If you are looking for interesting facts about Cardiff, then I have compiled a list for you. It was once the wealthiest city in the world. Cardiff, in south Wales, has a rich and intriguing history. With so many fun and interesting facts about Cardiff that not many people are aware of, including unexpected world firsts.
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What Is Cardiff Famous For?
Cardiff, the vibrant capital of Wales, is the biggest city in Wales. It is famous for its rich blend of history, culture, and sport. Iconic landmarks include Cardiff Castle, a stunning mix of Roman, medieval, and Victorian Gothic architecture, and the Principality Stadium, the heart of Welsh rugby.
The city is a cultural hub, home to the striking Wales Millennium Centre, the world-class art collections of the National History Museum, and a thriving music scene that has produced stars like Tom Jones and Shirley Bassey.
Once one of the world’s busiest coal-exporting ports, Cardiff Bay is now a lively waterfront packed with attractions. At the same time, the Victorian and Edwardian shopping arcades in the city centre remain a favourite for boutique browsing.
Add in its role as a filming hotspot for Doctor Who and the academic prestige of Cardiff University, and you have a city with global appeal and proudly Welsh character.
What was the Capital of Wales before Cardiff?
Before Cardiff was officially declared the capital of Wales in 1955, Wales didn’t have an official capital.
However, Machynlleth is sometimes referred to as an earlier “unofficial capital” because it was the site of Owain Glyndŵr’s Welsh Parliament in 1404 during his uprising against English rule. In later centuries, Caernarfon also held symbolic importance as a royal and administrative centre, especially with Caernarfon Castle’s role in investitures.
Cardiff Population
Cardiff’s population is approximately 362,400, as recorded in the 2021 UK census.
In 1801, the population was just under 1,900, but it surged to over 160,000 by 1901, driven by the development of docks (beginning with Bute West Dock in 1839), rail links, and the booming coal and iron trade. Over the course of just over two centuries, Cardiff evolved from a modest market town to a thriving urban capital.
What Country is Cardiff In?
Many people wonder, Is Cardiff in England? The answer is no – Cardiff is the capital city of Wales, which is one of the four countries that make up the United Kingdom.
What County is Cardiff In?
Cardiff is both a city and a county in its own right. It is officially known as the City and County of Cardiff, making it a unitary authority area in South Wales.
Where is Cardiff?
Cardiff County is located in the south of Wales, on the northern shore of Cardiff Bay, where the River Taff meets the Severn Estuary. It sits roughly 150 miles west of London and is the main cultural, political, and economic centre of Wales.
Well-known Facts About Cardiff
Cardiff was the first Fairtrade Capital of the World
On St David’s Day, 1 March 2004, Cardiff became a Fairtrade City. To be a Fairtrade City, the local council has to agree to serve Fairtrade products. At least four Fairtrade product ranges are readily available in retail and catering outlets. Local workplaces and community organisations should support and use Fairtrade products whenever possible. Finally, events should be held to raise awareness, and a steering group should ensure the campaign continues and gains new support.
Roald Dahl was from Cardiff
Born and raised here in Cardiff, Roald Dahl spent his childhood growing up in Llandaff. There are still plenty of places you can take a walk in his footsteps, from the Norwegian Church where his family worshipped or the shop where Roald used to buy sweets.
The oldest record shop in the world
Spillers Records may have had to move location due to the redevelopment of the area, but it has been open since 1894. For instance, it started with wax cylinders for a phonograph. Tickets can also be purchased here for alternative concerts.
Europe’s smallest capital city
It may be the largest city in Wales, but Cardiff is Europe’s smallest and one of the newest capital cities. Cardiff did not become a city until 28 October 1905. And it was only proclaimed the capital of Wales in 1955. These days, Cardiff has a population of over 300,000 and is acknowledged as the 10th largest city in the UK. (Now that we have left Europe, I guess this no longer stands?)
Cardiff is known as the City of Arcades
Cardiff has the largest number of Victorian, Edwardian and modern-day indoor shopping arcades in Britain. It’s known as the City of Arcades. For instance, they house over 100 independent cafes, bars and shops right in the heart of the city, the arcades offer a truly unique shopping experience.
Facts and History About Cardiff
The city of castles
Cardiff Castle, Bute Park, St Fagans, and Castell Coch are the four castles still standing in Cardiff. However, there are Roman fort structures, fortresses, and evidence of Cardiff’s many castles. Wales had about 600 castles, of which over 100 are still standing, either as ruins or as restored buildings.
