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Home > Wales > Things to do in South Wales > Principality Stadium Tour

Principality Stadium Tour

The Principality Stadium Tour) is still open and welcoming visitors.

The Experience and What to See

The tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most iconic sporting venues. Located in the heart of Cardiff City Centre on Westgate Street, it is the national stadium of Wales.

During the tour, you can:

  • Visit the Home and Away Dressing Rooms to see where players prepare.
  • Walk through the Players’ Tunnel out toward the hallowed turf.
  • Sit in the Ray Gravell Press Conference Suite and experience the media side of the game.
  • Explore the VIP areas, including the Presidents Box and various hospitality suites.
  • Learn about the stadium’s history, covering everything from major rugby and football matches to massive rock concerts by artists like Beyoncé and the Rolling Stones.

Typically, visitors spend approximately 75 to 90 minutes on the guided tour.

Who Will Enjoy It Most

  • Sports Enthusiasts: Rugby and football fans will get the most out of the technical and historical insights provided by the guides.
  • Families: Children often enjoy the thrill of the tunnel walk and the chance to sit in the dressing rooms.
  • History and Architecture Buffs: Those interested in modern engineering will appreciate learning about the unique retractable roof.

Suitability and Accessibility

The tour is generally suitable for all, though personal circumstances can affect the experience:

  • Mobility Needs: The stadium is largely accessible, with lifts available. However, some areas like the steep stands may be challenging for those with limited mobility or a fear of heights.
  • Working Venue: Because it is a “working” stadium, the pitch may be covered or the roof closed depending on event schedules, which can occasionally limit the “full” visual experience.

Best Time to Visit

  • Quieter Times: Weekdays during school term time are generally much quieter than weekends.
  • Best Atmosphere: If you want to feel the “buzz,” look for Match Day Tours (available on the morning of some events), which offer a unique pre-kick-off energy.
  • Weather: Since most of the tour is indoors or under the stadium’s massive roof, it is an excellent all-weather activity, perfect for rainy Welsh days.

What Makes It Unique

Unlike other nearby heritage sites like Cardiff Castle, the stadium offers a modern, high-energy contrast. It is one of the few stadiums in the world located directly in a city centre, making it feel integral to the urban landscape. Its fully retractable roof is a feature few other UK stadiums can claim.

Budget and Offers

For those on a tight budget:

  • Concessions and Student Rates: Discounted tickets are available for seniors, students, and children under 16.
  • Under 5s: Children under the age of 5 can typically join the tour for free (excluding special events like Santa Tours).
  • Group Bookings: Booking for a large group can often secure a better rate per person.
  • Annual Memberships: While there isn’t a traditional “unlimited entry” annual membership like a museum, signing up for the stadium’s digital eZine can provide alerts for ticket offers and seasonal discounts.

Visitor Advice

  • Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as there is a fair amount of walking and some stairs involved.
  • Food and Drink: While there are no specific areas to eat during the tour itself, the stadium’s central location means dozens of restaurants and cafes are just a few minutes’ walk away. Note that bringing outside food into the stadium during events is often restricted, but for a standard tour, it is less of an issue until you enter sensitive areas.
  • Parking: The stadium does not have its own public car park. Use city centre NCP car parks or “Park and Ride” services. The NCP on Westgate Street is the most convenient but can be expensive.
  • Booking: Always book in advance, especially during school holidays or near major event days, as tours often sell out or are cancelled for stadium maintenance.