Roath Park Conservatory: A Tropical Oasis in Cardiff’s Historic Botanical Gardens
Step into a tropical haven within Cardiff’s historic Roath Park, where exotic plants and tranquil koi ponds create a serene escape.
Nestled within Cardiff’s Roath Park Botanic Gardens, Roath Park Conservatory is a heated glasshouse showcasing an exotic collection of tropical plants, including palms, orchids, and banana trees. Visitors can enjoy a tranquil pond with koi fish and turtles, surrounded by lush greenery and naturalistic rainforest conditions. Open daily from 10:30 am to 3 pm, this Victorian-style conservatory offers a peaceful escape with educational programs and seasonal merchandise.
A brief summary to Roath Park Conservatory
- Roath Park Botanic Gardens, Cardiff, CF23 5PG, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-3 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-3 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-3 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-3 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-3 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-3 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter, more peaceful experience.
- Bring fish food to enjoy feeding the koi in the conservatory pond.
- Dress in light layers to stay comfortable inside the warm, humid conservatory.
- Check opening hours ahead, as the conservatory closes on Christmas and New Year’s Day.
- Explore the wider Roath Park Botanic Gardens and enjoy the Victorian park’s other attractions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Several Cardiff bus routes stop near Roath Park, including services from the city center. Travel times range from 15 to 25 minutes depending on the route. Buses run frequently during the day but check schedules for weekend service. A single ticket costs approximately £2.00 to £3.00.
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Car
Driving to Roath Park Conservatory is straightforward with on-street parking available nearby. Travel time from Cardiff city center is about 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is free but can be limited during peak times.
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Walking
From Cardiff city center, walking to Roath Park Conservatory takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes along mostly flat, paved routes suitable for most fitness levels. The route passes through residential neighborhoods and green spaces.
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Cycling
Cycling is a convenient option with bike racks available near the conservatory entrance. The ride from central Cardiff takes about 15 minutes via dedicated cycle paths and quiet streets. Helmets and safety gear are recommended.
Roath Park Conservatory 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 Roath Park Conservatory
A Tropical Refuge Amidst Cardiff’s Urban Green Space
Roath Park Conservatory is a unique botanical gem located in the southern section of Roath Park, one of Cardiff’s most cherished Victorian parks. Established in the mid-1970s on the site of historic greenhouses, the conservatory was designed to create a warm, humid environment where tropical plants can thrive year-round. Its heated glasshouse structure shelters a diverse array of exotic species including palms, banana trees, orchids, and the rare bat flower, offering visitors a lush microcosm of tropical flora within the temperate Welsh climate.Architectural and Ecological Features
The conservatory’s architecture blends Victorian inspiration with modern materials; in 1988, its original glass windows were replaced with triple polycarbonate panels to enhance safety and energy efficiency, reducing heating costs by over a quarter annually. Inside, the space is arranged around a central pond and waterfall, home to giant koi fish, terrapins, goldfish, and the distinctive whistling duck. The conservatory’s caretakers maintain a chemical-free environment, allowing plants to grow naturally and fostering a rainforest atmosphere that is both educational and immersive.Educational and Community Engagement
Roath Park Conservatory is more than a display of plants; it serves as an educational hub offering school sessions and group bookings that engage visitors in the wonders of tropical ecosystems and conservation. The friendly staff provide informative tours and encourage interaction with the environment, including opportunities to feed the koi fish. Seasonal merchandise and plant sales support the conservatory’s upkeep and community involvement.Setting Within Roath Park’s Historic Landscape
The conservatory is part of the broader Roath Park Botanic Gardens, which itself is part of a 130-acre park established in 1894. The park features a large lake, rose gardens, playgrounds, and recreational facilities, all retaining their classic Victorian character. Roath Park has received the Green Flag award, recognizing its high-quality maintenance and importance to Cardiff’s cultural and natural heritage.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to the conservatory are enveloped in a warm, humid environment that contrasts with Cardiff’s often cool weather. The sounds of birdsong, the sight of vibrant tropical plants, and the gentle movement of koi in the pond create a tranquil and rejuvenating atmosphere. The conservatory is especially popular with families, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat within the city.Seasonal Access and Practical Information
Open daily from 10:30 am to 3 pm, the conservatory closes on Christmas and New Year’s Day. Access is free, with a modest entry fee historically charged at its opening, now replaced by voluntary contributions and sales. On-street parking is available nearby, and the conservatory is accessible by public transport and walking routes from Cardiff city center. Visitors are advised to dress in light layers due to the tropical warmth inside.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Scott Memorial Lighthouse
0.3 km
Historic lighthouse memorial in Roath Park honoring Captain Scott’s Antarctic expedition, set beside Cardiff’s scenic Victorian lake.
