Cardiff

Cardiff urbanites are pretty happy with their lot. According to our Connected Britain research 43% wouldn’t move even if they had the chance. But they would love to have the opportunity to work away from the office more (84%). This could mean that in the future Cardiff’s central business district becomes a lot less crowded.

The Connected Britain research also found that job opportunities are still the biggest influence in determining where people choose to live. Nearly 40% of those questioned in Cardiff live in the city to be close to work, while just 6% do so because of its proximity to family and friends. However, given the opportunity of flexible working, 30% of Cardiff’s office workers would move to a specific location to be closer to loved ones.

Cardiff residents look likely to become the nation’s fittest city dwellers. They’re already enjoying the new International Sports Village that opened last year, and its White Water City (offering a 250m Olympic standard canoe slalom centre) will open in 2010 offering the opportunity for a very healthy work/life balance.

Cardiff's 'hidden gems' include the prestigious Kooywood Gallery, the impressive Royal Arcade Mall and, for those who love a bit of a browse, Jacob’s Antique Market. You can visit the Norwegian Church, where Roald Dahl was christened. Or, if outdoor attractions are more your thing, head for the beautiful Dyffryn Gardens.