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More to Cardiff than cheese!

After yesterday’s post about Stilton, it seemed only right to give a mention to the Great British Cheese Festival in Cardiff this weekend. More cheese than even I can get through, there will be all sorts to take your fancy. There’ll be tastings and masterclasses, so really from milk to plate.

But if you go to Cardiff and only do this then you’re missing out. It’s a city I love, and know a bit, mainly because Dr T is a Penarth boy, still with family in the area. We were even married in Cardiff, in the fabulous surroundings of City Hall.

So, these are my personal favourites to get the best out the area.

Staying – depends on your budget, and your mood. If you want the luxury version, or a spa on hand to recover from your cheese tasting efforts, then it has to be The St David’s. Sadly, since the advent of the barrage, they can’t show you the TV Robbie Williams threw out the window, but the gorgeous rooms will not disappoint. And a few spins around the thalassotherapy pool will leave you feeling well refreshed. For unique, individual and welcoming, then I would go for Jolyons. Apparently very popular with the Doctor Who and Torchwood cast, the rooms are cosy and Bar Cwtch is very chilled.

Eating – my favourite is definitely Le Gallois in Canton. Fantastic food and presentation, this is a treat for dinner, but if the fixed price lunch is on offer, it’s a great bargain. Two courses is only £20, and you’ll get great representations of local food to a very high standard. If you like Indian, then I recommend Spice Quarter in the Old Brewery Quarter. I took a friend from Amritsar, and she raved about it, so that’s a good sign to me. And if you’re still hungry, you’ll be needing chips from Caroline Street, also known as Chip Alley. But I’d be avoiding Champers. Long story, food completely unmemorable, entertainment provided by clientele unbelievable.

Shop – you have to visit Wally’s Delicatessen, it’s legendary, and deserving of the legend. Leave room in your coolbox amongst all the cheese for charcuterie from around the world, amongst a huge variety of things, in a very small space!

Drink – pint of Dark followed by a Pendeyrn Whisky chaser.

So, go and indulge in the cheese, but make sure you don’t miss out on everything else!

Fantastic Cardiff mosaic by Mooganic on Flickr.