Travel

Cardiff On the Cheap!

Famous for its lively nightlife and impressive Millennium stadium, the capital of Wales is quickly becoming one of the most popular weekend getaway destinations.

Last weekend, I visited Cardiff for the first time. Speaking to friends who visited the city a few years ago, I was met with a negative attitude of the place being full of crime and to “keep an eye of my bag.”

However, after spending just ten minutes in the City Centre, it was clear that Cardiff is now a thriving and safe city.

Like any other city, a trip to Cardiff can end up being an expensive one. So here is my guide to doing Cardiff on the Cheap!

 

Shopping

If you fancy a shop whilst visiting the city, you can’t beat St. David’s Dewi Sant shopping centre which could rival London’s Westfield. Offering a varied selection of high street stores, such as Primark, John Lewis and Debenhams, you can easily shop for bargains!

Just outside the shopping centre is a great choice of independent, boutique shops if you want to pick up something original. Obviously, the majority of these shops are more expensive than the high street stores, however, be sure to shop around as some of them offer great deals. Also, don’t feel embarrassed to barter on a price; it’s worth a go!

 

History

For those more interested in the historical side of the city, Cardiff Castle is a must. It has really reasonably priced tickets and offers a discount for students. The Castle dates back to medieval times and has impressive architecture created in the Victorian era. A tour of the Castle takes a couple of hours and includes a detailed audio tour.

Similarly, Cardiff Metropolitan Cathedral, which is a five minute walk from the castle, offers a peacefully beautiful place to relax from the hustle and bustle of the city. With impressive stain glass windows and the chance to listen to the choir, the Cathedral is a must on a visit to Cardiff.

Eating out

Eating out in a city can calculate to a shockingly high bill so it’s a good idea to research before you head to Cardiff, where the affordable places to eat are.

St. David’s Dew Sant shopping centre offers a wide range of well-known eatery, such as TGI Fridays, Nandos, and Yo Sushi!

Trade Street Cafe offers “proper food, freshly made” at very reasonable prices, with sandwiches ranging from £2:50, to main meals from £5.

Similarly, The North Star is a recently refurbished pub which is used by local students due to it doubling up as a music and comedy venue. Its Italian menu is great value with starters from £2:50 and main meals from £6. The pub also offers a two-for-one deal on all main meals from Monday to Friday.

Hotels

Cardiff can be a pricy place to stay, particularly if you want to stay near the city centre. On my visit to Cardiff, we stayed in The Big Sleep hotel which is a small branch with prices starting at £39. The hotel is a five minute walk from the shopping centre, and a ten minute walk from a huge selection of bars, restaurants and clubs. The Big Sleep hotel also boasts impressive views of the Millennium stadium and is a two-minute walk from the Moter Arena.  If I’m honest, the decor is pretty unique (not in a good way), the lift is dodgy and don’t even bother with the breakfast. Having said that, the rooms are clean, the staff are friendly, and the Penthouse (which is still only £99) has a Jacuzzi bath!

Nearby hotels include the Premier Inn and Travelodge which prices start around the £50 mark.

Nightlife

Known for its nightlife, Cardiff has a big range of clubs for whatever your need. Lap Dancing Clubs such as Fantasy Lounge and For Your Eyes Only are meant to be some of the best in the country. For a girl’s night out, Revolution offers cocktail making master classes and VIP booths. The Fat Cat Cafe Bar is another one of Cardiff’s great club venues but make sure you book if you are a large group! Entry varies from £1:50 to £6, however it’s worth booking in advance as you may get money off. As Cardiff is a student city, drink deals are great but make sure you have a Student NUS card with you.

 

It only takes just over two hours to arrive in Cardiff from London by train, and if you book tickets in advance, you can pay as little as £5. I would thoroughly recommend a visit to the Welsh City for a unique and fun-fuelled weekend away!

 

Kat Morgan

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