Alexandra Gardens, Cardiff: A Serene Memorial Garden in Cathays Park
Tranquil Edwardian gardens in Cardiff’s civic heart, home to poignant war memorials and vibrant floral displays.
Nestled in the heart of Cardiff’s Cathays Park district, Alexandra Gardens is a tranquil Edwardian garden featuring formal lawns, vibrant flower beds, and significant war memorials including the Welsh National War Memorial. Established in 1903 and named after Queen Alexandra, the gardens offer a peaceful retreat surrounded by historic civic buildings and provide a poignant space for reflection and remembrance.
A brief summary to Alexandra Gardens
- 19 King Edward VII Ave, Cardiff, CF10 3NB, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a peaceful experience and quiet reflection away from crowds.
- Take time to explore the Welsh National War Memorial and other commemorative statues.
- Bring a camera for beautiful floral displays and classic Edwardian garden scenes.
- Enjoy sitting on the stone benches around the colonnade to soak in the garden’s serene atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
- Restrooms
Getting There
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Bus
Take Cardiff Bus routes 1, 6, or 8 towards Cathays Park; the journey from Cardiff Central Station takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run frequently every 10-15 minutes. A single fare costs around £2.00-£2.50.
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Train and Walk
From Cardiff Central railway station, walk about 20 minutes through the city centre to Alexandra Gardens. The route is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most travelers.
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Taxi
A taxi from Cardiff Central Station to Alexandra Gardens takes about 10 minutes depending on traffic, with fares typically between £6 and £10.
Alexandra Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Alexandra Gardens
Historical Origins and Design
Alexandra Gardens was laid out in 1903, originally named University Gardens, and officially opened in 1910, dedicated to Queen Alexandra. The garden’s design reflects Edwardian formal landscaping with rectangular lawns, neatly arranged flower beds, and mature trees. It is situated east of Bute Park, bordered by Edward VII Avenue and Museum Avenue, forming part of the elegant civic centre area of Cardiff. The gardens are registered as a Historic Park & Garden by Cadw, underscoring their cultural and historical significance.Memorials and Commemorative Features
The garden is renowned for its collection of memorials, most notably the Welsh National War Memorial, which occupies a central position within the park. This memorial features a striking colonnade of unfluted Corinthian columns with bronze statues representing the three armed services, crowned by a figure symbolizing victory. Beyond military remembrance, the gardens also host memorials dedicated to broader tragedies and contributors to society, such as the Kidney Wales Foundation’s tribute to organ donors, making the space a diverse memorial landscape.Setting and Surroundings
Surrounded by Cardiff’s impressive public buildings, Alexandra Gardens offers a serene green space amidst urban architecture. The park’s benches and pathways invite visitors to pause and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, while the floral displays provide seasonal bursts of color. The gardens are a favored spot for bridal photography, reflecting their aesthetic appeal and tranquil ambiance.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Alexandra Gardens serves as a quiet haven for relaxation and contemplation, especially on weekdays when the atmosphere is calm and reflective. The formal layout, combined with the presence of memorials, lends the garden a respectful and solemn character. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along well-maintained paths, sit by the fountain, and absorb the layered history embedded in the space.Integration into Cardiff’s Civic Memoryscape
The gardens are part of a wider network of public memorials and green spaces in Cardiff, including Gorsedd Gardens, Bute Park, and Cardiff Castle. This interconnected memoryscape enriches the city’s cultural heritage, with Alexandra Gardens playing a pivotal role as a locus of national commemoration and public memory.Conservation and Recognition
Maintained by Cardiff Parks, Alexandra Gardens benefits from ongoing conservation efforts to preserve its historic features and natural beauty. Its designation as a Registered Historic Park & Garden highlights its importance, and it continues to receive new memorials, ensuring its relevance as a living space of remembrance and community significance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
City Hall
0.2 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
South African War Memorial
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A poignant bronze and stone tribute in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who served in the Second Boer War, embodying peace, war, and grief.
Nereid Statue
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A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
Cardiff Town Wall
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Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.6 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
Historical Wales
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Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
Capitol Cardiff
0.7 km
Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
James Howell's House
0.7 km
Historic landmark in Cardiff celebrating James Howell’s retail legacy and Cardiff’s commercial heritage.
Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries Cardiff.
0.8 km
A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
Fogo's Free Tours
0.8 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
0.8 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Principality Stadium
0.9 km
Experience the energy and excitement of Principality Stadium, Cardiff's premier venue for sports, concerts, and unforgettable events.
HMP Cardiff
1.0 km
Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
AdventureRooms Escape Games Cardiff
1.1 km
Dive into adventure at AdventureRooms Escape Games Cardiff, where teamwork and excitement come together in thrilling escape challenges for all ages.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
1.2 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wales National War Memorial
0.0 km
A solemn and beautifully designed memorial in Cardiff’s Cathays Park honoring Welsh war heroes of the World Wars.
Museum Ave
0.1 km
A serene, tree-lined avenue in Cardiff’s civic heart, flanked by iconic museums and historic architecture.
Parc Mackenzie
0.2 km
A tranquil urban park in Cardiff honoring Wales’ first female professor with serene green spaces and academic heritage.
Gorsedd Gardens Rd
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff’s serene Gorsedd Gardens, home to a historic stone circle celebrating Welsh culture amidst vibrant floral beauty.
National Museum Cardiff
0.3 km
Explore world-class Welsh art, natural history, and culture at Cardiff’s iconic free museum in the heart of the city.
Gorsedd Gardens
0.3 km
Cardiff's tranquil civic heart: historic stones, exotic blooms, and urban serenity.
Cardiff International Film Festival
0.3 km
Where world cinema meets Welsh culture—a premier festival celebrating global storytelling and filmmaking excellence.
Bute Park
0.4 km
Cardiff's verdant 130-acre sanctuary where Victorian heritage meets modern celebration, beneath ancient trees and winter lights.
Coopers Field
0.4 km
A serene and spacious green oasis in Cardiff’s Bute Park, perfect for outdoor events, relaxation, and city escapes.
Queen Anne Square
0.4 km
A tranquil Edwardian square nestled in Cardiff’s Civic Centre, blending historic architecture with serene green space.
New Theatre
0.5 km
Historic Cardiff theatre blending rich heritage with vibrant live performances in a welcoming city centre setting.
Cardiff Castle
0.5 km
Discover nearly 2,000 years of history and stunning architecture at Cardiff Castle, the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital city.
Cardiff Castle Museum
0.5 km
Wales' capital castle where 2,000 years of Roman, Norman, and Victorian history converge in the heart of Cardiff.
Bute Park Visitor Centre
0.5 km
A sustainable, community-focused hub in the heart of Cardiff’s historic Bute Park, perfect for learning, relaxing, and exploring the city’s green heart.
Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Castle
0.6 km
Discover Cardiff Castle, a majestic blend of Roman roots, Norman strength, and Victorian splendor in the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital.
Essential places to dine
Laguna Kitchen & Bar Cardiff
0.4 km
Elegant modern dining with Welsh flair in the heart of Cardiff’s Park Plaza Hotel, featuring seasonal menus and a stylish cocktail bar.
Revolución de Cuba Cardiff
0.5 km
Experience authentic Cuban cuisine and vibrant culture at Revolución de Cuba Cardiff - your gateway to Havana's flavors in the heart of Wales.
Daffodil
0.6 km
Stylish gastro pub in Cardiff offering seasonal Welsh dishes, creative cocktails, and a serene garden terrace in the city centre.
Bellini's
0.6 km
Authentic Italian dining in Cardiff's cultural quarter, celebrated for exceptional service and romantic ambiance.
The Welsh House Cardiff
0.6 km
Experience authentic Welsh cuisine and warm hospitality in a stylish city-centre gastropub with scenic views of Cardiff Castle.
Valentino's
0.6 km
Cozy Italian restaurant in Cardiff city center offering authentic dishes, warm service, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
0.6 km
Cardiff's acclaimed steakhouse celebrating premium meat and bold flavors in a vibrant, lively setting.
The Potted Pig
0.6 km
A stylish underground eatery in Cardiff serving seasonal Welsh-inspired modern British cuisine in a unique former bank vault setting.
