Seeing Cardiff City from above is an experience that can’t be miss! With so much to feast your eyes on your first flying lesson, keep an eye out for our top ten things to spot. Why not share your sightseeing experience with a loved on in our Flight for two!
1. Cardiff Bay
Cardiff Bay is Europe’s Largest Waterfront development spanning pretty much the whole former dockyards. With over 2,700 acres of waterfront, it is a major must see when flying over Cardiff. Spot its magnificent harbour protected by the Barrage along with the various notable buildings including: The Senedd, Norwegian Church, Wales Millennium Centre, Techiquest and Roald Dahl Plass.
2. Cardiff Castle
This 2000yr old Roman fortress is one of Wales most visited heritage attractions. Sitting proudly on its mount, this historical landmark is an easy spot from the skies. Capture its magnificent forts dating back to the 11thcentury along with its amazing gardens and parkland grounds.
If you’re thinking of visiting Cardiff Castle after your flight, you can purchase a Cardiff Castle Admission in advance of your visit.
3. Caerphilly Castle
Built in 1628 and the largest castle in Wales, Caerphilly Castle won’t be too difficult to spot from the air. Admire its renown famous leaning tower that has leaned 3m out since 1648, as well as its two classic drawbridges that span the width of its impressive moat surrounding the fortress when down.
It costs £5.50 per adult. Senior citizens, students and children under 16 are £4.10 for entry.
4. Pierhead Building
The unmistakeable red bricked Pierhead can’t be missed when having a flying lesson around the Welsh skies. Located on the North-east bank of Cardiff Bay, the Pierhead was originally built as offices for the Bute Docks Company. Now the grade I listed building is a visitor, events and conference venue for The People of Wales and is part of the Senedd Estate.
5. Senedd Parliament building
One of Cardiff Bays newest developments, the Senedd houses the country’s government offices. Where the Welsh Parliament decide the Welsh laws and taxes. Opened in 2006, The Senedd sits long aside the historic Pierhead and the Roald Dahl Plass, an amphitheatre that hosts open-air concerts and named after Cardiff-born author Roald Dahl.
6. Cardiff Airport
Cardiff Airport or more locally known as Maes Awry Caerdydd, is the only international and busiest airport in Wales. Located in Rhoose, Vale of Glamorgan, Cardiff Airport was originally RAF Rhoose and training base to the Spitfire pilots in the 1940’s. Now operating international flights and majority going to main land Europe. However more recently to Doha with Qatar Airways. Smaller flying schools also operate out of Cardiff Airport. I would say it is a certain must see when getting hands-on flying your own plane over South Wales. Find out more about flying lessons from Cardiff Airport here.
7. Pen Y Fan
Being the highest peak in South Wales at over 2900ft, makes it pretty hard to miss! Soar over the magnificent Brecon Beacons, admire the National Park’s terrain, wildlife and various paths and routes twisting and turning around the mountain range. This mountain range is very popular with walkers and bikers exploring the beautiful welsh countryside.
Fact: Pen Y Fan Welsh translation means ‘top of this place ‘
8. Barry Island
Spot the numerous fish and chip shops, the arcade parks and amusement rides along the beachfront. Starring in the TV sitcom, Gavin and Stacey, Barry Island is on a tourist’s hit list. After your flight you could even go on the Gavin and Stacey tour of the Island.
9. Bridge Street Exchange
Standing as Cardiff’s Tallest building at 82 metres (270ft) tall, it has got to be on our top 10 things to spot from the air! Situated in the centre of Cardiff and towering at 26 stories, this multi-used development accommodates mainly students and retail units.
Closely following second as the tallest building in Cardiff is The Capital Tower at 80 metres (269ft) tall.
10. Severn Bridge
Keep your eyes open for the Severn Bridge, a motorway suspension bridge linking Monmouthshire, South Wales and Gloucestershire, England over the River Severn and River Wye.
This impressive structure opened in 1966 replacing the Aust Ferry and from 1996 was classed as Grade I listed. Consisting of two steel towers and two cables strung between this structure is certainly an impressive view from your aircraft.
