About Cardiff

Cardiff, Wales' capital city, sits on the country's south coast. Known for its rich history, which stretches back to 6000 BC, the city is a cultural hub that attracts millions of visitors annually. Cardiff has much to offer visitors: an amazing music scene, brilliant nightlife and world-class sport thanks to the Millennium Stadium.

If you're planning to host a party in Cardiff, you will find plenty of suitable venues. In this guide, we'll help you plan a party to remember in Cardiff.

Party Options in Cardiff

• Make-up Artists
  If you'd like to get glammed up before the party, you may want to consider enlisting the services of a make-up artist. Suppose it's a birthday party, for example. In that case, you might want to treat yourself to a professional make-up look so you look incredible for your big night.

• Party Decorations
  Every party needs decorations. The good news is that party decorations such as balloons, banners, bunting, centrepieces, backdrops and confetti can be purchased from various shops and supermarkets. However, if you're looking for personalised decorations, you may need to visit a shop that specialises in party decorations rather than a supermarket.

• Caterers
  You might find it hard to fully enjoy the party if you'd have to worry about the catering. But don't worry, there's a solution. Hiring a catering company will allow you to offer your guests outstanding food without stress. Sounds ideal, doesn't it?

Party Vendors in Cardiff

• Victoria Fox
  Based in Cardiff, Victoria Fox has been a make-up artist for over 16 years. With every job, she strives for perfection and will go the extra mile to ensure her clients have a brilliant experience. Apart from bridal make-up, Victoria offers service for special occasions, where you can relax with a cold glass of prosecco while she gives you a pampering make-up session! Victoria has a range of packages available, including make-up for one or make-up for small groups, allowing you and your friends to get glammed up pre-party!

• Party Central
  Situated in Cardiff, Party Central sells a wide variety of event decorations. So if you're looking for personalised balloons, banners, bunting, door curtains, backdrops, balloon hoops and cake decorations, you're in the right place! The company offers a large selection of decorations that will give your party the wow factor. Who doesn't love a good balloon arch?

• Mad Hatters Catering
  Since its founding in 2001, Mad Hatters Catering has provided delicious food for various events, including parties, weddings, corporate events and more. The delectable menu includes combinations such as chorizo and bean bruschetta, chicken skewers marinated in tandoori and lemon, and crab cakes with caviar and cream cheese. Delicious! So whether you require a buffet, canapes, grazing platters or a drinks reception, Mad Hatters Catering can help you craft an event that your guests will remember for a long time!

Pros and Cons of Party Venues in Cardiff

Advantages

• Green space
  There are a variety of beautiful green spaces in and around Cardiff. The city's most popular parks include Bute Park, Cathays Park, Grange Gardens and Heath Park. Additionally, the Brecon Beacons and the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are easily reached by car. In case you and your friends linger a little longer in the city and want to hang out in nature after your party, you've got plenty to explore!

• Proximity to the coast
  Cardiff is located on the south coast of Wales, and several stunning beaches are close by, including St Mary's Well Bay, Penarth and Barry Island Beach. If you're willing to travel slightly further afield, the beaches at Rest Bay and Sandy Bay are ripe for exploration. These are a lot of tempting attractions that you'll be close to if you decide to throw your party in Cardiff!

• Affordability
  Compared to some of the UK's major cities, Cardiff is affordable. In fact, the Student Living Index by NatWest found that the city offers some of the cheapest student accommodation in the UK. On average, rent costs in Cardiff are a whopping 61.5% lower than London. Apart from that, you'll be paying for vendors and services less than if you planned to celebrate in London or Oxford.

Disadvantages

• Small city
  If you're used to big cities, Cardiff can feel rather sleepy in comparison. This would be a disadvantage only if you prefer your party to be surrounded by a busy atmosphere and a vibrant nightlife. However, the city has a lot to offer despite its size!

• Choice
  Cardiff does not offer the same amount of vendor choices compared to other cities in the UK, such as London and Manchester. However, while there are fewer attractions and hospitality venues than other places, the city does have a lot of character.

• Weather
  Cardiff is the UK's rainiest city, receiving 1,152 mm of rain each year. So it goes without saying that you should bring a raincoat and umbrella when visiting the Welsh capital! Similarly, this is something that you should let your party guests know in case they're not local to the city.

Famous Locations in Cardiff

• Cardiff Castle
  Majestic Cardiff Castle sits within the historic heart of Wales' capital city. One side of the castle is surrounded by stunning parklands, and the other the thriving city of Cardiff. The Romans built the original structure in the first century during their occupation. However, it is the Norman structure that still stands to this day. Today, the castle hosts various exciting events, including concerts and festivals. For example, musicians such as Diana Ross, Michael Buble, Lionel Richie, Olly Murs and Jess Glynne are scheduled to perform at the venue in 2022.

• Mermaid Quay
  Located on Cardiff's waterfront, Mermaid Quay is a leisure district containing a wealth of restaurants, cafes, bars and shops. Popular establishments include Bayside Brasserie, Bill's, Gin & Bake, Cosy Club, The Dock and Wagamama. The lively district is also home to Everyman Cinema, where you can watch a film while tucking into delicious food. So if you're looking for somewhere to grab a bite to eat, or perhaps you'd like to do some shopping, Mermaid Quay is the place to go!

• Cosmeston Lakes Country Park and Medieval Village
  First opened to the public in 1978, Cosmeston Lakes Country Park is a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike. One of the most enticing aspects of the park is the medieval village. When the park was developed in the late 1970s, excavation work revealed the remains of stone buildings from the 13th and 14th centuries. What ensued was an archaeological project to restore the medieval village of Cosmeston to how it would have looked 600 years ago.