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Cardiff Bay 'Church' Tour

Places of Worship have got together for the first time in Cardiff Bay to offer a fascinating insight into their maritime history and their place in the historical and social development of ‘Tiger Bay’. Led by Cardiff Bay Tours, the guided tour winds its way across Butetown and the waterfront with visits to St Mary’s Church in Butetown, St Paul’s Methodist Church in Loudon Square, the Alice Street Mosque, The Lightship, The Greek Orthodox Church and Norwegian Church - where Roald Dahl and his family worshipped.

Tour description:

A new tour of Cardiff Bay – featuring places of worship and their associations with the historical development of the area.

If you would like a print friendly version, please click here (word document 595kb).

Tour duration – 2 ½ - 3 hours

Walking tours or By Coach for special interest groups, ecclesiastical groups, historical societies or schools

1. First stop, the Lightship 2000. The Lightship was originally moored off the Gower coast as a floating lighthouse to warn ships of danger. Visitors can now see the chapel, climb the light tower or enjoy a coffee at the cafe.

2. Short walk to the Norwegian Church Arts centre.

Built in 1869, this original church stood at the entrance to the Bute West Dock and was the centre of Scandinavian religion, culture and tradition. The church was deconsecrated in 1974, dismantled and then re-built in its current location. Roald Dahl and his sisters were baptised there.

3. Walk continues along the historic waterfront passing Y Senedd - the home of the Welsh Assembly Government, the Pierhead building, Wales Millennium Centre and various maritime sculptures.

4. Re-join your coach or mini-bus for journey to Mount Stuart Square, the old commercial quarter of Tiger Bay, passing the Coal Exchange building and the old St. Stephen's church (now "The Point" arts centre).

5. Continue up Bute Street (Built 1830) and arrive at the Islamic Centre for a special visit. View the minaret, main prayer hall, the mihrab, minbar and rooms for Wudo.

6. Continue By Coach to St. Paul's Methodist Church.

Original church built 1856. Current church opened 1966 as a community church. Features include a splendid cross made from ship's timbers.

7. Continue By Coach to St. Mary the Virgin Church.

Built 1843 - its imposing building and towers dominate the Butetown skyline. Discover the stunning interior including many nautical features, paintings and symbols including the statues of the apostles. The church also starred in the film "Tiger Bay" with Hayley Mills!

8. Alongside we can visit the Greek Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas with its beautiful Byzantine style architecture.

Built in 1906 for Cardiff's Greek and Cypriot population who were attracted to the City by the shipping industry. Many settled in the area surrounding the church, which keeps alive the faith, social customs and traditions of their community.

9. Return to the Lightship

Tours and itineraries can be tailor-made to suit the interests and of the group. Enquiries are also welcomed from individuals. A tour can be by coach or walking and combined with visits to other attractions, a boat trip around the Bay or a tour of Llandaff Cathedral.

Guideline price smaller groups under 35, £75 per tour.

For larger groups 35+ £2.50 per person.

Bookings min 2 weeks in advance.

For further details and prices please contact Cardiff Bay Tours on:

Tel: +44(0)29 2070 7882

cardiffbaytours@hotmail.com

www.cardiffbaytours.com

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