Landmarks in Cardiff Bay

Just one mile from the city centre, Cardiff Bay is one of the most vibrant and picturesque waterfront destinations in the UK, transformed from its industrial dockland past into a lively hub of culture, dining and leisure. Set around a sweeping freshwater lake, the Bay offers everything from scenic walks and striking modern architecture to family attractions, boat trips and cosy cafés.

If you're looking for visitor information for Cardiff Bay we're sure you'll be able to find loads of things to do, regular events, as well as superb dining and hospitality fixtures.  However to help you plan your visit to Cardiff Bay we've put together a helpful aerial view of the Bay looking back towards Cardiff city centre with the key landmarks highlighted.

How to Get to Cardiff Bay

• Walking from the city centre is easy, which takes around 20 minutes.
• Regular trains from Cardiff Queen Street only takes four minutes.
• By bus take the Baycar (line 6) from Cardiff Interchange which takes 12 minutes.
• If you're driving there's plenty of parking in the Q-Park multi-storey, with another being built (due to open in April 2026).  Street parking is quite limited.

Aerial View of Cardiff Bay Landmarks

Here are the key places to look out for when exploring Cardiff Bay...

Mermaid Quay

Mermaid Quay is the lively heart of Cardiff Bay, offering a mix of restaurants, bars, cafés and shops set along the waterfront. With its relaxed coastal vibe and wide pedestrian walkways, it is the perfect spot for a going for dinner or drinks, or a stroll beside the water. The area is framed by striking views across the Bay and hosts regular events with street performers or art installations, giving it a welcoming holiday feel all year round.  There are several boat trips available from the Mermaid Quay boardwalk, offering tours of the Bay as well as some heading through Cardiff Bay Barrage and into the Bristol Channel.

Roald Dahl Plass

Roald Dahl Plass is a sweeping open space built where the old dock basins once stood, which now serves as a lively outdoor arena that hosts food festivals and cultural events throughout the year.  It is a natural gathering point for visitors exploring the Bay, with the Baycar bus stop at the top end, leading down to the waterfront, making it an ideal spot to pause, people watch or simply enjoy the atmosphere of this iconic part of Cardiff.

Red Dragon Centre

The Red Dragon Centre is Cardiff Bay’s go to destination for indoor entertainment, ideal for things to do on a rainy day in Cardiff.  The centre has something for everyone, including a cinema, bowling, arcades and a variety of popular restaurants. With a convenient location and free parking for customers of the Red Dragon Centre it's a great choice in any weather, and the vibrant atmosphere means there is always something happening.

Wales Millennium Centre

The Wales Millennium Centre is the cultural jewel of Cardiff Bay, instantly recognisable by its copper coloured façade and iconic inscription. As the national home for the performing arts in Wales, it hosts an impressive programme of theatre, opera, dance, comedy and live music, attracting audiences from across the UK. Inside, the building is just as inspiring, with beautifully designed spaces, welcoming cafés and a vibrant creative atmosphere.

The Senedd

The Senedd is one of Cardiff Bay’s most striking landmarks and a must see for visitors interested in Welsh culture and democracy. Home to the Welsh Parliament, the building is celebrated for its impressive glass and timber design, which symbolises openness and transparency. Inside, you can explore the public gallery, learn about how decisions are made in Wales and enjoy exhibitions that bring the nation’s stories to life. Set right on the waterfront, with sweeping views across the Bay, the Senedd is both a political hub and an architectural highlight, offering tourists a fascinating insight into modern Wales.