Things to see in Cardiff

A castle was founded here in Roman times and developed into a stronghold by the Normans, and the ruins of the Norman keep remain. However, the present castle owes its appeal to the Victorian eccentricities of the third Marquis of Bute (1848-1900). Under his direction, architect William Burges (1827-1881) added neo-Gothic towers and ornate interiors with murals, stained glass windows and decorative carving. The castle also houses two military museums and has extensive grounds, incorporated into Bute Park. A new interpretation centre opened at the castle in 2008.

Situated in woodland at Tongwynlais, just outside the city on the A470, this flamboyant castle is a memorial to the imagination of the third Marquis of Bute, his skilled architect William Burges and the Victorian idealisation of all things medieval. Built on the site of a 13th-century fort, Castell Coch (‘Red Castle') has all the trappings of a fairytale castle, including round towers and red turrets. There is a car park for those with their own car, but the site can also be reached by train from Cardiff. The castle will be closed for renovation work between 1 – 28 January 2011.

Located on the hallowed turf of the former Cardiff Arms Park, the 72,500-capacity Millennium Stadium is one of the most modern sports venues in Europe. It opened in 1999 and has been a great success; big sports events as well as huge arena concerts have taken place here, and the stadium will also host games for the 2012 Olympics. Guided tours are available, taking visitors to the pitch, dressing rooms, royal box and other areas, and including a visit to the new Welsh Sports Hall of Fame, which has a selection of sporting memorabilia. A riverside walkway runs alongside the stadium.