City United Reformed Church
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
A striking Grade II*-listed Neogothic church located on Windsor Place in central Cardiff, built in 1866 and designed by renowned Scottish architect Frederick Thomas Pilkington. The church features a distinctive octagonal spire, gabled roof, and white brick ornamentation. Originally Presbyterian, it became part of the United Reformed Church in 1972. Today, it serves as an active congregation space and houses the Churches Together Bookshop and Cardiff's Adult Christian Education Center, maintaining its role as a significant cultural and spiritual landmark in the heart of the city.
A brief summary to The Gathering - Cardiff
- United Reform Church, Windsor Pl, Cardiff, CF10 3BZ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on a Sunday morning at 11 AM to experience an active worship service in this historic setting. The congregation welcomes visitors of all backgrounds.
- Explore the Churches Together Bookshop housed within the church for Christian literature, theology texts, and resources related to interfaith dialogue.
- Observe the architectural details up close: the octagonal spire, white brick ornamentation, gabled roof, and the 1893 porch redesign by E. M. Bruce Vaughan.
- The church's location on Windsor Place offers excellent photo opportunities, especially when the surrounding Victorian terraced houses are visible in the frame.
- Contact the church in advance if you wish to arrange a guided tour or learn about adult Christian education programs offered at the center.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Cardiff Queen Street railway station is approximately 35 meters away, a 2-minute walk from the church. Regular services connect to destinations throughout Wales and beyond. Journey times from major Welsh cities range from 30 minutes (Swansea) to 90 minutes (Aberystwyth). Standard fares vary by destination and advance booking; expect £8–£25 for regional journeys.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the area around Windsor Place, with stops at Fitzalan Place and nearby locations. Local Cardiff buses operate frequent services throughout the day. Single fares within Cardiff typically cost £1.70–£2.50, with day passes available for £4.50–£5.50. Journey times from other city areas range from 10–25 minutes depending on route.
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Car
Street parking is available on Windsor Place and surrounding residential streets, though spaces can be limited during peak hours. The church is located in central Cardiff, approximately 1.5 km from the M4 motorway junction. On-street parking is typically free after 6 PM and on Sundays; daytime parking may incur charges depending on the specific zone.
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Walking
The church is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from Cardiff's main shopping and cultural areas. From Cardiff Central Station, the walk takes approximately 8–10 minutes via Queen Street. The route is flat, well-lit, and passes through the heart of the city center with clear signage.
The Gathering - Cardiff location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about The Gathering - Cardiff
A Victorian Masterpiece in Neogothic Style
City United Reformed Church stands as one of Cardiff's finest examples of 19th-century ecclesiastical architecture. Completed in 1866, this Grade II*-listed building was designed by Frederick Thomas Pilkington, a Scottish architect celebrated for his distinctive approach to church design. Pilkington's signature style is evident throughout the structure: he deliberately incorporated local materials to create a building that feels rooted in its Welsh context. The church's most striking features include a soaring octagonal spire that punctuates the Cardiff skyline, a steeply pitched gabled roof, and beautifully detailed white brick ornamentation that catches the light along Windsor Place. The architectural vocabulary is unmistakably Neogothic, drawing inspiration from medieval ecclesiastical traditions while expressing the confident Victorian aesthetic of its era.Architectural Evolution and Restoration
The church's physical form has evolved over its 160-year history, reflecting both changing tastes and practical needs. In 1893, architect E. M. Bruce Vaughan undertook a significant redesign of the west front, adding a new porch that enhanced the building's entrance presence. Following a destructive fire in 1910, Vaughan returned to oversee further restoration work, installing a new hammerbeam roof that strengthened the interior structure while maintaining the church's visual integrity. These interventions demonstrate how the building has been thoughtfully maintained and adapted by successive generations, each leaving their mark while respecting Pilkington's original vision. The Grade II* listing, awarded in 1975, recognizes the church's architectural and historical significance within Wales' built heritage.From Presbyterian Roots to Modern United Reformed Identity
The church's denominational history mirrors broader changes in British Protestantism. Originally established as a Presbyterian congregation, City URC maintained that identity for over a century. In 1972, a pivotal moment arrived when the Congregational Church in England and Wales merged with the Presbyterian Church of England to form the United Reformed Church. Through this union, City URC became part of the Province of Wales within the newly created denomination. This transition represented not a loss of identity but rather an expansion of fellowship and shared purpose. The congregation has continued to thrive within this framework, remaining true to the reformed theological tradition while embracing the inclusive, progressive values that characterize modern United Reformed congregations.Contemporary Role as Community Hub
Today, City United Reformed Church functions as far more than a Sunday worship space. The building houses the head office of the Churches Together Bookshop, making it a resource center for Christian literature and interfaith dialogue. It also serves as Cardiff's Adult Christian Education Center, offering classes, seminars, and learning opportunities for adults seeking deeper engagement with faith and theology. These dual roles underscore the church's commitment to being a living, active presence in the community. The congregation describes itself as open and inclusive, welcoming people from all backgrounds regardless of race, color, gender, age, or nationality. This ethos reflects a deliberate theological stance: that the gospel message transcends boundaries and that the church's doors should remain open to all who seek spiritual community.Setting and Urban Context
Windsor Place, where the church is situated, remains lined with original Victorian terraced houses that frame the street with period character. This architectural consistency creates a cohesive 19th-century streetscape, and City URC's prominent position—with its distinctive tower rising above surrounding buildings—makes it a visual anchor for the neighborhood. The location places the church within walking distance of Cardiff's city center, making it accessible to both local residents and visitors exploring the capital's heritage. The church's presence contributes significantly to the local sense of place, serving as a landmark that helps orient travelers and a gathering point for the community it serves.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.0 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
Capitol Cardiff
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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.
