry.

Newport

Like Cardiff, Newport also prospered due to the export of iron and coal in the 19th century. Located 5 miles east of Cardiff, Newport still maintains a busy dockside area. Today, it is home to the UK Patent Office and several multinational corporations.

Barry

With the decline of the coal industry, Barry had to reinvent itself. Tourism proved to be its saviour. Barry, along with the coast extending west to Porthkerry, is known for its stunning beaches and cliff scenery. It became a major tourist attraction over twenty years ago, with a permanent funfair on Barry Island.

Places to Visit in Cardiff

Nearby Attractions

Activities

Enjoy a range of coastal activities such as surfing, sailing, bird watching and walking. Check out our extensive listings for more details.

Attractions

Our listings include a diverse array of attractions from piers and harbours to fun fairs and roller coasters.

Pubs, Restaurants and Shopping Guide

Our comprehensive listings also provide details of the best pubs, restaurants, nightclubs and shops in the area.

Features and News

Stay tuned for our feature articles and latest news about the coastal area.

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