I had heard from a friend that the place to go in Cardiff is the Docks area, although my friend did travel there by boat so I was sceptical. The area has recently had a massive revamp and is the home of many spectacular brand new buildings, with new bars and restaurants to cater for the wealthy residents and the tourists.
I followed my friend’s advice and headed to the docks where I saw the now world-famous Welsh assembly building. The roof of the building is made up of a series of wooden slats, which are curved majestic
ally around one central pillar, visible through the glass walls to the structure. It was nominated for the coveted Stirling award upon completion in 2006 for its eco-friendly design.
Trying not to think of how many trees had been cut down to build the massive roof I continued my walk alongside the water to the charming restaurant and bar area of the docklands where there was a mix of chain and independent eateries to choose from. I was impressed by how the marina area had been renovated and the design features, including hundreds of water-view apartments, were subtle but elegant.
It was then time to visit the City Centre and see why Cardiff is spoken about so highly by its residents. As I walked down the main shopping street I could see t
hat the Welsh Capital had absolutely every shop that any art student/indie band member/young couple could ever want to kit themselves out. But there was very little in the way of specialist or different shops that were away from the usual trendy fashion chain stores.
I continued on to the end of the street to the Castle. Cardiff Castle must be given the recognition that it deserves for it’s design and for the how well it has been maintained. The castle is estimated to have been built in the year 55 but much of the structure is far newer than that and this is clear by the immaculately preserved brickwork around on the outer wall.
A few minutes down the road past many shoppers and students, a crowd had formed around a small band dressed in odd, red and white striped costumes. They were singing a song called ‘Warren G’ in reference to the current Welsh Rugby team coach.
This musical ensemble sort of summed Cardiff up for me because the Welshmen and Women of Cardiff are fully aware that there city does not compare in financial or political importance to that of a city like London, a theme that is mirrored by England and Wales in stature. But this takes away the pressure of responsibility and this is reflected in the atmosphere of the city, the people seem happier for it.
The buildings and shops are all very nice, as are the people but it is the feel and attitude of the place that makes me want to return for a better look.
City rating: 4/5
Please look at my video of ‘Boycezone’ performing ‘Warren G the Welshman’:
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