4 (1)
London
Cardiff Day Trip by Train: History, Food & Hidden Gems
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Overview
Private Day Tour to Cardiff By Train invites travelers to discover the vibrant Welsh capital. Departing from London Paddington, this 13-hour rail tour whisks visitors away to explore Cardiff's rich history, colorful culture, and hidden delights alongside a knowledgeable local guide.
Participants will explore iconic landmarks like Cardiff Castle, a majestic medieval fortress, and the bustling Cardiff Market, a Victorian-era marketplace brimming with local produce and Welsh specialties. The tour also meanders through the elegant Victorian Arcades, including the Royal Arcade, and offers opportunities to sample local delicacies at Fabulous Welshcakes and Wally's Delicatessen. Stops may include St Mary's Street, St John The Baptist Church, Wally's Liquor Cellar, Traditional Welsh Restaurant, Cathays Park, National Museum Cardiff, Cardiff Bay, and The Classroom Restaurant.
The experience includes round-trip standard class train tickets from London, convenient transport to and from Cardiff Bay, and entry to Cardiff Castle. All guide fees are included. Gratuities and meals (lunch and dinner) are not included. This private sightseeing tour offers a deep dive into Cardiff's unique charm and heritage. 
Highlights
Discover Cardiff's Hidden Gems: Explore local favorites and off-the-beaten-path locations with a knowledgeable guide.
Travel Comfortably by Train: Enjoy a relaxing round-trip train journey from London to Cardiff.
Explore Cardiff Castle: Gain entry to Cardiff Castle.
Immerse Yourself in Welsh Culture: Experience the history, food, and traditions of Wales' vibrant capital.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally have a great time on the Cardiff day trip, praising the knowledgeable guides and well-planned itinerary. However, some felt the tour was a bit rushed, and that the tour could be flexible.
Customers loved the knowledgeable and friendly guides who shared interesting facts about Cardiff's history and culture.
Many appreciated the convenience of the train travel and the well-organized itinerary that allowed them to see many sights in one day.
Visitors enjoyed discovering hidden gems and local favorites that they wouldn't have found on their own.
The tour was praised for providing a good balance of historical sites, shopping opportunities, and food experiences.
Some reviewers mentioned that the tour felt a bit rushed due to the limited time in Cardiff.
A few customers wished for more flexibility in the itinerary to explore certain attractions at their own pace.
The Journey
Royal Arcade
Step back in time as you wander through the Royal Arcade, one of Cardiff's stunning Victorian arcades. This covered boulevard is a treasure trove of boutiques and independent shops, each with its own unique story. As you explore, discover the history and architectural beauty of these 'wanderful' walkways, a true testament to Cardiff's rich heritage. Don't miss the chance to soak in the atmosphere and perhaps find a hidden gem or two.
Wally's Delicatessen
Immerse yourself in the world of gourmet delights at Wally's Delicatessen, a Cardiff institution. This beloved spot is the ultimate destination for indulging in the finest delicacies, from local Welsh specialties to international treats. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor seeking the perfect souvenir, Wally's offers a sensory experience that will leave you craving more. It's the ideal place to procure delectable goodies for your journey back home.
St Mary's Street
Experience the vibrant heart of Cardiff on St Mary's Street, a bustling hub of shopping and hospitality. Named after the historic St Mary's Church, which was tragically destroyed, this iconic street is home to some of Cardiff's most beloved shops and landmarks. As you stroll along, discover the historical significance of this street, including the location where Captain Scott and his crew had their final meal before their ill-fated expedition to the Antarctic. A walk down St Mary's Street is a walk through Cardiff's history.
Cardiff Market
Delve into the vibrant atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a Victorian covered market brimming with local character and charm. Considered one of the last bastions of 'old Cardiff', the market offers a range of products and produce, including delicious cakes, rare vinyl records, second-hand books, and fresh fruit and veg. Discover hidden secrets and fascinating stories as you explore this historic market, once the site of Cardiff's prison. Keep an eye out for filming locations from the TV series filmed in Wales, such as 'A Discovery of Witches'. This is an experience best enjoyed with a local who knows all the hidden gems.
St John The Baptist Church
Step into history at St John The Baptist Church, one of Cardiff's oldest buildings and a relic of the medieval walled town. Built around 1180, this pre-Norman structure boasts a rich history, including a redesign in the 15th century after Owain Glyndwr sacked the city. Admire the beautiful interior decor, featuring Victorian stained glass by leading pre-raphaelites, including William Morris. Doctor Who fans may recognise the church from 'The Runaway Bride' episode. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty and history that this Cardiff landmark has to offer.
