Hamadryad Park
Urban sanctuary where maritime heritage meets wetland wilderness in Cardiff's regenerated waterfront.
Hamadryad Park is a 14-hectare urban green space in Butetown, Cardiff, featuring open grassland, broad pathways, and the adjacent Cardiff Bay Wetlands nature reserve. The park offers scenic walking routes, a children's playground, sports facilities, and excellent birdwatching opportunities from its boardwalk. Named after the HMS Hamadryad, a 19th-century hospital ship, the park combines recreational spaces with natural habitats, making it an ideal destination for walkers, runners, and nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape within the city.
A brief summary to Hamadryad Park
- Cardiff, CF10 5UY, GB
- Duration: 0.75 to 3 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 early morning for the best birdwatching opportunities and to experience the park's peaceful atmosphere before crowds arrive. The boardwalk in the wetlands is particularly rewarding at dawn.
- Bring binoculars and a field guide to identify the diverse bird species that inhabit the wetlands. The walled pond is home to cormorants, ducks, and waders year-round.
- Explore both zones of the park—the open grassland fields and the wetlands reserve—to experience the full range of habitats and recreational opportunities available.
- Spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for extended visits, though the park remains accessible and rewarding throughout the year in Cardiff's temperate maritime climate.
- Use the multiple entrance points strategically: Clarence Embankment for the main park, or Havannah Street for direct access to the wetlands and Cardiff Bay Barrage.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Drinking Water
Getting There
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Bus
Cardiff Bus Services 1, 2, and 8 serve the northern end of Clarence Embankment, with journey times of 10–20 minutes from Cardiff City Centre depending on traffic. Services 1, 2, 11, and 35 stop at Mermaid Quay and Techniquest, approximately 5–10 minutes' walk from the wetlands area. Services run regularly throughout the day with reduced frequency in evenings and on Sundays.
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Train
Cardiff Bay railway station is located at the south end of Bute Street, approximately 15–20 minutes' walk from the park's main entrance. Regular services operate from Cardiff Central Station with journey times of 5–10 minutes. The station provides direct access to the wider park area and is fully accessible.
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Car
Free parking is usually available on Hamadryad Road adjacent to the park. A pay-and-display car park operates on Havannah Street near St David's Hotel, providing convenient access to the wetlands area. Parking charges typically apply during peak hours; check signage for current rates and restrictions.
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Water Bus
A Water Bus stop operates on Clarence Embankment, offering a scenic alternative route to the park from other points along Cardiff Bay. Journey times and schedules vary seasonally; check local transport information for current timetables and fares.
Hamadryad Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Hamadryad Park
A Park Born from Maritime Heritage
Hamadryad Park takes its name from the HMS Hamadryad, a wooden ship built in Pembroke Dock in the early 19th century. Originally intended for naval service, the vessel never saw active duty and was laid up in 1866 for breaking. However, Cardiff's first Medical Officer of Health, Dr Henry Paine, secured the ship from the Admiralty to serve as a Seaman's Hospital, transforming it into a vital healthcare facility for the maritime community. This legacy of care and community service continues to define the character of the park that now bears the ship's name.Urban Transformation and Modern Development
The park as it exists today is a product of Cardiff Bay's comprehensive regeneration. In 1987, the Cardiff Bay Development Corporation was established to transform this historic waterfront area. Major construction works began in 1993 and concluded around 2000, reshaping the landscape through enormous civil engineering projects. Hamadryad Park was among the final pieces of this ambitious transformation, opening its gates in the early 2000s. The park and its adjacent Cardiff Bay Wetlands were officially designated as a local nature reserve in 2010, cementing their importance to the region's ecological and recreational infrastructure.Landscape and Physical Features
Spanning approximately 14 hectares, the park comprises two main zones separated by the Butetown Link Road. The northern section consists of open grassland and playing fields crossed by broad, metalled pathways. These fields are screened from the road by earth bunds planted with mature trees, creating a buffer that enhances the sense of tranquility. The landscape includes a walled circular pond that supports diverse wildlife including cormorants, ducks, waders, frogs, and lizards. Notable artworks enhance the visitor experience, including the sandstone sculpture 'Cader Idris' by William Pye and a distinctive seat titled 'Ship in a Bottle' by Melissa Gibbs.The Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve
