Coopers Field, Cardiff: Urban Green Escape in Bute Park
A serene and spacious green oasis in Cardiff’s Bute Park, perfect for outdoor events, relaxation, and city escapes.
Coopers Field is a spacious, scenic green area located within Bute Park in Cardiff, offering a tranquil urban retreat near the city center. Known for its well-maintained lawns and proximity to Cardiff Castle, it serves as a popular spot for outdoor events, running, and relaxation amidst natural surroundings. With easy access and a flat terrain, it welcomes visitors year-round for leisure and special gatherings.
A brief summary to Coopers Field
- Cardiff, CF10, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Plan your visit around local events like the MoRunning races for a lively atmosphere.
- Use nearby public transport options as parking inside Bute Park is not available.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the well-maintained lawns during warmer months.
- Explore adjacent Cardiff Castle and Bute Park trails to enrich your visit.
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 local Cardiff bus services to Westgate Street stops, approximately a 2-3 minute walk from Coopers Field. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with typical fares around £2-£3 per single journey.
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Train
Cardiff Central Train Station is about 1.5 km away, a 20-minute walk or short taxi ride. Trains connect Cardiff with regional and national destinations, offering convenient access for visitors.
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Car
Parking is not permitted inside Bute Park. Nearby options include NCP car parks on Westgate Street and Dumfries Place. Expect to pay approximately £5-£10 for parking depending on duration.
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Walking
From Cardiff city center, a pleasant 15-20 minute walk along flat, paved paths leads directly to Coopers Field, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Coopers Field location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Coopers Field
A Green Heart Within Cardiff's Urban Landscape
Coopers Field lies nestled in the expansive Bute Park, one of Cardiff’s premier green spaces, situated near the city center and adjacent to the historic Cardiff Castle. This wide-open field offers a breath of fresh air from the urban bustle, providing visitors with a lush, grassy expanse perfect for picnics, casual sports, or simply unwinding. The field’s flat terrain and generous size make it ideal for large gatherings and outdoor activities.Setting and Natural Characteristics
Surrounded by mature trees and bordered by the River Taff, Coopers Field enjoys a peaceful ambiance where nature and city life blend harmoniously. The park’s well-maintained lawns and scenic pathways invite walkers, joggers, and cyclists, while the open space encourages dog walking and family outings. Seasonal changes bring vibrant colors and varied wildlife, enhancing the natural beauty and peacefulness of the area.Community and Event Hub
Coopers Field frequently hosts community events, including runs such as the MoRunning series featuring 5k, 10k, and half marathon races. These events highlight the field’s role as a social and recreational hub, drawing locals and visitors alike. Its proximity to amenities like the Summerhouse Café and easy access to public transport add to its appeal as a venue for both organized events and spontaneous leisure.Access and Visitor Experience
Visitors can reach Coopers Field easily from Cardiff’s city center, with nearby bus stops and train stations within walking distance. Parking is not available inside Bute Park, but several car parks are located nearby. The field’s accessibility is enhanced by flat, paved paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, making it inclusive for a broad range of visitors. The open layout ensures a relaxed atmosphere, whether for solitary reflection or lively group activities.Historical and Cultural Context
While Coopers Field itself is primarily a natural space, its location within Bute Park situates it amid Cardiff’s rich heritage. Bute Park was once the grounds of Cardiff Castle and the estate of the Bute family, influential in the city’s development. This historical backdrop adds depth to the visitor experience, connecting the green space with Cardiff’s cultural and architectural legacy.Seasonal Appeal and Ambience
Coopers Field offers year-round appeal, with mild weather in spring and summer encouraging outdoor recreation, and crisp autumn days painting the landscape in warm hues. Winter visits provide a quiet, contemplative setting, often dusted with frost or snow. The ambience is consistently tranquil and scenic, making it a cherished spot for both locals and tourists seeking nature within the city.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
South African War Memorial
0.4 km
A poignant bronze and stone tribute in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who served in the Second Boer War, embodying peace, war, and grief.
Historical Wales
0.4 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.
Nereid Statue
0.4 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
City Hall
0.4 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
Fogo's Free Tours
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
0.7 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.8 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
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.
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.
Capitol Cardiff
0.8 km
Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
0.9 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, Cardiff
0.9 km
Experience the warmth of community and spirituality at RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, a welcoming Church of Christ in the heart of Cardiff.
Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries Cardiff.
0.9 km
A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
James Howell's House
1.0 km
Historic landmark in Cardiff celebrating James Howell’s retail legacy and Cardiff’s commercial heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bute Park
0.1 km
Cardiff's verdant 130-acre sanctuary where Victorian heritage meets modern celebration, beneath ancient trees and winter lights.
