Cambrian Way Plaque at Bute Park, Cardiff
Discover the gateway to Wales’ epic mountain trail at the Cambrian Way Plaque in Cardiff’s historic Bute Park.
The Cambrian Way Plaque in Bute Park, Cardiff, marks the southern starting point of the iconic 298-mile Cambrian Way trail that traverses the mountains and valleys of Wales from Cardiff to Conwy. Situated near Cardiff Castle within the city’s historic green heart, Bute Park offers a scenic and tranquil setting rich in natural beauty and heritage, making it an inspiring gateway for this challenging mountain connoisseur’s route.
A brief summary to Cambrian Way Plaque Cardiff
- Bute Park, Cardiff, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the Bute Park Visitor Centre to learn about the park’s rich history and wildlife before starting your Cambrian Way journey.
- Explore nearby Cardiff Castle and the arboretum within Bute Park for a fuller cultural and natural experience.
- Wear sturdy footwear if you plan to begin walking the Cambrian Way from the plaque, as the trail quickly moves into varied terrain.
- Check the weather forecast and prepare for sudden changes, especially if continuing onto the mountainous sections of the Cambrian Way.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Train and Walk
Arrive at Cardiff Central Station, then walk approximately 20 minutes through the city center to reach Bute Park and the Cambrian Way Plaque. The station is well connected with frequent services from across Wales and England. Walking routes are flat and accessible.
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Bus
Take local Cardiff bus routes that stop near Cardiff Castle or the city center. From the stop, it is a 10 to 15-minute walk to Bute Park entrance. Bus fares range from £2 to £4 depending on distance, with frequent service throughout the day.
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Car
Driving to Bute Park is possible, but parking is limited in the city center. Nearby public car parks offer hourly rates typically between £2 and £5. Note that traffic congestion can occur during peak hours, and some park areas restrict vehicle access.
Cambrian Way Plaque Cardiff 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 Cambrian Way Plaque Cardiff
The Significance of the Cambrian Way Plaque
The Cambrian Way Plaque, installed in 2022 at the entrance of Bute Park in Cardiff, commemorates the start of the renowned Cambrian Way long-distance trail. This 298-mile route stretches from Cardiff in the south to Conwy in the north, crossing some of Wales’ most dramatic landscapes including the South Wales Valleys, Brecon Beacons, Cambrian Mountains, and Snowdonia National Park. The plaque symbolizes the gateway to a journey celebrated for its rugged mountain terrain and cultural richness, inviting walkers to embark on a demanding but rewarding adventure through the heart of Wales.Bute Park’s Historic and Natural Setting
Bute Park itself is a Grade 1 listed historic landscape and a Green Flag urban park, covering approximately 56 hectares (about 130 acres) in central Cardiff. Once the private pleasure gardens of Cardiff Castle’s Marquess of Bute, the park is now a public green lung featuring mature woodlands, an arboretum with over 3,000 catalogued trees including several UK Champion Trees, and remnants of medieval structures such as Blackfriars Friary. The park’s blend of horticultural beauty, wildlife habitats, and historical elements offers a tranquil and scenic environment that contrasts with the urban bustle nearby.Connecting Urban Heritage with Mountain Wilderness
The location of the plaque at Bute Park is symbolic, bridging Cardiff’s urban heritage with the wild, mountainous landscapes that the Cambrian Way explores. The trail begins by following the River Taff and the old Glamorgan Canal nature reserve, moving past iconic landmarks like Castell Coch, a romantic mock-castle set on ancient foundations. This transition from city parkland to remote upland terrain encapsulates the unique character of the Cambrian Way, which combines cultural heritage with natural grandeur.Visitor Experience at Bute Park and the Plaque
Visitors to the Cambrian Way Plaque can enjoy the extensive amenities of Bute Park, including the Visitor Centre with educational exhibits on the park’s history and wildlife, several cafés, and well-maintained paths suitable for casual strolls or more active exploration. The park hosts events year-round, enhancing its role as a vibrant community space. The plaque itself serves as an inspiring photo spot and a point of reflection for walkers preparing to undertake the challenging route ahead.Environmental and Cultural Stewardship
Bute Park is managed with sustainability in mind, featuring eco-conscious infrastructure such as solar panels and a green roof on the Visitor Centre. The park’s conservation efforts protect diverse wildlife, including woodpeckers, otters, and salmon, while preserving its historic landscape. The Cambrian Way Plaque installation aligns with ongoing efforts to promote responsible outdoor recreation and celebrate Welsh natural and cultural heritage.Legacy and Ongoing Trail Development
The Cambrian Way was developed by dedicated walkers and conservationists, with the route and waymarking continually improved to enhance accessibility and safety. The plaque at Bute Park marks the culmination of these efforts, symbolizing the trail’s growing recognition and encouraging new generations of walkers to explore Wales’ mountainous heartland. It stands not only as a physical marker but as a tribute to the spirit of adventure and connection to the Welsh landscape.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.
South African War Memorial
0.5 km
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
0.5 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
City Hall
0.6 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
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.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
0.7 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Parc Mackenzie
0.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Parc Mackenzie, a lush park in Cardiff perfect for relaxation, strolls, and enjoying nature's charm.
Exitus Escape Rooms
0.8 km
Experience thrilling adventures and team-building fun at Exitus Escape Rooms in Cardiff, where every puzzle brings you closer to victory.