Located south and east of the Butetown Link Road, the Cardiff Bay Wetlands nature reserve represents a crucial ecological asset. The wetlands are bounded by Cardiff Yacht Club, Windsor Esplanade, and St David's Hotel, creating a protected corridor for wildlife. A broad boardwalk curves through the wetlands, offering exceptional opportunities for birdwatching and nature observation. The boardwalk provides panoramic views across the wetlands and Cardiff Bay, allowing visitors to experience the area's natural beauty while maintaining minimal disturbance to wildlife habitats. This integration of human access with ecological protection exemplifies thoughtful conservation design.Recreation and Community Use
The park serves as a vital recreational hub for Cardiff's residents and visitors. Well-maintained pathways accommodate walkers and runners of all fitness levels, while two central fields with goal posts support youth sports teams, particularly during early morning weekend sessions. A leisure playground provides facilities for families and children, and a soccer court offers opportunities for organized sports. The park's accessibility and diverse amenities make it suitable for various activities, from leisurely strolls to more vigorous exercise routines. Despite its proximity to the city center, the park remains relatively quiet and peaceful, creating an intimate atmosphere even during warmer months.Wildlife and Natural Significance
As a designated local nature reserve, Hamadryad Park and its wetlands support diverse wildlife populations. Visitors regularly encounter birds, squirrels, and occasionally foxes. The walled pond and wetland areas provide essential habitat for amphibians, waterfowl, and wading birds. Early morning visits often reveal large congregations of seagulls engaging in their distinctive ground-stamping behavior, a fascinating natural phenomenon. The park's vegetation includes mature trees and varied plantings that support insects and other invertebrates, contributing to the broader ecological network of Cardiff Bay. The reserve's protection ensures that these natural communities can thrive while remaining accessible to the public.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ship Weather Vane - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
0.6 km
A dynamic copper and steel ship weather vane celebrating Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage atop the historic Pilotage Office.
The Scott Antarctic Memorial Cardiff Bay
0.9 km
A poignant memorial in Cardiff Bay honoring Captain Scott and his Antarctic expedition, set against a historic maritime backdrop.
Premier Inn Cardiff Bay hotel
1.0 km
Comfortable, accessible, and modern hotel steps from Cardiff Bay’s cultural and waterfront attractions.
Roath Lock
1.2 km
Discover Roath Lock, Cardiff’s iconic BBC drama village blending cutting-edge production with waterfront heritage charm.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
1.5 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
1.6 km
Historic bronze statue in Cardiff honoring the visionary who transformed the city through the development of its docks and industrial growth.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
1.7 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
John Batchelor Statue
2.0 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Fogo's Free Tours
2.0 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
8 St Mary St
2.1 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of 8 St Mary St in the heart of Cardiff, a must-see for every traveler.
The Cardiff Market
2.1 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Museum of Cardiff
2.1 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.
St David's Metropolitan Cathedral
2.2 km
Experience the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of St David's Metropolitan Cathedral, a must-visit spiritual landmark in Cardiff.
Historical Wales
2.2 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
HMP Cardiff
2.3 km
Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Jetty
0.4 km
A peaceful waterfront escape in Cardiff Bay blending natural beauty, wildlife, and urban vibrancy in a scenic setting.
Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve
0.4 km
A serene 8-hectare freshwater wetland reserve in Cardiff Bay, offering rich biodiversity and peaceful birdwatching amidst urban surroundings.
Techniquest
0.6 km
Explore hands-on science, immersive shows, and family fun at Techniquest, Cardiff’s premier interactive discovery centre in vibrant Cardiff Bay.
Landsea Square - Cardiff Bay
0.7 km
A peaceful, art-filled square nestled in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant waterfront, perfect for quiet moments and scenic views.
Landsea Gardens Cardiff Bay Viewing Deck
0.7 km
A serene garden retreat with stunning panoramic views over Cardiff Bay’s waterfront and city skyline.
