Best Bars Near Cardiff Bay (Cardiff)
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The best bars near Cardiff Bay
- Top rated
- Closest to Cardiff Bay
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- Time to spend: shortest first
- A–Z
45 bars
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Pub4.2★4,545 reviews
Cedar Tree Farm - Farmhouse Inns
Cedar Tree Farm is a welcoming family-friendly pub and restaurant located in Cardiff's Grangetown area. Known for its spacious beer garden, indoor play area, and extensive carvery menu, it offers a relaxed atmosphere with options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The venue features free WiFi, disabled facilities, and ample parking, making it a convenient spot for locals and visitors alike.
Price level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Bar4.3★3,504 reviews
The Live Lounge Cardiff
The Live Lounge Cardiff is a lively bar and nightclub located in the heart of Cardiff city centre. Known for its vibrant live music scene featuring solo artists, duos, and bands, it offers an energetic atmosphere with affordable drinks and hearty pub food. Open daily until 4am, it transforms from a relaxed daytime venue to a bustling nightclub by night, catering to a diverse crowd seeking entertainment and socializing.
Daily 12:00–4:00Price level $Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Pub4.5★3,322 reviews
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
Tiny Rebel Cardiff, located at 25 Westgate Street, is a vibrant pub known for its extensive craft beer selection brewed by the award-winning Tiny Rebel brewery. Open daily with kitchen service offering British and street food-style dishes, it features a lively atmosphere with live jazz nights and a dog-friendly policy. Its eclectic, quirky interior and proximity to the Principality Stadium make it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Live music bar4.3★2,165 reviews
Brewhouse
Located in the heart of Cardiff at 49 St Mary Street, Brewhouse is a lively live music bar, pub, and restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere, regular live performances, and a diverse menu. Open daily with extended hours on weekends, it offers a mix of British pub classics, cocktails, and craft beers, alongside sports screenings and a welcoming social scene.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Grill4.0★2,156 reviews
Coyote Ugly Saloon Cardiff
Located on 78 St Mary Street, Coyote Ugly Saloon Cardiff is a lively bar and grill known for its energetic atmosphere, barmaid performances, and casual American-style menu. Open late into the night, it offers a mix of music, dancing, and hearty food, making it a popular spot for groups and party-goers seeking a wild, fun night out in central Cardiff.
Mon–Fri 16:00–3:00 · Sat–Sun 12:00–3:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Live music bar4.2★1,982 reviews
The Dock
Set on Mermaid Quay in Cardiff Bay, The Dock is a waterside bar and kitchen known for panoramic bay views, a lively live-music programme and an all-day menu of casual plates and drinks. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with light, while terraces and seating face the harbour, making it a social spot for daytime brunches, evening sport on big screens and late-night music sessions on weekends.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–3 hrs
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Cocktail bar4.4★1,584 reviews
Peppermint Bar
Peppermint Bar & Kitchen in Cardiff city centre is a lively cocktail bar and kitchen known for its sophisticated drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and spacious outdoor terrace. Offering a diverse menu including Detroit-style pizzas, burgers, and vegan options, it is ideal for casual dining, group events, and late-night partying with opening hours until 3am on weekends.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Bar4.3★1,619 reviews
Las Iguanas - Cardiff - Mermaid Quay
Las Iguanas at Mermaid Quay offers a lively atmosphere with delicious Latin American cuisine. Perfect for tourists looking to indulge in cocktails and tapas by the bay.
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Pub4.2★1,583 reviews
The Eli Jenkins
The Eli Jenkins is a lively pub in Cardiff Bay, housed in one of the area's few original buildings. Overlooking the Roald Dahl Plass and Millennium Centre, it offers a spacious beer garden with tropical plants and heated seating, budget-friendly drinks, hearty pub food like pizzas, wings, gammon, and cod, plus live sports on HD screens indoors and out. Named after a fictional reverend from Dylan Thomas's Under Milk Wood, it captures a quintessential Welsh pub vibe with cask ales, craft draughts, and a welcoming atmosphere for casual gatherings.
