Principality Stadium Cardiff

At the centre of Cardiff stands the Principality Stadium. Known for its impressive size, retractable roof, and as the home of Welsh rugby, the Principality Stadium Cardiff is a monument of Wales' passionate sporting culture.

Principality Stadium History

Opening its gates in June 1999, the Principality Stadium, originally known as the Millennium Stadium, quickly became an icon of Cardiff. 

It was built to host the 1999 Rugby World Cup, and since then, it has been the stage for numerous notable sporting events, concerts, and performances.

The stadium is a product of modern engineering, featuring a fully retractable roof which was the first of its kind in the UK. This allows it to adapt to Wales' unpredictable weather, ensuring a pleasant spectator experience come rain or shine.

Principality Stadium Cardiff, with its seating capacity of over 74,000, is the fourth-largest stadium in the UK. But did you know that its construction required enough concrete to fill nine Olympic-sized swimming pools?

Where is the Principality Stadium Located?

Principality Stadium Cardiff proudly stands at Westgate Street, Cardiff, CF10 1NS, in the bustling city centre. Its central location makes it easily accessible when attending an event there.

Located in the heart of the city, the stadium is a mere five-minute walk from Cardiff Central railway station, making it an easy reach for fans and tourists alike. Numerous bus lines also service the area, and for those driving, there are several public car parks nearby.

Things to Know Before Your Visit

Before heading to an event at Principality Stadium Cardiff, it’s best to plan ahead. Check the stadium’s official website for the most up-to-date event information and restrictions, which may vary depending on the event. It's also worth noting that due to its central location, the area around the stadium can become quite busy on event days, so plan your travel accordingly.

Past Events at the Principality Stadium

The Principality Stadium has been host to a variety of significant football events since its inauguration. During the renovation of Wembley Stadium in London from 2001 to 2006, the Football Association chose the Principality Stadium as the venue for several important English football fixtures.

Notably, the stadium hosted the FA Cup Final each year from 2001 to 2006, with Arsenal and Manchester United among the teams to lift the famous trophy on the Welsh turf. During this period, it also hosted the League Cup Finals, the Football League play-off finals, and the FA Community Shield matches.

On the international stage, the stadium was the venue for the 2017 UEFA Champions League Final, one of the most prestigious club football events in the world, where Real Madrid triumphed over Juventus.

The stadium continues to host football matches, both for club and international competitions, maintaining its status as a key location in the UK football landscape.

Rugby at the principality stadium

The Principality stadium is the home of the Welsh national rugby team, hosting all of their home matches in the Six Nations Championship and other international test matches. The first rugby match ever played at the stadium was a friendly match between Wales and South Africa in 1999, with Wales securing a historic victory.

The Principality Stadium was a key venue for the 1999 Rugby World Cup, including the final where Australia triumphed over France. It was also used for some matches during the 2007 and 2015 Rugby World Cup tournaments, including two quarter-final matches in 2015.

Additionally, the stadium has hosted various Heineken Cup (now known as the European Rugby Champions Cup) finals, featuring the top club sides from across Europe.

The stadium also hosts the annual Judgement Day event, where all four Welsh Pro14 rugby union teams face-off in back-to-back matches. It's a day that celebrates the strength and passion of Welsh domestic rugby.

Every few years, when the British and Irish Lions tour, the team plays a warm-up match at the Principality Stadium before departing for the Southern Hemisphere.

Nearby Cardiff Attractions

When you're done soaking up the electric atmosphere of Principality Stadium, explore other nearby attractions. Cardiff Castle, a historic architectural masterpiece, is a short walk away. A stroll along the River Taff will lead you to Bute Park, a beautiful green oasis in the city. And don't forget the National Museum Cardiff, home to a treasure trove of Welsh history and art.

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