The first million-pound deal in the world
There was much excitement in 1901* when the world’s first recorded million-pound deal was struck at the Coal Exchange in Cardiff Bay. At one time, the price of the world’s coal was determined here.
* When researching this article, I found varying dates – 1901, 1904 and 1907 – and have been unable to fact-check which one is correct.
The first Hansom Cab was used in Cardiff in 1859
The Hansom Cab made its first appearance in Cardiff in 1859 in the town centre. The Hansom Cab is a horse-drawn carriage on two wheels. Two could sit inside whilst the driver was seated behind.
Perforated postage stamps were first used in Cardiff in 1853
Perforations are small holes made between individual postage stamps on a sheet of stamps, making them easy to separate. Previously, they would be torn or cut with scissors. The United Kingdom was the first country to issue postage stamps with perforations, and they were first used in Cardiff in 1853.
Llandaff Cathedral stands on one of the oldest Christian sites in Britain
Llandaff Cathedral stands on one of the oldest Christian sites in Britain and was built by the Normans in 1077. There has been a small church there since 560AD. When St Dyfrig founded a community close to the fort where the Roman road crossed the River Taff.
The first boundary between England and Wales came in 784AD
In 784AD, King Offa built Offa’s Dyke, the first boundary between England and Wales. Offa’s Dyke Path is 177 miles long and is now a walking trail. It is believed that King Offa constructed the divide to protect his kingdom of Mercia (England) from Wales.
The world’s first radio message was sent from Cardiff
Ok, technically, the message came from Flat Holm Island – which is 4 miles off Cardiff’s coast and is the most southerly point in Wales. The world’s first radio message sent by Guglielmo Marconi in 1897 took a 3-mile journey from Larvernock Point in Penarth to Flat Holm.
Little-known Facts About Cardiff
Captain Morgan was born in Cardiff
Sir Henry Morgan, or Harri Morgan, was a Welsh privateer, landowner, slaveholder and, later, Lieutenant Governor of Jamaica. From his base in Port Royal, Jamaica, he raided settlements and shipping on the Spanish Main, becoming wealthy as he did so. These days he is known for being the ‘face’ of Captain Morgan’s rum.
Clwb Ifor Bach is named after a Welsh villain
The Welsh Club or Clwb Ifor Bach is named after the Welsh Lord Ifor Bach. He was famous for kidnapping members of the aristocracy. He scaled the walls of Cardiff Castle and took the Earl of Gloucester, his wife, the Countess Hawise and their young son Robert captive in 1158.
Ivor Novello was born in Cardiff
Ivor Novello was born at 95 Cowbridge Road East in 1893. So, his real name was David Ivor Davies. The Welsh composer and actor became one of the most popular British entertainers of the early 20th century.
The Principality Stadium is the second largest in the World
The Principality Stadium (also known as the Millennium Stadium), with its roof closed, is the largest enclosed stadium in Europe. It is the second-largest in the world. The biggest is AT&T Park, the home of the Dallas Cowboys in the USA.
The Principality Stadium’s sliding retractable roof is also one of the largest in the world. More fun facts about this well-known Cardiff landmark are that pest control is handled by a professionally trained falcon. And the Stadium’s toilet has won the Loo of the Year award twice!
Cardiff is the Green Space Capital of the UK
Cardiff has more green spaces per person than any other core city in the UK. That’s more than Manchester, London, Liverpool and, most importantly (for bragging rights), Swansea.
Cardiff City are the only non-English side to win the FA Cup
On 23 April 1927 (St George’s Day), Cardiff won the FA Cup. The final took place at Wembley Stadium, defeating Arsenal 1–0. Cardiff City Football Club became the only non-English side to win the FA Cup.
Fun Facts About Cardiff
Cardiff has more hours of sunlight than Milan
Did you know that Cardiff receives more hours of sunlight than Milan, Italy? The Welsh are known to moan about the rain, constantly. Let’s be fair, 99% of our small talk is about the wet weather.
They used to hold water skiing competitions on Roath Park Lake
Swimming competitions were held at Roath Park’s lake from an early date. The Welsh Amateur Swimming Association held its annual competition there in 1895. Water polo was first allowed in June 1905, and the first organised matches were in 1910. In the 1960s, Roath Park became the venue for the annual Welsh Open Water Ski Championships.
Rowing was also popular, and the Welsh Open Canoe Regatta was held in 1979. However, in early 1981, a bacterial survey of the lake revealed an increase in pollution, and sports were subsequently stopped.