Price level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Cocktail bar4.4★1,459 reviews
The Alchemist Cardiff
The Alchemist Cardiff is a vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant located at 117 St Mary Street, offering a unique theatrical drinking and dining experience. Known for its creative molecular mixology and globally inspired all-day menu, it blends immersive cocktail theatre with a lively atmosphere. Open late, it’s a popular city centre venue for brunch, dinner, and late-night drinks, combining innovative flavours with stylish surroundings.
Price level $$$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Botanist Cardiff
Nestled in the heart of Cardiff city centre on Church Street, The Botanist Cardiff offers a vibrant gastropub experience with botanical-inspired decor, creative cocktails, and a menu rich in seasonal vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Known for its signature hanging kebabs and live music on weekends, this venue blends a lush garden atmosphere with lively entertainment, making it ideal for casual drinks, dining, and special occasions.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Glassworks
Glassworks is a lively pub and restaurant located at 4 Wharton Street in Cardiff, offering a welcoming atmosphere, quality British pub food, and an extensive drink selection. Known for its quirky layout and clean environment, it serves as a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy casual dining, drinks, and regular events in the heart of the city.
Daily 12:00–24:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Flight Club Cardiff
Flight Club Cardiff is a lively, multi-level darts bar located on St Mary Street in the heart of Cardiff. Combining a unique twist on the classic game with a vibrant bar atmosphere, it features 15 high-tech Social Darts® playing areas, four bars, and a heated rooftop terrace with cosy cabins. Open daily with extended hours on weekends, it offers brunch socials, cocktails, and a fun, competitive environment suitable for groups and events.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
The Philharmonic
The Philharmonic is a lively, multilevel pub and nightclub located on St Mary Street in Cardiff city centre. Known for its diverse bars, rooftop terrace, and vibrant atmosphere, it offers a mix of dining, drinks, and entertainment with a modern yet casual vibe. Open daily with extended hours on weekends, it is popular for its cocktails, bottomless brunches, and social scene, making it a hotspot for locals and visitors alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Revolution Cardiff
Revolution Cardiff is a vibrant cocktail bar, restaurant, and nightlife hub in the heart of the city, directly opposite Cardiff Castle and near the Principality Stadium. This multi-room venue buzzes with energy, featuring playful decor like arcade games, a giant disco ball, and quirky posters. Indulge in handcrafted cocktails with cheeky names, colorful bar food including pizzas, burgers, and sharing platters, plus vegan and vegetarian options. Multiple spaces include the main Nightjar bar, vodka garden, upstairs clubroom with DJs, and karaoke pods for lively nights out, bottomless brunches, or group celebrations. Open late until 3am on weekends with smart casual dress code.
Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–4 hrs
Boom Battle Bar Cardiff
Boom Battle Bar Cardiff, located in The Old Brewery Quarter, is a lively bar and entertainment venue known for its unique combination of games like axe throwing and karaoke, bottomless brunches, street food, and late-night DJs. Open daily from noon until 4am, it offers a buzzing atmosphere with interactive activities, creative cocktails, and a modern, fun-filled setting perfect for groups, celebrations, and nightlife enthusiasts.
