Roath Park: Cardiff’s Victorian Lakeside Sanctuary
A timeless Victorian park in Cardiff with a scenic lake, botanical gardens, and vibrant recreational spaces for all ages.
Roath Park in Cardiff is a cherished Victorian-era green space featuring a 30-acre man-made lake, scenic walking paths, a botanical conservatory, and diverse recreational facilities. Established in 1894 on reclaimed bogland, it offers boating, playgrounds, tennis courts, and peaceful gardens, making it a vibrant urban oasis for families, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Roath Park
- Lake Rd W, Cardiff, CF23 5PA, GB
- +442920872087
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit the conservatory for a tropical plant experience; small entry fee applies and it’s especially cozy in colder months.
- Boat rentals on the lake operate from April to November—life jackets are provided and mandatory for children.
- Explore the playground area south of the lake for large slides and adventure equipment, perfect for families.
- Enjoy refreshments at Terra Nova Café or the ice cream kiosk overlooking the lake for a relaxing break.
- Look out for the Scott Memorial Lighthouse on the lake, an iconic Cardiff landmark commemorating Antarctic exploration.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Cardiff Bus routes 8 or 9 from the city center to Roath Park; journey times range from 15 to 25 minutes. Services run frequently during the day with standard adult fares around £2.50.
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Car
Driving from central Cardiff to Roath Park takes approximately 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Limited on-street parking is available near Lake Road West and East entrances; parking is free but can fill quickly on weekends.
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Walking
For a pleasant urban walk, it takes about 30-40 minutes from Cardiff city center to Roath Park via mostly flat, paved routes suitable for all fitness levels and wheelchair access.
Roath Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Roath Park
A Storied Beginning and Victorian Vision
Roath Park stands as one of Cardiff’s oldest and most beloved public parks, born from a visionary Victorian project that transformed 130 acres of former bogland into a lush urban retreat. The land was generously donated in 1887 by the third Marquess of Bute and other local landowners, marking the first publicly owned park in the city. Designed collaboratively by Borough Engineer William Harpur and Head Gardener William Wallace Pettigrew, the park opened officially on June 20, 1894, embodying the era’s ideals of accessible green space and civic pride.The Heart of the Park: The Man-Made Lake and Wildlife
At its center lies the 30-acre man-made lake, created by damming the Nant Fawr stream. This expansive water body is a magnet for wildlife, including swans, cormorants, and geese, and features four islands designated as a conservation area providing sanctuary for native birds and flora. The lake is also a hub of activity, offering rowboats and pedal boats for hire during warmer months, allowing visitors to glide past the iconic Scott Memorial Lighthouse—a 1915 tribute to Antarctic explorer Captain Robert Scott—while soaking in serene waterside views.Gardens, Conservatory, and Recreational Delights
Roath Park’s botanical gardens are a vibrant tapestry of color and life, culminating in a heated glasshouse conservatory that shelters exotic tropical plants such as palms, banana trees, orchids, and the rare bat flower. The conservatory also houses a tranquil koi pond with terrapins and Asian ducks, accessible for a modest entry fee. Beyond the gardens, the park offers extensive recreational facilities including tennis courts, bowling greens, basketball courts, and a large playground with climbing frames and slides, making it a favored destination for families and sports enthusiasts.A Community Hub with Seasonal Activities and Amenities
Throughout the year, Roath Park serves as a lively community space with seasonal events such as bouncy castles and mini-golf during school holidays. Visitors can relax at the Terra Nova Café overlooking the lake or enjoy treats from the ice cream kiosk. The park’s well-maintained pathways and benches invite leisurely strolls, picnics, and birdwatching, while the surrounding wild gardens and woodlands offer peaceful escapes within the city.Accessibility and Natural Beauty in an Urban Setting
Stretching approximately 1.8 miles from south to north, Roath Park connects diverse neighborhoods and provides easy access from Cardiff city center. Its layout includes the Recreation Ground, Pleasure Gardens, Botanic Garden, and the lake area, each with distinct character and natural beauty. The park’s design balances manicured gardens with wild habitats, offering visitors a rich experience of both cultivated and natural landscapes.Preserving a Green Legacy for Future Generations
Roath Park remains a vital green lung for Cardiff, cherished for its historic significance, biodiversity, and recreational opportunities. Its ongoing maintenance and thoughtful enhancements ensure it continues to serve as a welcoming sanctuary where nature, history, and community converge, enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Scott Memorial Lighthouse
0.1 km
Historic lighthouse memorial in Roath Park honoring Captain Scott’s Antarctic expedition, set beside Cardiff’s scenic Victorian lake.
