What to do in Cardiff while house and pet sitting

Heading off to Cardiff for your next pet sit? You’re in for a treat. The Welsh capital city is home to an abundance of jaw-dropping historical houses and castles. It’s even known as the City of Arcades owing to its high number of Victorian, Edwardian and contemporary indoor shopping arcades. But fabulous shopping isn’t all you can expect from this lively Welsh city, it’s also a great place to enjoy the Great Outdoors with an excess of cracking water sports, walks and cycle trails to explore. All set? Let’s discover the top things to do in Cardiff.

Cardiff attractions

From ancient ruins to impressive museums, these are the top things to do in Cardiff in terms of attractions. 

1. Cardiff Castle: Cardiff Castle sits in the very centre of the city and is a real sight to behold. Go on an hour-long guided tour to learn about the famous Norman Keep – the castle’s centrepiece, home to centuries of fascinating history. There’s miles and miles of grounds to explore too and you’re welcome to bring your pup along within the Public Square area and the Castle’s outer green. Now that’s the kind of ancient castle we can get on-board with. 

2. The National Museum: The National Museum Cardiff houses some of the most magnificent artefacts in the UK. It’s a fascinating place for zoology, geology and botany and the gallery has permanent and temporary exhibitions including one of Europe’s best collections of Impressionist art. If that doesn’t pique your interest, there’s also exquisite sculptures, paintings and silver and ceramics from Wales and across the world. 

3. Tintern Abbey: If you’re happy to travel outside of the city, Tintern Abbey is the perfect road trip from Cardiff. Nestled in the heart of the Wye Valley area, the breathtaking monastic ruin boasts 900 years of history in their walls. As the only remaining Cistercian abbey in Wales, it offers the finest surviving examples of gothic architecture.

Free things to do in Cardiff

You don’t have to spend a penny to get the most out of your trip. We’ve rounded up the best free things to do in Cardiff below. 

1. Bute Park: Open to the public for good walks and even better scenery, Capability Brown-designed Bute Park is a delightful city-centre park you won’t want to miss during your stay. From the 21 sculptures to the much-loved animal wall, there’s a huge variety to do and see as you wander around. Bring along your latest pup for the day to enjoy the treasure trove of trails. 

2. Barry Island: Do as the locals do and pop over to Barry Island for a day of sandy beaches, leafy parks and wonderful independent shops. There’s a pleasure park (cue fairground attractions), a museum and Celtic church to name just a few things to do. 

3. Cardiff City Centre: Be prepared for some serious shopping as the vast Cardiff City centre comprises over 1.4 million square feet of independent boutiques, high street shops and a thriving indoor market housed in a historic Victorian building. Queen Street, the centre’s main pedestrianised shopping area runs from the Capitol Shopping Centre on the east side to the historic Cardiff Castle on the west side. Comfy shoes are a must.

Fun things to do in Cardiff

Wondering what to do in Cardiff for fun? It’s easy to see why these Cardiff attractions are so popular. 

1. Techniquest: If you're a science buff or just fascinated about how things work, you’ll love science and discovery centre Techniquest. Located in Cardiff Bay amongst stunning waterfront premises, you can explore two floors of over 150 interactive puzzles and experiments as well as a planetarium and a lab. 

2. Llandaff Cathedral: Just a twenty minute walk outside the city centre, Llandaff Cathedral is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of Cardiff, and enjoy some historical exploration during your trip. Although none of the original church remains, you can still explore the storied history of the beautiful twelfth century rebuild.

3. Norwegian Church Arts Centre: If the walls of the iconic Norwegian Church Arts Centre could talk they’d offer up a lot of history. The centre was once an important meeting place for Norwegian seafarers during the industrial revolution as well as the host for famous author Road Dahl's baptism. Today, the landmark location hosts a variety of local exhibitions in their impressive art gallery and offers great grub in a stylish cafe bar. The panoramic waterfront views and tranquil waters of the Bay aren’t too bad either. 

What to do in Cardiff with pets

Want to bring your latest pooch along on your adventures? With its walkies-ready rolling hills, winding rivers and enchanting forests, there’s so much to enjoy with your pup. Here’s our top three: 

1. Dyffryn Gardens National Trust: Dog-friendly Dyffryn Gardens welcomes you to explore their 55 acres of parks with your pooch. After grabbing a coffee, head to the Great Lawn for sprawling garden walks and green courts with grand names like The South Garden, Vine Walk and Croquet Lawn. Although dogs aren’t allowed inside there are supplied water bowls outside the café and shop and even poo bags and complimentary dog biscuits in the welcome centre.

2. Lavernock Point, Penarth: With so many beaches just a mere thirty minutes away, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to great walks. Lavernock Point has a beautiful coastal walk with stunning views across the Bristol channel, while Jackson’s Bay in Barry is a pleasant sandy cove backed by breathtaking cliffs and lined with golden sand. Both beaches have no restrictions for dogs. 

3. Roath Park: If it’s a gentle walk around the lake with your new friend you’re after, you’ll love Roath Park. Walk around the sociable trail and enjoy the breeze in your hair (and fur). Take a break along the way to take in the sites of the Wild Garden, Botanic Garden or Pleasure Garden for superb floral displays. 

Best restaurants in Cardiff: Food and drink

Turkish kebab, tapas, curry or Neapolitan-style pizza? There’s no shortage of diversity when it comes to dining in the Welsh capital. Check out our picks for the best restaurants in Cardiff.  

1. Nook: For a tiny spot, Nook really packs a punch. The small neighbourhood restaurant in Victoria Park offers delicious seasonal dishes, sharing plates and natural wines. Don’t leave without trying their house bread (made fresh in the kitchen every day). 

2. The Stable: Situated right next to St David's Shopping centre in the heart of Cardiff city, The Stable offers mouth-watering pizzas made fresh from sourdough every morning. The bases are hand-stretched and then topped with their homemade tomato sauce. It’s true pizza heaven, but the best part? They welcome our four-legged friends with open arms (and treats). 

3. Saray: Fancy some Turkish cuisine? Saray offers the full Middle Eastern experience with authentic mezes, casseroles, grills and seafood dishes. Save room for dessert with their homemade baklava, made in-house and served with traditional Turkish tea.

House and pet sitting in Cardiff

You’re in for a tidy treat when you visit the beautiful city of Cardiff. With pebbled beaches, fantastic shopping and a truly exhilarating variety of cultural sights there’s some incredible things to do in Cardiff. Now you’ve read our ‘what to do in Cardiff’ guide, pop over here to connect with your next pet sit.