The Packet
Traditional Cardiff Bay pub with 160 years of history, darts, games, real ales, and homely vibes amid modern surroundings.
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.
A brief summary to The Packet
- 95 Bute St, Cardiff, CF10 5AB, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-12 am
- Saturday 12 pm-12 am
- Sunday 12 pm-10:30 pm
Local tips
- Head downstairs for darts, pool, and board games to spark conversations with locals.
- Try the Brains SA or local ales; staff can recommend based on your taste.
- Visit on Sundays for live music, cards, and a lively community atmosphere.
- Bring your dog—it's welcome in this pet-friendly spot.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
The Packet location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Packet
Historic Heart in Cardiff Bay
The Packet occupies a prime spot on 95 Bute Street, right in the heart of Cardiff Bay, where the buzz of contemporary waterfront developments meets echoes of the city's maritime past. Established over 160 years ago, this pub endures as one of the few remaining traditional establishments from the docklands boom era, preserving an authentic slice of Welsh pub culture amid flashy new builds. Its leaded glass windows etched with the pub name and brewery details hint at its longstanding legacy, offering patrons a tangible connection to Cardiff's industrial heritage.Cozy Traditional Interiors
Step inside to find wood floors, tiled bar areas, comfortable chairs, and sofas that evoke the feel of a nanna's front room. The layout includes a dedicated games area downstairs with darts, pool, and board games, fostering lively yet laid-back interactions. Original finishes and subtle nods to its history create an unpretentious space, contrasting sharply with the OTT modernism outside. A hidden beer garden provides an outdoor retreat for sunnier days, perfect for al fresco drinks.Drinks and Simple Bites
The bar boasts a solid lineup of beers, including well-kept Brains SA and interesting local options at reasonable prices around £3-£4 per pint. Familiar brews sit alongside lesser-known Welsh ales, with staff often guiding newcomers. Food leans casual with toasties for about £2, though it's best known for drinks rather than full meals. The focus remains on quality pints in a setting that prioritizes atmosphere over elaborate cuisine.Games and Community Spirit
Darts, pool, board games, and Sunday sessions of Don cards draw regulars and visitors alike, infusing the air with camaraderie. Live music spices up weekends, while the pub's dog-friendly policy welcomes furry companions. This blend of activities turns quiet afternoons into memorable evenings, embodying the quintessential British pub experience where strangers become friends over a game or a shared story.Opening Rhythm and Bay Location
Daily operations kick off at noon, wrapping up at 11pm on weekdays, Sunday at 10:30pm, and midnight on Friday and Saturday. Its position near Cardiff Bay landmarks like the Millennium Centre makes it a convenient pre- or post-event stop, yet it retains a locals' haven feel. The Packet thrives as a bridge between Cardiff's storied past and its dynamic present, inviting all to savor its timeless appeal.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.
Premier Inn Cardiff Bay hotel
0.3 km
Comfortable, accessible, and modern hotel steps from Cardiff Bay’s cultural and waterfront attractions.
The Scott Antarctic Memorial Cardiff Bay
0.5 km
A poignant memorial in Cardiff Bay honoring Captain Scott and his Antarctic expedition, set against a historic maritime backdrop.
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
1.3 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
1.3 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
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
1.8 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Fogo's Free Tours
1.8 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
HMP Cardiff
1.9 km
Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
Cardiff Bay Barrage
2.0 km
Explore the iconic Cardiff Bay Barrage, where stunning views, wildlife, and cultural attractions unite in a vibrant waterfront experience.
The Cardiff Market
2.0 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Cardiff Bay Barrage Locks
2.0 km
Discover the breathtaking views and engineering marvels at Cardiff Bay Barrage Locks, a must-visit tourist attraction in Wales.
RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, Cardiff
2.0 km
Experience the warmth of community and spirituality at RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, a welcoming Church of Christ in the heart of Cardiff.
Canal Quarter
2.0 km
Explore the scenic beauty and cultural richness of Canal Quarter, Cardiff's hidden gem for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure.
Unmissable attractions to see
Roald Dahl Plass
0.1 km
A dynamic waterfront plaza celebrating Cardiff’s heritage, culture, and Roald Dahl’s legacy with iconic architecture and vibrant events.
Ianto's Shrine
0.1 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
0.1 km
Experience Cardiff’s maritime legacy through John Masefield’s Cargoes Poem brought to life by striking sculptures at Mermaid Quay.
Mount Stuart Square
0.2 km
Historic Victorian square in Cardiff Bay centered on the iconic Coal Exchange, showcasing maritime heritage and architectural grandeur.
Landsea Square - Cardiff Bay
0.2 km
A peaceful, art-filled square nestled in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant waterfront, perfect for quiet moments and scenic views.
Cardiff Cruises
0.2 km
Explore Cardiff Bay’s iconic waterfront with Cardiff Cruises—offering scenic tours, themed cruises, and unique maritime experiences from Mermaid Quay.
