Excursion to Wales!

My last daytrip from London was to Wales! If you are staying in London for a week or more, I recommend that you visit Wales to see a different side of the UK. It is smaller and not as crowded as London so it's a nice change of pace and scenery.

Travel tip: You can take the train London Paddington Station to Cardiff Central Station (Wales). The trip is only 2-2.5hrs hours and it is worth it! You can buy your ticket at the station the day of your trip. 

Journey to Wales via train:

Train ticket:

Cardiff Central Station:

 

Wales is a country and it is part of the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland). It has a long and rich history stemming from the Celts through to the Roman occupation and from the medieval period to the modern day Union. It has withstood periods of conquest and peace. I remember I first learned about Wales in elementary school when I saw a t.v. program on Welsh castles. Since then, that's is most of what I knew until prior to my Eurotrip when I started reading and watching more travel shows about Wales. 

Prior to arriving, I didn't know what to expect before visiting Wales. All I knew mostly was that there were a lot of castles and one of the famous treats were Welsh cakes. After I arrived at Cardiff Central, I was delighted that the city was within walking distance and most attractions were near so I didn't have to take any public transportation. Right outside is the main street promenade which is lined with restaurants, cafes, and pubs. 

While walking on the main street I stumbled upon the Cardiff Market (since 1891) which was an enclosed area with food stalls and vendors. I had to go in so I could try the famous Welsh cakes that I read so much about. The market was pretty clean and organized unlike some market I've visited through my travels. They sold everything from cell phone covers to pastries. 

Cardiff Market:

 

Finally Welsh Cakes!!

 

  

  

Welsh cakes are a thin scone-like pastry traditionally filled with raisins and sprinkled with sugar. They are cooked on a heated flat top and usually have a golden brown crust color. They are perfect with afternoon tea or coffee. I was fortunate to try two types: traditional one with raisins and one with chocolate. The chocolate one was warm and gooey since I saw the lady had just prepared them. 

After indulging on the Welsh cakes, I made my way further on the main street to the famous Cardiff Castle. A castle has existed on the site since Roman times due to its strategic location and defensive position. There is a large outer wall that surrounds the perimeter of the castle. In the center, there is a Norman fortification which has survived the centuries. Near the western side lies the Bute which is 20th century addition which was inhabited by a Marquis. There is also a secret underground tunnel network below the outer walls that were used to shelter soldiers during the bombing of Britain in 1940. There is a small gift shop near the entrance where u can see original Roman walls and nice views of the Castle. 

Cardiff Castle:

 

Norman Fortress:

The Bute:

 

Underground Tunnel:

After exploring the castle, I wandered around the city. I stumbled upon some great Georgian and Victorian architecture. 

  

 

 

 

Cardiff National Art Museum:

 

Van Gogh Piece

Waterlillies piece by Monet

  

 Cardiff City Hall:

 

 

Welsh Government Buildings:

 

Cardiff University:

 

National War Memorial:

 

 

Millennium Stadium

Welsh Stew:

 

Cardiff was a great day trip getaway from London. It's quaint atmosphere and rich history make it a must-see in the UK. It is a very walkable city so you can see a lot just by exploring on foot. The people are friendly there and you will enjoy their hospitality. 

Stay tuned and my next post will be on my trip to San Antonio, Texas!! 

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If you would like any travel tips (sightseeing, cheap flight tickets, itineraries, or anything) please message me!