Exploring Vibrant Cardiff With the Family

Hostelling offers a versatile and flexible option whilst travelling either at home or abroad. It is also a perfect choice for group accommodation, giving families and friends the opportunity to rent either a dormitory or several private rooms. This, in turn, provides a wonderful way to bond while enjoying a special holiday together.

For those looking to explore the UK, group accommodation in any of the excellent hostels in Wales make the perfect base to make the most of the exciting capital city, Cardiff.

Vibrant Cardiff

Cardiff is a fantastic place for families to visit. It is a lively city with many attractions for all age groups. Steeped in history, the area was first occupied by the Romans, in AD55-60. They built a fort and, taking advantage of the fact that the land lies at the centre of three rivers, it became a strategic place for trade and protection of their interests. Over the years, Cardiff has grown from humble beginnings to become a vibrant cosmopolitan city.

For a hands-on history lesson, the National Roman Legion Museum will be a big hit with children. They can learn more about Wales’ rich and diverse history and there are also plenty of fun activities run throughout the year - including the chance to build a working model of a catapult and trying out some archery. Cardiff also has a handful of other brilliant museums that really do serve to bring history alive.

Water activities

There is also plenty to occupy children at the newly developed Cardiff Bay. This area used to be a thriving dock catering to international trade, but it fell into decay early in the 20th century. But by the new Millennium, the area had been regenerated with innovative housing, wide-open spaces and the Cardiff Bay Barrage. The three locks that make up the Barrage have created a 200-hectare freshwater lake, from contained waters of the rivers Taff and Ely. Here you can sail, windsurf or even experience white water rafting in a totally safe environment. Water sports are always popular with younger members of the family and many of the activities can be prebooked online or through staff at your group accommodation.

Fun days out

Cardiff Bay has 13km of waterfront dotted with many cafes and restaurants where you can sit and relax before moving on to the next adventure. This lovely area offers a wealth of things to see and do, including the wonderful Techniquest Science Centre. There is a planetarium, over 160 interactive exhibits, and a 'discovery room'. The facilities and quality of the exhibits will both amuse and educate the entire family, with activities aimed at children of all ages. Other indoor activities at Cardiff Bay include a bowling centre and a fun gaming arcade. There is also a great Doctor Who Exhibition that will no doubt appeal to everyone.

The excellent Cardiff hostels can provide the ideal group accommodation for the entire family or group of extended friends. You'll create memories and experiences that will last a lifetime.

Ben Spencer works for Hostelling International. Offering more than 4000 hostels worldwide, their website dedicated to groups features 250 hostels specifically suitable for school trips, corporate team building trips and families. For the best group accommodation, join our community and say hi to the world. HI is the only global network of Youth Hostel Associations and a non-profit membership organisation with over 100 years of experience.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.