National Museum Cardiff

Art

The art galleries hold one of the strongest collections of French Impressionism in Britain, built by Gwendoline and Margaret Davies and bequeathed in the 1950s and 1960s. Look for Renoir's La Parisienne, works by Monet, the world's largest group of paintings by Daumier and a bronze cast of Rodin's The Kiss. Old Masters include a Rembrandt portrait and landscapes by Claude and Poussin, and the Gwen John studio collection is a draw for fans of the Welsh painter.

Natural history

The Evolution of Wales galleries follow the story of the land from the earliest rocks to the Ice Age, with dinosaurs, mammoths and a whale skeleton among the displays. It is the part children usually head for first.

Planning your visit

The museum, part of Amgueddfa Cymru – Museum Wales, opened to the public in 1922 and marks its centenary of the official opening in 2027, with redevelopment plans under way. There is a café and shop. Gorsedd Gardens sit right in front, Cardiff Castle is a short walk south, and the surrounding civic buildings in Portland stone are worth a stroll. Allow at least half a day if you want to see both the art and natural history galleries properly.

Highlights

• Free entry with a booked timed ticket
• Davies sisters' Impressionist bequest
• Rodin's The Kiss and Renoir's La Parisienne
• Dinosaurs, mammoths and a whale skeleton
• Café and shop on site

Good to know

• Entry is free but you need to book a daily admission ticket in advance.
• There is a café and shop inside.
• Accessibility information is on the museum's website.

Frequently asked questions