Cardiff

Castles and culture create a new British hot spot in Wales’ capital

Cardiff has blossomed into one of the most inviting cities of Britain and is an ideal base for exploring its own attractions, as well as the major scenic beauty spots of South Wales. Historic castles and museums offers insight into the city’s long history and highlights include the National Museum of Wales, the open-air Welsh Folk Museum, Cardiff Castle - built on the site of a Roman fort -- the moat-encircled fortress of Caerphilly Castle, and Castell Coch, a fairy-tale site with pepper-pot turrets and round towers.

Formerly an industrial center, Cardiff has been transformed into a traveler-friendly green oasis with prominent parks and gardens, like the botanical wonder Dyffryn Gardens and Roath Park, known for its beautiful rose gardens and summertime boating and fishing. The city also boasts a vibrant arts and cultural scene with world-class theatre and opera companies plus an annual calendar of live music performances.

© 2009, Wiley Publishing, Inc.