Llandaff Cathedral
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Llandaff Cathedral

4.7
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

A historic medieval cathedral in Cardiff, renowned for its striking post-war restoration and unique 20th-century architectural interventions.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Llandaff Cathedral

Llandaff Cathedral

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic medieval cathedral in Cardiff, renowned for its striking post-war restoration and unique 20th-century architectural interventions.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"A beautiful cathedral, worth visiting and supporting this wonderful piece of Welsh history!"

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Photography Allowed

Capture the beauty inside, but avoid during services. Respect the quiet and data protection rules.

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby Trails

After your visit, enjoy wonderful hiking trails just a short walk from the cathedral.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

George Pace's Pulpitum

George Pace's Pulpitum

Nave

A radical 20th-century intervention, this unique structure redefines the cathedral's central space with audacious artistry.

Reddit
Majestas Sculpture

Majestas Sculpture

Pulpitum

A powerful sculpture of Christ, depicted as reigning rather than defeated, a striking centerpiece by Jacob Epstein.

Reddit
Stained Glass Windows

Stained Glass Windows

Admire the intricate beauty and vibrant colors of the cathedral's stunning stained glass windows.

Reddit
10th Century Celtic Cross

10th Century Celtic Cross

Discover a piece of ancient history with this remarkably preserved 10th-century Celtic cross.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Dress Code for Events

Attending a concert at Llandaff Cathedral? While not strictly formal, smart casual is generally recommended. Many attendees opt for a mix of attire, so don't stress too much about overthinking it. Comfort is key for enjoying the performance. Reddit

Support and Donations

Keeping Llandaff Cathedral running costs around £1500 daily. Visitors are encouraged to make donations to support its upkeep and preservation of this piece of Welsh history. Contributions are vital for maintaining this beautiful landmark. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Unique concerts and performances
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Would you agree with me that Llandaff Cathedral is a very underappreciated monument to visit?

📸 Photography Allowed

Capture the beauty inside, but avoid during services. Respect the quiet and data protection rules. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby Trails

After your visit, enjoy wonderful hiking trails just a short walk from the cathedral. Reddit

reddit.com

Permit-free parking by Llandaff Fields, Cathedral Road area

reddit.com

what is suitable to wear?

🚌 Easy Bus Access

Utilize the bus for easy travel to and from Cardiff Castle area. Google Maps is helpful! Reddit

🎁 Visit the Gift Shop

Browse the cute little gift shop for souvenirs and guidebooks. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Photography Allowed

Capture the beauty inside, but avoid during services. Respect the quiet and data protection rules. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby Trails

After your visit, enjoy wonderful hiking trails just a short walk from the cathedral. Reddit

🚌 Easy Bus Access

Utilize the bus for easy travel to and from Cardiff Castle area. Google Maps is helpful! Reddit

🎁 Visit the Gift Shop

Browse the cute little gift shop for souvenirs and guidebooks. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Llandaff Cathedral for its stunning beauty, rich history, and peaceful atmosphere. The architectural interventions, particularly George Pace's Pulpitum and Epstein's Majestas, are highlighted as unique and impressive features. While entry is free, many visitors are happy to contribute donations to support the cathedral's upkeep, recognizing its importance as a piece of Welsh heritage. Some note minor issues like potential accessibility challenges and past vandalism, but the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive.

"We loved visiting this cathedral! It had a chapel dedicated to the Royal Regiment of Wales/ Welsh regiment formed in 1969 and this is the regiment my husband served in. It costs £1500 per day to keep the cathedral running so they do ask for donations and we certainly contributed. It is a beautiful cathedral and worth visiting. Sadly people have vandalized many of the marble effigies. The stained glass windows are beautiful. The organ immense. The cathedral has several small chapels in it including the RRW chapel and the Mary Chapel. Visit and support this wonderful cathedral and piece of Welsh history! A short walk from the cathedral are wonderful hiking trails."

onthegoboomer

"Such a beautiful cathedral and lovely staff. It was free to enter, and we took plenty of pictures inside. We utilized the bus to get here and back to Cardiff Castle area and it was easy enough to understand with the help of Google Maps. There was also a cute little gift shop inside if you were inclined."

