Norwegian Church Arts Centre
Harbour Drive, Cardiff, Glamorgan, CF10 4PT
Originally built as a place of worship, the Norwegian Church Arts Centre is now a local art gallery and café, which regularly hosts live music sets from its advantageous spot on the water at Cardiff Bay. Travelers can also enjoy panoramic views of the Bay from the outdoor terrace of this strikingly white Arts Centre, a building quite unlike any other in Cardiff.
The Basics
Originally built in 1868 for Lutheran Norwegian sailors, the Norwegian Church was donated to the city and eventually relocated to its current spot in 1992 when the Millennium Centre was under construction. Explore the Dahl Gallery, an exhibition space dedicated to homegrown Welsh talent; enjoy a homemade cake at the onsite café; or simply enjoy the views over the water at the recently-redeveloped Cardiff Bay.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Recharge at the onsite café, which serves homemade cakes and snacks, alongside tea and coffee.
- Roald Dahl fans will be pleased to learn that the Welsh author of Norwegian heritage was baptized at the Norwegian Church.
- The Norwegian Church has beautiful views over Cardiff Bay.
- Dahl’s silver christening bowl can be seen on display at the Norwegian Church Arts Centre.
- Braille menus are available for partially-sighted or blind guests.
How to Get There
The Norwegian Church is situated between the Waterfront and Britannia Parks at Cardiff Bay, about a 30-minute walk from the city center. Public transport connections between Cardiff center and the Bay are also excellent, with several regular trains and buses running between the two daily. There’s even a water taxi service which leaves for the Bay from outside Cardiff Castle.
When to Get There
Open daily from 10:30am to 6pm, the Norwegian Church is an excellent place to take a break while exploring Cardiff Bay and admission is free. Hot food isn’t available after 5pm though. September is also a great time to visit, as the Norwegian Church pays homage throughout the month to famous former worshipper, Roald Dahl.
Other religious buildings in and around Cardiff
While the Norwegian Church no longer operates as such, there are many other religious points of interest in and around Cardiff, including the Grade II-listed Shah Jalal Mosque and the 12th century Anglican Llandaff Cathedral, which features Jacob Epstein’s “Christ in Majesty” statue. Both can be visited independently and for free.
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