St David's Metropolitan Cathedral
0.8 km
Experience the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of St David's Metropolitan Cathedral, a must-visit spiritual landmark in Cardiff.
Cardiff International Film Festival
0.8 km
Discover the Cardiff International Film Festival, where cinema comes alive through captivating screenings and inspiring workshops in the heart of Wales.
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.
Queen Anne Square
0.8 km
Explore Queen Anne Square in Cardiff: A serene gem filled with history, beautiful architecture, and perfect spots for relaxation and photography.
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.8 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
Unmissable attractions to see
Charter for Trees Woods and People
0.0 km
A symbolic pole in Cardiff’s Bute Park celebrating the enduring bond between people, trees, and nature’s future.
River Cruises
0.1 km
Explore Cardiff Bay’s stunning waterfront on a relaxing, eco-friendly Aquabus river cruise with accessible, modern catamarans.
Animal Wall
0.1 km
A whimsical Victorian stone menagerie along Cardiff’s Bute Park, featuring 15 expressive animals carved into a historic wall near Cardiff Castle.
Coopers Field
0.2 km
A serene and spacious green oasis in Cardiff’s Bute Park, perfect for outdoor events, relaxation, and city escapes.
Cardiff Castle Museum
0.2 km
Wales' capital castle where 2,000 years of Roman, Norman, and Victorian history converge in the heart of Cardiff.
Cardiff Arms Park
0.2 km
Historic rugby stadium in Cardiff, home to Cardiff Rugby and a cornerstone of Welsh sporting heritage since the 1870s.
Cardiff Castle
0.3 km
Discover nearly 2,000 years of history and stunning architecture at Cardiff Castle, the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital city.
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.
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.
Bute Park
0.3 km
Cardiff's verdant 130-acre sanctuary where Victorian heritage meets modern celebration, beneath ancient trees and winter lights.
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.
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.
SCALE
0.4 km
Experience the thrill of climbing Cardiff’s iconic Principality Stadium roof with SCALE—where panoramic views meet sporting legend.
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.
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.
Essential places to dine
Maison de Bœuf
0.3 km
An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
Bar 44 Cardiff
0.3 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in Cardiff's vibrant Castle Quarter.
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.
Casanova
0.4 km
A long-standing Cardiff trattoria serving authentic regional Italian food with warm service and an excellent all-Italian wine list.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
0.4 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
Asador 44 Spanish Grill & Wine House
0.4 km
Authentic Spanish charcoal grilling and fine wines in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Cafe Citta
0.4 km
Cozy Italian eatery in Cardiff city center serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and pasta in an intimate, stylish setting.
The Alchemist Cardiff
0.4 km
Experience the magic of mixology at The Alchemist Cardiff, where innovative cocktails meet exquisite dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Turtle Bay Cardiff
0.4 km
Caribbean soul meets Welsh hospitality—bold jerk, tropical cocktails, and island warmth in 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)
0.5 km
Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
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.
The Sorting Room Restaurant
0.5 km
Elegant modern European dining in Cardiff’s city centre, celebrated for Welsh beef specialties and refined brasserie ambiance.
Lezzet Turkish Kitchen
0.5 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
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
0.4 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.
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.
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
0.5 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Mojo King
0.5 km
Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
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.
Knight Vintage
0.5 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
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.
Morgan Quarter
0.6 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Flying Tiger
0.7 km
Discover quirky Scandinavian gifts and creative everyday essentials at Flying Tiger in Cardiff’s St David's Centre.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
0.7 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.
Urban Outfitters
0.7 km
Curated lifestyle retail celebrating creativity, fashion, and cultural expression in Cardiff's city centre.
elephants and flowres
0.7 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Welcome Things
0.7 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bootlegger
0.3 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
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.
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.
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
0.4 km
Discover Cardiff’s vibrant craft beer scene and lively pub culture at Tiny Rebel, a hub for award-winning brews and eclectic events.
Rum & Fizz
0.4 km
Discover Cardiff’s rum haven with over 200 rums, crafted cocktails, cozy elegance, and live jazz every Friday in Castle Arcade.
Penny
0.4 km
Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
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.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
0.5 km
Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
0.5 km
A lively, multi-level cocktail bar and casual-restaurant on The Friary — made for groups, brunch and evening drinks in central Cardiff.
Main Stage
0.6 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.
Glassworks
0.6 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.
Mary's Cardiff
0.6 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife at Mary’s, a lively bar and nightclub blending modern lounge vibes with energetic party spirit.
Yates - Cardiff
0.6 km
Lively sports bar and nightclub in Cardiff city centre with unbeatable sports coverage, great drinks, and a unique dancing doorman.
Slug & Lettuce - St Mary St Cardiff
0.6 km
Vibrant Cardiff cocktail bar on St Mary Street, famed for bottomless brunches, creative mixes, and lively nights in the city heart.
Boom Battle Bar Cardiff
0.7 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
0.3 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Clwb Ifor Bach
0.3 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
0.6 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
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.
The CUBE
0.6 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Metros
0.6 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
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.
Walkabout - Cardiff
0.8 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience in Cardiff, offering vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and live sports in a lively atmosphere.
Pulse
0.8 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 Globe
1.9 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
2.2 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
2.5 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
11.4 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
11.4 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
