Radisson Blu Cardiff
Meridian Gate, Bute Terrace, Cardiff, Wales, CF10 2FL
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#4 of 20
expert-rated hotels in Cardiff- Recommended for:
- Business travellers, Couples, Culture vultures, Foodies, Design and architecture, Live entertainment, Shopping, Sightseeing, Trendiness
Expert review of Radisson Blu Cardiff
Laidback but switched on... Say hello to Cardiff’s loftiest hotel.
The newest - and tallest - kid on the block, I love the way the Radisson Blu’s narrow, lofty frame and stark vertical architecture salutes the city skyline. It’s nice to see they’ve been respectful to their new home as they’ve thoughtfully re-installed the original industrial lights that were once used on its foundations as the gates to the historic bay at their entrance. They’ve also cleaned up the area’s longstanding statue tribute to the legendary historic boxer Jim Driscoll. Being a new build, it almost buzzes with contemporary design, technology and use of space.
Location:
Radisson Blu sits on a prime city centre spot just seconds from the new shopping and leisure complex St Davids 2; the entrance to the much lauded John Lewis department store is literally across the road. The station is pretty much next door and the benefits of the bay can be found just a medium stroll away along the stately half mile long boulevard, Lloyd George Avenue.
Bedrooms:
The first thing that struck me about the bedrooms was the impressive floor-to-ceiling windows. Whatever the design style of your room, the stunning metropolitan windows are a fantastic welcome as you enter... I dare you to get up and close and peep down onto the road below! The design styles come in chic, fashion or fresh – each one tastefully coloured to suit your stay; sassy and snazzy for the leisure seekers, warm and bold for the business people. As with all Radisson hotels, the beds are magnificently wide and adorned with appropriately comfortable bedding. Watch out for the sexy, curvy luggage rack beneath the TV, it’s a novel use of space.
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Public areas:
Radisson’s cool interior architecture and design split the bar areas onto two levels. A mixture of fresh white and authoritative blue soothe throughout and the copper ball lightshades hang at different levels from the dizzyingly high ceiling.
Eating and drinking:
Quick post-work or pre-concert drinks are a fine find on the ground floor at TheBar. A more languishing imbibe, along with substantial bar snacks, can be enjoyed on a gallery level that looks out into the city and down over the busy lobby. Just beyond you’ll find the gallery restaurant Fellini’s who specialise in Italian cuisine but are happy to cook other dishes on request. Radisson hotels, in general, do strike me as having a progressive catering policy and don’t seem to be stuck into typical chain hotel cookie cutter menus that are more inspired by numbers than nutrients.
Leisure facilities:
A dry gym is on hand if you need to pump some iron, and a health spa, with seven different treatments, is soon to open.
Service:
There’s an efficient buzz about the reception with no one being left to wait for too long. The bar staff were especially welcoming.
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Who stays there:
Radisson is home to the business traveller in the week and parties with a bit more to splash out in the weekend. The giddy retail thrills over the road also attract the keen shoppers.
Price advice:
Advance bookings will ensure a cheaper visit. WiFi is free for all guests.
Pros:
Convenient location with stunning views
Relaxing and friendly bar areas
The function suites are decked with more gadgets than a spaceship
Cons:
It’s right on top the main rail line which can ruin the view on the lower floors
Limited parking
More information on Radisson Blu Cardiff:
- Type:
- Hotel
- Address:
- Meridian Gate, Bute Terrace, Cardiff, Wales, CF10 2FL
- Amenities:
- Business Centre, Fitness Centre, High-Speed Internet, Restaurant, Room Service
- Neighbourhood:
- City Centre
