The Dock, Mermaid Quay — Cardiff Bay waterfront bar & live-music venue
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.
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.
A brief summary to The Dock
- Unit 1 & U1, Mermaid Quay, Cardiff, CF10 5BZ, GB
- +442920450947
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-12 am
- Tuesday 10 am-12 am
- Wednesday 10 am-12 am
- Thursday 10 am-12 am
- Friday 10 am-2 am
- Saturday 10 am-2 am
- Sunday 10 am-12 am
Local tips
- Book ahead for large groups at weekend evenings; the venue runs live music and can fill quickly during scheduled performances.
- Choose waterfront seating for the best bay views and calmer ambience during daylight hours.
- If you want a later-than-usual night out, visit on Friday or Saturday when the venue serves until the early hours.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
The Dock location weather suitability
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Any Weather
Discover more about The Dock
Setting and waterside character
The Dock sits within Mermaid Quay, the redeveloped Cardiff Bay waterfront, and occupies bright waterside premises with large windows and external seating that frame views across the bay. The venue’s position in the quay means the room often carries the soft, briny air from the water and the visual rhythm of passing boats and promenaders, creating a combination of indoor comfort and open-water ambience.Interior feel and culinary offer
Inside, The Dock blends contemporary, eclectic furnishings with an open-plan layout that puts the bar and kitchen at the heart of the space. Sunlight pours through glazing by day; at night the interior shifts into a warmer palette of lamp light and illuminated bottle displays behind the counter. The kitchen serves accessible, casual dishes and bar plates suitable for sharing, while a drinks list covers beers, cocktails and wines designed to match the easygoing, social mood.Music, sport and the programme
Live music is part of The Dock’s identity: acoustic acts and local bands are scheduled regularly, particularly later in the week, while big-screen sport is shown throughout the day for fans who prefer a lively, communal atmosphere. The mixture of music, televised fixtures and occasional special events gives the venue a flexible character—relaxed at lunchtime, buzzy for evening matches and more animated during weekend late-night sets.Outdoor spaces and terraces
Terraced seating and waterfront-facing options are a useful feature at The Dock, allowing guests to sit close to the quay edge when the weather permits. These areas amplify the location’s maritime sense of place and make the venue especially appealing on mild, clear days when the bay’s reflections and passing light are at their best.Practical rhythms and visitor experience
The Dock operates long opening hours through the week with extended late service on Fridays and Saturdays, supporting both daytime visits and late-evening socialising. The venue’s layout, with clear sightlines to the bar and screens, helps it accommodate groups, diners and those dropping in for drinks; service tends to be geared to quick orders and shared plates rather than formal dining.Local context and why it matters
As part of Mermaid Quay’s cluster of restaurants, bars and attractions, The Dock benefits from a lively waterfront neighbourhood that blends maritime-inspired architecture, event programming and views across Cardiff Bay. Its combination of accessible food, drinks, live music and waterside terraces positions it as a multi-use social space within the Bay’s wider entertainment and dining scene.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ship Weather Vane - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
0.1 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
0.3 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
0.4 km
Comfortable, accessible, and modern hotel steps from Cardiff Bay’s cultural and waterfront attractions.
Roath Lock
0.5 km
Discover Roath Lock, Cardiff’s iconic BBC drama village blending cutting-edge production with waterfront heritage charm.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
1.5 km
Historic bronze statue in Cardiff honoring the visionary who transformed the city through the development of its docks and industrial growth.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
1.5 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
1.8 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.
HMP Cardiff
2.0 km
Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
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
2.1 km
Experience the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of St David's Metropolitan Cathedral, a must-visit spiritual landmark in Cardiff.
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.
RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, Cardiff
2.2 km
Experience the warmth of community and spirituality at RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, a welcoming Church of Christ in the heart of Cardiff.
Unmissable attractions to see
Landsea Square - Cardiff Bay
0.0 km
A peaceful, art-filled square nestled in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant waterfront, perfect for quiet moments and scenic views.
Panorama Stone - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
0.0 km
Discover Panorama Stone, a symbolic bronze sculpture linking Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage with global connections on the vibrant Cardiff Bay Art Trail.
Cargoes Poem
0.1 km
Experience Cardiff’s maritime legacy through John Masefield’s Cargoes Poem brought to life by striking sculptures at Mermaid Quay.
Landsea Gardens Cardiff Bay Viewing Deck
0.1 km
A serene garden retreat with stunning panoramic views over Cardiff Bay’s waterfront and city skyline.
Mermaid Quay
0.1 km
Vibrant Cardiff Bay waterfront alive with dining, shopping, comedy, and bay views—maritime heritage meets modern leisure in this regenerated gem.
Cardiff Cruises
0.1 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'
0.1 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.
Techniquest
0.1 km
Explore hands-on science, immersive shows, and family fun at Techniquest, Cardiff’s premier interactive discovery centre in vibrant Cardiff Bay.
Giant Ferris Wheel
0.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and dazzling light shows atop Cardiff’s iconic 35-meter Giant Ferris Wheel at Harbour Drive.
Roald Dahl Plass
0.2 km
A dynamic waterfront plaza celebrating Cardiff’s heritage, culture, and Roald Dahl’s legacy with iconic architecture and vibrant events.
Pierhead Building
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff's iconic Victorian Gothic Revival Pierhead Building, a vibrant museum and landmark overlooking the scenic Cardiff Bay waterfront.
The Senedd
0.2 km
Discover the Senedd, Cardiff’s iconic sustainable parliament building where Welsh democracy meets stunning waterfront views and open public access.