City Hall
2.3 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
James Howell's House
2.3 km
Historic landmark in Cardiff celebrating James Howell’s retail legacy and Cardiff’s commercial heritage.
South African War Memorial
2.3 km
A poignant bronze and stone tribute in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who served in the Second Boer War, embodying peace, war, and grief.
The Gathering - Cardiff
2.4 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
Nereid Statue
2.4 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
Capitol Cardiff
2.6 km
Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries Cardiff.
2.6 km
A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
Cardiff Town Wall
2.6 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Historical Wales
2.7 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
HMP Cardiff
2.7 km
Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
Animal Wall
2.8 km
Explore the Animal Wall in Cardiff, a historical landmark filled with whimsical animal sculptures that tell the story of the city's rich heritage.
Museum of Cardiff
2.8 km
Explore Cardiff’s vibrant history and culture in the heart of the city at the Museum of Cardiff, housed in the historic Old Library.
The Cardiff Market
2.8 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
8 St Mary St
2.9 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of 8 St Mary St in the heart of Cardiff, a must-see for every traveler.
Unmissable attractions to see
Roath Park Conservatory
0.2 km
Step into a tropical haven within Cardiff’s historic Roath Park, where exotic plants and tranquil koi ponds create a serene escape.
Roath Recreation Ground
0.9 km
A lively, family-friendly urban park in Cardiff offering playgrounds, sports fields, and peaceful green spaces for recreation and relaxation.
Roath Park Wild Gardens
1.0 km
Discover Cardiff’s tranquil Wild Gardens, a natural woodland retreat with flowing streams and rich wildlife within historic Roath Park.
Roath Brook Gardens
1.4 km
A peaceful, historic garden corridor along Roath Brook offering lush greenery and tranquil urban nature in Cardiff’s Roath district.
Rainbow Bargain
1.4 km
A compact Roath discount store stocking thousands of everyday bargains, DIY essentials and party supplies under one roof.
Pear Tree
1.4 km
A friendly Wellfield Road pub with classic pub food, cask ales and a cosy beer garden — ideal for relaxed meals, drinks and dog‑friendly afternoons.
Roath Local History Society
1.5 km
Explore Cardiff’s heritage through the Roath Local History Society, preserving the stories and culture of the old Roath parish since the 1980s.
Claude
1.5 km
Traditional stone-fronted corner pub on Albany Road—simple food, rotating ales, sports screens and a relaxed local atmosphere.
Roath Mill Gardens
1.7 km
Discover Roath Mill Gardens, a tranquil 4-acre urban oasis in Cardiff’s Roath district, perfect for peaceful walks and seasonal nature escapes.
Queen Anne Square
1.9 km
A tranquil Edwardian square nestled in Cardiff’s Civic Centre, blending historic architecture with serene green space.
Parc Mackenzie
2.1 km
A tranquil urban park in Cardiff honoring Wales’ first female professor with serene green spaces and academic heritage.
Museum Ave
2.1 km
A serene, tree-lined avenue in Cardiff’s civic heart, flanked by iconic museums and historic architecture.
Howardian Local Nature Reserve
2.1 km
A serene 32-acre urban nature reserve near Cardiff city centre, rich in wildlife, woodland, meadows, and peaceful trails.
