THERE'S something for everyone at Cardiff Bay from science to saki, bars to bowling and Chinese cuisine to the cinema.

And if that doesn't tempt you then you can always queue to listen to political debate in the National Assembly.

Wales' most expensive development has many attractions including the impressive Techniquest interactive science centre which should enthrall children and adults alike with its fun approach to what can be a tricky subject.

On sunnier days you can catch a CAT - the waterbuses which run a regular service stopping at the Bay and travelling to the river Taff and the river Ely.

Or take a road train linking the Bay with the Cardiff Barrage and going right through the heart of Cardiff Docklands.

The Atlantic Wharf Leisure Village is home to a 12-screen UCI Cinema and a 26-lane bowling alley under one roof along with bars, cafes and restaurants and the Evolution nightclub.

Cardiff Bay is making a name for itself across Wales for Mermaid Quay's top-class restaurants, bars and the best in stand-up comedy and designer coffee.

You can enjoy fine Far Eastern cuisine at the excellent Izakaya Japanese restaurant or the Pearl of the Orient, Turkish food at the Bosphorus or seafood at Scallops among other top-class places.

For those wanting to pamper themselves in style, then why not try the exclusive St David's Hotel which has a spa and leisure facilities.

The neighbouring Coal Exchange, voted the best live music venue in Wales last year, has hosted top performers in concerts as well as conferences, exhibitions and much more.

If you're a follower of the arts try the old Norwegian Church, now refurbished and revamped as an arts centre and holding regular events. There's also a coffee shop attached which offers Scandinavian dishes.

And the Butetown History and Arts Centre gives you a look at the history of Cardiff Docklands, from its days as one of the world's busiest industrial ports to its new role as a centre for leisure.

Iwan Davies

FACTFILE Cardiff Bay is easily accessible by car, bus or train from the city centre. To find out about the road train, call 02920 512729 or to book a ride on a Cardiff CAT, call 02920 488842.

If you want details of upcoming events at the Coal Exchange, contact 02920 494917, or to find out more about Mermaid Quay, call 02920 480077.

For information about exhibitions at the Norwegian Church Arts Centre, call 02920 454899, or for details of what's on at the Butetown History and Arts Centre, contact 02920 256757.