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Parc Cefn Onn: Cardiff’s Historic Woodland Haven

Discover Cardiff’s tranquil Grade II listed woodland park with historic gardens, scenic streams, and family-friendly open spaces.

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Parc Cefn Onn is a Grade II listed historic park and country park on the northern edge of Cardiff, offering stunning woodland walks, native and exotic trees, tumbling streams, and peaceful picnic spots. With rich wildlife, seasonal floral displays, and family-friendly open spaces, it provides a tranquil escape amid natural beauty and heritage.

A brief summary to Parc Cefn Onn

  • Cardiff, CF14 0EP, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Arrive early on weekends to secure a free parking spot, as the on-site car park can fill quickly.
  • Reserve a Tramper mobility vehicle in advance if you require assistance exploring the park’s trails.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the large open field or beside the tranquil pond for a relaxing break.
  • Visit in spring or autumn to experience the park’s spectacular seasonal floral displays and colours.
  • Wear sturdy footwear for walking the winding paths and exploring the woodland and stream areas.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Cardiff city centre takes approximately 15–20 minutes via the A470 and local roads to Cherry Orchard Road, Lisvane. Free parking is available on site but can fill quickly during weekends and peak times.

  • Bus and Walk

    Take a bus from Cardiff city centre to Lisvane or Thornhill areas, followed by a 20–30 minute walk on footpaths to the park entrance. Bus services vary, so check local timetables in advance.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    A taxi or rideshare from central Cardiff to Parc Cefn Onn typically takes 15–20 minutes, offering a convenient door-to-door option without parking concerns.

Parc Cefn Onn location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Parc Cefn Onn

A Century-Old Landscape of Natural Beauty

Parc Cefn Onn is a treasured green space located about four miles north of Cardiff city centre, nestled on the northern fringes of the city near Lisvane. It is a Grade II listed historic park, recognized on the Cadw Register of Landscapes, Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in Wales. The park’s origins trace back roughly 100 years to Ernest Prosser, a former owner and railway director, who designed the upper park to take full advantage of the gentle valley carved by the Nant Fawr stream. This historic layout features tumbling streams, winding paths, and a collection of native and exotic trees that create a serene woodland garden.

Seasonal Splendour and Rich Wildlife

Visitors to Parc Cefn Onn can enjoy vibrant seasonal displays, from carpets of spring bulbs, camellias, rhododendrons, and azaleas to the rich autumnal colours of its diverse tree and shrub collection. The park’s streams, ponds, and woodlands provide a haven for local wildlife, making it a rewarding destination for nature lovers and wildlife watchers throughout the year. The semi-natural oak and beech woodland area, known as Coed Transh yr Hebog, lies to the north near Caerphilly Mountain, adding to the park’s ecological diversity.

Historic Features and Family-Friendly Spaces

Among the park’s notable features are the Dingle, a historic northern garden with rare and exotic plants, and a charming summerhouse beside a tranquil pond. The summerhouse and pond were originally constructed to ease the tuberculosis symptoms of Prosser’s son, adding a poignant human story to the landscape. For families, the large open field at the park’s top offers ample space for children to play and explore safely. A Wildlife Explorer Trail and various activities designed for children encourage engagement with the natural environment.

Visitor Experience and Accessibility

Parc Cefn Onn is open daily from 7 am until 30 minutes before sunset, with free entry and parking available on site, though parking can fill quickly on busy days. The park is wheelchair accessible, and two Trampers (off-road mobility vehicles) are available for hire by reservation, enhancing access for visitors with mobility challenges. The park’s waymarked routes connect to the wider footpath network of Caerphilly Mountain, allowing for extended walks and nature exploration.

Art and Community Connection

At the park’s entrance, a mural artwork in the subway tells the story of Parc Cefn Onn, reflecting its cultural significance and community value. The park is embraced by locals and visitors alike as a peaceful retreat, offering a calm atmosphere perfect for relaxation, picnics, and quiet contemplation amid natural beauty.

Planning Your Visit

While Parc Cefn Onn does not have an on-site café, visitors can enjoy picnics in various clearings or by the pond. The park is dog-friendly, with an emphasis on responsible pet ownership to maintain its pristine environment. Public transport options require a combination of bus routes and walking, with nearby areas like Lisvane and Thornhill serving as access points. The park’s natural setting and historic charm make it a wonderful destination for a half-day visit or a leisurely weekend escape.

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