Cardiff is a modern capital and has a thriving gay scene. Focused on two main areas - Charles Street in the heart of the city centre and Bute Terrace, close to the train station. Both are minutes away from St. Mary Street - Cardiff's main bar area, and Queen Street, the main shopping area in the city. For a list of gay friendly bars & clubs click here.

Cardiff Mardi Gras

This annual free event usually takes place in the beginning of September, and is one of Wales' largest LGBT events. Aimed at changing attitudes and stopping homophobia, Cardiff's Mardi Gras attracts nearly 40,000 people each year and features live bands, celebrities, a dance tent, cabaret and stalls and information stands. Find out more here.

Iris Prize Festival

The Iris Prize Festival is Cardiff’s International Gay and Lesbian Short Film Prize, taking place in October each year. The largest prize for a gay and lesbian short film in the world, valued at £25,000 pounds means that the Iris Prize attracts world-class productions. The short films competing for the Prize are nominated by partner festivals located in Los Angeles, Toronto, Hong Kong, Sydney, Israel, Brazil, Hamburg, Austin, Dublin, London, Miami, New York and Philadelphia.