Charter for Trees Woods and People
0.2 km
A symbolic pole in Cardiff’s Bute Park celebrating the enduring bond between people, trees, and nature’s future.
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.
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.
River Cruises
0.2 km
Explore Cardiff Bay’s stunning waterfront on a relaxing, eco-friendly Aquabus river cruise with accessible, modern catamarans.
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.
Animal Wall
0.3 km
A whimsical Victorian stone menagerie along Cardiff’s Bute Park, featuring 15 expressive animals carved into a historic wall near Cardiff Castle.
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.
Blue Bell
0.4 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.
Castle Quarter Arcades
0.4 km
Explore Cardiff’s historic Castle Quarter Arcades—Victorian charm, independent shops, and vibrant dining in the city’s heart.
Cardiff Arms Park
0.4 km
Historic rugby stadium in Cardiff, home to Cardiff Rugby and a cornerstone of Welsh sporting heritage since the 1870s.
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.
Sophia Gardens
0.4 km
A scenic riverside park and premier cricket stadium in Cardiff, blending natural beauty with vibrant sports and cultural events.
Alexandra Gardens
0.4 km
A serene Edwardian garden in Cardiff’s Civic Centre, rich with memorials and vibrant floral displays, offering a tranquil urban retreat.
Essential places to dine
The Welsh House Cardiff
0.4 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
The Potted Pig
0.4 km
A stylish underground eatery in Cardiff serving seasonal Welsh-inspired modern British cuisine in a unique former bank vault setting.
Maison de Bœuf
0.4 km
An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
0.4 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
Bar 44 Cardiff
0.4 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in Cardiff's vibrant Castle Quarter.
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.
Casanova
0.5 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
0.5 km
Authentic Spanish charcoal grilling and fine wines in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Cafe Citta
0.5 km
Cozy Italian eatery in Cardiff city center serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and pasta in an intimate, stylish setting.
The Botanist Cardiff
0.5 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cardiff city centre where botanical décor, creative cocktails, and live music bloom together.
The Alchemist Cardiff
0.5 km
Experience the magic of mixology at The Alchemist Cardiff, where innovative cocktails meet exquisite dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Turtle Bay Cardiff
0.5 km
Caribbean soul meets Welsh hospitality—bold jerk, tropical cocktails, and island warmth in Cardiff city centre.
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.
Laguna Kitchen & Bar Cardiff
0.5 km
Elegant modern dining with Welsh flair in the heart of Cardiff’s Park Plaza Hotel, featuring seasonal menus and a stylish cocktail bar.
Lezzet Turkish Kitchen
0.6 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
0.4 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.
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.
Hobos Vintage
0.5 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.
The Works
0.5 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
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.
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.
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.
Knight Vintage
0.5 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Flying Tiger
0.7 km
Discover quirky Scandinavian gifts and creative everyday essentials at Flying Tiger in Cardiff’s St David's Centre.
Morgan Quarter
0.7 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Urban Outfitters
0.7 km
Curated lifestyle retail celebrating creativity, fashion, and cultural expression in Cardiff's city centre.
Ganesha
0.7 km
Discover ethically sourced Indian and Nepali handicrafts, jewelry, and vibrant clothing in the heart of Cardiff's Queen Street shopping scene.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
0.7 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
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
Revolution Cardiff
0.4 km
A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
The Bootlegger
0.4 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
The Libertine Cocktail Bar
0.4 km
A stylish Cardiff cocktail bar blending gothic charm with expertly crafted drinks and a lively city center vibe.
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.
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.
Penny
0.4 km
Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
0.5 km
Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
0.5 km
Discover Cardiff’s vibrant craft beer scene and lively pub culture at Tiny Rebel, a hub for award-winning brews and eclectic events.
Flight Club Cardiff
0.5 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant city nightlife at Flight Club Cardiff’s unique multi-level bar and rooftop terrace.
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.
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.
Henry's Cafe Bar Cardiff
0.7 km
A relaxed, long-standing Park Place bar offering cocktails, local beers and approachable British food from brunch through late-night.
Pen & Wig
0.7 km
Traditional Cardiff pub haven: award-winning pies, real ales, and a heated beer garden moments from Queen Street's energy.
Mary's Cardiff
0.7 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife at Mary’s, a lively bar and nightclub blending modern lounge vibes with energetic party spirit.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fuel Rock Club
0.4 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Clwb Ifor Bach
0.4 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
0.5 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
0.5 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
0.6 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.
Popworld - Cardiff
0.7 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
0.7 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
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.
Walkabout - Cardiff
0.9 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience in Cardiff, offering vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and live sports in a lively atmosphere.
The Globe
1.8 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
2.4 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
2.6 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
11.6 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
11.6 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
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