Museum of Cardiff

About

Housed in the historic Old Library building, the Museum of Cardiff tells the city’s story through the voices and memories of its people. Formerly known as the Cardiff Story Museum, it explores the transformation of a small market town into Wales’s vibrant capital, shaped by the coal trade, immigration, and cultural change. Its collection includes personal objects, photographs, and ephemera, each linked to individual lives—from dockworkers and shopkeepers to artists and activists—capturing the diversity of Cardiff’s communities past and present. Interactive displays and multimedia bring these stories to life, while contemporary collecting ensures today’s experiences are preserved for future generations. Free to enter, the museum offers an intimate, people‑focused perspective on urban history, making it a welcoming space for residents to see their heritage reflected and for visitors to discover the human side of the city’s growth and identity.

Cardiff Wales

Location

The Museum of Cardiff is centrally located in the Old Library building on The Hayes, in the heart of Cardiff city centre, with entrance access from Working Street and the postcode CF10 1BH. This vibrant pedestrian shopping district is just steps away from St David’s shopping centre, the bustling Queen Street retail area, and the Victorian arcades offering boutique stores and café experiences. Cardiff Market, a historic indoor market filled with local goods and produce, is right around the corner, while landmarks such as Cardiff Castle, Bute Park, and the Principality Stadium are all within easy walking distance. The museum’s central location places it at the crossroads of Cardiff’s commercial, cultural and historic attractions, making it a convenient and lively starting point for exploring the city’s highlights.