The smallest man in the world visited Cardiff
Cardiff once played host to the world’s smallest man. General Tom Thumb visited Cardiff in 1857 with his stage performance. His real name was Charles Stratton. He stood at 102cm (3.3 feet) at his tallest. He toured the world with his act, even performing for Queen Victoria and the Prince of Wales.
Cardiff’s tallest man joined The Greatest Showman
Standing at 8ft 3 inches tall, George Auger towered over the population of 19th Century Cardiff. He was born in 1882 to average-sized parents, and by the age of 14, he had already passed 6ft. He was a policeman before becoming a personal escort to Queen Victoria. Finally, he found himself under the employ of the Greatest Showman, T Barnum. He was born on St Mary’s Street in the city centre and brought his theatre show there at the age of 27.
Wales Millennium Centre
The main stage, the Donald Gordon Theatre, at the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff Bay, is the second-largest in Europe. It is also home to the Welsh National Opera, BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Arts Council of Wales, Urdd Gobaith Cymru, National Dance Company Wales and Literature Wales.
Cardiff Castle wasn’t always so grand
Did you know? Cardiff Castle’s stunning Victorian Gothic makeover was the work of architect William Burges, who transformed the medieval fortress into a lavish fairytale palace for the 3rd Marquess of Bute in the late 1800s. His designs were so intricate and imaginative that some rooms, like the Arab Room with its dazzling gold ceiling, are considered masterpieces of 19th-century interior design.
One of the finest collections of impressionist art
The National Museum Cardiff houses one of the finest collections of Impressionist art outside Paris, including works by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh — all thanks to donations from sisters Gwendoline and Margaret Davies in the early 20th century. They were granddaughters of David Davies, a wealthy industrialist who made his fortune in coal and railways. Using their inherited wealth, the sisters travelled extensively across Europe and began collecting art
Entry to the National Museum Cardiff is completely free, making world-class art and natural history accessible to everyone. There are so many museums in Cardiff that you can visit for free.
Education in Cardiff
Cardiff University’s roots date back to 1883, when it was established as the University College of South Wales and Monmouthshire with just 13 members of staff.
The university’s Bute Building once housed Cardiff’s School of Journalism – one of the most respected journalism schools in the UK.
Things To Do in Cardiff
Welcome to my hometown! So, you want to discover the real Cardiff? The capital city of Wales. It is so compact that it is easy to explore the city on foot, by bike or by public transport. It has a rich history, fantastic green spaces, and a cracking nightlife. Moreover, it’s full of top-quality food, drinks and independent retailers.
Firstly, there is nothing quite like local knowledge. So, if you are looking to visit Cardiff, moving to the area or coming to the city for university, or want to know more about your local area, this is an ever-expanding list of reviews.
Food and Drink
Cardiff’s food and drink scene is exciting. There are the chain restaurants, quality local producers, and an incredible nightlife.
Places to Visit
There are so many tourist attractions, to suit all tastes. From historic castles, green spaces, the waterfront and even a beach.
History, Myths & Legends
Sink your teeth into the city’s diverse history, myths and legends, which will take you to some fascinating parts of this ancient city.
Book a Tour
Embarking on a tour with Viator promises an enriching and hassle-free experience that’s hard to beat. You’re not just booking a tour; it’s an expertly crafted itinerary curated by locals and seasoned travellers, ensuring you uncover the hidden gems and must-see attractions. From walking tours to culinary adventures and everything in between, Viator offers an extensive range of options tailored to diverse interests and budgets.
Stay the Night
If you know when you’d like to travel, try to book as soon as possible. Prices rise the closer you get to the travel date and are usually displayed per room rather than per person. However, there is a vast array to accommodate all budgets.
There are plenty of days out in Cardiff if you’d like to enjoy the best of the city. Wales is filled with natural beauty and fascinating history, and Cardiff is also a brilliant base for day trips within the country.
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Cardiff is a very nice City I lived not to far from Cardiff our local main shopping destination As we lived in the Rhondda valley around 20 miles from Cardiff. Castell Coch and Caerphilly Castle near by from where we lived and of Course Cardiff Castle almost in the centre of Cardiff well worth visiting, oh and of course St. Fagans Castle and National Folk Museum of Wales which one could say is in the Grounds of the said Castle visited it several Times when I lived in the Rhondda, including the Castle nw I live in Belgium
I can walk to Castell Coch, it’s that close to my home. I bet the castles in Belgium are great but not as good as a Welsh castle?!