Cody P

"It's set in a leafy edge of Cardiff, hidden in a dip to hide it from threats from the sea. It was the second worst damaged cathedral after Coventry, during the war with a parachute mine landing in the cemetery next to the nave and causing damage to the nave and other parts but was restored to its current form. Inside is peaceful with memorials and a chapel dedicated to the armed services. Lovely stained glass and the famous Majestas that stands in the middle of the nave. Little shop with bits and pieces and guide books. Also helpful volunteers on hand to share the history of the cathedral with"

Ashley Lightfoot

What People Like

Beautiful architecture
Rich history
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Past vandalism
Accessibility concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Llandaff Cathedral is easily accessible by bus from the Cardiff Castle area. Using Google Maps can help you navigate the routes effectively. Reddit

Yes, there is free parking available nearby Llandaff Cathedral, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

While it's a bit of a walk from the city centre, Llandaff is a pleasant area to explore on foot. Consider combining it with nearby hiking trails. Reddit

For evening events, consider public transport like buses or taxis to avoid parking hassles. Check local bus schedules for late-night services. Reddit

Unfortunately, some reviews suggest that a wheelchair/pram accessible entrance might not be readily apparent. It's advisable to contact the cathedral directly for specific accessibility information. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Llandaff Cathedral is generally free, though donations are highly encouraged to support its upkeep. Reddit

No, typically you do not need to book tickets for general visits. However, for special events like concerts, advance booking might be required. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially during services or special events. It's best to check the official Llandaff Cathedral website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

While entry is free, donations are very much appreciated as the cathedral relies on them for its daily running costs. Reddit

Yes, Llandaff Cathedral holds regular services. Check their schedule if you wish to attend a service during your visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted inside Llandaff Cathedral, but it's important to refrain from taking pictures during services to respect worshippers and for data protection reasons. Reddit

The main restriction is to avoid photography during services. Always be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash if it might be disruptive. Reddit

The Pulpitum with the Majestas sculpture, the stained glass windows, and the various chapels offer excellent photographic opportunities. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted around religious buildings and historical sites. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by the cathedral authorities. TikTok

Searching for 'Llandaff Cathedral interior' or 'Llandaff Cathedral architecture' on image search engines or social media platforms like Instagram will yield many beautiful results. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Llandaff Cathedral is a significant medieval and later building, notable for its extensive war damage and subsequent restoration by George Pace, incorporating radical 20th-century architectural interventions. Reddit

Key features include the 10th-century Celtic Cross, the striking George Pace-designed Pulpitum, Jacob Epstein's Majestas sculpture, and beautiful stained glass windows. TikTokReddit

Volunteers are often on hand to share the history of the cathedral, offering insights into its past. Inquire upon arrival about available information. Reddit

Llandaff Cathedral houses several small chapels, including one dedicated to the Royal Regiment of Wales/Welsh Regiment and the Mary Chapel. Reddit

The cathedral suffered significant damage during WWII from a parachute mine. The restoration led by George Pace from 1949-1963 was a major architectural undertaking. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the cathedral itself has a small gift shop, there are likely cafes and restaurants in the Llandaff area or a short bus ride back towards Cardiff city centre. Reddit

It's generally best to consume food and drinks outside the main cathedral area to preserve the sanctity of the space. Check for specific guidelines. Reddit

The cathedral has a small gift shop, but a dedicated cafe is not prominently mentioned in visitor reviews. Reddit

The Llandaff area offers various dining options, from traditional pubs to cafes. Exploring the local streets will reveal several choices. Reddit

