No self-respecting Time Lord fan should miss out on the Doctor Who Experience. David Prince, who’s been there THIRTY ONE TIMES, shares what he knows so you can make the most of your visit.

When is the attraction open?

The Doctor Who Experience at Discovery Quay, Porth Teigr, Cardiff Bay is open seven days a week during the summer holiday until Monday, September 7 from 10am to 5pm (last admission is 3.30pm).

Where can I park? And how much is it?

The nearest car park is the NCP on Pierhead Street, which is behind the Wales Millennium Centre. The car park is a 10-minute walk away from the attraction and it costs:

Up to 1 hour: £2

Up to 2 hours: £3

Up to 3 hours: £5

Up to 4 hours: £6

Up to 6 hours: £8

Up to 24 hours: £10

There are a few parking places outside Roath Lock Studios but get there early if you wish to nab one of those.

What do we get as part of the Experience?

For your ticket price, there’s entry to the Interactive Element and the exhibition. There is also the chance to add a walking tour of the film locations. More details follow.

How much does it cost and how do I book tickets?

You can book tickets in advance by clicking here or you can get them on the day.

Prices are:

Adult: £14* (£16 on the door) and with a merchandise pack: £32.50* (£37.50 on the door)

Child (5-16 yrs): £9.75* (£11.75 on the door) and with a merchandise pack: £28.25* (£33.25 on the door)

Family £41* (£49 on the door) and with a merchandise pack: £70* (£82 on the door)

Under 5s: Free but ticket needed.

* Booking fees vary but will typically be from £1.25 per ticket for children to £1.60 per ticket for adults £3.76 for a family ticket. Transaction fees may vary and will be typically from £0.00 to £1.75 per transaction.

With the merchandise package you get an exclusive T-shirt and certificate that shows you have flown the TARDIS.

Is it suitable for young children?

The Experience is suitable for all ages, but like the TV series, it includes monsters and scenes that young children may find frightening. So parental guidance is recommended.

So what can we expect?

There are two main parts to the visit. The Doctor Who Museum is a sight to behold.

From its beginnings in 1963 to the present day, there are sets and costumes spread across two floors to keep every fan happy.

One of the goosebump-inducing sets is the first Doctor’s console from the recent 50th anniversary drama An Adventure in Space and Time.

Along with the 9th/10th Doctor’s Tardis set and so much more, you can easily spend more than two hours in there marvelling at everything.

We hear you get to go on an adventure with the Doctor – is this true?

Yes you do. Without giving any spoilers, the majestic journey takes 30 minutes. Make sure you listen fully to the guide so that you can appreciate all the thrills and spills. During this section of the tour, no photography is allowed or prams and pushchairs due to health and safety.

Also be aware that there are strobes and lasers (which are designed not to affect people with epilepsy or other health issues) as well as smoke and loud noises throughout this part of the experience.

Can I buy any memorabilia?

Absolutely – but make sure you take your purse! The shop is like a treasure trove for Doctor Who fans, selling everything you can think of – from prints and DVDs to T-shirts and mini Daleks.

Again, the shop is somewhat pricey but they do sell some exclusive merchandise.

The one thing I really like about the shop is that you can visit it without having to buy a ticket to the Doctor Who Experience.

What is the official filming locations tour?

This tour is great fun and adds an extra special dimension to your visit.

During the summer, walking tours will run every Wednesday to Sunday, until August 30.

You have to book tickets along with your general admission tickets to the Doctor Who Experience. It will add an extra £5 to the price (or £6 if you pay on the door).

You will take in the actual locations used in the show, which include Torchwood Tower, various parts of the Wales Millennium Centre and many more. The tours last around 75 minutes. Just make sure you keep up with the tour guide as it is easy to fall behind and marvel in the wonderful beauty that Cardiff Bay has to offer.

What if I’m hungry or thirsty?

The Blue Box Cafe is based in the foyer of the Doctor Who Experience and you can buy snacks like toasties, which I can’t get enough of.

It can be a tad expensive but it more than fills a gap. And if you find that the prices are too high then there are plenty of shops and restaurants nearby.

News Source: Wales Online