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A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
James Howell's House
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Historic landmark in Cardiff celebrating James Howell’s retail legacy and Cardiff’s commercial heritage.
Nereid Statue
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A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
City Hall
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Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
South African War Memorial
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A poignant bronze and stone tribute in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who served in the Second Boer War, embodying peace, war, and grief.
HMP Cardiff
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Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
Cardiff Town Wall
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Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Fogo's Free Tours
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Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
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A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Historical Wales
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Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
Bute Park
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Discover the beauty and tranquility of Bute Park, Cardiff's premier urban park and a hub of culture and nature in the heart of the city.
River Cruises
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Explore Cardiff's rich history and stunning architecture from the serenity of the water with unforgettable river cruises through the heart of the city.
Principality Stadium
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Experience the energy and excitement of Principality Stadium, Cardiff's premier venue for sports, concerts, and unforgettable events.
Unmissable attractions to see
Carousel in Queen Street
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A charming and nostalgic carousel delighting families in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street.
Exitus Escape Rooms
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Challenging and immersive escape rooms in Cardiff with themed adventures, friendly hosts, and a lively social atmosphere.
Canal Quarter
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Cardiff's revitalized waterfront destination where historic canals meet modern leisure and culture.
RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, Cardiff
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A vibrant Pentecostal parish in Cardiff blending historic charm with dynamic worship and community spirit.
Queen St
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Cardiff’s bustling Queen Street blends historic arcades with modern shopping and vibrant cafés in a lively pedestrian-friendly city centre hub.
Gorsedd Gardens
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Cardiff's tranquil civic heart: historic stones, exotic blooms, and urban serenity.
St David's Metropolitan Cathedral
0.3 km
Historic Gothic Revival cathedral in Cardiff’s city centre, a serene spiritual hub and home to the renowned Metropolitan Cathedral Choir.
National Museum Cardiff
0.3 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
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Discover Cardiff’s serene Gorsedd Gardens, home to a historic stone circle celebrating Welsh culture amidst vibrant floral beauty.
Cardiff International Film Festival
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Where world cinema meets Welsh culture—a premier festival celebrating global storytelling and filmmaking excellence.
St David’s Dewi Sant
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Cardiff’s largest shopping centre with over 160 shops, dining, and entertainment all under one roof in the city centre.
Aneurin Bevan Statue by Robert Thomas (1987)
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A powerful bronze tribute in Cardiff to Aneurin Bevan, visionary founder of the NHS, sculpted by Robert Thomas in 1987.
St David's Hall
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Experience world-class acoustics and bold brutalist design at Cardiff’s iconic St David’s Hall, a vibrant cultural landmark in the city centre.
Lightning Bolt
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A towering modern art beacon energizing Cardiff’s vibrant St David’s Centre with bold design and urban flair.
Parc Mackenzie
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A tranquil urban park in Cardiff honoring Wales’ first female professor with serene green spaces and academic heritage.
Essential places to dine
Daffodil
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Stylish gastro pub in Cardiff offering seasonal Welsh dishes, creative cocktails, and a serene garden terrace in the city centre.
Valentino's
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Cozy Italian restaurant in Cardiff city center offering authentic dishes, warm service, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Bellini's
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Authentic Italian dining in Cardiff's cultural quarter, celebrated for exceptional service and romantic ambiance.
Laguna Kitchen & Bar Cardiff
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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
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Experience authentic Cuban cuisine and vibrant culture at Revolución de Cuba Cardiff - your gateway to Havana's flavors in the heart of Wales.