Panorama Stone - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
0.7 km
Discover Panorama Stone, a symbolic bronze sculpture linking Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage with global connections on the vibrant Cardiff Bay Art Trail.
Mount Stuart Square
0.7 km
Historic Victorian square in Cardiff Bay centered on the iconic Coal Exchange, showcasing maritime heritage and architectural grandeur.
Mermaid Quay
0.7 km
Vibrant Cardiff Bay waterfront alive with dining, shopping, comedy, and bay views—maritime heritage meets modern leisure in this regenerated gem.
Ianto's Shrine
0.7 km
A heartfelt fan-made memorial on Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay honoring Ianto Jones, a beloved character from the cult TV series Torchwood.
Cargoes Poem
0.7 km
Experience Cardiff’s maritime legacy through John Masefield’s Cargoes Poem brought to life by striking sculptures at Mermaid Quay.
Cardiff Cruises
0.8 km
Explore Cardiff Bay’s iconic waterfront with Cardiff Cruises—offering scenic tours, themed cruises, and unique maritime experiences from Mermaid Quay.
The Open Boat 'Daffodil'
0.8 km
Discover Cardiff Bay’s beauty and history aboard the charming open-air steam launch, The Open Boat 'Daffodil', for a unique and intimate cruise experience.
Giant Ferris Wheel
0.8 km
Experience breathtaking views and dazzling light shows atop Cardiff’s iconic 35-meter Giant Ferris Wheel at Harbour Drive.
Roald Dahl Plass
0.8 km
A dynamic waterfront plaza celebrating Cardiff’s heritage, culture, and Roald Dahl’s legacy with iconic architecture and vibrant events.
Pierhead Building
0.9 km
Discover Cardiff's iconic Victorian Gothic Revival Pierhead Building, a vibrant museum and landmark overlooking the scenic Cardiff Bay waterfront.
Essential places to dine
Tir a Môr
0.6 km
Savor the fusion of Welsh land and sea at Tir a Môr, Cardiff’s stylish coastal restaurant celebrating local flavors and traditions.
Bill's Cardiff Bay Restaurant
0.6 km
Historic waterfront dining with colorful charm, seasonal British classics, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff Bay.
Culley's Kitchen & Bar
0.7 km
Historic charm meets fresh Welsh flavors in Cardiff Bay’s Culley's Kitchen & Bar, a must-visit for seasonal dining and craft cocktails.
The Botanist Cardiff Bay
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Cardiff Bay - where live music meets delicious British cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.
Hub Box Cardiff
0.7 km
Lively American-style burger bar with waterfront views, bold flavors, and inclusive menu options in the heart of Cardiff’s Mermaid Quay.
Giggling Squid - Cardiff Bay
0.7 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and botanical charm in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay.
Cosy Club
0.7 km
Stylish and relaxed dining with eclectic decor and a vibrant bar in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay.
Signor Valentino
0.8 km
Handcrafted Italian dining with panoramic Cardiff Bay views from an elevated Mediterranean terrace.
Las Iguanas - Cardiff - Mermaid Quay
0.8 km
Sizzling Latin American flavors and killer cocktails meet Cardiff Bay's waterfront sparkle at this fiesta-ready hotspot.
Côte Cardiff Bay
0.8 km
Experience the elegance of modern French dining with classic flavors and waterfront views at Côte Cardiff Bay in Mermaid Quay.
Demiro's
0.8 km
Lively Italian dining with a Mediterranean twist, set in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay waterfront.
Cedar Tree Farm - Farmhouse Inns
1.0 km
A family-friendly pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, famed for its hearty carvery, legendary desserts, and welcoming atmosphere.
The Classroom
1.1 km
Experience fine dining with panoramic city views while supporting Cardiff’s future chefs at The Classroom.
Harvester Cardiff Bay Penarth
1.3 km
A lively family-friendly British bar & grill in Penarth offering hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere near Cardiff Bay.
