Doctor Who and Cinematic Cardiff: Self Guided Walking Tour
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Doctor Who and Cinematic Cardiff: Self Guided Walking Tour

Active
(11 reviews)
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore Cardiff’s famous filming locations on this self-guided walking tour. You’ll see several iconic locations from Doctor Who, Torchwood, The Sarah-Jane Adventures, and a few more surprising television productions. Our tour starts at the iconic Cardiff Castle, where you’ll find out about its versatility as a TV location. You’ll walk around the new Canal Quarter and hear about directors, CGI enhancements, and a few film shoot stories. I’ll also share some of Cardiff’s war-time tales, medieval history, and how it grew from a small town to a massive coal-exporting city. Our tour ends at Cambrian Tap, a popular pub used in the BBC’s Sherlock, where you’ll have the option to sample local food and drink.

Available options

Doctor Who and Cinematic Cardiff: Self Guided Walking Tour

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Published by a professional, qualified guide
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1 Pass by

Marvel at the stunning Cardiff Castle, a historic fortress that has transformed into everything from an alien spaceship to a medieval stronghold in numerous TV shows. Explore its rich history as you wander through its impressive halls and towers.

2

Immerse yourself in the dramatic atmosphere of this imposing building, which has been used in numerous productions, including Doctor Who and Sherlock. Its grand architecture provides an impressive setting for courtroom dramas and tense scenes

3

Admire the grandeur of Cardiff City Hall, a striking example of Edwardian Baroque architecture. Learn about its role in TV series like Doctor Who as you stroll through its opulent interiors and stately grounds.

4

Admire the University’s historic buildings and leafy campus, which have appeared in many scenes requiring an academic setting. Including the Bute Building with it's distinctive architecture that has made it a prime location for filming, particularly for scenes set in academic or institutional environments.

5

Step inside the Temple of Peace, an Art Deco masterpiece that has doubled as various governmental and futuristic settings in Doctor Who. Reflect on its historical significance as a monument to peace.

6

Relax in the serene Alexandra Gardens, where tranquil pathways and beautiful landscapes have been featured in numerous TV scenes. Take in the peaceful surroundings as you learn about Cardiff's connections to the small screen.

7
Stop 7 Pass by

Discover the treasures within the National Museum Cardiff, where art, archaeology, and natural history converge. Enjoy the museum’s stunning architecture, often featured as a backdrop in Doctor Who and other dramas.

8

Wander through the ancient St John The Baptist City Parish Church, one of Cardiff’s oldest buildings. Marvel at its Gothic architecture and experience the quiet reverence of this historic site.

9

Explore the newly developed Canal Quarter, where modern design meets historical remnants. Learn about the area’s transformation and its role in Cardiff’s evolving landscape.

10

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a bustling Victorian hub where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of local life. Imagine the everyday scenes that have been filmed here, capturing the essence of Cardiff.

11

Stroll through the charming Castle Arcade, a Victorian shopping arcade filled with independent shops and cafes. Savor the unique architecture and cozy atmosphere, perfect for scenes of intimate character interactions.

12

Conclude your tour at Cambrian Tap, a popular Cardiff pub featured in Sherlock. Enjoy a pint and some local fare as you reminisce about your journey through Cardiff’s rich television history.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones
Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Available languages

Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 5.0
9 reviews
5★
9
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The tour begins at the main entrance to Cardiff Castle on Castle Street. This central location is easy to reach on foot if you are staying in the city centre. It is a 5-minute walk from Cardiff Central and Cardiff Queen Street train stations and Cardiff Bus Station.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

───

Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

Create an account

Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Cardiff

Cardiff, the vibrant capital of Wales, is a city rich in history and culture. Known for its stunning medieval castles, lively waterfront, and thriving arts scene, it offers a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions. The city's friendly atmosphere and diverse culinary scene make it an appealing destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Cardiff Castle

A stunning medieval castle in the heart of the city, offering guided tours and historical exhibitions.

Historical 2-3 hours £15-£25

Cardiff Bay

A vibrant waterfront area with restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions.

Entertainment Half day Free to explore

National Museum Cardiff

A museum showcasing Welsh art, geology, and natural history.

Museum 2-3 hours Free entry

Must-Try Local Dishes

Welsh Rarebit

A savory dish made with a hot cheese-based sauce served over toasted bread.

Dinner Contains gluten and dairy

Welsh Cakes

Sweet griddle cakes made with flour, butter, eggs, and currants.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby countryside Surfing at Bartholomew's Beach Picnicking in Bute Park Spa treatments at luxury hotels Visiting museums and galleries Attending performances at the Wales Millennium Centre Boat tours in Cardiff Bay Kayaking in the Taff River

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous festivals. Expect crowded attractions and higher prices.

15-22°C 59-72°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English, Welsh
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

Pound Sterling (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cardiff is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.

Getting there

By air
  • Cardiff Airport • 14 km (9 miles) from city center
By train

Cardiff Central

By bus

Cardiff Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and covers most of the city. The network includes frequent services to major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cardiff Bay Cathays

Day trips

Caerphilly Castle
12 km (7.5 miles) • Half day

A well-preserved medieval castle with a moat and drawbridge.

Bartholomew's Beach
15 km (9.3 miles) • Full day

A popular beach with golden sands and clear waters.

Festivals

Cardiff International Food and Drink Festival • July Cardiff Festival of Walling • September

Pro tips

  • Visit Cardiff Castle early in the morning to avoid crowds.
  • Explore the city's vibrant street art scene in the city center.
  • Take a boat tour of Cardiff Bay for a unique perspective of the city.
  • Try local Welsh dishes at traditional pubs and markets.
  • Use the Cardiff Bus app for real-time updates and ticket purchases.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 6-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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