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.
Giant Ferris Wheel
0.2 km
Experience breathtaking views and dazzling light shows atop Cardiff’s iconic 35-meter Giant Ferris Wheel at Harbour Drive.
Wales Millennium Centre
0.2 km
Wales's premier arts venue showcasing world-class opera, ballet, dance and musicals in Cardiff Bay.
Panorama Stone - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
0.2 km
Discover Panorama Stone, a symbolic bronze sculpture linking Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage with global connections on the vibrant Cardiff Bay Art Trail.
The Open Boat 'Daffodil'
0.2 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
0.2 km
Explore hands-on science, immersive shows, and family fun at Techniquest, Cardiff’s premier interactive discovery centre in vibrant Cardiff Bay.
Landsea Gardens Cardiff Bay Viewing Deck
0.2 km
A serene garden retreat with stunning panoramic views over Cardiff Bay’s waterfront and city skyline.
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.
Norwegian Church Arts Centre
0.4 km
Historic Norwegian Church turned vibrant arts centre with panoramic Cardiff Bay views, Nordic cuisine, and a rich cultural legacy.
Essential places to dine
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.
Giggling Squid - Cardiff Bay
0.1 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and botanical charm in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay.
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.
The Botanist Cardiff Bay
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Cardiff Bay - where live music meets delicious British cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.
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.
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.
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.
Bill's Cardiff Bay Restaurant
0.2 km
Historic waterfront dining with colorful charm, seasonal British classics, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff Bay.
Culley's Kitchen & Bar
0.2 km
Historic charm meets fresh Welsh flavors in Cardiff Bay’s Culley's Kitchen & Bar, a must-visit for seasonal dining and craft cocktails.
Tir a Môr
0.4 km
Savor the fusion of Welsh land and sea at Tir a Môr, Cardiff’s stylish coastal restaurant celebrating local flavors and traditions.
Thomas Restaurant Cardiff Bay
0.6 km
A stylish Cardiff Bay restaurant blending modern British cuisine with warm hospitality and local flavors in a vibrant waterfront setting.
The Classroom
1.1 km
Experience fine dining with panoramic city views while supporting Cardiff’s future chefs at The Classroom.
Viva Brazil Cardiff
1.5 km
Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio and vibrant flavors in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre, perfect for groups and special occasions.
Pitch Bar & Eatery
1.6 km
Experience the best of Cardiff at Pitch Bar & Eatery – where delicious breakfasts meet exquisite cocktails in a lively setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
Zia Boutique
0.1 km
Discover handpicked jewellery, homeware, and gifts at this independent gem in Cardiff Bay's Mermaid Quay—a stylish haven since 2011.
Gallery Gift Shop at the Norwegian Church
0.4 km
Discover unique Scandinavian-inspired gifts in the historic Norwegian Church Arts Centre, a cultural gem overlooking Cardiff Bay.
Hearth & Co
0.4 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
1.6 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
1.7 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
1.8 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
1.8 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
elephants and flowres
1.8 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Welcome Things
1.8 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
1.8 km
Discover unique reworked vintage fashion in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at Sobeys Vintage Clothing, where creativity meets sustainability.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
1.8 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Menkind
1.8 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts for men at Menkind Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Shopping Centre.
Morgan Quarter
1.8 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Packet
0.0 km
Traditional Cardiff Bay pub with 160 years of history, darts, games, real ales, and homely vibes amid modern surroundings.
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 Dock
0.1 km
Lively live music bar and restaurant in Cardiff Bay with panoramic waterfront views and an extensive drinks selection.
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
0.4 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
0.7 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
1.6 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Mocka Lounge
1.6 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
1.6 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and a heated outdoor terrace in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Heidis Bier Bar Cardiff
1.6 km
Experience authentic Bavarian fun and lively nightlife at Heidi's Bier Bar, Cardiff’s quirky hotspot on Mill Lane open late every day.
Be At One - Cardiff
1.6 km
Lively cocktail bar in Cardiff city centre with 100+ drinks, happy hours, masterclasses, and a buzzing party atmosphere.
Retro
1.6 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
1.6 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
1.6 km
A dynamic three-floor cocktail bar in Cardiff offering inventive drinks, lively music, and unforgettable nights out.
The Philharmonic
1.6 km
A bustling multilevel pub and nightclub in Cardiff city centre, offering cocktails, brunches, rooftop vibes, and lively entertainment.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Vaults
0.1 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
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.
Popworld - Cardiff
1.8 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
1.8 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
2.0 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Pulse
2.0 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
2.1 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
2.1 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Revolution Cardiff
2.1 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
2.2 km
Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of The Live Lounge Cardiff, where live music, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife await.
The CUBE
2.2 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
2.2 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
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Yates in Cardiff, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a lively setting.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
2.2 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The Globe
3.3 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
- Fun-filled
- Quirky
- Casual
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly