Queen Anne Square, Cardiff: A Tranquil Historic Haven in the Civic Centre
A tranquil Edwardian square nestled in Cardiff’s Civic Centre, blending historic architecture with serene green space.
Queen Anne Square is a serene and historic green space nestled in the heart of Cardiff’s Civic Centre. Surrounded by Edwardian architecture and elegant colonnades, it offers a peaceful retreat from the city bustle, perfect for relaxation, photography, and appreciating the grandeur of early 20th-century design.
A brief summary to Queen Anne Square
- Cardiff, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and better opportunities for peaceful photography.
- Bring a camera to capture the elegant colonnades and historic buildings surrounding the square.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as Cardiff City Hall and the National Museum.
- Enjoy a picnic on the lawns when weather permits, as the square offers seating and shaded areas.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take local Cardiff bus services to Greyfriars Road Gf, a stop approximately a 1-minute walk from Queen Anne Square. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares typically around £2-£3 for a single journey.
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Train
Cardiff Central railway station is about 1.5 km from Queen Anne Square, reachable by a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride costing around £5-£7. Trains connect Cardiff to major UK cities, making this an accessible arrival point.
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Walking
From Cardiff city centre, Queen Anne Square is a 10 to 15-minute walk across mostly flat, paved streets, suitable for all fitness levels and wheelchair accessible.
Queen Anne Square location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Queen Anne Square
An Elegant Urban Oasis in Cardiff’s Civic Centre
Queen Anne Square stands as a peaceful green enclave within Cardiff’s bustling Civic Centre, also known as Cathays Park. This square is framed by striking Edwardian Baroque architecture, including colonnades and gateways that evoke the grandeur of early 20th-century civic design. The square’s tranquil lawns and mature trees provide a quiet contrast to the nearby governmental and cultural buildings, making it a favored spot for locals and visitors seeking calm amid the city.Architectural and Historical Significance
The square forms part of the broader Cathays Park Conservation Area, renowned for its concentration of Edwardian buildings such as Cardiff City Hall, the National Museum, and Cardiff Crown Court. The colonnades and gates surrounding Queen Anne Square are listed structures, reflecting their architectural and historic importance. This area was developed largely through the influence of the Marquess of Bute and his gardener Andrew Pettigrew, shaping Cardiff’s civic heart in the early 1900s.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Visitors to Queen Anne Square experience a serene atmosphere, with well-maintained lawns and shaded seating areas ideal for relaxation, quiet reflection, or photography. The square’s layout encourages leisurely strolls and offers picturesque views of the surrounding civic buildings. Its proximity to Cardiff’s cultural landmarks makes it an accessible and inviting green space for a midday break or contemplative pause.Residential Prestige and Local Context
Queen Anne Square is also a prestigious residential area, with properties commanding high market values due to their prime location within Cardiff’s city centre. The square’s setting on a private road adds exclusivity and quietude, enhancing its appeal as both a public and residential space. It lies within the Cathays electoral ward, a vibrant district blending academic, governmental, and residential life.Conservation and Urban Planning
As part of the Cathays Park Conservation Area, Queen Anne Square benefits from protections that preserve its historic character and green space. The square’s design and maintenance reflect a commitment to balancing urban development with heritage conservation, ensuring that this tranquil civic space remains a cherished part of Cardiff’s cityscape.Integration with Cardiff’s Civic and Cultural Landscape
Queen Anne Square serves as a connective green node within Cardiff’s Civic Centre, linking important cultural institutions, administrative buildings, and university campuses. Its peaceful environment enriches the urban fabric, offering a natural respite that complements the grandeur and formality of the surrounding architecture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
City Hall
0.6 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
South African War Memorial
0.7 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
0.8 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
Cardiff Town Wall
0.9 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Historical Wales
1.0 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
The Gathering - Cardiff
1.0 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
James Howell's House
1.1 km
Historic landmark in Cardiff celebrating James Howell’s retail legacy and Cardiff’s commercial heritage.
Capitol Cardiff
1.2 km
Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries Cardiff.
1.2 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
1.2 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
1.2 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
AdventureRooms Escape Games Cardiff
1.5 km
Dive into adventure at AdventureRooms Escape Games Cardiff, where teamwork and excitement come together in thrilling escape challenges for all ages.
HMP Cardiff
1.5 km
Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
1.5 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Roath Recreation Ground
1.6 km
Explore Roath Recreation Ground, a peaceful city park in Cardiff that offers lush gardens, playgrounds, and a family-friendly atmosphere for relaxation and play.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bute Park Visitor Centre
0.3 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.
Museum Ave
0.4 km
A serene, tree-lined avenue in Cardiff’s civic heart, flanked by iconic museums and historic architecture.
Wales National War Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn and beautifully designed memorial in Cardiff’s Cathays Park honoring Welsh war heroes of the World Wars.
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.
Bute Park
0.5 km
Cardiff's verdant 130-acre sanctuary where Victorian heritage meets modern celebration, beneath ancient trees and winter lights.
Parc Mackenzie
0.5 km
A tranquil urban park in Cardiff honoring Wales’ first female professor with serene green spaces and academic heritage.
Sophia Gardens
0.6 km
A scenic riverside park and premier cricket stadium in Cardiff, blending natural beauty with vibrant sports and cultural events.
Coopers Field
0.7 km
A serene and spacious green oasis in Cardiff’s Bute Park, perfect for outdoor events, relaxation, and city escapes.
National Museum Cardiff
0.7 km
Explore world-class Welsh art, natural history, and culture at Cardiff’s iconic free museum in the heart of the city.
Gorsedd Gardens Rd
0.7 km
Discover Cardiff’s serene Gorsedd Gardens, home to a historic stone circle celebrating Welsh culture amidst vibrant floral beauty.