Daily 12:00–4:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Slug & Lettuce - St Mary St Cardiff
Located on 84 St Mary Street in Cardiff, Slug & Lettuce is a lively cocktail bar and restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere, extensive drinks menu, and casual dining experience. Popular for bottomless brunches and social gatherings, it offers a modern setting with friendly service and a menu featuring classic pub dishes and cocktails, making it a favored spot in Cardiff’s city center nightlife.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
Dirty Martini in Cardiff is a sophisticated cocktail bar renowned for its glamorous interiors, extensive martini and cocktail menu, and vibrant nightlife atmosphere. Located on St Mary Street, it offers happy hour specials, bottomless brunches, and private event spaces, making it a popular destination for socialising, celebrations, and late-night entertainment in the heart of the city.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
The Dead Canary
Tucked away behind a discreet black door in Barrack Lane, The Dead Canary is a sophisticated cocktail bar in Cardiff’s St David’s Centre. Renowned for its inventive, expertly crafted drinks inspired by dragons and mythical themes, this intimate venue offers a cozy, vintage atmosphere with attentive table service. A hotspot for cocktail aficionados seeking unique flavors and a relaxed yet exclusive vibe in the heart of the city.
Price level $$$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Lab 22
Lab 22 is a renowned cocktail bar tucked away on Caroline Street in Cardiff city centre. Established in 2012, it combines innovative mixology with a scientific approach, offering an immersive experience through expertly crafted cocktails that often incorporate local and foraged ingredients. The stylish venue is known for its creative menus, theatrical drink presentations, and a vibrant atmosphere that attracts cocktail enthusiasts seeking unique flavors and memorable evenings.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Rummer Tavern
The Rummer Tavern, located at 14 Duke Street in Cardiff, is the city’s oldest pub, dating back to the early 18th century. Known for its distinctive narrow Tudor-style façade, it has served as a coach service hub, cycling club base, and a haunt for ghost stories, particularly the legend of a jealous sailor’s spirit. Today, it offers a cozy atmosphere with a rich historical backdrop, making it a must-visit for those interested in Welsh heritage and paranormal tales.
Price level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Be At One - Cardiff
Be At One Cardiff is a lively cocktail bar located at 60-62 St Mary Street in the heart of Cardiff city centre. Known for its extensive menu of over 100 expertly crafted cocktails, it offers a vibrant nightlife atmosphere with daily happy hours and weekend late-night parties. The venue features private hire options, cocktail masterclasses, and resident DJs, making it a popular spot for celebrations and social gatherings.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Cosy Club
Nestled in the vibrant Mermaid Quay, Cosy Club Cardiff Bay offers a stylish retreat with all-day dining from brunch to late-night cocktails. This eclectic venue blends British classics and global flavors in a cozy, retro-inspired space overlooking the waterfront, perfect for relaxed meals or lively evenings by the bay.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
The Grange Pub
The Grange Pub is a lively community pub located at 134 Penarth Road in Cardiff’s Grangetown district. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, it offers a range of quality beers from local South Wales breweries alongside a menu featuring traditional British pub fare with vegetarian and vegan options. The pub features indoor and outdoor seating, is dog-friendly, and provides a casual setting for lunches, dinners, and weekend gatherings.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Pitch Bar & Eatery
Pitch Bar & Eatery is a vibrant independent bar and restaurant located on Mill Lane in Cardiff, offering a welcoming atmosphere with honest, modern British cuisine. Open daily from breakfast through late-night, it serves freshly handmade dishes alongside an extensive cocktail menu, making it a popular spot for casual dining, drinks, and social gatherings in the heart of the city.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Mocka Lounge
Located in the heart of Cardiff on Mill Lane, Mocka Lounge is a lively cocktail bar and nightclub known for its extensive drink menu, energetic atmosphere, and spacious outdoor beer garden. Open late into the night, it offers a dynamic social scene with music, DJs, and a welcoming vibe, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking quality cocktails, friendly service, and a festive environment.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
The Waterguard
Nestled on Cardiff's vibrant waterfront along Harbour Drive, The Waterguard is a welcoming Sam Smith's pub offering a curated selection of traditional ales, hearty pub meals, and stunning bay views. This dog-friendly spot features indoor and outdoor seating in two gardens, creating a relaxed haven amid the bustling docks. Open daily from noon, it serves classic British fare like fish and chips in a bright, airy space with nautical decor and no background music or TVs for easy conversation.
Mon–Sat 12:00–23:00 · Sun 12:00–22:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Retro
Retro Cardiff is a vibrant nightclub and bar located at 7 Mill Lane in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre. Known for its energetic party atmosphere, Retro offers a multi-floor venue with pulsing music from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s, multiple bars, and a lively crowd. It’s a hotspot for celebrations like birthdays and student nights, featuring dance floors, an outdoor terrace, and themed events that keep the party going until the early hours.
Price level $Time to spend 2–6 hrs
Blue Bell
The Blue Bell is one of Cardiff’s oldest pubs, dating back to 1813. Located on High Street near Cardiff Castle, it blends historic charm with traditional Welsh pub fare and a welcoming atmosphere. Recently restored from its former name, Goat Major, it preserves original Victorian features like unique tiles and a classic bar, making it a favorite for locals, veterans, and visitors seeking authentic Welsh hospitality.
Price level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Packet
Nestled on Bute Street in Cardiff's vibrant Bay area, The Packet stands as a cherished traditional pub offering a warm escape from the surrounding modernity. With its historic charm, friendly service, darts, board games, and a selection of local brews like Brains SA, it provides a homely atmosphere for relaxed pints and casual gatherings. Open daily from noon, it extends into late nights on weekends, blending old-school pub vibes with a cozy beer garden.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Botanist Cardiff Bay
Nestled in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay, The Botanist Cardiff Bay is a lush, plant-filled bar and restaurant offering a unique blend of botanical-inspired cocktails, freshly cooked British and American dishes, and live music every weekend. Spread across two floors with an outdoor terrace boasting stunning waterfront views, it’s a lively venue perfect for casual drinks, special occasions, or enjoying brunch and dinner in a scenic setting.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Bootlegger
Nestled on Womanby Street in Cardiff, The Bootlegger offers a cozy, speakeasy-style atmosphere with expertly crafted cocktails and a lively vibe. Known for its extensive drink menu and passionate bartenders, it blends vintage US Prohibition aesthetics with modern mixology, making it a standout spot for cocktail lovers seeking a unique night out in the heart of the city.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Tonight Josephine - Cardiff
Tonight Josephine Cardiff is a vibrant cocktail bar located on Caroline Street, known for its bold pink and neon green décor, lively atmosphere, and creative cocktails. This two-floor venue blends energetic nightlife with themed bottomless brunches and regular events, making it a hotspot for groups and partygoers. With a smart casual dress code and a 21+ age policy, it offers a fun, inclusive space with a flair for girl power and fearless fun.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Mary's Cardiff
Mary's Cardiff is a lively bar and nightclub located at 89 St Mary Street, at the heart of Cardiff's bustling nightlife district. Known for its energetic atmosphere, friendly staff, and late-night hours, it offers a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy drinks, music, and socializing in a vibrant urban setting. The venue blends a modern lounge vibe with a welcoming party spirit, making it a staple of Cardiff's evening entertainment scene.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–5 hrs
Kapu
Kapu, located on 50 St Mary St in Cardiff, is a lively cocktail bar and nightclub known for its vibrant tiki-inspired décor, expertly crafted cocktails, and energetic nightlife atmosphere. With a moderate price range, Kapu offers a welcoming space for socializing, dancing, and enjoying a diverse drink menu in the heart of the city’s entertainment district.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–5 hrs
Heidis Bier Bar Cardiff
Heidi's Bier Bar in Cardiff offers an energetic Bavarian-themed nightlife experience with authentic decor, lively music, and a wide selection of beers. Located on Mill Lane, it features indoor and outdoor seating, hosts themed events, and stays open late, making it a hotspot for locals and visitors seeking a spirited evening in a quirky, fun-filled atmosphere.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
The Libertine Cocktail Bar
The Libertine Cocktail Bar in Cardiff is a stylish and cozy venue renowned for its expertly crafted cocktails, friendly service, and relaxed atmosphere. Located on High Street, it offers a diverse menu including non-alcoholic options, making it a versatile spot for both casual evenings and special nights out. The bar’s intimate setting and quality drinks make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Alcotraz Cardiff: Cell Block Nine-One
Alcotraz Cardiff: Cell Block Nine-One is a unique immersive cocktail bar experience set within a theatrical prison environment in the heart of Cardiff's Brewery Quarter. Guests smuggle in their own spirits to be crafted into bespoke cocktails by mixologists playing inmate characters, while professional actors bring an evolving storyline to life. This speakeasy-style venue offers an unforgettable night of entertainment, creativity, and expertly made drinks in authentic jail cell settings.
Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–2 hrs
The Cocktail Club - Cardiff
The Cocktail Club in Cardiff is a vibrant three-floor cocktail bar located at 75 St Mary St, offering an extensive menu of signature cocktails like the Jam Jar Daiquiri and Southside Royal. Known for its lively atmosphere, friendly staff, and late-night hours, it is a popular venue for parties, hen dos, and cocktail masterclasses with a modern, fun vibe in the heart of Cardiff.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–5 hrs
Penny
Penny is a renowned cocktail bar located at 22 High Street, Cardiff, celebrated for its innovative drinks, expert mixology, and intimate, stylish ambiance. Known for a vast spirit collection and bespoke cocktails, it offers a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere favored by locals and visitors alike, making it one of Cardiff’s top nightlife destinations.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Rum & Fizz
Nestled in Cardiff’s historic Castle Arcade, Rum & Fizz is a vibrant bar dedicated to the rich world of rum. With over 200 varieties from around the globe, expert mixologists craft innovative and classic cocktails in a stylish, cozy setting adorned with plush velvet chairs and intricate tiles. The venue also offers specialty champagnes, sparkling wines, and a full menu from Coffee Barker until mid-afternoon, plus live jazz music every Friday night, making it a lively hotspot for both locals and visitors.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Lo Lounge
Perched on the waterfront of Cardiff Bay, Lo Lounge blends industrial chic shipping containers, a shipping yard, and a viewing deck into a vibrant outdoor bar space. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails, draught lagers, street food, and panoramic bay views from cosy indoor shabby-chic areas or heated cabins. Pet-friendly with live music and events, it's a lively spot for sunsets and socialising.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Main Stage
Main Stage is Cardiff's vibrant gay bar and cabaret club on St Mary Street, renowned for its lively drag shows, welcoming atmosphere, and energetic nightlife. Nestled in the bustling city center, it features hilarious performances by local queens, affordable drinks, and a mix of music, comedy, and dance that draws diverse crowds for unforgettable evenings. Open late on weekends with Sunday roasts adding daytime appeal, it's a cornerstone of Cardiff's LGBTQ+ scene.
Price level $Time to spend 1.5–4 hrs
Gin 64
Located in the Royal Buildings on Victoria Road, Gin 64 is a stylish and unique bar in Penarth renowned for its extensive gin selection and expertly crafted cocktails. With a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere, it offers a perfect setting for gin enthusiasts and casual visitors alike to unwind and enjoy a memorable drinking experience. The bar features attentive service, a curated music playlist, and occasional tasting events that enhance its welcoming vibe.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Bar One
Bar One occupies a prime waterfront spot on Bute Place in Cardiff's bustling Cardiff Bay area, directly adjacent to the iconic Wales Millennium Centre. This welcoming bar offers a relaxed venue for pre-theatre drinks, light meals, and casual gatherings, with an outdoor terrace that shines on sunny days. Featuring a diverse menu including vegetarian options, cocktails, and reasonable prices, it caters to theatre-goers and locals alike. Open daily from morning, it provides a cozy indoor space and friendly service in a vibrant harbourside setting. Ideal for a quick bite or unwind before shows at the nearby cultural hub.
Mon–Sat 10:00–23:30 · Sun 10:00–19:00Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
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