Cardiff International Film Festival
2.1 km
Where world cinema meets Welsh culture—a premier festival celebrating global storytelling and filmmaking excellence.
The Cardiff Buddhist Centre
2.1 km
A peaceful urban sanctuary offering meditation, mindfulness, and Buddhist teachings in the heart of Cardiff.
Essential places to dine
Sunnys Street Food - Mexican & Italian Restaurant Cardiff
1.0 km
Bold street food flavors, generous portions, unbeatable prices—where Cardiff gathers to eat well.
Svago Italian
1.1 km
Authentic Italian flavors and vegan delights served in a welcoming Cardiff setting with a lively bar atmosphere.
The Hellenic Eatery
1.1 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality at The Hellenic Eatery in Cardiff’s vibrant Crwys Road.
Silures
1.3 km
Experience exquisite modern European cuisine with elegant ambiance and impeccable service in the heart of Cardiff.
SaraZtro
1.3 km
Authentic Greek flavors and warm hospitality await you at SaraZtro, Cardiff’s beloved Mediterranean gem on Wellfield Road.
Legacy Indian Cuisine
1.3 km
Authentic Indian flavors meet fresh ingredients and warm hospitality in Cardiff’s beloved Legacy Indian Cuisine.
Troy Meze Bar
1.3 km
Authentic Mediterranean meze and charcoal-grilled kebabs served with warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Roath district.
Yamas Restaurant Cardiff
1.3 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in Cardiff’s lively Yamas Restaurant.
La Dolce Vita
1.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in Cardiff’s cozy La Dolce Vita on Wellfield Road.
Juno Lounge
1.4 km
A welcoming British café and bar in Cardiff with dedicated gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options for inclusive dining all day long.
Chickaros Cardiff
1.4 km
Savor succulent chicken and gourmet flavors in a lively, welcoming spot on Cardiff’s Albany Road.
Little Kochi
1.4 km
Discover authentic Keralan cuisine with generous portions and vibrant flavors at Little Kochi, Cardiff’s premier South Indian restaurant.
Calabrisella Cathays
1.5 km
Savor authentic Italian pizzas and pasta in a lively Cardiff setting with warm service and a vibrant atmosphere.
Shaam nights restaurant
1.9 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine and ornate Middle Eastern ambiance in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Roath district.
Giardini di Sorrento
2.3 km
Experience authentic Southern Italian cuisine with warm hospitality and a dog-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff’s City Road.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ethical Boutique Charity Shop
1.1 km
Vintage vibes meet ethical impact: shop sustainably, swap smartly, and support global good at Cardiff's coolest charity boutique.
Cathays High Store
1.1 km
Discover the convenience of Cathays High Store in Cardiff, your local supermarket offering a wide range of groceries and local specialties.
Boutique 53
1.3 km
Discover curated ladies' fashion on Cardiff's vibrant Wellfield Road, where independent style meets personalized service in Roath's chic shopping heart.
Style Bird
1.3 km
Uncover curated fashion treasures at Style Bird, Cardiff's intimate boutique in Roath where unique styles and personal service create wardrobe magic.
Penny Lane Vintage
1.3 km
Unearth hand-picked 1940s-1970s treasures—vintage clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and homewares—in Cardiff's charming Roath arcade boutique.
Gift shop Cardiff Home 4 You Home goods and craft store
1.4 km
Uncover eclectic home goods, crafts, and jewelry in Roath's charming Gift Shop Cardiff Home 4 You – where style meets affordability on Albany Road.
Ganesha
2.5 km
Discover ethically sourced Indian and Nepali handicrafts, jewelry, and vibrant clothing in the heart of Cardiff's Queen Street shopping scene.
Flamingos Vintage Cardiff
2.5 km
Discover sustainable style and unique vintage treasures by weight at Flamingos Vintage Cardiff in the Capitol Shopping Centre.