Cardiff International Film Festival
0.7 km
Where world cinema meets Welsh culture—a premier festival celebrating global storytelling and filmmaking excellence.
Gorsedd Gardens
0.7 km
Cardiff's tranquil civic heart: historic stones, exotic blooms, and urban serenity.
Charter for Trees Woods and People
0.8 km
A symbolic pole in Cardiff’s Bute Park celebrating the enduring bond between people, trees, and nature’s future.
Cambrian Way Plaque Cardiff
0.8 km
Discover the gateway to Wales’ epic mountain trail at the Cambrian Way Plaque in Cardiff’s historic Bute Park.
Cardiff Castle
0.8 km
Discover nearly 2,000 years of history and stunning architecture at Cardiff Castle, the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital city.
Essential places to dine
Calabrisella Cathays
0.4 km
Savor authentic Italian pizzas and pasta in a lively Cardiff setting with warm service and a vibrant atmosphere.
Elgano Italian Restaurant
0.8 km
Authentic Italian dining in a stylish, romantic setting on Cathedral Road – perfect for date nights, family meals, and special occasions in Cardiff.
The Hellenic Eatery
0.8 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality at The Hellenic Eatery in Cardiff’s vibrant Crwys Road.
Svago Italian
0.8 km
Authentic Italian flavors and vegan delights served in a welcoming Cardiff setting with a lively bar atmosphere.
Laguna Kitchen & Bar Cardiff
0.9 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
0.9 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 Welsh House Cardiff
1.0 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
1.0 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
The Potted Pig
1.0 km
A stylish underground eatery in Cardiff serving seasonal Welsh-inspired modern British cuisine in a unique former bank vault setting.
Daffodil
1.0 km
Stylish gastro pub in Cardiff offering seasonal Welsh dishes, creative cocktails, and a serene garden terrace in the city centre.
Bellini's
1.0 km
Authentic Italian dining in Cardiff's cultural quarter, celebrated for exceptional service and romantic ambiance.
Maison de Bœuf
1.0 km
An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
The Botanist Cardiff
1.1 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cardiff city centre where botanical décor, creative cocktails, and live music bloom together.
Valentino's
1.1 km
Cozy Italian restaurant in Cardiff city center offering authentic dishes, warm service, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Milkwood
1.1 km
Innovative Welsh brunch and vibrant evening pizzette bar in Cardiff’s lively Pontcanna neighborhood.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cathays High Store
0.8 km
Discover the convenience of Cathays High Store in Cardiff, your local supermarket offering a wide range of groceries and local specialties.
Rokit Cardiff
0.9 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
1.0 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
The Works
1.0 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Cardiff Creative Shop
1.0 km
Handcrafted Welsh wonders from 45+ local artisans await in Queens Arcade's creative gem—unique gifts that sparkle with personality and heritage.
Hobos Vintage
1.0 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.
Gift shop Cardiff Home 4 You Home goods and craft store
1.0 km
Uncover eclectic home goods, crafts, and jewelry in Roath's charming Gift Shop Cardiff Home 4 You – where style meets affordability on Albany Road.
Little Welsh Company
1.0 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
1.1 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.
Ganesha
1.1 km
Discover ethically sourced Indian and Nepali handicrafts, jewelry, and vibrant clothing in the heart of Cardiff's Queen Street shopping scene.
Knight Vintage
1.1 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Mojo King
1.1 km
Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
Flamingos Vintage Cardiff
1.2 km
Discover sustainable style and unique vintage treasures by weight at Flamingos Vintage Cardiff in the Capitol Shopping Centre.
Flying Tiger
1.2 km
Discover quirky Scandinavian gifts and creative everyday essentials at Flying Tiger in Cardiff’s St David's Centre.
Urban Outfitters
1.3 km
Curated lifestyle retail celebrating creativity, fashion, and cultural expression in Cardiff's city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Woodville
0.3 km
Cathays' go-to pub for burgers, brews, sports screens, and unbeatable student specials in a lively, welcoming spot.
The Flora
0.6 km
Cozy Cathays pub pouring pints, roasts, and community spirit in a quirky, welcoming haven—Cardiff's go-to for hearty Sundays and everyday cheer.
Bar 105
0.6 km
Intimate Cardiff cocktail haven with killer drinks, DJ nights, and pop-up feasts in student-fueled Cathays.
Cathays Sports & Social Club
0.6 km
Cardiff's unpretentious social hub: cheap pints, games galore, live tunes, and community vibes in student-favorite Cathays.
The Vulcan Lounge
0.7 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.
Gassy's
0.7 km
A lively Cathays pub and kitchen offering affordable pub food, strong vegan choices, bottomless brunch and regular quizzes, live music and sports screenings.
Pen & Wig
0.8 km
Traditional Cardiff pub haven: award-winning pies, real ales, and a heated beer garden moments from Queen Street's energy.
Cathays Beer House
0.8 km
Cozy Crwys Road craft beer haven with high ceilings, expert pours, live events, and outdoor vibes in Cardiff's vibrant Cathays.
Crwys Hotel
0.8 km
Cathays' cozy corner for pub grub, pints, sports screens, sunny garden escapes, and quiz nights in Cardiff's student heartland.
Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
0.9 km
A lively, multi-level cocktail bar and casual-restaurant on The Friary — made for groups, brunch and evening drinks in central Cardiff.
Yates - Cardiff
0.9 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
0.9 km
Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
The Royal George
1.0 km
Historic Roath pub at 'Death Junction'—live sports, student deals, and community vibes in a Victorian V-shaped gem.
Revolution Cardiff
1.0 km
A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
Henry's Cafe Bar Cardiff
1.0 km
A relaxed, long-standing Park Place bar offering cocktails, local beers and approachable British food from brunch through late-night.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
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
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- 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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
