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City Breaks in Cardiff
Things To Do In Cardiff In November 2025
From fireworks to fairy lights, Cardiff shines bright in November
As the capital of Wales, Cardiff never slows down - not even when the clocks go back and the days grow shorter. November in Cardiff is a wonderful mix of cosy pub evenings, vibrant city events, and the first hints of festive sparkle. Whether you're planning a weekend city break or you're local and looking for inspiration, there's plenty to keep you entertained.
If you're visiting Cardiff in November, Future Inns makes the perfect base for your stay. Conveniently located in the heart of Cardiff Bay, it's within easy reach of the city centre, theatres, live music venues, and attractions. The hotel offers spacious bedrooms that sleep up to four, free parking, and a hearty Welsh breakfast to set you up for a full day of exploring. It's ideal for families (with kids staying free), couples on a weekend break, or solo travellers soaking up the city's vibrant atmosphere. After a busy day of sightseeing or events, warm up with dinner in Thomas Bar & Restaurant, where you'll find fresh, locally sourced dishes served with a modern Welsh twist.
Book RoomWhat's On November
If you're visiting Wales in November, expect a city that knows how to embrace the season - with fireworks, Beaujolais Day parties, comedy nights, and Christmas lights transforming the streets. Here's your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Cardiff in November.
Cardiff's events calendar doesn't disappoint. From Bonfire Night celebrations and live music to theatre shows and festive fun, there's always something happening.
Bonfire Night Cardiff
If you're looking for things to do 5th November, Cardiff lights up the sky with spectacular fireworks displays, where you can expect family-friendly fun, food stalls, and dazzling fireworks set to music. Smaller community bonfires can also be found across the city, including displays in St Mellons, Whitchurch, and Caerphilly (just a short drive away). Wrap up warm, grab a hot chocolate, and enjoy a night of sparkles under the Welsh sky.
Beaujolais Day in Cardiff
One of the city's most beloved November traditions is Beaujolais Day. Cardiff takes it seriously - some might say more seriously than the French! Held on the third Thursday of November, it marks the arrival of the first bottles of Beaujolais Nouveau wine from France. Expect restaurants and bars across the city centre to be buzzing with groups of friends and colleagues celebrating with long lunches, great food, and plenty of drinks. It's a quintessential Cardiff experience - part fine dining, part fashion show, and completely joyous.
Autumn Internationals in Cardiff
Sports fans can enjoy the Autumn Nations Series at the Principality Stadium this season. It's a thrilling time to experience Welsh rugby live, with an atmosphere in the stadium that is unmatched.
If you're planning to visit Cardiff for the rugby, our Rugby Fans' Guide to Cardiff offers a comprehensive overview of matchday experiences. From the electric atmosphere in the city centre, with pop-up stores offering team merchandise and a carnival-like vibe as fans make their way to the Principality Stadium. With practical tips on getting to the stadium, and where to eat and drink, ensure you make the most of your rugby experience in Cardiff.
Rugby and Football Season
November is the perfect time to catch Cardiff Blues or Cardiff City Football Club fixtures. With matches taking place across the city, fans can immerse themselves in the local sporting passion and enjoy a lively autumn day out. Future Inn Cardiff welcomes both home and away supporters, offering a comfortable base with spacious bedrooms, free WiFi, and on-site dining. After the game, relax with a hearty meal or unwind in the cosy hotel bar.
Experience Theatre at the Wales Millennium Centre
For a dose of culture and Welsh theatre, head to the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff Bay. This striking building, with its iconic copper façade, hosts everything from West End musicals to opera, ballet, and local performances. November's programme often features touring shows - so whether you fancy a big musical, a dance show, or a classical concert, you'll find something to enjoy.
Donald Gordon Theatre
Weston Studio
Cabaret
20% Off Bed & Breakfast
Ticket holders for the Welsh National Opera or the Wales Millennium Centre get 20% off bed and breakfast breaks at Future Inn Cardiff. The promotional code is available from the ticket office and can be used to book online or over the phone.
The Wales Millennium Centre is approximately a 10-minute walk from Future Inns, with the quickest route cutting through the Red Dragon Centre.
Pre-theatre dining is also available in Thomas Bar and Restaurant. Special offers include a Taste of Wales Afternoon Tea and 3 courses for £27.
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See A Show At The Utilita Arena
The Utilita Arena (formerly the Motorpoint and Cardiff International Arena) is the city's biggest indoor venue for concerts and large-scale entertainment. November typically brings a line-up of major tours, from pop and rock artists to live podcasts and special events. If you love live music or comedy on a grand scale, this is the place to be. Some of the acts you can see this year are:
Comedy Performance at The Glee Club
Looking for laughter to beat the winter chill? The Glee Club in Cardiff Bay is one of the UK's best-known comedy venues, hosting stand-up from household names and rising stars alike. The atmosphere is intimate, friendly, and always buzzing. You can grab some food and drinks before the show - and even stay on for late-night gigs. Plus, it's only a 10-minute walk from Future Inns!
Experience Tramshed
Located just outside the city centre - just a 10-minute walk - Tramshed is a converted tram depot turned cool cultural venue. It hosts live music, club nights, film screenings, and even fitness events. The events calendar is always diverse and creative.