Steak of the Art
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A fun, art-filled Cardiff steakhouse serving generous cuts, indulgent sides and strong cocktails in a vibrant city-centre setting.
Ciliegino Restaurant
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Authentic Sicilian pizza and pasta in Cardiff's premier shopping destination.
Cosy Club
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Chic British dining and all-day drinks in Cardiff’s St David’s Dewi Sant, blending timeless glamour with a welcoming atmosphere.
The Botanist Cardiff
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A vibrant gastropub in Cardiff city centre where botanical décor, creative cocktails, and live music bloom together.
Gaucho Cardiff
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Savor premium Argentine steaks and vibrant South American flavors in Cardiff’s sleek, modern steakhouse at St Davids Centre.
Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
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Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
Giardini di Sorrento
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Experience authentic Southern Italian cuisine with warm hospitality and a dog-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff’s City Road.
Cafe Citta
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Cozy Italian eatery in Cardiff city center serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and pasta in an intimate, stylish setting.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
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Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
The Welsh House Cardiff
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Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ganesha
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Discover ethically sourced Indian and Nepali handicrafts, jewelry, and vibrant clothing in the heart of Cardiff's Queen Street shopping scene.
Flamingos Vintage Cardiff
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Discover sustainable style and unique vintage treasures by weight at Flamingos Vintage Cardiff in the Capitol Shopping Centre.
Cardiff Creative Shop
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A vibrant Cardiff gift shop showcasing handmade crafts and designs by local Welsh artists in the heart of the city centre.
Flying Tiger
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Discover quirky Scandinavian gifts and creative everyday essentials at Flying Tiger in Cardiff’s St David's Centre.
Rokit Cardiff
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Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
The Works
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Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Little Welsh Company
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Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
Menkind
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Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts for men at Menkind Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Shopping Centre.
Hobos Vintage
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A vibrant Cardiff vintage shop packed with retro fashion, trainers, and accessories from the 1950s to today – perfect for throwback style and bargain finds.
Urban Outfitters
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Curated lifestyle retail celebrating creativity, fashion, and cultural expression in Cardiff's city centre.
Knight Vintage
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Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
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Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Mojo King
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Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
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Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Great Welsh Gifts
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Unearth authentic Welsh crafts, treats, and treasures on Cardiff's High Street—a delightful dive into Cymru's cultural heart at Great Welsh Gifts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Henry's Cafe Bar Cardiff
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A relaxed, long-standing Park Place bar offering cocktails, local beers and approachable British food from brunch through late-night.
Yates - Cardiff
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Lively sports bar and nightclub in Cardiff city centre with unbeatable sports coverage, great drinks, and a unique dancing doorman.
Pen & Wig
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Traditional Cardiff pub haven: award-winning pies, real ales, and a heated beer garden moments from Queen Street's energy.
Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
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A lively, multi-level cocktail bar and casual-restaurant on The Friary — made for groups, brunch and evening drinks in central Cardiff.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
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Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
The Dead Canary
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Discover Cardiff’s secret cocktail haven where mythical-inspired drinks meet vintage charm in an intimate, expertly crafted experience.
Gassy's
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A lively Cathays pub and kitchen offering affordable pub food, strong vegan choices, bottomless brunch and regular quizzes, live music and sports screenings.
Glassworks
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Flight Club Cardiff
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Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant city nightlife at Flight Club Cardiff’s unique multi-level bar and rooftop terrace.
The Libertine Cocktail Bar
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A stylish Cardiff cocktail bar blending gothic charm with expertly crafted drinks and a lively city center vibe.
Rum & Fizz
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Discover Cardiff’s rum haven with over 200 rums, crafted cocktails, cozy elegance, and live jazz every Friday in Castle Arcade.
Penny
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Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
Main Stage
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Cardiff's vibrant gay bar and cabaret club with lively drag shows, DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Lab 22
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Revolution Cardiff
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A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Pulse
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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.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
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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.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
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A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The CUBE
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Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
For Your Eyes Only
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Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Metros
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Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
Popworld - Cardiff
0.7 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Clwb Ifor Bach
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Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
Fuel Rock Club
0.7 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
The Globe
1.3 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.
The Vaults
2.1 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
2.3 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.
Coco Cubanas
12.1 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
12.1 km
Experience Barry’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Bar Cocoa, a lively nightclub where music and dancing keep the party going until the early morning.
Eclipse Nightclub
15.8 km
Experience Pontypridd’s vibrant midweek nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community come alive every Wednesday night.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Architectural Shots
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Cultural Heritage
- Meditation Spot
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