Cardiff Creative Shop
2.6 km
A vibrant Cardiff gift shop showcasing handmade crafts and designs by local Welsh artists in the heart of the city centre.
Rokit Cardiff
2.6 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
City Shop
2.6 km
Discover Cardiff's City Shop, your convenient destination for essentials, snacks, and local treats in the heart of the city.
The Works
2.7 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Dandy Gallery Retro Vintage Antique Shop Cardiff
2.7 km
Discover Cardiff’s premier retro and vintage shop offering unique antiques, mid-century furniture, and decorative treasures in a vibrant industrial setting.
Little Welsh Company
2.7 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
Hobos Vintage
2.7 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cathays Beer House
1.1 km
Cozy Crwys Road craft beer haven with high ceilings, expert pours, live events, and outdoor vibes in Cardiff's vibrant Cathays.
Albany Hotel
1.1 km
A friendly, old-school Cardiff pub with affordable rooms above — straightforward food, local ales and a cosy, lived-in atmosphere.
Crwys Hotel
1.2 km
Cathays' cozy corner for pub grub, pints, sports screens, sunny garden escapes, and quiz nights in Cardiff's student heartland.
Cathays Sports & Social Club
1.3 km
Cardiff's unpretentious social hub: cheap pints, games galore, live tunes, and community vibes in student-favorite Cathays.
Wellfield Terrace Bar
1.3 km
Cozy terrace pours on Roath's lively Wellfield Road, where craft beers flow amid Cardiff's indie neighborhood buzz. Unwind with locals under string lights. (162 characters)
Bar 105
1.3 km
Intimate Cardiff cocktail haven with killer drinks, DJ nights, and pop-up feasts in student-fueled Cathays.
The Flora
1.3 km
Cozy Cathays pub pouring pints, roasts, and community spirit in a quirky, welcoming haven—Cardiff's go-to for hearty Sundays and everyday cheer.
The Royal George
1.4 km
Historic Roath pub at 'Death Junction'—live sports, student deals, and community vibes in a Victorian V-shaped gem.
The Woodville
1.7 km
Cathays' go-to pub for burgers, brews, sports screens, and unbeatable student specials in a lively, welcoming spot.
The Vulcan Lounge
1.7 km
Boho pub vibes, craft pours, and hearty bites in Cardiff's student heartland – unwind with ales, pizzas, and pool in this eclectic Cathays lounge.
Gassy's
1.8 km
A lively Cathays pub and kitchen offering affordable pub food, strong vegan choices, bottomless brunch and regular quizzes, live music and sports screenings.
Pen & Wig
2.2 km
Traditional Cardiff pub haven: award-winning pies, real ales, and a heated beer garden moments from Queen Street's energy.
Royal Oak
2.4 km
Cosy Cardiff pub with beer garden, sports screens, cask ales, pool & darts—your go-to for pints, games and good times on lively Broadway.
Yates - Cardiff
2.5 km
Lively sports bar and nightclub in Cardiff city centre with unbeatable sports coverage, great drinks, and a unique dancing doorman.
Henry's Cafe Bar Cardiff
2.5 km
A relaxed, long-standing Park Place bar offering cocktails, local beers and approachable British food from brunch through late-night.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Globe
1.4 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.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
2.5 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.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
2.5 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The CUBE
2.5 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Pulse
2.6 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.
For Your Eyes Only
2.8 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Clwb Ifor Bach
2.8 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
Fuel Rock Club
2.8 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Metros
2.9 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
Popworld - Cardiff
3.0 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Be At One - Cardiff
3.2 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Be At One in Cardiff, where every drink is a celebration and the atmosphere is electric!
Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
3.2 km
Experience Cardiff's nightlife at Dirty Martini, the ultimate cocktail bar with expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.
Walkabout - Cardiff
3.2 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience in Cardiff, offering vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and live sports in a lively atmosphere.
The Vaults
4.5 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.
Cabaret at Wales Millennium Centre
4.7 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly