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Best Staycation in Cardiff
Future Inn Cardiff is staycation approved. The staycation is the new vacation.
In our ultimate staycation guide, we've put all the information you need in one place for you. Where to go and what to do during your staycation in Cardiff.
When did staycation become a word? The term staycation has been around longer than many people realise. While it has gained significant popularity in recent years, especially due to travel restrictions during COVID and the rising cost of international trips, its origins can be traced back to at least 1944.
The word is a blend of stay and vacation, referring to a holiday spent at home or within one’s local area rather than travelling abroad. Early references to the term appeared in North America, where it was initially used to describe leisure activities enjoyed without venturing too far from home.
Ultimate Guide to a Staycation in Cardiff
Cardiff is a fantastic city. After a year of lockdown, are you getting bored of the same four walls? Then we think it's time to treat yourself to a safe Cardiff staycation!
Welsh Culture in Cardiff
Wales, a land of myth and legend, is steeped in a rich cultural tapestry that captivates visitors from around the globe. And where better to immerse yourself in the heart of Welsh culture than its vibrant capital city, Cardiff?
Uncover Cardiff's unique cultural gemsStaycation and daycation
If your funds are limited and you are deciding between day trips or a staycation, our guide to visiting Cardiff on a budget may help make that decision. Even though Cardiff is the capital city of Wales, there is plenty to keep you occupied when travelling on a budget. Take advantage of our insider knowledge and check out our favourite free things to do in Cardiff.
Visit Cardiff on a BudgetFashion fix
Cardiff is the ideal destination for a shopping trip with large shopping centres, high street favourites, individual stores, and a thriving indoor market. Cardiff's retail scene's real highlight is the Victorian and Edwardian arcades, full of independent boutiques and cafes, and worth a visit as architectural gems.
SHOPPING IN CARDIFFFull swing
Whether you are a fair-weather player or happy to play in all conditions, there are 18 golf courses immediately in and around our Cardiff Bay hotel. Visitors to the area are spoilt for choice for golf in the Cardiff area.
GOLF IN CARDIFFDate Night Ideas in Cardiff Bay
It doesn't matter if it's your first date or just some time with your partner; you'll be able to impress and bag those brownie points in Cardiff Bay. If you're looking for fun activities to do with your partner, the city is amazing! Whether they're an adventure seeker, film buff or foodie, there are many things to keep you both entertained.
Things for CouplesStaycation and dinner
What is Welsh food? There is so much more to our local produce than lamb, leeks, and rarebit. Of course, these are on the menu alongside the familiar sweet treats of bara brith and Welsh cakes. Still, other incredible ingredients are filling the dishes on the Taste of Wales menu at Thomas Restaurant.
DISCOVER A LOCAL CULINARY GEM
Cardiff at night
You will be surprised by how many different things you can do in Cardiff in the evening. Cardiff is known for its diverse nightlife; there are so many things to do. Even now, as lockdown lifts, there are many safe and social distancing-friendly things to keep you entertained.
ENJOY CARDIFF'S NIGHTLIFE SAFELYPerformance, art and theatre
Wales Millennium Centre is the nation's home for the performing arts situated in Cardiff Bay. Especially world-renowned Broadway shows. In 2021 we are looking forward to seeing Disney's Beauty and the Beast, and next year performances from We Will Rock You, Six, The Lion King, and Les Misérables. As the official hotel partner, all ticket holders get 20% off overnight stays, as well as free parking, free WiFi and lots of other perks.
WALES MILLENNIUM CENTREStaycation near beach
There are so many beaches, only 30 minutes from Cardiff. All are perfect for a couple of hours sunbathing, reading or relaxing, or an evening stroll or weekend walk.
BEACHES 30 MINUTES FROM CARDIFFExplore the outdoors
There are plenty of things to see and do outside when exploring the Welsh capital, Cardiff. If you are worried about big crowds or simply enjoy being outdoors, there are many things to do in Cardiff in the open air.
THINGS TO DO OUTDOORS IN CARDIFFParks and gardens
Cardiff's parks and gardens are beautiful. You will quickly forget that you are in the heart of a vibrant city, with its countryside vibes. These open spaces are perfect for exploring Cardiff as well as stretching your legs, riding your bike and enjoying the fresh air.
