The compact Welsh capital offers so much for a city of its size. From the culture and heritage of its historical centre to the cutting-edge architecture of Cardiff Bay waterfront and its lively LGBTQIA+ scene, expect to fall in love with the city’s infectious buzz and welcoming charm. Explore our LGBTQIA+ guide to Cardiff for the lowdown on the best neighbourhoods, hotels and events in the city.
Showing its pride for all things LGBTQIA+, in addition to all things Welsh, Pride Cymru (the Welsh language word for Wales) is usually a massive event, where over 50,000 people come together to celebrate in the capital. Each year sees big-name Welsh and international pop acts performing live on the main stage, along with a cabaret garden, funfair rides, a cultural market with arts and crafts, and a family zone.
Held every October, the annual Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival is Cardiff’s LGBTQIA+ alternative to Cannes. During seven days of international film screenings, panel sessions and parties, 30 short films by or about the queer community compete to win the top accolade, valued at £40,000.
Fancy some serene scenes? Take a relaxing trip to Cardiff Bay, home to the tranquil Penarth Marina and waterside dining spot, Mermaid Quay. If you’re longing for a day of retail therapy, you might prefer to explore the Victorian and Edwardian arcades and the vast St David’s shopping centre. Hidden within the Royal Arcade is non-profit social enterprise The Queer Emporium, which gives 18 LGBTQIA+ vendors space to shine.
Like the city itself, Cardiff’s gay scene is small and compact but with something for everyone. The main venues are focused around Charles Street and Churchill Way in the city centre, all within walking distance of each other.
For luxurious interiors and a spectacular setting on Cardiff Bay, look no further than Voco St David’s. Its renowned Spa at St David’s is great for celeb spotting, while its central location is in easy walking distance of the heart of the gay scene.
Welsh for “pink house”, Ty Rosa has earned accolades from TripAdvisor and Britain’s The Times newspaper for its friendly, welcoming attitude. There are five homely guestrooms in the main house, all stylishly decorated. It’s located a 15-minute walk south of Cardiff city centre – but hosts Paul and Stuart will point you in the right direction.
A sponsor of both Pride Cymru and the Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival, this Clayton Hotel is a proud supporter of Cardiff’s queer scene. Cardiff’s LGBTQIA+ hotspots are a short walk away, as is the city’s main railway station. Unwind after a day of sightseeing in one of the property’s sleek guest rooms or treat yourself to a ‘Proper Lush Afternoon Tea’ in the Grill Bar & Restaurant.
Cardiff is situated on the south coast of Wales, 132 miles (212km) west of London. Regular trains connect Cardiff to London in just over two hours, while Cardiff Airport is served by numerous international airlines.
