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Cardiff's Must Do 'bucket List' - by Christian Cook

Heading to Cardiff for the first time and want some suggestions of other things to do?
Christian Cook shares his Cardiff and Area Bucket List.

Once you arrive in our Beautiful city, there are a number of things that are a MUST. This list is a guide to Cardiff and the surrounding area’s from an insider’s view (You’re welcome). Cardiff is the Capitol of Wales, and we’re proud of it. And as a rule, only Cardiffians can comfortably slate it! 

Have a freshly made Welsh Cake from Cardiff Market. 
There’s a stall in there, the name of which eludes me, but they make the BEST Welsh Cakes. I’m not going to bore you with the history of them. All you need to know is that they’re a biscuit/brownie/cake hybrid, traditionally made on a skillet with dried fruit inside and covered in sugar. However, Cardiff Market takes it to the next level, making new versions such as, Lemon Curd, Jam, Chocolate Chip, Coconut and the good old traditional style. Nom! In case you’re wondering, I’m a chocolate chip kinda guy.

Cardiff Market is located on St Mary’s street.

Visit and Shop at the Fashion Quarter.
This was a recent discovery of mine. From living up north, I’m used to the Vintage shops of Afflecks Palace or Manchester’s Northern Quarter, and the CFQ is similar but on a smaller scale. Don’t let that put you off. I bought a jaunty necklace from Peng, which was a Tiger wearing a Military jacket. Delightful!

Cardiff Fashion Quarter is tucked away on Womanby Street off Castle Street.




Watch a Rugby Match at the Millennium Stadium.
We’re ridiculously passionate about Rugby, and make no secret of it. There is nothing in this world that can compare to the atmosphere in the Stadium during an international game, players all lined up on the pitch as Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau (The National Anthem), starts to play. It’s magic
The Millennium Stadium is located in the heart of the City on the banks of the River Taff. It can be seen almost as soon as you enter Cardiff, and coincidentally is where Cardiff Mardi Gras is being held this year.

The main entrance to The Millennium Stadium is located on Westgate Street, opposite Cardiff Bus Station


Shop at the arcades. 
Cardiff makes use of all the empty spaces in between and behind shops, and has some pretty arcades tucked away. There are several off St Mary’s Street such as Royal arcade, Morgan Arcade, Castle Arcade and High Street Arcade. These are full of individual Boutique style shops, Eateries, Craft shops, and even some High Street names. My top tips are to check out;
Rossiters – Royal Arcade. Full to the brim of individual and well-priced trinkets.
New York Deli – High Street Arcade. Traditional New York deli at a great price. Caution, portion sizes are amazingly big, expect not to finish your sandwich.
Joire de Vivre – Royal Arcade – Stocks some delightful Welsh items such as Canvas Totes, Cushions and other home items.
Spillers Records – Morgan Arcade. The world’s oldest record shop established in 1894 and a Cardiff Staple.


Take a day trip to Barry Island.
Barry is a great seaside town, and is known for previously having a Butlins, being the busiest port in the world in its heyday, and of course, Gavin and Stacey. Take a stroll along the seafront, visit one of the many beaches or have a go on the rides at the fairground. There’s a lot to do and see at Barry Island. 













Shake your thang at Clwb Ifor Bach.
Clwb Ifor Bach, aka "The Welsh Club”, is a great venue. Along with regular gigs, they also have a regular club night. The music is Eclectic to say the least. Look out for the Xerox Nights, they’re the absolute best. 
Clwb Ifor Bach is located on Womanby Street, opposite Cardiff Castle and the Cardiff Fashion Quarter.




Get a midnight snack down Chippy Lane.
Caroline St or Chippy Lane as it’s affectionately known is the place to go for a post night out bag of chips. Dorothy’s Chip Shop is the oldest about, and is known for having the best chips in Wales. Once you’ve got your chips, it’s a delightful battle between drunkenness and seagulls to make sure the chips stay in your hands. It’s the perfect way to end a day and night of visiting our great city! 



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