The Dock: Vibrant Live Music Bar and Waterfront Venue in Cardiff Bay
Lively live music bar and restaurant in Cardiff Bay with panoramic waterfront views and an extensive drinks selection.
Located in Mermaid Quay, Cardiff Bay, The Dock is a lively live music bar and restaurant offering a vibrant atmosphere, panoramic waterfront views, and an extensive drinks selection. Known for its spacious two-storey drinks cabinet and regular live music events, it combines casual dining with entertainment in a popular social hub. Open daily with late-night hours on weekends, it attracts a diverse crowd seeking both relaxation and lively nightlife.
A brief summary to The Dock
- Unit 1 & U1, Mermaid Quay, Cardiff, CF10 5BZ, GB
- Click to display
- Click to display
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-12 am
- Tuesday 10 am-12 am
- Wednesday 10 am-12 am
- Thursday 10 am-12 am
- Friday 10 am-2 am
- Saturday 10 am-2 am
- Sunday 10 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit on Friday or Saturday night to experience live music and enjoy late-night hours until 2 AM.
- Try a cocktail from the impressive two-storey drinks cabinet, a signature feature of The Dock.
- Enjoy the panoramic views of Cardiff Bay from the waterfront seating areas.
- The Dock is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your canine companion along.
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Getting There
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Train
From Cardiff Central Station, take a 15-20 minute walk or a short taxi ride to Mermaid Quay where The Dock is located. Trains run frequently and the station is well connected to regional and national routes. Walking involves some urban streets but is accessible for most travelers.
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Bus
Several Cardiff city buses serve stops near Mermaid Quay, including routes 6, 8, and 9. Travel times range from 10 to 25 minutes depending on your starting point. Buses run regularly throughout the day but may be less frequent late at night. Tickets cost approximately £2-£3.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Cardiff and provide a direct, convenient option to reach The Dock in about 10 minutes from the city center. Fares typically range from £6 to £10 depending on traffic and time of day.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
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Restrooms
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Drink Options
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Food Options
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Seating Areas
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Trash Bins
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Information Boards
The Dock location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Dock
A Dynamic Hub in Cardiff Bay's Mermaid Quay
Nestled in the heart of Mermaid Quay, The Dock stands as a prominent live music bar and restaurant known for its energetic vibe and scenic waterfront location. This venue capitalizes on its prime position overlooking Cardiff Bay, offering guests stunning panoramic views that enhance the social experience. The Dock's spacious interior is designed to accommodate a bustling crowd, featuring a striking two-storey drinks cabinet that showcases an impressive array of spirits and cocktails.Atmosphere and Entertainment
The Dock thrives as a vibrant social destination, blending casual dining with regular live music performances that energize the space. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, attracting a diverse clientele ranging from locals to visitors looking to enjoy Cardiff’s nightlife. The venue’s layout supports both relaxed seating areas and open spaces for dancing or mingling, making it suitable for groups and solo visitors alike.Culinary Offerings and Drink Selection
While primarily celebrated for its drinks, The Dock also offers a menu of casual dining options designed to complement its beverage selection. The food is crafted to suit the venue’s informal style, providing hearty portions that pair well with the extensive list of cocktails, beers, and spirits. The bar’s signature feature, the expansive drinks cabinet, is a focal point, offering a wide variety of choices that cater to different tastes and preferences.Community and Service
The Dock is recognized for its friendly and helpful staff who contribute to the welcoming environment. The venue is also noted for being dog-friendly, adding to its appeal as a relaxed and inclusive gathering spot. Its location within Mermaid Quay places it among other entertainment and dining options, making it a key part of Cardiff Bay’s vibrant social scene.Operating Hours and Accessibility
Open daily from 10 AM, The Dock extends its hours until midnight on weekdays and stays open until 2 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, catering to late-night crowds. Its accessibility within Cardiff Bay makes it an easy destination for both locals and tourists, with ample nearby amenities and transport options.Visual and Social Appeal
The Dock’s waterfront setting and distinctive interior design offer numerous photo opportunities, making it a favored spot for social media sharing. Its blend of modern aesthetics and lively ambiance creates an inviting backdrop for memorable evenings out in Cardiff.Explore the best of what The Dock has to offer
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