Cardiff Arms Park: Historic Heart of Welsh Rugby
Historic rugby stadium in Cardiff, home to Cardiff Rugby and a cornerstone of Welsh sporting heritage since the 1870s.
Cardiff Arms Park, located on Westgate Street in central Cardiff, is a historic rugby union stadium known as the home of Cardiff Rugby. The site has hosted rugby since the 1870s and was once home to the Welsh national team. It features a modern artificial 3G pitch and continues to be a vibrant venue for rugby and community events, situated adjacent to the Principality Stadium in the Welsh capital.
A brief summary to Cardiff Arms Park
- Westgate St, Cardiff, CF10 1JA, GB
- +442920302000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the schedule for Cardiff Rugby matches to experience live Welsh rugby in a historic setting.
- Visit the nearby Cardiff Rugby Museum to explore the rich history and legendary players associated with the Arms Park.
- Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere around the stadium district, especially on match days.
- The stadium features a modern artificial 3G pitch, allowing for year-round sporting events.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
From Cardiff Central Station, a 10-15 minute walk through the city center leads to Cardiff Arms Park. Trains run frequently from regional hubs with fares typically between £2-£6.
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Bus
Several Cardiff city buses stop near Westgate Street, with journey times from the city outskirts ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. Single fares cost around £1.80 to £3.50. Service frequency varies by route and time.
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Car
Driving to Cardiff Arms Park is possible with nearby parking options, though spaces are limited on match days. Parking fees typically range from £5 to £15. Traffic congestion is common during events.
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Walking
If staying in central Cardiff, walking to the Arms Park is convenient and scenic, taking approximately 10 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point. The terrain is flat and accessible.
Cardiff Arms Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Cardiff Arms Park
Origins and Early Sporting Legacy
Cardiff Arms Park’s story begins in the 19th century on land once known as the Great Park, a flood-prone meadow behind the Cardiff Arms Hotel. Named after this hotel, the park was gifted by the Bute family for recreational use, emphasizing sport and community. By the late 1800s, it had developed into a dual-purpose sporting venue, hosting both cricket to the north and rugby to the south. The first spectator stands appeared in 1881–82, marking the site as a pioneering ground for rugby and cricket enthusiasts alike.Evolution into a Rugby Stronghold
Over the decades, Cardiff Arms Park evolved into a rugby powerhouse. The cricket ground was removed by 1969 to expand rugby facilities, coinciding with the construction of the National Stadium to the south, which became Wales’ national rugby home until 1997. The Arms Park itself remained the home of Cardiff Rugby, witnessing legendary players such as Gwyn Nicholls and Gareth Edwards grace its pitch. Notably, it hosted the world’s first floodlit rugby match in 1966, a landmark moment in the sport’s history.Modern Developments and Community Role
In recent years, Cardiff Rugby invested in a state-of-the-art artificial 3G surface, enhancing the stadium’s versatility for rugby, football, and community events. The venue continues to serve as a hub for regional rugby matches and corporate activities, maintaining its status as a cherished landmark in Welsh sport. Its location next to the Principality Stadium places it at the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant sporting district.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The stadium’s architecture reflects its layered history, combining traditional rugby ground elements with modern upgrades. The site is owned by Cardiff Athletic Club and also features a bowling green, underscoring its multi-sport heritage. Cardiff Arms Park is more than a stadium; it is a cultural icon representing Welsh sporting pride and community spirit.Memorable Matches and Sporting Milestones
The Arms Park has hosted numerous historic matches, including victories over international rugby giants like New Zealand and South Africa. It was a venue for the 1958 British Empire and Commonwealth Games and key fixtures in the 1991 Rugby World Cup. These events have cemented its reputation as a stage for high-caliber sport and unforgettable moments.Legacy and Visitor Experience
Today, visitors to Cardiff Arms Park can appreciate its rich heritage and ongoing role in Welsh rugby. The atmosphere combines tradition with modern sporting excitement, offering a unique experience for fans and visitors. Nearby, the Cardiff Rugby Museum provides deeper insights into the ground’s storied past and celebrated players, making the Arms Park a must-visit for rugby aficionados and cultural explorers alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historical Wales
0.3 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
Cardiff Town Wall
0.4 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
0.5 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Fogo's Free Tours
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
0.6 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Nereid Statue
0.6 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
South African War Memorial
0.6 km
A poignant bronze and stone tribute in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who served in the Second Boer War, embodying peace, war, and grief.