Victorian Arcades
Immerse yourself in the charm of Cardiff's Victorian arcades, each offering a unique blend of shops and experiences. Explore arcades that house everything from liquor stores and violin makers to second-hand bookshops and even Wales' national theatres. As you wander through these architectural gems, discover the unique stories behind each boutique and learn about Wales' rich cultural heritage. Discover why Wales is the only country in the UK with two national theatre companies!
Wally's Liquor Cellar
Discover the sister shop to Wally's Delicatessen, this liquor store is a treasure trove for those seeking the finest spirits from Wales and around the world. Stocked with an impressive selection of booze, it's the perfect place to find a unique gift or a special treat for yourself. Whether you need expert advice on what to buy or simply want to browse the shelves, this store offers a memorable experience for any visitor.
Fabulous Welshcakes
Indulge in the delectable taste of freshly baked Welshcakes at Fabulous Welshcakes. Each cake is expertly crafted with great care and pride, offering a perfect blend of crumbly texture and buttery flavor. Savor this traditional Welsh treat, made with time-honored recipes and the finest ingredients. A visit to Fabulous Welshcakes is a delicious immersion into Welsh culinary heritage.
Traditional Welsh Restaurant
Savor the authentic flavors of Wales at one of Cardiff's few restaurants serving traditional Welsh cuisine. Delight in hearty dishes like Lamb Cawl, a comforting soup reminiscent of grandmother's cooking, or indulge in classic favorites such as Shepherd's Pie and Welsh Rarebit. This hidden gem is a hit with locals and visitors alike, offering a true taste of Welsh culinary heritage. It is the perfect place for an unforgettable lunch stop that captures the essence of Welsh cuisine.
Cardiff Castle
Journey through centuries of history at Cardiff Castle, a remarkable landmark that began as a Roman fort. The city of Cardiff itself gets its name from the old Roman fort, translating to "Fort on the river Taff". Transformed by the Normans, the castle has served as a royal prison and was further developed by English marcher lords. Explore the castle's Victorian escapist dream design, a stunning backdrop for countless films and TV series. Immerse yourself in its historical features and explore the Firing Line Museum and Second World War Shelters within the castle walls.
Cathays Park
Wander through the splendor of Cathays Park, an exemplary early 20th-century civic center built on land once owned by the Bute family. Admire the Portland stone buildings, including Cardiff's Crown Court, Cardiff University, The National Museum Cardiff, and the Welsh National War Memorial. Discover how the area was built using wealth brought into the city by the booming coal trade. Explore why Cardiff is now a popular filming location, and how the creative arts sector has filled gaps left by de-industrialization.
National Museum Cardiff
Delve into the world of art at the National Museum Cardiff, home to one of the UK's finest collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. Explore 15 galleries filled with works by Monet, Cézanne, Renoir's 'La Parisienne,' and Rodin's 'The Kiss.' Discover Welsh art, both modern and historic, and learn how the museum amassed such an impressive collection. Please note that the museum is closed on Mondays, alternative tour options will be provided if this affects your tour.
Cardiff Bay
Discover the beauty and history of Cardiff Bay, once the bustling Cardiff Docks that created immense wealth. Explore its multicultural heritage and learn about its transformation into a modern waterfront destination. Admire the impressive buildings that line the bay and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. With plenty of bars, grab a pre-dinner drink before heading off to experience one of Cardiff's best-kept culinary secrets!
The Classroom Restaurant
Uncover a hidden culinary gem at The Classroom, a restaurant located at the top of a local college, known to few Cardiff residents. The staff, a mix of professionals and students, create a unique dining experience where traditional European dishes are masterfully prepared with seasonal ingredients. Benefit from the students enthusiasm for the hospitality industry. While we will always attempt to book The Classroom, due to exams, college events etc, this may not always be possible.
Know Before You Go
This private day tour includes transport to and from Cardiff Bay, standard class train tickets to and from Cardiff, entry to Cardiff Castle, and all guide fees. Gratuities, lunch, and dinner are not included in the tour price.
Hot Tip
Consider bringing a reusable water bottle and snacks for the train journey. Wear comfortable shoes for walking, and be prepared for all types of weather, as Cardiff weather is unpredictable!
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