Bingo Lingo at DEPOT
If you've never experienced Bingo Lingo, November is your chance. Hosted at DEPOT, Cardiff's original independent warehouse venue, it's a chaotic, hilarious mix of bingo, music, and madness. Expect confetti cannons, crowd sing-alongs, and some truly questionable dance moves. Perfect for groups of friends, it's one of Cardiff's most unique nights out. Found on Dumballs Road, you can walk from Future Inns, or it's an 8-minute taxi ride.
Kids Shows Cardiff
November brings plenty of kids shows in Cardiff, perfect for families looking for rainy-day entertainment. The New Theatre and Sherman Theatre often host family-friendly productions, from classic fairy tales to early Christmas pantos.
If you're visiting with little ones, pop into the Techniquest Science Discovery Centre in Cardiff Bay. Its hands-on exhibits are ideal for curious minds, and it's fully indoors, making it perfect for chilly November days. Just across the car park from Future Inns, the Red Dragon Centre is one of Cardiff's top entertainment hubs. Whether you fancy catching the latest blockbuster, challenging your friends to a bowling match, or simply tucking into some comfort food, it's one of the best indoor attractions in Cardiff Bay during the colder months.
Christmas Light Switch On
November naturally leads into Cardiff's festive season, so it's worth planning ahead if your visit overlaps into early December. You may think getting festive is one of the things to do in Cardiff in December, but it actually kicks off on Thursday 13 November 2025 with the Cardiff Christmas Light Switch On.
From late November, Christmas at Bute Park transforms the park into a magical light trail. Expect illuminated sculptures, tunnels of light, and festive food stalls. While no Cardiff Christmas is complete without Winter Wonderland. Split between the Cardiff Castle grounds and City Hall Lawn, it features an ice rink, a funfair, and cosy alpine bars serving mulled wine.
Christmas Shopping in Cardiff
With large shopping centres, high street favourites, individual stores, and a thriving indoor market, Cardiff is the ideal destination for a shopping trip. The real highlight of Cardiff's retail scene is the Victorian and Edwardian arcades, full of independent boutiques and cafés, which are worth visiting as architectural gems.
The Cardiff Christmas Market also opens on Thursday 13 November 2025, and is open daily between 10am and 6pm (5pm on Sundays). Over 200 individual businesses in Alpine-style huts on St John Street, Working Street, Hills Street, Trinity Street and the Hayes, known as the Festive Quarter.
Shopping in Cardiff
Cardiff's Top Attractions to Visit in November
While the city's events bring energy, Cardiff's landmarks and museums offer culture, history, and warmth from the weather.
November Walks in Cardiff
Nature lovers can embrace the season with scenic autumn walks throughout Cardiff, where the city's green spaces and waterfronts come alive with colour.
For more ideas, discover the best secret gardens in Cardiff.
Cardiff Walking Tour
Autumn in Cardiff offers a unique opportunity to explore the city through Fogo's Free Walking Tours. These guided walks delve into Cardiff's rich history, vibrant culture, and architectural beauty, all set against the backdrop of the season's changing colours. The tour meets every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday at 11 am, at the John Batchelor Statue on The Hayes in the city centre.
Cycling in Cardiff
November is a fantastic time to explore Cardiff by bike, with cooler temperatures, colourful leaves, and less crowded streets making every ride enjoyable. Some of the best cycling routes start from Future Inns and take you along the scenic Taff Trail, following the River Taff past Bute Park and Cardiff Castle. You can also cycle in Cardiff Bay, enjoying views of the Wales Millennium Centre and the historic Norwegian Church.
Future Inn Cardiff is a cycle-friendly hotel and facilities include:
Cardiff Castle
Right in the heart of the city centre, Cardiff Castle is an absolute must. With 2,000 years of history, you can explore Roman ruins, medieval towers, and lavish Victorian Gothic rooms. During November, the castle often hosts Christmas events and markets, making it even more magical. Don't forget to climb the Norman Keep for an incredible view over the city.
If you live or work in Cardiff, you can get a FREE castle key. Admission gets you entry to a selection of lavishly decorated rooms in the Castle Apartments, The Norman Keep, Battlement Walk, Wartime Shelters, Firing Line: Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier, Interpretation Centre and audio guide (subject to availability) and Cardiff Castle Grounds. The key also gives you discounts on special events and in the gift shop.
National Museum Cardiff
For art, science, and natural history all under one roof, the National Museum Cardiff is perfect for a rainy November afternoon. From dinosaurs to Impressionist paintings, there's something for every interest. Entry is free, and you can easily spend a few hours exploring the exhibitions.
St Fagans National Museum of History
If you love Welsh history, the St Fagans National Museum is a must-see. Just a short drive from Future Inns, it's an open-air museum showcasing Welsh life through the centuries. Wander through reconstructed cottages, farmhouses, and chapels, all set within beautiful parkland. Autumn leaves make it especially picturesque in November - and the traditional bakery is always worth a visit for fresh Welsh cakes or The Vulcan pub for a local pint.
