Bar 105, Cardiff Travel Guide

Bar 105 occupies a narrow terraced building on Cathays Terrace, a bustling street in Cardiff's Cathays district known for its student energy and eclectic nightlife. The venue's compact layout features a front room leading to the bar at the rear, with additional seating tucked behind, creating an intimate atmosphere that holds up to 70 people. Its unpretentious design fosters close-knit gatherings, where the hum of conversation mingles with the clink of glasses and occasional DJ beats.

At the heart of Bar 105 lies its dedication to cocktails, with bartenders mixing signature creations alongside a selection of affordable beers and spirits. Patrons can expect cheap drinks that punch above their price, often highlighted during happy hours or special promotions. The bar occasionally features guest pop-ups like Filipino carinderia nights, bringing unique flavors to pair with the libations and adding a layer of culinary surprise to the evening.

Bar 105 pulses with life through its regular events calendar, showcasing Welsh DJs and technicians spinning diverse genres from bass-heavy sets to disco vibes. Saturdays and Fridays extend late into the night, hosting birthdays, solstice gatherings, and themed nights that draw crowds for high-energy mixes. This schedule positions the bar as a community hub, where music enthusiasts connect over shared beats in Cardiff's dynamic scene.

Situated amid Cathays' sports clubs, beer houses, and pubs, Bar 105 benefits from its proximity to Cardiff's cultural pulse without the chaos of city center crowds. The area around Cathays Terrace thrives on foot traffic from nearby students and locals, offering a gritty yet charming backdrop. Evenings here capture the essence of Welsh nightlife—friendly, unassuming, and full of spontaneous energy.

Opening reliably from 5pm daily, Bar 105 caters to after-work unwindings and pre-night-out stops, closing at midnight on weekdays and later on weekends. Its status as a CAMRA-listed pub underscores a nod to quality ales amid the cocktail focus, appealing to varied tastes. The bar's role in hosting pop-up events and music keeps the calendar fresh, ensuring repeat visits for those chasing Cardiff's underground vibe.