The Pierhead building
The Pierhead is a jewel in the Welsh Parliament's estate – a Grade I-listed building under Wales’s very own Big Ben.
Once the focalpoint of commerce in Wales, this majestic building has stood proud through over a century of Cardiff Bay’s unique and varied history. As a space to reflect our culture and a key venue for live discussion and debate, the Pierhead continues to play a central role in shaping Wales.
The Pierhead is now a unique visitor, events and conference venue for the people of Wales. Built in 1897, it was originally the headquarters of the Cardiff Railway Company, replacing the original Bute Dock Company offices which burnt down in 1892. Its architect was William Frame (1848-1906), who had previously worked with William Burges on refurbishing Cardiff Castle and reconstructing Castell Coch.
Cardiff’s docklands have witnessed many changes over the last century, yet the Pierhead has remained a central feature in this remarkable area. In these bustling rooms, accountants, hydrographers, surveyors and typists worked shoulder to shoulder to maintain what were once some of the most prosperous docks in the world.
The old pictures show the Pierhead building c1905. The lower photo (courtesy of the National Library of Wales, ref Ridley 1646) also shows the entrance to the Bute West Dock.
As a backdrop to television news bulletins, the Pierhead is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Wales. Following extensive refurbishment, it now also offers visitors an opportunity to learn about its varied history, including how it has stood witness to incredible changes in Cardiff Bay, as it moved from being the country’s industrial hub to the seat of democracy in Wales.
Postcode: CF10 4PZ View Location Map
Website of the Welsh Parliament
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