Roath Recreation Ground, Cardiff
A lively, family-friendly urban park in Cardiff offering playgrounds, sports fields, and peaceful green spaces for recreation and relaxation.
Roath Recreation Ground is a vibrant city park located at 41 Ninian Rd, Cardiff CF23 5EH. Nestled within the larger Roath Park complex, this spacious, flat green space offers well-maintained playgrounds, sports pitches, and lush gardens, making it ideal for family outings, sports, and relaxation. The park features a popular playground with varied equipment for children, open lawns for picnics, and a scenic trim trail perfect for stretching or light exercise. It blends recreational facilities with a welcoming community atmosphere in a peaceful urban setting.
A brief summary to Roath Recreation Ground
- 41 Ninian Rd, Cardiff, CF23 5EH, GB
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful atmosphere and excellent photography opportunities.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the expansive lawns with plenty of scenic spots to relax.
- Check local event listings for community activities or festivals held in the park.
- Children will enjoy the playground featuring slides, climbing frames, and swings suitable for various ages.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Cardiff Bus services 21, 22, or 23 from various city points to the 'Ninian Park' stop. From there, it is a short 5-minute walk north along Ninian Road to the park entrance. Buses run frequently with tickets costing around £1.50. Service frequency may reduce on weekends and evenings.
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Walking
If you are in the Roath area, walking to Roath Recreation Ground is straightforward and pleasant. The terrain is flat and accessible, with well-signposted paths leading to the entrance at 41 Ninian Road. Walking times vary from 10 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point.
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Bicycle
Cycling is a convenient option with several bike lanes in Roath. Use designated cycle paths to reach Ninian Road, where the park entrance is located. Bicycle parking is available near the entrance. Ensure to follow local cycling safety regulations.
Roath Recreation Ground location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Roath Recreation Ground
A Vital Green Space in Cardiff’s Urban Fabric
Roath Recreation Ground forms the southernmost part of the expansive Roath Park complex, situated in a lively residential area between Cathays and Pen-Y-Lan. This city park is characterized by its broad, flat playing fields and open lawns that invite a variety of activities from casual picnics to organized sports. It serves as a popular community hub where locals gather for football matches, running groups, and dog walking. The park’s accessibility and open design make it a favored spot for relaxation and outdoor play amid the city bustle.Playgrounds and Sporting Facilities for All Ages
The recreation ground boasts well-equipped playgrounds featuring slides, climbing frames, and swings that cater to children of different ages. Adjacent to the park is the Penylan Library and Community Centre, which enhances the area’s family-friendly appeal with its gym, multi-use sports hall, meeting rooms, and a children’s soft play area. Around the park’s perimeter, a trim trail provides fitness enthusiasts with various exercise stations, ideal for stretching and warm-ups before a run or workout.Natural Beauty and Community Spirit
Surrounded by mature trees and lush gardens, Roath Recreation Ground offers a tranquil green oasis within Cardiff’s urban environment. The park’s expansive lawns and shaded areas provide perfect picnic spots and spaces for informal gatherings. Throughout the year, community events and festivals enliven the park, strengthening local ties and celebrating the area’s vibrant culture. The park’s design encourages a harmonious balance between active recreation and peaceful enjoyment of nature.Integration Within the Greater Roath Park
Roath Recreation Ground is part of the larger Roath Park, a historic Victorian park known for its 30-acre man-made lake, botanical gardens, rose gardens, and diverse habitats. While the recreation ground focuses on sports and play, it connects seamlessly with the other park areas, offering visitors a comprehensive outdoor experience. This integration allows for easy access to additional amenities such as tennis courts, bowling greens, and scenic walking paths along the Roath Brook.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
The park is easily accessible by foot, bus, or bicycle, with well-signposted entrances and nearby public transport options. Its flat terrain and open layout make it suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities. Facilities such as restrooms, seating areas, and trash bins contribute to a comfortable visit. The park’s welcoming atmosphere and diverse amenities ensure a fulfilling experience for families, sports enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful retreat within the city.Ongoing Community Engagement and Sustainability
Roath Recreation Ground benefits from active local stewardship and community involvement, which helps maintain its cleanliness and vibrancy. Efforts to preserve green spaces and promote sustainable use align with Cardiff’s broader environmental goals. The park’s role as a wildlife habitat and its proximity to conservation areas within Roath Park underline its ecological importance. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and enjoy the park responsibly.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Scott Memorial Lighthouse
1.1 km
Historic lighthouse memorial in Roath Park honoring Captain Scott’s Antarctic expedition, set beside Cardiff’s scenic Victorian lake.