Thomas Restaurant Cardiff Bay
1.4 km
A stylish Cardiff Bay restaurant blending modern British cuisine with warm hospitality and local flavors in a vibrant waterfront setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Zia Boutique
0.7 km
Discover handpicked jewellery, homeware, and gifts at this independent gem in Cardiff Bay's Mermaid Quay—a stylish haven since 2011.
Polka Dot
0.7 km
Discover dotted delights at this whimsical Cardiff Bay gift shop, where polka patterns meet playful souvenirs in a cozy waterfront nook.
Cardiff Bay Retail Park
0.9 km
Value-packed shopping hub amid Cardiff Bay's waterfront allure—superstores, groceries, and easy parking for practical pit stops.
B&M Home Store
0.9 km
Discover incredible deals on home essentials and unique items at B&M Home Store in Cardiff Bay - your go-to discount shop!
Gallery Gift Shop at the Norwegian Church
0.9 km
Discover unique Scandinavian-inspired gifts in the historic Norwegian Church Arts Centre, a cultural gem overlooking Cardiff Bay.
Hearth & Co
0.9 km
Discover handcrafted wonders blending Norwegian heritage and Welsh artistry at this gem within Cardiff Bay's iconic Norwegian Church Arts Centre.
Antoinette Antiques and Vintage Clothing
1.7 km
Discover Cardiff’s largest vintage hat collection and timeless antiques in a historic Pumping Station setting.
Ganesha Handicrafts
1.9 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
1.9 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.
Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
1.9 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
elephants and flowres
1.9 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Welcome Things
1.9 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.
Sobeys Vintage Clothing
1.9 km
Discover unique reworked vintage fashion in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at Sobeys Vintage Clothing, where creativity meets sustainability.
Morgan Quarter
1.9 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
2.0 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dock
0.7 km
A waterside bar and kitchen in Mermaid Quay — bright windows, bay views, live music and big‑screen sport for daytime dining through late-night sessions.
The Packet
0.7 km
Traditional Cardiff Bay pub with 160 years of history, darts, games, real ales, and homely vibes amid modern surroundings.
The Eli Jenkins
0.8 km
Lively Cardiff Bay pub in a historic building, with beer garden views, live sports, cask ales, craft beers, and hearty grub—perfect for sports fans and casual nights out.
Bar One
0.9 km
Harborside bar beside Wales Millennium Centre, blending terrace views, inclusive eats, cocktails, and theatre-ready vibes in Cardiff Bay's lively waterfront scene.
The Waterguard
1.0 km
Sam Smith's dockside gem in Cardiff Bay: crisp ales, pub grub, dog-friendly gardens, and panoramic harbor views for effortless waterfront unwinding.
Lo Lounge
1.0 km
Industrial-chic waterfront bar in Cardiff Bay serving cocktails, street food, and live tunes amid stunning sunset views and pet-friendly vibes.
The Grange Pub
1.3 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Peppermint Bar
1.7 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and a heated outdoor terrace in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Be At One - Cardiff
1.8 km
Lively cocktail bar in Cardiff city centre with 100+ drinks, happy hours, masterclasses, and a buzzing party atmosphere.
Mocka Lounge
1.8 km
Lively cocktail bar and nightclub in Cardiff’s Mill Lane with great drinks, friendly service, and a vibrant social scene day and night.
Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
1.8 km
Sophisticated cocktails and vibrant nightlife meet in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre at Dirty Martini.
Heidis Bier Bar Cardiff
1.8 km
Experience authentic Bavarian fun and lively nightlife at Heidi's Bier Bar, Cardiff’s quirky hotspot on Mill Lane open late every day.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
1.8 km
A dynamic three-floor cocktail bar in Cardiff offering inventive drinks, lively music, and unforgettable nights out.
The Philharmonic
1.8 km
A bustling multilevel pub and nightclub in Cardiff city centre, offering cocktails, brunches, rooftop vibes, and lively entertainment.
Retro
1.8 km
A lively multi-floor nightclub in Cardiff celebrating retro hits, wild parties, and unforgettable nights until the early morning.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Nature Escape
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Wildlife Habitat
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
