Summer holiday season sees many people pack a suitcase and head off to visit tourist attractions across Europe and beyond, but when four of the world’s top ‘things to do’ in 2024 are much closer to home, why not just visit Cardiff?
Based on reviews and ratings on Tripadvisor over the last 12 months, Travelers’ Choice Awards recognise the attractions in the top 10% of things to do worldwide. This year they’ve been given to Cardiff’s very own Bute Park, Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Market and Cardiff International White Water Centre.
A short walk from the city’s main high streets and civic centre, Bute Park is the green heart of the city. With a nationally significant tree collection, its famous ‘Animal Wall,’ natural play features, a visitor centre, three cafes, beautiful floral displays and even a table tennis table to enjoy, it’s a fantastic spot for a stroll, a picnic, or simply escaping the hustle and bustle of city life.
The park overlooks Cardiff Castle, with its 2,000 years of history stretching back to the tine of the Romans, but it takes a visit to the Castle to really appreciate the opulence of its magnificent Burges designed interiors, and the wartime history hidden in the tunnels running within its walls.
If all that exploring has left you hungry then the iconic Grade II Listed Cardiff Market should be your next stop. You’re guaranteed a warm welcome, as well as a wide range of delicious fresh produce, street food stalls selling everything from bao buns to bhaji’s and pizza to pierogi’s as well as everybody’s favourite Welsh Cakes. With an eclectic range of independent traders, stocking vintage clothes, records, jewellery and more it’s also the perfect place to do a spot of holiday shopping.
At the other end of the adrenaline spectrum, Cardiff International White Water is the place to head if you’re looking for adventure. Novice and experienced thrill-seekers can enjoy the rush of white-water rafting, ride an indoor surf wave and try out hot dogging or tubing. For a more tranquil experience the centre also offers Stand-up Paddleboarding sessions, while back on dry land, those with a head for heights can explore the air-trail or hit the climbing wall.
Cabinet Member for Culture, Parks and Events, Cllr Jennifer Burke, said: “Visitors to Bute Park, Cardiff Castle, the Market and Cardiff International White Water might be looking for quite different things from a day out, but one thing everybody wants is a great visitor experience.
“Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice awards are based on consistently good customer reviews and ratings, so visitors can be sure that’s exactly what they’ll get, whether they visit the beautiful Bute Park, the magnificent Cardiff Castle, our charming Central Market, or take to the waves at Cardiff International White Water.”
