Butetown

Butetown was originally conceived as a model housing estate, but following the outbreak of World War I a massive influx of immigrants came to work in the docks and its associated industries, and it became one of the most important multicultural communities in Britain. Today, it’s a world away from the glitz of neighbouring Cardiff Bay, and yet despite the occasional pocket of inner-city dereliction and the eerie absence of much activity hereabouts, the neighbourhood wears its history well. Some fine buildings remain, not least the Coal Exchange on Mount Stuart Square, where it’s reputed that the world’s first million pound cheque was signed, in 1908, for a coal transaction. If you’re interested in investigating the community further, pop along to the engaging Butetown History and Arts Centre where you can view the local archives.