City Hall
0.7 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
Wales National War Memorial
0.8 km
A solemn Gothic Revival monument in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who sacrificed their lives in both World Wars.
Canal Quarter
0.8 km
Explore the scenic beauty and cultural richness of Canal Quarter, Cardiff's hidden gem for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure.
National Museum Cardiff
0.8 km
Explore National Museum Cardiff, where art, history, and science converge in a stunning cultural experience for every traveler.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
0.8 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.9 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
Capitol Cardiff
0.9 km
Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
0.9 km
Historic bronze statue in Cardiff honoring the visionary who transformed the city through the development of its docks and industrial growth.
Unmissable attractions to see
SCALE
0.1 km
Experience the thrill of climbing Cardiff’s iconic Principality Stadium roof with SCALE—where panoramic views meet sporting legend.
Animal Wall
0.2 km
A whimsical Victorian stone menagerie along Cardiff’s Bute Park, featuring 15 expressive animals carved into a historic wall near Cardiff Castle.
River Cruises
0.2 km
Explore Cardiff Bay’s stunning waterfront on a relaxing, eco-friendly Aquabus river cruise with accessible, modern catamarans.
Principality Stadium
0.2 km
Wales’ national stadium with a retractable roof, iconic rugby heritage, and world-class events in the heart of Cardiff.
Cambrian Way Plaque Cardiff
0.2 km
Discover the gateway to Wales’ epic mountain trail at the Cambrian Way Plaque in Cardiff’s historic Bute Park.
Charter for Trees Woods and People
0.3 km
A symbolic pole in Cardiff’s Bute Park celebrating the enduring bond between people, trees, and nature’s future.
Castle Quarter Arcades
0.3 km
Explore Cardiff’s historic Castle Quarter Arcades—Victorian charm, independent shops, and vibrant dining in the city’s heart.
Cardiff Castle Museum
0.3 km
Wales' capital castle where 2,000 years of Roman, Norman, and Victorian history converge in the heart of Cardiff.
Blue Bell
0.3 km
Discover the charm of The Blue Bell, Cardiff's premier pub for traditional food, local ales, and a warm atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Firing Line Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier
0.3 km
Discover the rich military heritage of Wales beneath Cardiff Castle in this immersive museum dedicated to the Welsh soldier.
Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Castle
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff Castle, a majestic blend of Roman roots, Norman strength, and Victorian splendor in the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital.
Cardiff Castle
0.4 km
Discover nearly 2,000 years of history and stunning architecture at Cardiff Castle, the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital city.
High Street Arcade
0.4 km
A beautifully preserved Victorian shopping arcade in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, filled with independent boutiques, vintage shops, cafés, and historic charm.
8 St Mary St
0.4 km
Historic Victorian commercial site in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, blending rich heritage with vibrant city life.
Rummer Tavern
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich local culture at Rummer Tavern, a must-visit pub in the heart of Cardiff.
Essential places to dine
Bar 44 Cardiff
0.2 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in Cardiff's vibrant Castle Quarter.
Maison de Bœuf
0.3 km
An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
Casanova
0.3 km
A long-standing Cardiff trattoria serving authentic regional Italian food with warm service and an excellent all-Italian wine list.
Asador 44 Spanish Grill & Wine House
0.3 km
Authentic Spanish charcoal grilling and fine wines in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
The Potted Pig
0.3 km
A stylish underground eatery in Cardiff serving seasonal Welsh-inspired modern British cuisine in a unique former bank vault setting.
The Welsh House Cardiff
0.3 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
0.3 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
The Alchemist Cardiff
0.3 km
Experience the magic of mixology at The Alchemist Cardiff, where innovative cocktails meet exquisite dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Turtle Bay Cardiff
0.3 km
Caribbean soul meets Welsh hospitality—bold jerk, tropical cocktails, and island warmth in Cardiff city centre.
The Sorting Room Restaurant
0.4 km
Elegant modern European dining in Cardiff’s city centre, celebrated for Welsh beef specialties and refined brasserie ambiance.
Cafe Citta
0.4 km
Cozy Italian eatery in Cardiff city center serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and pasta in an intimate, stylish setting.
Lezzet Turkish Kitchen
0.4 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
The Botanist Cardiff
0.4 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cardiff city centre where botanical décor, creative cocktails, and live music bloom together.
Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
0.4 km
Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
Neighbourhood Kitchen & Cocktails
0.4 km
Intimate Riverside restaurant with rotating menus, exceptional seafood, and craft cocktails in Cardiff.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
0.3 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Great Welsh Gifts
0.3 km
Unearth authentic Welsh crafts, treats, and treasures on Cardiff's High Street—a delightful dive into Cymru's cultural heart at Great Welsh Gifts.
Mojo King
0.4 km
Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
Hobos Vintage
0.4 km
A vibrant Cardiff vintage shop packed with retro fashion, trainers, and accessories from the 1950s to today – perfect for throwback style and bargain finds.
Knight Vintage
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Little Welsh Company
0.5 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
Morgan Quarter
0.5 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
The Works
0.5 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Rokit Cardiff
0.5 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
0.5 km
Bright, bold Welsh art and homewares in the heart of Cardiff’s Royal Arcade – perfect for souvenirs, gifts, and a splash of contemporary Welsh culture.
Ganesha Handicrafts
0.5 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
elephants and flowres
0.5 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Welcome Things
0.5 km
Discover whimsical treasures in Cardiff's historic Royal Arcade at this eclectic gift shop, where unique Welsh-inspired finds meet global curiosities in Victorian splendor.
Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
0.5 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
Cardiff Creative Shop
0.5 km
Handcrafted Welsh wonders from 45+ local artisans await in Queens Arcade's creative gem—unique gifts that sparkle with personality and heritage.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bootlegger
0.2 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s vibrant craft beer scene and lively pub culture at Tiny Rebel, a hub for award-winning brews and eclectic events.
Revolution Cardiff
0.3 km
A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
Penny
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
The Libertine Cocktail Bar
0.3 km
A stylish Cardiff cocktail bar blending gothic charm with expertly crafted drinks and a lively city center vibe.
Rum & Fizz
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff’s rum haven with over 200 rums, crafted cocktails, cozy elegance, and live jazz every Friday in Castle Arcade.
Flight Club Cardiff
0.4 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant city nightlife at Flight Club Cardiff’s unique multi-level bar and rooftop terrace.
Main Stage
0.4 km
Cardiff's vibrant gay bar and cabaret club with lively drag shows, DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Mary's Cardiff
0.5 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife at Mary’s, a lively bar and nightclub blending modern lounge vibes with energetic party spirit.
Glassworks
0.5 km
Lively Cardiff pub pouring Greene King ales, serving pub classics, and screening sports in the heart of the city center—perfect for meals, pints, and pre-event vibes.
Slug & Lettuce - St Mary St Cardiff
0.5 km
Vibrant Cardiff cocktail bar on St Mary Street, famed for bottomless brunches, creative mixes, and lively nights in the city heart.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
0.5 km
Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
Brewhouse
0.5 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant live music scene with great food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere at Brewhouse in the Old Brewery Quarter.
Coyote Ugly Saloon Cardiff
0.6 km
Neon-lit, party-first American saloon on St Mary Street — loud music, bar-top dancing and grill fare for groups and celebrations.
Boom Battle Bar Cardiff
0.6 km
Cardiff’s ultimate bar for games, street food, cocktails, and late-night fun in a lively, interactive setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fuel Rock Club
0.2 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Clwb Ifor Bach
0.2 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
For Your Eyes Only
0.4 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Popworld - Cardiff
0.4 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Metros
0.5 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
The CUBE
0.6 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
0.6 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
0.7 km
Cardiff's largest nightclub ignites Greyfriars Road with 1,500-capacity energy, state-of-the-art production across themed rooms, and epic nights from club beats to private spectacles.
Pulse
0.9 km
A city-centre LGBTQ+-friendly bar that becomes a neon-lit nightclub after dark, blending casual daytime dining with late-night DJs and themed club nights.
The Vaults
2.0 km
Dive into Cardiff’s iconic underground club housed in a historic former bank, where techno beats and vibrant nightlife come alive beneath the city streets.
The Globe
2.1 km
A compact Grade II-listed former cinema turned lively live-music venue and nightclub, famed for intimate gigs and energetic club nights on Albany Road.
Cabaret at Wales Millennium Centre
2.3 km
Dive into Cardiff Bay's sizzling hub of drag, burlesque, comedy, and live music at Cabaret – where inclusive performances sparkle with pop culture magic and high-energy fun.
Coco Cubanas
11.2 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
11.2 km
Experience Barry’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Bar Cocoa, a lively nightclub where music and dancing keep the party going until the early morning.
Eclipse Nightclub
15.6 km
Experience Pontypridd’s vibrant midweek nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community come alive every Wednesday night.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
