Wales Millennium Centre is one of the most popular cultural attractions in Cardiff. It is a place to see everything from small dance pieces and comedy shows, to West End musicals and major art exhibitions. The venue hosts several performance areas and is the home of the Welsh National Opera, the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and other arts organizations. Watch a show, view some art and enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour.
Before venturing into the building, pause a while to admire the incredible metal, glass and Welsh slate exterior. It features a monumental inscription in English and Welsh on the copper portico.
To see what’s on when you’re in the city, visit the center’s official website. In addition to the main shows, there are often free art exhibitions. You can also watch free performances in the foyer at lunchtimes and in the evenings. If there are young children with you, take them to the Milipwts’ Den on the first floor. This family-friendly place hosts a range of free games and activities for children.
Take the 1-hour guided tour of the center. Tours run daily and there is a fee to pay. The tour route includes one of the biggest stages in the U.K. and a dressing room.
Enjoy a pre-performance drink in one of the center’s bars. The windows of three of them form the lettering on the building’s façade.
Located in the Cardiff Bay area, the Wales Millennium Centre is about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) from the city center. If you arrive by train at Cardiff Central Station take the shuttle bus that runs to the cultural attraction every 10 minutes. Local bus services also travel to the center. Alternatively, if you are driving, you will find a metered multistory car park nearby.
Wales Millennium Centre is open daily and show times and prices vary according to the performance. While you are here, stop by the Cardiff Tourist Information Centre, which is located in the foyer.