James Howell's House
1.5 km
Historic landmark in Cardiff celebrating James Howell’s retail legacy and Cardiff’s commercial heritage.
City Hall
1.7 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
The Gathering - Cardiff
1.7 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
South African War Memorial
1.8 km
A poignant bronze and stone tribute in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who served in the Second Boer War, embodying peace, war, and grief.
Capitol Cardiff
1.8 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.
1.8 km
A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
Nereid Statue
1.8 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
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 Town Wall
2.0 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Historical Wales
2.1 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
The Cardiff Market
2.2 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Fogo's Free Tours
2.2 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
2.2 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
8 St Mary St
2.2 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of 8 St Mary St in the heart of Cardiff, a must-see for every traveler.
Unmissable attractions to see
Roath Brook Gardens
0.5 km
A peaceful, historic garden corridor along Roath Brook offering lush greenery and tranquil urban nature in Cardiff’s Roath district.
Pear Tree
0.5 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.
Rainbow Bargain
0.5 km
A compact Roath discount store stocking thousands of everyday bargains, DIY essentials and party supplies under one roof.
Roath Local History Society
0.6 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
0.6 km
Traditional stone-fronted corner pub on Albany Road—simple food, rotating ales, sports screens and a relaxed local atmosphere.
Roath Mill Gardens
0.8 km
Discover Roath Mill Gardens, a tranquil 4-acre urban oasis in Cardiff’s Roath district, perfect for peaceful walks and seasonal nature escapes.
Roath Park Conservatory
0.8 km
Step into a tropical haven within Cardiff’s historic Roath Park, where exotic plants and tranquil koi ponds create a serene escape.
Roath Park
0.9 km
A historic Victorian park in Cardiff featuring a vast lake, iconic lighthouse, tropical conservatory, and diverse recreational spaces for all ages.
The Cardiff Buddhist Centre
1.3 km
A peaceful urban sanctuary offering meditation, mindfulness, and Buddhist teachings in the heart of Cardiff.
Cardiff International Film Festival
1.5 km
Where world cinema meets Welsh culture—a premier festival celebrating global storytelling and filmmaking excellence.
AdventureRooms Escape Games Cardiff
1.5 km
Engage your mind and teamwork skills with immersive escape room adventures in the heart of Cardiff.
Parc Mackenzie
1.5 km
A tranquil urban park in Cardiff honoring Wales’ first female professor with serene green spaces and academic heritage.
Museum Ave
1.6 km
A serene, tree-lined avenue in Cardiff’s civic heart, flanked by iconic museums and historic architecture.
National Museum Cardiff
1.6 km
Explore world-class Welsh art, natural history, and culture at Cardiff’s iconic free museum in the heart of the city.
Queen Anne Square
1.6 km
A tranquil Edwardian square nestled in Cardiff’s Civic Centre, blending historic architecture with serene green space.
Essential places to dine
Silures
0.3 km
Experience exquisite modern European cuisine with elegant ambiance and impeccable service in the heart of Cardiff.
SaraZtro
0.3 km
Authentic Greek flavors and warm hospitality await you at SaraZtro, Cardiff’s beloved Mediterranean gem on Wellfield Road.
Legacy Indian Cuisine
0.4 km
Authentic Indian flavors meet fresh ingredients and warm hospitality in Cardiff’s beloved Legacy Indian Cuisine.
Troy Meze Bar
0.4 km
Authentic Mediterranean meze and charcoal-grilled kebabs served with warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Roath district.
Yamas Restaurant Cardiff
0.4 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in Cardiff’s lively Yamas Restaurant.
La Dolce Vita
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in Cardiff’s cozy La Dolce Vita on Wellfield Road.
Juno Lounge
0.4 km
A welcoming British café and bar in Cardiff with dedicated gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options for inclusive dining all day long.
Little Kochi
0.5 km
Discover authentic Keralan cuisine with generous portions and vibrant flavors at Little Kochi, Cardiff’s premier South Indian restaurant.