NATURE SPOTS AND PARKS IN CARDIFFGet on your bike
Cardiff is the perfect location for a staycation holiday, and bring your bike. With easy access to many local routes, including the Cardiff Bay Trail and the Taff Trail, the various paths are suitable for families and a keen cyclist. It's also a great way to get around the city. Don't have a bike, or don't want to bring your own? No problem, you can rent them easily throughout the city.
A CYCLING STAYCATION IN CARDIFF
Staycation without a car
Cardiff is a compact city and easy to explore. Large parts of the city centre are pedestrianised, so it's easy to get around on foot. Cardiff Bus runs an extensive system throughout Cardiff and the local area, travelling to Penarth and Barry. You need the exact money if paying with cash, as drivers do not give change. You can also pay by contactless card.
There are 20 railway stations in Cardiff, most of which form part of the commuter rail network, known locally as Valley Lines, with Cardiff Queen Street and Cardiff Central being the city's main hubs. You can also cycle, boat, taxi and Uber.
GETTING AROUND CARDIFFEmbrace the supernatural
There are some chilling tales from Cardiff's history. There have been exorcisms, unexplained disturbances and ghostly sightings. The eerie buildings of Cardiff's ghost stories can all be visited during your staycation break.
HAUNTED PLACES IN CARDIFFLiterature legends
Cardiff was home to one of the world's greatest storytellers, Roald Dahl. He was also a spy, an ace fighter pilot, a chocolate historian and a medical inventor. You can walk in Roald Dahl's footsteps when you visit Cardiff.
ROALD DAHL'S CARDIFFA walk through time
Flat Holm is a small island just 4 miles off the coast of Cardiff. From Viking raiders, a Victorian fortification to becoming the first line of defence, protecting Cardiff, Penarth, Barry and Newport during the Second World War - its history is fascinating. It is the most southerly point in Wales and is a fantastic place to visit.
FLAT HOLM ISLANDNational Trust
There are plenty of National Trust properties to visit in Cardiff with landscaped gardens, beautiful scenic walks, and stately homes. The National Trust care for hundreds of historical sites, gardens and estates around Wales and the UK. They are all uniquely different and are a pleasure to visit. By the end of the 19th Century, industrialisation threatened to destroy the remaining natural landscape and the country's heritage.
NATIONAL TRUST IN CARDIFFExplore Cardiff
Rich in ancient history, sporting excitement, romantic ambience, eclectic culture and 'out of this world' activities, Cardiff is the perfect holiday destination for families, couples and groups. Unique attractions and top-class entertainment are within walking distance.
The National Sport - Rugby
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.
A Rugby Fans Guide to CardiffStay at Future Inn Cardiff
If reading this has tempted you to book your trip, look no further than Future Inn Cardiff Bay. Cardiff city centre is close by and easily accessible via public transport or by bike.
Future Inn Cardiff is a modern and comfortable hotel in the heart of Cardiff Bay, one of the city's most vibrant areas. It is close to the popular family-friendly attractions. The hotel's spacious and airy bedrooms, accommodating up to four guests, are perfect for families. Each room has free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and a desk and workspace, providing entertainment and comfort for everyone. Added touches like a laptop safe, complimentary robe and slippers, and home-away-from-home services - such as a guest laundry room, ice buckets, and tea and coffee-making facilities to enhance the convenience of your stay. Families will particularly appreciate the free parking, a rare perk in such a central location, as well as the availability of electric car charging.
Book RoomThings to do during Half Term 2025
Stuck for ideas on what to do with your kids in Cardiff this Half Term? If so, check out this blog post of things to do in Cardiff. We at Future Inns have compiled a top 10 list of fun things to do that will keep your kids entertained over half term….and they won’t break the bank either for your family days out.
Half Term with the KidsCardiff 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.
Staycation Wales 2025
Hopefully, our staycation UK ideas have given you some inspiration to visit Cardiff. As government guidelines change constantly, we recommend you check out the staycation rules before you get on the road.
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