voco St David’s Cardiff sits on Havannah Street in the Butetown area of Cardiff Bay, so the water is about a minute away on foot and Techniquest is three minutes. It is the city's five-star choice, with an indoor pool, a full-service spa, a gym with fitness and yoga classes, the Tir a Môr restaurant, a bar and lounge, and a terrace. Many rooms have balconies or views over the Bay, and the suites look out over the harbour, which makes it the best base for couples and for anyone who wants a resort feel in a city break.
Location and getting around
The hotel is on the Bay, so Mermaid Quay is about six minutes on foot and the Wales Millennium Centre about eleven, with Cardiff Bay railway station around twelve minutes away. Cardiff city centre is roughly two miles away, which means you will use the Baycar 6 bus, the train, a taxi or a long walk to reach Cardiff Castle and the shops.
That is the trade-off
You get the waterfront and a quieter evening, but less spontaneous access to the centre. Cardiff International Airport is about a 33 minute drive. Parking is limited and carries a nightly charge, and there is an electric car charging station on site, so ask when you reserve if you are driving.
Rooms and what to ask for
There are standard rooms with a king, a twin or two queen beds, some with balconies or bay views, and larger Grand rooms with a king bed and balcony. Suites have harbour views, and the premium rooms and junior suites with a super king bed look towards Tiger Bay.
There is also an accessible standard room with two twin beds and a balcony. Ask for a higher floor or a room facing the water, and note that balconies may not suit very young children. Free WiFi is available in all rooms and some public areas.
Who it suits and what to know: couples, anniversary trips and spa lovers will get the most from the hotel, and families are welcome, with free cribs on request. The pool has set hours, with children allowed at specific times, and spa treatments need reservations. A full breakfast is available for a fee, served weekday mornings from half past six and later at weekends, and the restaurant also serves lunch and dinner.
Check-in is from 3 in the afternoon, check-out is before 11, and a card is needed at check-in because cash is not accepted. Dogs are accepted in specific rooms for a daily fee.
Why stay here
- ✓Waterfront location on Cardiff Bay
- ✓Indoor pool
- ✓Full-service spa and sauna
- ✓Gym with fitness and yoga classes
- ✓Tir a Môr restaurant and bar
- ✓Free WiFi in rooms
- ✓Balcony and harbour-view rooms
- ✓Electric car charging
Good questions
How far is voco St David’s from Cardiff Castle?+
It is in Cardiff Bay, about two miles from the city centre. Use the Baycar 6 bus, the train or a taxi to reach the castle.
Does voco St David’s have parking?+
Parking is limited and charged per night, and there is an electric car charging station on site. Ask the hotel in advance if you are driving.
Is breakfast included at voco St David’s?+
A full breakfast is available for an extra fee and is not automatically included. Check your rate when you book.
