Originally built as Ebenezer Chapel, Cornerstone Cardiff is a historic landmark and community centre located in the heart of the city. Its impressive stone façade, captivating stained glass windows and pointed arches reflect the building’s history. Nowadays, the fully restored venue hosts private and public events and houses a cosy café, welcoming those who appreciate heritage, elegance and community spirit.
Background on Cornerstone Cardiff
Cornerstone Cardiff starts its journey as the city’s first Neo-Gothic church, built in 1855. After being vacated by its Welsh-speaking Presbyterian congregation in 2010 due to high maintenance and repair costs, the Catholic Archdiocese of Cardiff eventually purchased the Grade II listed building. The structure underwent significant restoration and was officially opened by King Charles III in 2016. It was transformed into the Cornerstone centre we see today—a vibrant hub for arts, conferences and community events.
What can you do at Cornerstone Cardiff?
Cornerstone is a vibrant community, arts, and business hub. It regularly hosts events that range from family functions and corporate affairs to plays, concerts, media and art exhibitions. But what it’s mostly known for is its weddings because everyday is a nice day for a Cornerstone Cardiff wedding.
Beyond catered events, the charming venue also hosts Candlelight concerts that recreate timeless classics and modern hits in a new light. As musicians step to the stage to reimagine melodies by Vivaldi, Queen, and more, thousands of twinkling candles light up the stage, creating a superb audiovisual experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to proceed with bookings?
The venue has a number of rooms available for hire, including The Great Hall Dewi Sant with a seated capacity of 220 people, and the Jane Hodge Hall, big enough for 220 people (in theatre style). You can book the spaces by contacting the venue via e-mail.
2. Does Cornerstone Cardiff have a restaurant?
The Pantry by Spiros is located on the lower ground floor on the building. The café is open Mondays to Saturdays from 9am-5pm and Sundays from 9am-4pm.
3. What does The Pantry by Spiros have on the menu?
Guests can order afternoon tea, a range of breakfast options, quality coffees, and delicious food, including homemade soups, paninis, cakes, and even Sunday roast.
How to get to Cornerstone Cardiff?
Situated on Charles Street, the most convenient way to reach Cornerstone is by public transport. There are a variety of bus lines with stops very close to the venue, such as 11, 49, 50, 28 and 29. If you’re traveling from other parts of Cardiff, use bus routes like 132 and 136 that pass through the city center.
Additionally, for those driving to the space, you’ll find limited on-street parking on Charles Street, which includes six disabled spaces. If those are taken, the NCP Cardiff Rapports and St David’s Shopping Centre car parks are also great nearby options (around a 5-minute walk to Cornerstone).
Nearby venues
Thanks to its central location, Cornerstone Cardiff is right around the corner from the Cardiff Masonic Hall and only a 10-minute walk from other iconic landmarks, including the historic Cardiff Castle, the fascinating National Museum Cardiff and the bustling Cardiff Market.
After spending the day in the centre, you can pay a visit to the historic spot and attend one of its upcoming Candlelight concerts. Coupled with the venue’s historic charm, these performances make for great evening plans with your loved ones.