X
Future Inns

REWARDS

LOGIN | REGISTER
|

Cardiff Rugby | The Cardiff Blues

Playing at the Cardiff Arms Park, both home fans and away supporters are welcome at Future Inn Cardiff.

 

Stay close to all the action at The Arms Park by booking your stay at Future Inn Cardiff. Perfect for rugby fans, families, and groups, the hotel offers spacious bedrooms with large Canadian-style beds, free WiFi, and tea and coffee facilities. Kids stay free and under-fives eat free, making it ideal for families. Enjoy free on-site parking and electric car charging, making it easy to get to and from the stadium. With the city centre and Cardiff Bay just a short distance away, plus our on-site Thomas Restaurant & Bar serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Future Inn Cardiff is the ultimate base for matchdays and city breaks alike.

Book a Room

Rugby Cardiff

Cardiff Rugby, formerly known as Cardiff Blues Rugby Club, is one of the most iconic names in Welsh sport. Based in the capital city, the club Cardiff is a symbol of both tradition and modern rugby excellence. With a rich history, world-class players, and a loyal fan base, it holds a special place not only in Wales but across the rugby world.

From Cardiff Blues to Cardiff Rugby

Until 2021, the side competed under the name Cardiff Blues, before reclaiming its heritage through a bold rebrand. The new name, Cardiff Rugby, reflects its deep ties with rugby clubs in Cardiff and a return to its strong regional roots. Fans still check the Cardiff Blues fixtures as part of the club’s identity, but the rebrand marked a fresh era for the team.

The Home of Rugby at Cardiff Arms Park

The team plays at the legendary Cardiff Arms Park, nestled right next to the Principality Stadium in the heart of the city. For anyone passionate about rugby at Cardiff, a match here is a bucket-list experience. The stadium has hosted historic internationals and European nights, and remains the heartbeat of professional rugby in Wales’ capital.

Competitions and Achievements

Cardiff Rugby competes in the United Rugby Championship (URC), where they face teams from Ireland, Italy, Scotland, and South African regions. They also battle in European competitions, including the Champions Cup and European Rugby Challenge Cup.

One of their greatest triumphs came in 2018, when Cardiff clinched the Challenge Cup in a dramatic victory over Gloucester, winning 31–30 in the final. The match remains one of the most memorable moments in club history, showcasing the grit and determination that define the side. Cardiff have also had strong runs in the European Rugby Champions Cup, testing themselves against Europe’s elite.

Famous Players and Lions

The club has always been known for producing and nurturing top talent. Over the years, stars like Williams and Davies have worn the jersey with pride, leaving a lasting legacy. Cardiff Rugby has also contributed numerous internationals to Wales, many of whom went on to represent the Irish Lions and the British & Irish Lions on famous tours.

Players from Cardiff have played key roles on the global stage, competing against New Zealand, South Africa, and beyond, proving that the club’s influence stretches far wider than the Welsh capital.

Style of Play and Rivalries

Cardiff Rugby is known for fast, attacking rugby that entertains fans week after week. Matches against regional rivals, especially the Ospreys, Scarlets, and Dragons, are fierce and passionate, carrying extra weight in the URC calendar. Fans eagerly await every season, whether at home or away, for the chance to see their team claim a victory over traditional foes.

Cardiff Rugby Today

The club continues to develop new players from its academy, ensuring the future of Welsh rugby remains strong. Cardiff is not just a professional side but part of a wider rugby community, inspiring the south of Wales and beyond.

The rebrand has given the club renewed focus, strengthening ties with the local identity while maintaining ambitions on the European stage. Whether it’s a Friday night league clash under the lights at Arms Park or a European knockout game, Cardiff Rugby delivers unforgettable sporting occasions.

Cardiff Rugby and the City

What makes Cardiff Rugby so special is its deep connection with the city. Rugby in the capital is more than just a game – it’s a way of life. Thousands of fans flock to Arms Park, while pubs, restaurants, and hotels across Cardiff come alive on match day. For visitors, it’s a chance to experience authentic Welsh culture through sport.

Looking Ahead

As Cardiff Rugby pushes on in the URC and European competitions, eyes are firmly set on future silverware. The club’s mix of seasoned internationals and exciting young talent gives fans hope of more magical European nights, memorable finals, and landmark victories.

Cardiff Rugby’s story is one of resilience, heritage, and ambition – a story that continues to inspire generations of rugby supporters in Wales and beyond.

Read More

MORE INFORMATION

Hotel near Cardiff Arms Park

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.

Book a Room

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!

More information

Getting to Cardiff Rugby from Future Inn Cardiff

  • By Car - The Cardiff Arms Park is an 11-minute taxi ride from Future Inn Cardiff. On match days, parking is available, subject to availability. An NCP multi-storey car park is close to Cardiff Arms Park and is priced by the hour.
  • By Bus - The number 6 Bay Car bus leaves from Lloyd George Avenue, a short walk from the hotel, and takes you directly to Cardiff Central Bus Station. From there, it is a further 8-minute walk to Cardiff Arms Park.
  • By Train - Cardiff Bay train station is a 5-minute walk from the hotel and takes you to Cardiff Queen Street station. From there, it's a 12-minute walk to Cardiff Arms Park. Alternatively, you could change lines for Cardiff Central and then walk for 9 minutes.
  • By Bike - Future Inn Cardiff is a cycle-friendly hotel, and we allow guests to store their bikes in their rooms, complete with cycle mats supplied. It takes around 14 minutes to cycle from the hotel.
  • By Water - The Aquabus (water taxi) goes from Cardiff Bay to Bute Park, opposite the Cardiff Arms Park and Principality Stadium. It runs all year round, weather permitting, between 1030 and 1630. It takes around 25 minutes. 
  • On Foot - It would take around 32 minutes to walk from the hotel. 

 

A Rugby Fans Guide to Cardiff

Locals and visitors alike will tell you that there is nothing better than the atmosphere in Cardiff on an international rugby day! Even if you're not the biggest fan, the energy, fun and entertainment that lasts throughout the day and into the night is second to none. 

If you're heading to Cardiff for the rugby, “A Rugby Fan’s Guide to Cardiff” is packed with tips to help you make the most of your match-day experience. It highlights the buzzing atmosphere in the city centre when Wales play at the Principality Stadium.

More information

Cardiff 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.

Room service is available 24 hours a day.

Reservations can be made on 02920 487111 or thomas@futureinns.co.uk, or online: 

Book a Table

Explore nearby

Welsh Rugby Union

Explore

Principality Stadium

Explore

Wales National Football Team

Explore

What's On & Local Events

Find Out What's On!

Bedrooms

Spacious rooms that sleep up to four.

View Rooms

Thomas Restaurant

Feeling peckish? See what we have to offer.

Explore

For the latest news and exclusive offers

Sign Up

Book Room Book a Table Buy a gift voucher Join Rewards Club