The Botanist Cardiff
0.7 km
A botanical haven in Cardiff city centre blending lush greenery, creative cocktails, seasonal British cuisine, and live music in a vibrant two-floor setting.
Calabrisella Cathays
0.7 km
Savor authentic Italian pizzas and pasta in a lively Cardiff setting with warm service and a vibrant atmosphere.
Maison de Bœuf
0.7 km
An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
Cafe Citta
0.7 km
Authentic Italian wood-fired pizza and handmade pasta in an intimate Cardiff gem.
Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
0.7 km
Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
Asador 44 Spanish Grill & Wine House
0.7 km
Experience authentic Spanish charcoal-grilled cuisine and fine wines in the heart of Cardiff at Asador 44.
Casanova
0.7 km
A long-standing Cardiff trattoria serving authentic regional Italian food with warm service and an excellent all-Italian wine list.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
The Works
0.6 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Cardiff Creative Shop
0.6 km
Handcrafted Welsh wonders from 45+ local artisans await in Queens Arcade's creative gem—unique gifts that sparkle with personality and heritage.
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
0.6 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Hobos Vintage
0.6 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.
Ganesha
0.6 km
Discover ethically sourced Indian and Nepali handicrafts, jewelry, and vibrant clothing in the heart of Cardiff's Queen Street shopping scene.
Little Welsh Company
0.6 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
Great Welsh Gifts
0.7 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.
Flamingos Vintage Cardiff
0.7 km
Discover sustainable style and unique vintage treasures by weight at Flamingos Vintage Cardiff in the Capitol Shopping Centre.
Flying Tiger
0.7 km
Discover quirky Scandinavian gifts and creative everyday essentials at Flying Tiger in Cardiff’s St David's Centre.
Knight Vintage
0.7 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Mojo King
0.7 km
Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
Urban Outfitters
0.9 km
Curated lifestyle retail celebrating creativity, fashion, and cultural expression in Cardiff's city centre.
Menkind
0.9 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts for men at Menkind Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Shopping Centre.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
0.9 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pen & Wig
0.4 km
Traditional Cardiff pub haven: award-winning pies, real ales, and a heated beer garden moments from Queen Street's energy.
Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
0.4 km
A lively, multi-level cocktail bar and casual-restaurant on The Friary — made for groups, brunch and evening drinks in central Cardiff.
The Woodville
0.4 km
Cathays' go-to pub for burgers, brews, sports screens, and unbeatable student specials in a lively, welcoming spot.
Yates - Cardiff
0.5 km
Lively sports bar and nightclub in Cardiff city centre with unbeatable sports coverage, great drinks, and a unique dancing doorman.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
0.5 km
Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
Gassy's
0.5 km
A lively Cathays pub and kitchen offering affordable pub food, strong vegan choices, bottomless brunch and regular quizzes, live music and sports screenings.
The Vulcan Lounge
0.5 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.
Henry's Cafe Bar Cardiff
0.6 km
A relaxed, long-standing Park Place bar offering cocktails, local beers and approachable British food from brunch through late-night.
Revolution Cardiff
0.6 km
A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
The Libertine Cocktail Bar
0.6 km
A stylish Cardiff cocktail bar blending gothic charm with expertly crafted drinks and a lively city center vibe.
Rum & Fizz
0.7 km
Discover Cardiff’s rum haven with over 200 rums, crafted cocktails, cozy elegance, and live jazz every Friday in Castle Arcade.
The Bootlegger
0.7 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
Penny
0.7 km
Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
Flight Club Cardiff
0.7 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant city nightlife at Flight Club Cardiff’s unique multi-level bar and rooftop terrace.
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
0.7 km
Discover Cardiff’s vibrant craft beer scene and lively pub culture at Tiny Rebel, a hub for award-winning brews and eclectic events.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
0.4 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The CUBE
0.5 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
0.5 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.
For Your Eyes Only
0.7 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Clwb Ifor Bach
0.7 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
0.7 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Pulse
0.7 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.
Metros
0.9 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
0.9 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
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Be At One in Cardiff, where every drink is a celebration and the atmosphere is electric!
Walkabout - Cardiff
1.1 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience in Cardiff, offering vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and live sports in a lively atmosphere.
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.
The Vaults
2.5 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
2.8 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
12.0 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
