Wales – Cardiff Bay, South Wales

Distance: 8km/4½ miles
Time: 2hrs
Type: Urban, coastal
Where: A linear walk from Cardiff railway station, along the Taff and across Cardiff Bay on the barrage, finishing in Penarth.
Start/End: Cardiff Central Railway Station (ST182758). Penarth Railway Station (ST185714).
Terrain: Mostly level pavements throughout, along watersides.
Maps: OS Explorer 151; Landranger 171.

This lovely all-inclusive walk around Cardiff Bay and over the spectacular barrage was only made possible in 2007, thanks to the campaigning efforts of Ramblers Cymru. They resulted in a new bridge being installed between Penarth and the barrage, making a complete coastal route in the capital possible for the first time, which will form a key part of the All Wales Coast Path scheduled to open in 2012. (Much of this national route is being surveyed and monitored by Ramblers volunteers.) The views across the Bristol Channel on this walk are superb, stretching to Somerset and the islands of Flat Holm and Steep Holm. Various landmarks, including the Millennium Stadium, the Wales Millennium Centre, the Welsh Assembly and the Pierhead building, can be seen along the route. Some of these locations may be recognisable from TV’s Dr Who, Torchwood and The Sarah Jane Adventures. Children’s author Roald Dahl was born in Cardiff and baptised in the Norwegian Church. It’s now used as an arts centre and café.

Click here to download a route card