Chickaros Cardiff
0.6 km
Savor succulent chicken and gourmet flavors in a lively, welcoming spot on Cardiff’s Albany Road.
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
1.0 km
Authentic Italian flavors and vegan delights served in a welcoming Cardiff setting with a lively bar atmosphere.
Shaam nights restaurant
1.0 km
Experience authentic Syrian cuisine and ornate Middle Eastern ambiance in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Roath district.
Calabrisella Cathays
1.2 km
Savor authentic Italian pizzas and pasta in a lively Cardiff setting with warm service and a vibrant atmosphere.
Sunnys Street Food - Mexican & Italian Restaurant Cardiff
1.4 km
Bold street food flavors, generous portions, unbeatable prices—where Cardiff gathers to eat well.
Giardini di Sorrento
1.4 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
Boutique 53
0.3 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
0.4 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
0.4 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
0.7 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.
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
1.6 km
Vintage vibes meet ethical impact: shop sustainably, swap smartly, and support global good at Cardiff's coolest charity boutique.
City Shop
1.7 km
Discover Cardiff's City Shop, your convenient destination for essentials, snacks, and local treats in the heart of the city.
Flamingos Vintage Cardiff
1.8 km
Discover sustainable style and unique vintage treasures by weight at Flamingos Vintage Cardiff in the Capitol Shopping Centre.
Ganesha
1.8 km
Discover ethically sourced Indian and Nepali handicrafts, jewelry, and vibrant clothing in the heart of Cardiff's Queen Street shopping scene.
Dandy Gallery Retro Vintage Antique Shop Cardiff
1.8 km
Discover Cardiff’s premier retro and vintage shop offering unique antiques, mid-century furniture, and decorative treasures in a vibrant industrial setting.
Cardiff Creative Shop
1.9 km
A vibrant Cardiff gift shop showcasing handmade crafts and designs by local Welsh artists in the heart of the city centre.
Rokit Cardiff
2.0 km
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
2.0 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Flying Tiger
2.1 km
Discover quirky Scandinavian gifts and creative everyday essentials at Flying Tiger in Cardiff’s St David's Centre.
Little Welsh Company
2.1 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Albany Hotel
0.4 km
A friendly, old-school Cardiff pub with affordable rooms above — straightforward food, local ales and a cosy, lived-in atmosphere.
Wellfield Terrace Bar
0.4 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 Royal George
0.7 km
Historic Roath pub at 'Death Junction'—live sports, student deals, and community vibes in a Victorian V-shaped gem.
Crwys Hotel
0.8 km
Cathays' cozy corner for pub grub, pints, sports screens, sunny garden escapes, and quiz nights in Cardiff's student heartland.
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.
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.
The Vulcan Lounge
1.1 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.
The Flora
1.1 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.
Bar 105
1.1 km
Intimate Cardiff cocktail haven with killer drinks, DJ nights, and pop-up feasts in student-fueled Cathays.
Gassy's
1.2 km
A lively Cathays pub and kitchen offering affordable pub food, strong vegan choices, bottomless brunch and regular quizzes, live music and sports screenings.
The Woodville
1.3 km
Cathays' go-to pub for burgers, brews, sports screens, and unbeatable student specials in a lively, welcoming spot.
Royal Oak
1.5 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.
Pen & Wig
1.5 km
Traditional Cardiff pub haven: award-winning pies, real ales, and a heated beer garden moments from Queen Street's energy.
Henry's Cafe Bar Cardiff
1.8 km
A relaxed, long-standing Park Place bar offering cocktails, local beers and approachable British food from brunch through late-night.
Yates - Cardiff
1.8 km
Lively sports bar and nightclub in Cardiff city centre with unbeatable sports coverage, great drinks, and a unique dancing doorman.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Globe
0.5 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.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
1.8 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.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
1.8 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
Pulse
1.9 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.
The CUBE
1.9 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
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.
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
2.2 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Metros
2.3 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
Popworld - Cardiff
2.3 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Be At One - Cardiff
2.5 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Be At One in Cardiff, where every drink is a celebration and the atmosphere is electric!
Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
2.5 km
Experience Cardiff's nightlife at Dirty Martini, the ultimate cocktail bar with expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.
Walkabout - Cardiff
2.5 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience in Cardiff, offering vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and live sports in a lively atmosphere.
The Vaults
3.7 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
3.8 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