Cardiff Bay
Down by the water, Cardiff Bay offers a lovely mix of attractions, walks, and restaurants. You can visit the Senedd (Welsh Parliament), stroll the bay barrage, and stop for a Welshcake in Mermaid Quay. If you're after something a little different, try a boat trip around the Bay (many run year-round, weather permitting), or pop into The Norwegian Church Arts Centre for coffee and a local exhibition.
Autumn In Cardiff
Why is autumn in Cardiff so special?
As the days grow shorter and the crisp air rolls in, Cardiff transforms into a city brimming with colour and activity. The changing leaves in parks, the riverside views, and the abundance of autumn-themed events make it the perfect time to explore Wales' capital.
From family-friendly activities to cultural highlights, there's a rich variety of experiences waiting for every visitor during this magical time of year.
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Unusual Things To Do in Cardiff
If you're looking for something a bit different, try one (or several!) of these fun and different experiences:
Hotel in Cardiff Bay
Future Inn Cardiff is a modern and comfortable hotel in the heart of Cardiff Bay, one of the city's most vibrant areas.
The hotel is conveniently located near main access roads and public transportation, making it easy to explore the city.
This well-appointed hotel offers a range of amenities, ensuring a pleasant and convenient stay.
Alongside its excellent location, the hotel boasts spacious and airy bedrooms - all of which sleep up to four guests - that feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, a desk and workspace, and a laptop safe.
Added comforts such as complimentary robes, tea and coffee-making facilities, and filtered water enhance the overall experience.
Plus, home away from home services like the guest laundry room, ice buckets and wine glasses.
There's also electric car charging and free parking, which are rare in such a central location.
Future Club Rewards
For additional benefits, you can join the Future Inns hotel loyalty program.
Alongside a member's discount rate, for every £1 you spend on accommodation, you earn 1 reward point.
You also get a complimentary drink voucher to redeem in the bar when you dine. Plus, you get double points when you eat in the restaurant.
Points collected can then be used to upgrade your bedroom to a suite or a free night's stay. It's also completely free to join!
Cardiff Bay Restaurant
Thomas Restaurant is a vibrant dining venue in the heart of Cardiff Bay that offers a memorable culinary experience.
Known for serving locally sourced produce, the menu showcases a delightful range of British and Welsh dishes, ensuring that diners can enjoy an authentic taste of the region.
From hearty breakfasts to leisurely lunches and indulgent dinners, it is ideal for both hotel guests and locals alike.
Additionally, the restaurant features an inviting bar area, perfect for enjoying a drink. In the summer months, take advantage of the outdoor terrace.
A large selection of drinks is also available, including popular local brands Brains beers, Penderyn whiskey and vodka, Benjamin Hall gins, and Cariad wines.
Naturally, there's a good choice of soft drinks, including refreshing fruit juices, tea, coffee, and mocktails.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the weather in Wales in November?
Expect temperatures between 6°C and 11°C, with crisp mornings and occasional rain. Bring layers, a waterproof coat, and good walking shoes.
In Cardiff, November marks the transition from autumn to winter, bringing cooler temperatures and a cosy atmosphere to the city. Daytime highs average around 10°C, while evenings can dip to 3°C to 5°C, so layering up is essential. As one of the wetter months, you can expect occasional rain showers and overcast skies, though these only add to the city’s charm - perfect for warming up in a café or exploring one of Cardiff’s many indoor attractions. The city looks particularly pretty when mist hangs over the Castle or the Taff River. With around eight to nine hours of daylight and early sunsets just after 4.30pm.
Where to go in Wales in November?
Beyond Cardiff, explore Brecon Beacons National Park, Tenby, or Conwy in North Wales for historic charm. However, Cardiff remains one of the best urban destinations for culture, food, and events during the colder months.
What are the best places to visit in Wales in November?
Cardiff, Swansea Bay, and Snowdonia are great choices. If you're short on time, Cardiff gives you a taste of Welsh life - from history to nightlife - all in one compact, walkable city.
What are the things to do in Wales in November?
There's no shortage of options: fireworks, food festivals, cosy pubs, theatre shows, and scenic walks. Cardiff alone offers enough to fill a long weekend.
What to do in Cardiff for a day?
Start at Cardiff Castle, wander through Bute Park, visit the National Museum, then head to Cardiff Bay for dinner and drinks.
What to do in Cardiff for two days?
Add a show at the Wales Millennium Centre or Glee Club, explore St Fagans, and take a scenic walk or bike ride along the Taff Trail.
Is Cardiff worth visiting?
Absolutely. It's friendly, compact, and full of character - offering culture, nightlife, and natural beauty all in one place.
What are the must-do activities while visiting Cardiff?
Visit Cardiff Castle, see a show at the Wales Millennium Centre, explore Cardiff Bay, and enjoy the city's thriving food and live music scene.
What are the things that Wales is known for and should be part of any must-do lists?
Wales is famous for its castles, coastal scenery, rugby, and Welsh culture. Don't leave without sampling local dishes like Glamorgan sausages, Welsh rarebit, lamb cawl and bara brith, hearing the language, and learning a bit about its proud history.
