9 Best Family Things to Do in Cardiff

At Cosmeston Medieval Village, you can get a glimpse into peasant life during the 14th century while exploring one of Wales’s leading heritage attractions and open-air museums. You’ll find out how people lived, ate, worked and more. You’ll also get an insight into the tensions that existed between the Welsh and English at the time.

The best way to discover the Cosmeston Medieval Village is to take a guided tour with a costumed guide, who will demonstrate things like cooking methods and livestock rearing. Alternatively, you can explore the park by yourself with an audio guide.

The sweeping copper dome of the Wales Millennium Centre, inscribed with vast words of poetry which glow in the night, has become an iconic image of Cardiff appearing in many films and TV shows, including Doctor Who. It's not just a pretty face, though.

Inside you'll find a major performance venue which puts on wild and colourful plays and musicals great for little ones, teenagers, and parents alike. There are also backstage tours weekly, providing insight into the building and the shows that are put on.

Techniquest is a huge space crammed with interactive science exhibits. From firing rockets to discovering how gravity works, children of all ages will be able to push buttons, pull levers and toggle switches to make things pop, jump, fizz and erupt. Even grown-ups won't be able to resist getting stuck in. Be sure to book your slot online.

Food and drink aren’t allowed in the main areas, but there’s a designated picnic area and a coffee shop on site, with plenty of restaurants on Mermaid Quay, just a short walk away.

Cardiff International White Water is an Olympic-standard set of artificial rapids. Under the guidance of experienced coaches, you can try your hand at white water rafting, canoeing, kayaking and even surfing on the indoor wave machine. Be aware that you do need to book in advance as walk-ins are not accepted.

The centre is on the outskirts of the city, about 4 miles south of Cardiff Central train station, but the No. 13 bus will drop you right at the door. You’ll find other activity facilities nearby, including an ice rink, a swimming pool and a yacht club.

Garlanded with trees and flowers, Roath Park is a hit with the locals and any visitors who happen to be in the know. Built in the 1800s, it still has its Victorian charm.

It’s dotted with multi-coloured flowerbeds and winding paths, along with a huge adventure playground younger kids will love. Rove the wild garden, sit beneath the trees and visit an ancient pond, linked to a 12^th century saint. You can also take the family out on a rowing boat across the tranquil lake.