Cardiff Bay’s Whoniverse: A Self-Guide Audio Tour

Cardiff has a reputation as the home of Bad Wolf Studios and the city with ties to the Torchwood spin-off TV show. It’s also known as the beating heart of the Doctor Who cinematic universe: The Whoniverse. On this Cardiff Bay walking tour, you’ll experience the city’s vibrant culture, discover its rich history, and explore its status as the Doctor’s gateway into time and space. You’ll explore streets made famous by Doctor Who, Torchwood, and other productions. I’ll point out specific filming locations and explain how the film and television industry has become Wales’ fastest-growing economic sector. By the end of this tour, you’ll appreciate just how important Cardiff Bay has been for the filming of Doctor Who and Torchwood over the years. You’ll also have seen first-hand the key locations and learned a little bit about what was going through the minds of their writers and producers.

1. 1

   Wales Millennium Centre

   Pass by

   We will start the tour close to Wales' premier entertainment venue in Cardiff Bay. Hear all about the architecture of this extraordinary building and the different television productions that have used this as a filming location.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   Pass by

   We'll pass by the Coal Exchange building in the historic trading centre of Cardiff Bay. There will be an opportunity to pause the tour and enter this key filming location.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   Pass by

   The tour presents the opportunity to enter one of Cardiff Bay's original historic pubs. A proper old school boozer in the heart of the bay with friendly staff and a warm welcome.

4. 4

   Cardiff Bay Wetland Reserve

   Pass by

   Strolling through Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve will take you away from the built environment giving you the chance to listen to nature and learn a little about what this area once meant for the local residents during the Industrial Revolution.

5. 5

   Pierhead Building

   Pass by

   After examining the outside of this decorative and historic landmark on Cardiff Bay Waterfront you will have the chance to pop inside and enjoy its decorative Victorian tiles and watch a local history film. (Opening times dependent).

6. 6

   Ianto's Shrine

   Pass by

   No tour of television locations in Cardiff Bay would be complete without a visit to Ianto's Shrine. Find out how this shrine came to be and what it means to the Torchwood fans of today.

7. 7

   Senedd

   Pass by

   We will pass by Senedd Wales Parliament government building on Cardiff Bay Waterfront where you can enjoy its modern architecture and learn about the television productions that used this space as a filming location. Entrance is free subject to opening days and times.

8. 8

   Norwegian Church Arts Centre

   Pass by

   Our tour will end at the historic Norwegian Church on Cardiff Bay waterfront. You will have the opportunity to finish your tour in its coffee shop subject to opening times and hours.

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.