City Hall
2.1 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
James Howell's House
2.1 km
Historic landmark in Cardiff celebrating James Howell’s retail legacy and Cardiff’s commercial heritage.
South African War Memorial
2.2 km
A poignant bronze and stone tribute in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who served in the Second Boer War, embodying peace, war, and grief.
The Gathering - Cardiff
2.2 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
Nereid Statue
2.3 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
Capitol Cardiff
2.4 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.
2.4 km
A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
Cardiff Town Wall
2.5 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Historical Wales
2.5 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
HMP Cardiff
2.6 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
2.6 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.
The Cardiff Market
2.6 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
8 St Mary St
2.7 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of 8 St Mary St in the heart of Cardiff, a must-see for every traveler.
Fogo's Free Tours
2.7 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
Unmissable attractions to see
Roath Park
0.2 km
A historic Victorian park in Cardiff featuring a vast lake, iconic lighthouse, tropical conservatory, and diverse recreational spaces for all ages.
Roath Recreation Ground
0.8 km
A lively, family-friendly urban park in Cardiff offering playgrounds, sports fields, and peaceful green spaces for recreation and relaxation.
Rainbow Bargain
1.2 km
A compact Roath discount store stocking thousands of everyday bargains, DIY essentials and party supplies under one roof.
Roath Park Wild Gardens
1.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s tranquil Wild Gardens, a natural woodland retreat with flowing streams and rich wildlife within historic Roath Park.
Pear Tree
1.2 km
A friendly Wellfield Road pub with classic pub food, cask ales and a cosy beer garden — ideal for relaxed meals, drinks and dog‑friendly afternoons.
Roath Brook Gardens
1.3 km
A peaceful, historic garden corridor along Roath Brook offering lush greenery and tranquil urban nature in Cardiff’s Roath district.
Roath Local History Society
1.4 km
Explore Cardiff’s heritage through the Roath Local History Society, preserving the stories and culture of the old Roath parish since the 1980s.
Claude
1.4 km
Traditional stone-fronted corner pub on Albany Road—simple food, rotating ales, sports screens and a relaxed local atmosphere.
Roath Mill Gardens
1.5 km
Discover Roath Mill Gardens, a tranquil 4-acre urban oasis in Cardiff’s Roath district, perfect for peaceful walks and seasonal nature escapes.
Queen Anne Square
1.7 km
A tranquil Edwardian square nestled in Cardiff’s Civic Centre, blending historic architecture with serene green space.
Parc Mackenzie
1.9 km
A tranquil urban park in Cardiff honoring Wales’ first female professor with serene green spaces and academic heritage.
Museum Ave
1.9 km
A serene, tree-lined avenue in Cardiff’s civic heart, flanked by iconic museums and historic architecture.
Cardiff International Film Festival
1.9 km
Where world cinema meets Welsh culture—a premier festival celebrating global storytelling and filmmaking excellence.
The Cardiff Buddhist Centre
1.9 km
A peaceful urban sanctuary offering meditation, mindfulness, and Buddhist teachings in the heart of Cardiff.
Wales National War Memorial
1.9 km
A solemn and beautifully designed memorial in Cardiff’s Cathays Park honoring Welsh war heroes of the World Wars.
Essential places to dine
Sunnys Street Food - Mexican & Italian Restaurant Cardiff
0.9 km
Bold street food flavors, generous portions, unbeatable prices—where Cardiff gathers to eat well.
The Hellenic Eatery
0.9 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality at The Hellenic Eatery in Cardiff’s vibrant Crwys Road.
Svago Italian
0.9 km
Authentic Italian flavors and vegan delights served in a welcoming Cardiff setting with a lively bar atmosphere.
Silures
1.1 km
Experience exquisite modern European cuisine with elegant ambiance and impeccable service in the heart of Cardiff.
SaraZtro
1.1 km
Authentic Greek flavors and warm hospitality await you at SaraZtro, Cardiff’s beloved Mediterranean gem on Wellfield Road.
Legacy Indian Cuisine
1.1 km
Authentic Indian flavors meet fresh ingredients and warm hospitality in Cardiff’s beloved Legacy Indian Cuisine.
Troy Meze Bar
1.2 km
Authentic Mediterranean meze and charcoal-grilled kebabs served with warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Roath district.
Yamas Restaurant Cardiff
1.2 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in Cardiff’s lively Yamas Restaurant.
