Six Nations 2025
A Rugby Fans Guide to Cardiff
A Rugby Fan's Guide to Cardiff City Centre
Are you visiting Cardiff for the Six Nations in Cardiff 2025? Take a look at our ultimate guide to Cardiff for rugby fans visiting the city.
Locals and visitors alike will tell you that there is nothing better than the atmosphere in Cardiff on an international rugby day! Even if you're not the biggest fan, the energy, fun and entertainment that lasts throughout the day and into the night is second to none.
Cardiff city centre during a rugby game is something of an event in itself. Pop-up stores are set up to provide people with the kit of their chosen teams, including scarves, hats, daffodil headgear and face paint. This, combined with the close proximity of such a large number of people, creates an almost carnival atmosphere as people make their way towards the stadium.
This February and March, Cardiff will have the honour of hosting Six Nation's Fixtures in the Principality Stadium, Cardiff's National Stadium of Wales. If you’re going to be attending the matches in the Welsh Capital, we have compiled a list of helpful suggestions and must-dos while you’re in Cardiff.
Principality Stadium
Wales will play two home matches this year - Ireland and England - and the three away matches are France, Italy and Scotland in the 2025 Guinness Six Nations Championship. Wales will kick off their 2025 Six Nations campaign against France at the Stade de France and the first home game against Ireland at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday, 22 February 2025.
Games being held in Cardiff
Getting to and around Cardiff
The Principality Stadium is only a 5-minute walk from Cardiff Central Train Station. Cardiff’s metro rail system connects Cardiff’s northern, southern and western suburbs to the city centre from its Central and Queen Street hubs. Visitors should be aware that Cardiff Central Station is expected to be very busy after each match, and a queuing system will be in operation. The train and the local bus network is an affordable Cardiff Transport option, operates routes throughout the city and will provide extra services on match days.
What to see and do
For culture
You can wander around the huge structure of Cardiff Castle as it stands today. Cardiff Castle has been preserved expertly, and the Roman Fort and Norman Keep both stand tall to this day, ready for you to explore. The castle is one of Wales’s most popular heritage attractions. Entry to the castle grounds is free; however, there is a charge to explore the buildings.
Nearby you'll find the National Museum of Wales. The museum has something to offer everyone, from Impressionist paintings to gigantic dinosaurs. Entry is free, and there are daily 35-minute tours from 12.30 pm each day.
For atmosphere
Explore a great mix of Cardiff attractions, entertainment and events, along with vibrant bars and shops that create a truly unique atmosphere worthy of any capital city. Cardiff has the biggest concentration of Victorian, Edwardian, and modern-day indoor shopping arcades in Britain and is known as the City of Arcades.
For fresh air
Why not take a lovely bike ride? Behind Cardiff Castle is Bute Park, the green heart of the city. Here you can cycle (or walk if you prefer) part of the Taff Trail and see a Gorsedd Stone Circle, beehives, a sculpture trail, Blackfriar's Friary, and so much more. A water taxi is also here, taking you to Cardiff Bay.
CARDIFF DESTINATION GUIDEEating and Drinking
The Welsh capital is always bustling on match days, and many of the best Cardiff bars and pubs are located just a stone’s throw from the Principality Stadium. You might want to consider reserving a table in advance, and some establishments may ask for a deposit or arrive hours before kick-off to claim a seat.
Watch The Six Nations in Cardiff Bay
If you are looking for a cosy atmosphere to watch all the action unfold on live TV, join us at Thomas Bar & Restaurant at Future Inn Cardiff.
Matchday offers include:
The Dragon Platter
£29.50 ideal for two people
Book a Table
Drinks before or after the match
The City Arms is located just outside the stadium and is one of the most iconic Cardiff pubs. Featuring a great selection of Welsh ales, The City Arms is a long-time favourite of local sports fans. Another choice would be The Prince of Wales on St Mary Street, which always hosts a huge crowd and is one of the liveliest bars in Cardiff.
Venues to watch on a big screen
For those looking for venues to watch games on a big screen, both O’Neill’s, Walkabout and Brewhouse on St Mary Street will be projecting matches live throughout the Six Nations. Alternatively, you could head to Yates or Live Lounge on Greyfriars Road.
Where to eat
Most bars and pubs that usually serve food will have a reduced menu on match day. This will probably be easy to eat with your hands, like burgers, hotdogs, pizza and chips. If you would like more formal dining, you will need to book a table in advance, and you may be asked for a deposit.
We hope that you have a fantastic time in Cardiff during the Six Nations!
Hotel near the Principality Stadium
Accommodation in Cardiff is always in high demand around matches, so it’s recommended that visitors book early to avoid disappointment.
Future Inn Cardiff is a modern and comfortable hotel in the heart of Cardiff Bay, one of the city's most vibrant areas. The hotel is conveniently located near main access roads and public transportation, making it easy to explore the city. This well-appointed hotel offers a range of amenities, ensuring a pleasant and convenient stay. Alongside its excellent location, the hotel boasts spacious and airy bedrooms - all of which sleep up to four guests - that feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, a desk and workspace, a laptop safe, a complimentary robe and slippers. Plus, home away from home services like the guest laundry room, ice buckets and wine glasses. There's also electric car charging and free parking, which are rare in such a central location.
Book direct for the best available rates on our website or by contacting the Reservations Team on 02920 487111 or reservations.cardiff@futureinns.co.uk.
Book RoomFuture Inn Cardiff to The Principality Stadium
It is very easy to get to the Principality Stadium from the hotel.
Make a Reservation
Book direct for the best rates guaranteed
Book your stay online, where we guarantee the best rate, or with our Reservations Team at 02920 487111 or email reservations.cardiff@futureinns.co.uk
Future Club Rewards
For additional benefits, you can join the Future Inns hotel loyalty program. Alongside a member's discount rate, for every £1 you spend on accommodation, you earn 1 reward point. You also get a complimentary drink voucher to redeem in the bar when you dine. Plus, you get double points when you eat in the restaurant. Points collected can then be used to upgrade your bedroom to a suite or a free night's stay. It's also completely free to join!
Welsh Restaurant
Thomas Restaurant is a vibrant dining venue in the heart of Cardiff Bay that offers a memorable culinary experience.
Known for serving locally sourced produce, the menu showcases a delightful range of British and Welsh dishes, ensuring that diners can enjoy an authentic taste of the region.
From hearty breakfasts to leisurely lunches and indulgent dinners, it is ideal for both hotel guests and locals alike.
Additionally, the restaurant features an inviting bar area, perfect for enjoying a drink. In the summer months, take advantage of the outdoor terrace.
A large selection of drinks is also available, including popular local brands Brains beers, Penderyn whiskey and vodka, Benjamin Hall gins, and Cariad wines.
Naturally, there's a good choice of soft drinks, including refreshing fruit juices, tea, coffee, and mocktails.
Reservations can be made on 02920 487111 or thomas@futureinns.co.uk, or online:
BOOK NOWSpecial Offers