There are likely green spaces or parks near the cathedral where a picnic could be enjoyed, especially if you're exploring the nearby hiking trails. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Llandaff Cathedral can be a fascinating visit for families. While the historical and architectural details might appeal more to adults, the sheer scale of the building and the stories of its past, including wartime damage and rebuilding, can capture children's imaginations. The Majestas sculpture is particularly striking and can spark conversations. Reddit

Consider focusing on the visual aspects like the stained glass windows and the Celtic Cross. If visiting during good weather, the nearby hiking trails offer a great way for kids to burn off energy after exploring the cathedral. Remember to check for any specific family-friendly events or activities the cathedral might host. Reddit

⛪ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those with a keen interest in history and architecture, Llandaff Cathedral is a must-visit. The site boasts a 10th-century Celtic Cross, offering a glimpse into early Christian history in Wales. TikTok The cathedral's complex history, including its significant war damage and subsequent restoration by George Pace, provides a rich narrative. Reddit

Pay close attention to Pace's radical interventions, particularly the Pulpitum and the Majestas sculpture by Jacob Epstein, which are considered significant works of 20th-century art and architecture. The blend of medieval, Victorian, and mid-century modern elements creates a unique architectural dialogue within the building. Reddit

🎵 Music Lovers

Llandaff Cathedral is a renowned venue for musical performances, particularly classical concerts. If you're planning a visit, check the cathedral's schedule for any upcoming events, such as performances of Vivaldi's Four Seasons. Reddit Attending a concert here offers a unique opportunity to experience the cathedral's acoustics and ambiance. Reddit

When attending a concert, remember that while formal wear isn't strictly necessary, 'smart casual' is a safe bet. Many attendees opt for a mix of attire, so focus on comfort while still being respectful of the venue. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Vision of George Pace

Llandaff Cathedral's post-war reconstruction is a testament to the bold vision of architect George Pace. Awarded the project after significant war damage, Pace set four key principles for his work: conserve surviving ancient and 19th-century elements, create new work that is clearly 20th century yet integrated, maintain aesthetic control, and ensure every intervention is a work of art. Reddit

His most notable contribution is the Pulpitum, a radical 20th-century structure that serves as an object rather than a traditional screen, defining the space between the nave and chancel. This audacious design, inspired by historical precedents and developed with full-size mock-ups, was intended to restore the cathedral's atmosphere. Reddit

Integrated with the Pulpitum is the Majestas, a powerful sculpture of Christ by Jacob Epstein, envisioned as reigning rather than defeated. Pace's work at Llandaff is celebrated for its synthesis of historical context and forward-thinking design, making it a unique example of post-war ecclesiastical architecture. Reddit

A Cathedral's Resilience: War Damage and Restoration

Llandaff Cathedral, like many British landmarks, bears the scars of World War II. A parachute mine landing in the adjacent cemetery caused extensive damage to the nave and other parts of the cathedral, making it one of the worst-affected after Coventry. Reddit

The subsequent restoration, led by architect George Pace from 1949 to 1963, was a monumental undertaking. Pace's approach was not merely to rebuild but to reimagine, integrating modern architectural interventions with the surviving historical fabric. This period of reconstruction is a significant chapter in the cathedral's long history, showcasing its resilience and capacity for renewal. Reddit

Visitors can still see the impact of this history, with memorials and chapels dedicated to armed services serving as poignant reminders. The restoration itself is a key attraction, highlighting the blend of old and new that defines Llandaff Cathedral today. Reddit

Exploring Llandaff's Surroundings

Beyond the cathedral's impressive architecture, the surrounding area of Llandaff offers further exploration. A short walk from the cathedral leads to wonderful hiking trails, providing an opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the local landscape. Reddit

The area itself is described as a 'leafy edge of Cardiff,' suggesting a peaceful and picturesque setting. This makes Llandaff an ideal destination for a day trip that combines historical and architectural interest with outdoor activity. Reddit

Consider dedicating time to explore the Llandaff area after your cathedral visit. The combination of the historic cathedral and the natural beauty of the nearby trails offers a well-rounded experience for visitors. Reddit

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