Llandaff Cathedral stands in the historic suburb of Llandaff, about two miles north-west of Cardiff city centre. Entry is free, and the visit brings together medieval architecture, stained glass, smaller chapels and a striking modern sculpture. Look for the 15th-century tower, the Italian temple and the 15-foot Christ in Majesty by Jacob Epstein. The cathedral sits near the River Taff, with a churchyard to explore after you leave the interior. Allow time to take in the quieter surroundings as well as the building.
A cathedral in historic Llandaff
Llandaff Cathedral is in the ancient suburb of Llandaff, about two miles north-west of Cardiff city centre and close to the River Taff. The name Llandaff comes from “llan ar Daf”, meaning the church settlement on the Taff. The cathedral remains a place of worship and is the mother church of the Diocese of Llandaff.
Christian worship on this site goes back to at least the sixth century, when St Dyfrig founded a community near a crossing of the River Taff. St Teilo and then his nephew St Euddogwy succeeded him. The present cathedral took shape from the 12th century, with much of the main building dating to the 13th century. It is dedicated to Welsh saints Dubricius, Teilo and Oudoceus, as well as Saints Peter and Paul.
Damage, rebuilding and surviving details
The cathedral’s long history includes repeated damage and repair. It was badly affected during Owain Glyndŵr’s rebellion, the English Civil War and the Great Storm of 1703. A bomb damaged the building during the Second World War, destroying the roof, and major restoration followed.
Look for the 15th-century tower and the 18th-century Italian temple among the exterior details. Inside, older architecture sits alongside later work. The cathedral includes pieces by Pre-Raphaelite artists, as well as Christ in Majesty, a 15-foot-tall aluminium sculpture by Jacob Epstein. Stained-glass windows, smaller chapels and sarcophagi add further points of interest as you move through the building.
Inside the cathedral and around the grounds
Give yourself time to look around the chapels, including the Lady Chapel and the Welsh Regiment Chapel, and to notice the mix of historic features and modern art. Candles contribute to the calm atmosphere. The building is also used for music performances, including candlelight concerts; seating at concerts is fixed and can feel close together, so consider that when deciding whether to book.
The churchyard offers a quieter continuation of the visit, with graves and paths in the cathedral’s grounds. The surrounding area retains a village character, and the cathedral is a short walk uphill from the river. To reach Llandaff from Cardiff, buses 24, 25, 62 and 63 run from Wood Street and stop in Llandaff. A guidebook from the cathedral gift shop can provide more detail as you explore.
Häufige Fragen
Is entry to Llandaff Cathedral free?
Yes. Entry is free.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Allow about 30 to 60 minutes to see the cathedral and its grounds.
How do you get to Llandaff Cathedral from Cardiff city centre?
Buses 24, 25, 62 and 63 from Wood Street stop in Llandaff. The cathedral is about two miles north-west of the city centre.
What should I look for inside Llandaff Cathedral?
Look for the stained-glass windows, the smaller chapels and Jacob Epstein’s 15-foot Christ in Majesty sculpture.