La Dolce Vita
1.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in Cardiff’s cozy La Dolce Vita on Wellfield Road.
Juno Lounge
1.2 km
A welcoming British café and bar in Cardiff with dedicated gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options for inclusive dining all day long.
Chickaros Cardiff
1.2 km
Savor succulent chicken and gourmet flavors in a lively, welcoming spot on Cardiff’s Albany Road.
Little Kochi
1.3 km
Discover authentic Keralan cuisine with generous portions and vibrant flavors at Little Kochi, Cardiff’s premier South Indian restaurant.
Calabrisella Cathays
1.3 km
Savor authentic Italian pizzas and pasta in a lively Cardiff setting with warm service and a vibrant atmosphere.
Shaam nights restaurant
1.7 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine and ornate Middle Eastern ambiance in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Roath district.
Giardini di Sorrento
2.1 km
Experience authentic Southern Italian cuisine with warm hospitality and a dog-friendly atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff’s City Road.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cathays High Store
0.9 km
Discover the convenience of Cathays High Store in Cardiff, your local supermarket offering a wide range of groceries and local specialties.
Ethical Boutique Charity Shop
1.1 km
Vintage vibes meet ethical impact: shop sustainably, swap smartly, and support global good at Cardiff's coolest charity boutique.
Boutique 53
1.1 km
Discover curated ladies' fashion on Cardiff's vibrant Wellfield Road, where independent style meets personalized service in Roath's chic shopping heart.
Style Bird
1.2 km
Uncover curated fashion treasures at Style Bird, Cardiff's intimate boutique in Roath where unique styles and personal service create wardrobe magic.
Penny Lane Vintage
1.2 km
Unearth hand-picked 1940s-1970s treasures—vintage clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and homewares—in Cardiff's charming Roath arcade boutique.
Gift shop Cardiff Home 4 You Home goods and craft store
1.2 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.
Ganesha
2.3 km
Discover ethically sourced Indian and Nepali handicrafts, jewelry, and vibrant clothing in the heart of Cardiff's Queen Street shopping scene.
Flamingos Vintage Cardiff
2.4 km
Discover sustainable style and unique vintage treasures by weight at Flamingos Vintage Cardiff in the Capitol Shopping Centre.
Cardiff Creative Shop
2.4 km
A vibrant Cardiff gift shop showcasing handmade crafts and designs by local Welsh artists in the heart of the city centre.
Rokit Cardiff
2.4 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
City Shop
2.4 km
Discover Cardiff's City Shop, your convenient destination for essentials, snacks, and local treats in the heart of the city.
The Works
2.5 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Little Welsh Company
2.5 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
Hobos Vintage
2.5 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.
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
2.5 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cathays Beer House
0.9 km
Cozy Crwys Road craft beer haven with high ceilings, expert pours, live events, and outdoor vibes in Cardiff's vibrant Cathays.
Albany Hotel
1.0 km
A friendly, old-school Cardiff pub with affordable rooms above — straightforward food, local ales and a cosy, lived-in atmosphere.
Crwys Hotel
1.0 km
Cathays' cozy corner for pub grub, pints, sports screens, sunny garden escapes, and quiz nights in Cardiff's student heartland.
Cathays Sports & Social Club
1.1 km
Cardiff's unpretentious social hub: cheap pints, games galore, live tunes, and community vibes in student-favorite Cathays.
Bar 105
1.2 km
Intimate Cardiff cocktail haven with killer drinks, DJ nights, and pop-up feasts in student-fueled Cathays.
Wellfield Terrace Bar
1.2 km
Cozy terrace pours on Roath's lively Wellfield Road, where craft beers flow amid Cardiff's indie neighborhood buzz. Unwind with locals under string lights. (162 characters)
The Flora
1.2 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.
The Royal George
1.2 km
Historic Roath pub at 'Death Junction'—live sports, student deals, and community vibes in a Victorian V-shaped gem.
The Woodville
1.5 km
Cathays' go-to pub for burgers, brews, sports screens, and unbeatable student specials in a lively, welcoming spot.
The Vulcan Lounge
1.6 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
1.7 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
2.0 km
Traditional Cardiff pub haven: award-winning pies, real ales, and a heated beer garden moments from Queen Street's energy.
Royal Oak
2.3 km
Cosy Cardiff pub with beer garden, sports screens, cask ales, pool & darts—your go-to for pints, games and good times on lively Broadway.
Yates - Cardiff
2.3 km
Lively sports bar and nightclub in Cardiff city centre with unbeatable sports coverage, great drinks, and a unique dancing doorman.
Henry's Cafe Bar Cardiff
2.3 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
