Cardiff, the capital city as well as the largest city of Wales, is a place with a rich history, mesmerizing views, colourful culture, and renowned institutions. But there are some interesting facts that you may not know about this grand city. Let’s explore Cardiff together and get to know more before departing.
Cardiff is 38% Affordable than London
Although it stands as the capital city of Wales, Cardiff is much more affordable than many other major cities. The cost of living in Cardiff for a single person one month is £ without rent, 26.6% lower than in London. Student houses Cardiff is around £120 to £200 per week, which is 55.3% lower than in London. Cardiff is the ideal place for students to study and live in together with prime institutions like Cardiff University and big-city amenities.
Cardiff is Visited by 18 Million Tourists Every Year
Cardiff is a tourist city situated in the northern part of Bristol Bay and close to the South Wales coalfields. According to stats, 18 million tourists visit Cardiff every year, making it the 10th most visited city by international tourists in the UK. In 2009, Your Magazine named Cardiff one of the top places to visit, thanks to its attractions and how conveniently close they are to one another. In 2011, National Geographic ranked Cardiff the 6th alternative tourist destination in the world, which makes it all the more promising for people who want to visit it.
Cardiff is Home to 3 Universities
Cardiff is home to three universities, including Cardiff University, Cardiff Metropolitan University, and the University of South Wales. The best one is Cardiff University due to its excellent academics, leading research, and ample social opportunities. As a member of the Russel Group, it attracts students worldwide with its research-based learning experience, a popular Students’ Union, quality Cardiff University accommodation, and dynamic student life.
Cardiff Was the First Fairtrade Capital of the World
In 2004, Cardiff was announced by the Fairtrade Foundation as the first Fairtrade Capital of the World with a better deal for third-world producers. A certain number of cafes, shops, restaurants, and other services have to stock goods with the trademark, and Cardiff finally beat Edinburgh and won the place.
The Romans Settled in Cardiff in 55AD
Cardiff is a city with a rich history that dates back to 55 AD, when the Romans settled here and built a military fort on the place where Cardiff Castle now stands. The area was originally called Caer-Taff, as it sits beside the River Taff. In 1081, King William I of England built the famous Cardiff Castle, a true masterpiece of architecture.
Cardiff is a City of Castles
Cardiff has more castles than any other city in Europe. It has three: Cardiff Castle, Castle Coch, and St Fagans. The hidden tunnels underneath Cardiff Castle were used as air-raid shelters during the Second World War, and have now become a highly sought-after attraction for visitors. A highlight of a visit to Cardiff Castle is the wall at Bute Park, which features stone-carved animals. The ones with glass eyes, the lions, apes, a lynx, a bear, a wolf, a hyena, and a sea lion, were all built in the late 19th century.
Cardiff Has More Hours of Sunlight than Milan
Cardiff is one of the flattest cities in Britain. The temperatures are a lot of lower but the sunshine is more than even in Milan. Head to the Welsh capital if you want to enjoy more sunlight while under a comfortable temperature.
Cardiff Is a City of Parks
Cardiff has more green space per person than any other core city in the UK. The city is home to over 330 parks and gardens, including one of the largest urban parks in Wales. Grange Gardens, a Grade II listed park in the heart of Grangetown, is a Victorian gem that offers a variety of local outdoor recreational facilities while still preserving its historic charm. Heath Park and Hailey Park are also wonderful spots to enjoy a walk with friends and family.
Cardiff Has the Oldest Record Store in the World
Spillers Records was established in 1894, and stands as the oldest record store in the world. As well as selling an eclectic mix of records and CDs, it hosts regular live gigs and music events. People often gather outside and look through the shop windows to see what’s going on when the store is holding music events.
Cardiff Is Europe’s Youngest Capital
Cardiff is recognised as the capital of Wales in 1955, making it the youngest capital city in Europe. However, the history of Cardiff is long and rich from Roman military outpost to thriving market town to giant industrial coal port, before transforming itself yet again into the modern metropolis that routinely enchants visitors today.
The First Million-Pound Deal Was Struck in Cardiff
The coal trade in Cardiff once grew rapidly in Cardiff. Cardiff had transformed from one of the smallest towns in Wales to the largest and its port was handling more coal than any other port in the world by 1880’s. On the eve of the First World War in 1913, coal exports reached their peak at over 13 million tonnes. At this time, the international price of coal was struck in the Coal Exchange building and it was here that the world’s first £1 million deal was signed.
Cardiff is a fantastic city full of history, culture, and entertainment options, an ideal place for both study, work, and live in. There is much more interesting facts in Cardiff waiting for you to explore. Do not hesitate to begin your trip in this vibrant city.
