Once again, Cardiff lived up to its reputation as Britain’s wettest city, with my two days in the capital being accompanied by a near-incessant drizzle.
Being Welsh, I’m used to the rain, and find there’s a certain melancholy beauty to the rain-lashed streets when they’re reflecting the festive lights.
Located on St John Street, Working Street, Hills Street, Trinity Street and the Hayes, the Christmas market has grown considerably in size in recent years, although the relentless rain had dampened festive spirits when I walked past.
Early evening view.
The big windmill was back again.
Baubles galore.
Rush hour in Cardiff Queen Street as commuters pack into an antique train.
The street artwork seemed appropriate.
More rainy views.
The iconic H Samuel clock ‘Everite Time’ in Cardiff Market seems doomed to never work again.
Church Street.
Cafe Citta, a family-run Italian cafe/restaurant, delivered a delicious pizza and pancake special. Recommended!
Back on the street, the rain continued to bucket down.
Inside the Tiny Rebel bar in Westgate Street.
Dorothy’s and Tony’s – two long-serving legends of Cardiff’s ‘Chip Alley’ (Caroline Street).
A near-deserted The Hayes.
We popped in for a late drink at the fabulous Golden Cross pub at the junction of Customhouse Street and Hayes Bridge Road.
A karaoke competition was taking place, complete with a trio of judges casting their verdict on each act. It was great fun.
Read my earlier feature: Glazed tiles, Grade II listing and drag acts: the wonderful Golden Cross pub in Cardiff
Now with a population of 350,000, Cardiff is among the fastest growing cities in the UK, and new buildings are cropping up all over town.
Sadly there seems to be very little visual coherence from one new build to the next, so the skyline is beginning to look a mess.
Formerly known as Snelling House and serving as the headquarters of Wales Gas, this 1966 tower block has been converted into a hotel.
Here’s a real eyesore.
The rain temporarily eased up in the morning. But not for long…
Queen Street view.
A true ‘Christmas Wonderland.’
Santa’s Grotto on Queen Street.
I liked these fairy light deer outside Cardiff Castle.
Arcade view.
Spillers Records.
The rain returned in the late afternoon.
A soaked St Mary Street.
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