Wales Millennium Centre
0.3 km
Wales's premier arts venue showcasing world-class opera, ballet, dance and musicals in Cardiff Bay.
Mount Stuart Square
0.3 km
Historic Victorian square in Cardiff Bay centered on the iconic Coal Exchange, showcasing maritime heritage and architectural grandeur.
Norwegian Church Arts Centre
0.3 km
Historic Norwegian Church turned vibrant arts centre with panoramic Cardiff Bay views, Nordic cuisine, and a rich cultural legacy.
Essential places to dine
The Botanist Cardiff Bay
0.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Cardiff Bay - where live music meets delicious British cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.
Hub Box Cardiff
0.1 km
Lively American-style burger bar with waterfront views, bold flavors, and inclusive menu options in the heart of Cardiff’s Mermaid Quay.
Bill's Cardiff Bay Restaurant
0.1 km
Historic waterfront dining with colorful charm, seasonal British classics, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff Bay.
Cosy Club
0.1 km
Stylish and relaxed dining with eclectic decor and a vibrant bar in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay.
Giggling Squid - Cardiff Bay
0.1 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and botanical charm in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay.
Las Iguanas - Cardiff - Mermaid Quay
0.1 km
Sizzling Latin American flavors and killer cocktails meet Cardiff Bay's waterfront sparkle at this fiesta-ready hotspot.
Signor Valentino
0.1 km
Handcrafted Italian dining with panoramic Cardiff Bay views from an elevated Mediterranean terrace.
Demiro's
0.1 km
Lively Italian dining with a Mediterranean twist, set in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay waterfront.
Côte Cardiff Bay
0.1 km
Experience the elegance of modern French dining with classic flavors and waterfront views at Côte Cardiff Bay in Mermaid Quay.
Tir a Môr
0.3 km
Savor the fusion of Welsh land and sea at Tir a Môr, Cardiff’s stylish coastal restaurant celebrating local flavors and traditions.
Culley's Kitchen & Bar
0.3 km
Historic charm meets fresh Welsh flavors in Cardiff Bay’s Culley's Kitchen & Bar, a must-visit for seasonal dining and craft cocktails.
Thomas Restaurant Cardiff Bay
0.7 km
A stylish Cardiff Bay restaurant blending modern British cuisine with warm hospitality and local flavors in a vibrant waterfront setting.
The Classroom
1.2 km
Experience fine dining with panoramic city views while supporting Cardiff’s future chefs at The Classroom.
Cedar Tree Farm - Farmhouse Inns
1.6 km
A family-friendly pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, famed for its hearty carvery, legendary desserts, and welcoming atmosphere.
Viva Brazil Cardiff
1.7 km
Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio and vibrant flavors in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre, perfect for groups and special occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Zia Boutique
0.0 km
Discover handpicked jewellery, homeware, and gifts at this independent gem in Cardiff Bay's Mermaid Quay—a stylish haven since 2011.
Polka Dot
0.1 km
Discover dotted delights at this whimsical Cardiff Bay gift shop, where polka patterns meet playful souvenirs in a cozy waterfront nook.
Gallery Gift Shop at the Norwegian Church
0.3 km
Discover unique Scandinavian-inspired gifts in the historic Norwegian Church Arts Centre, a cultural gem overlooking Cardiff Bay.
Hearth & Co
0.3 km
Discover handcrafted wonders blending Norwegian heritage and Welsh artistry at this gem within Cardiff Bay's iconic Norwegian Church Arts Centre.
Cardiff Bay Retail Park
1.5 km
Value-packed shopping hub amid Cardiff Bay's waterfront allure—superstores, groceries, and easy parking for practical pit stops.
B&M Home Store
1.6 km
Discover incredible deals on home essentials and unique items at B&M Home Store in Cardiff Bay - your go-to discount shop!
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.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
1.9 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
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.
Menkind
1.9 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts for men at Menkind Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Shopping Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dock
0.0 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 Eli Jenkins
0.1 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.
The Packet
0.2 km
Traditional Cardiff Bay pub with 160 years of history, darts, games, real ales, and homely vibes amid modern surroundings.
Bar One
0.2 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
0.3 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
0.5 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
1.7 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Mocka Lounge
1.7 km
Lively cocktail bar and nightclub in Cardiff’s Mill Lane with great drinks, friendly service, and a vibrant social scene day and night.
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
1.7 km
Lively cocktail bar in Cardiff city centre with 100+ drinks, happy hours, masterclasses, and a buzzing party atmosphere.
Heidis Bier Bar Cardiff
1.7 km
Experience authentic Bavarian fun and lively nightlife at Heidi's Bier Bar, Cardiff’s quirky hotspot on Mill Lane open late every day.
Retro
1.8 km
A lively multi-floor nightclub in Cardiff celebrating retro hits, wild parties, and unforgettable nights until the early morning.
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.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cabaret at Wales Millennium Centre
0.2 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.
The Vaults
0.3 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.
Popworld - Cardiff
2.0 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
2.0 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
For Your Eyes Only
2.2 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Pulse
2.2 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.
Clwb Ifor Bach
2.2 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
Fuel Rock Club
2.3 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Revolution Cardiff
2.3 km
Discover the energy of Revolution Cardiff, where delicious food and innovative cocktails meet vibrant nightlife in the heart of the city.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
2.3 km
Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of The Live Lounge Cardiff, where live music, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife await.
The CUBE
2.3 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
2.4 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.
Yates - Cardiff
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Yates in Cardiff, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a lively setting.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
2.4 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The Globe
3.5 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
