Forest Farm Country Park: Cardiff’s Tranquil Natural Haven
Explore Cardiff’s peaceful Forest Farm Country Park with its rich wildlife, historic canal, and scenic trails open all day, every day for free.
Forest Farm Country Park in Cardiff is a serene nature reserve offering woodland trails, diverse wildlife habitats, and the last stretch of the historic Glamorganshire Canal. Open 24/7 with free entry, it features bird hides, a visitor centre, and access to the scenic Taff Trail, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers, photographers, and peaceful walks close to the city.
A brief summary to Forest Farm Country Park
- Forest Farm Rd, Cardiff, CF14 7JH, GB
- +447414944695
- Visit website
- 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
- Bring binoculars and a camera for excellent birdwatching, especially for kingfishers near the canal.
- Use the two free car parks available: one near the rugby club and a larger one by the Warden’s Compound.
- Be mindful of cyclists and joggers on shared trails, especially near Radyr Weir.
- Visit early in the morning for the best light and quieter experience for wildlife photography.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from central Cardiff takes approximately 15-25 minutes. Access Forest Farm via Forest Farm Road off Velindre Road. Free parking is available at two main car parks near the rugby club and Warden’s Compound. Note that parking spaces can fill on busy weekends.
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Bus
Bus service number 63 serves the nearby Radyr area, from where a pedestrian bridge crosses the River Taff to access the park. The journey from Cardiff city centre takes about 30-40 minutes. Check local bus schedules for updated times.
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Train
Radyr train station is the closest rail access point, approximately 1.5 km from the park entrance. From the station, a short walk via the pedestrian bridge over the River Taff leads to Forest Farm. Train travel times vary depending on origin but typically range from 10-20 minutes from Cardiff Central.
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Walking
For those staying nearby, walking to Forest Farm is feasible via well-paved trails and quiet roads. Expect a 20-40 minute walk depending on your starting point. Terrain is mostly flat but shared with cyclists, so caution is advised.
Forest Farm Country Park 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 Forest Farm Country Park
A Living Landscape of Natural Diversity
Nestled in north-west Cardiff, Forest Farm Country Park is a vibrant mosaic of habitats including woodlands, marshlands, hay meadows, ponds, and scrubland. This rich environment supports a wide variety of wildlife, from kingfishers to waterfowl, making it a cherished refuge for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. The park’s well-maintained trails wind through these diverse landscapes, inviting visitors to explore and connect with the natural world in a peaceful setting.Historic Waterways and Industrial Echoes
A unique feature of Forest Farm is the preserved last remaining stretch of the Glamorganshire Canal, once a vital industrial artery linking Merthyr Tydfil to Cardiff. Visitors can trace the canal’s course, now a tranquil waterway edged by lush vegetation, and reflect on the region’s industrial heritage. Nearby, the restored Melingriffith Waterpump stands as a testament to the area’s historical significance, blending industrial history with natural beauty.Facilities and Visitor Experience
The park welcomes visitors 24 hours a day, every day of the year, with no entrance fee. Facilities include a visitor centre and several bird hides strategically placed for wildlife observation. Ample free parking is available near the rugby club and at the Warden’s Compound, facilitating easy access. The park’s trails are shared with cyclists and joggers, so visitors are encouraged to be mindful of others. The friendly local community and park rangers provide helpful information and support, enhancing the visitor experience.Recreation and Photography Opportunities
Forest Farm is a favored spot for photographers, especially those patient enough to capture elusive kingfishers and other birdlife. The peaceful atmosphere and scenic views along the canal and woodland paths offer numerous photo opportunities throughout the seasons. The park’s connection to the Taff Trail also makes it a popular route for walkers and cyclists seeking a scenic escape close to Cardiff’s urban centre.Environmental Stewardship and Community Engagement
Managed as a community park, Forest Farm serves as a hub for environmental volunteering and conservation efforts. The Council’s Community Park Ranger Service operates from the Forest Farm Conservation Centre, fostering local engagement in habitat preservation and wildlife protection. This stewardship ensures the park remains a sustainable and thriving green space for future generations.Seasonal Changes and Wildlife Watching
The park’s diverse habitats come alive with changing seasons, offering unique wildlife watching experiences year-round. Early mornings are especially rewarding for spotting birds and enjoying the tranquil ambiance. Visitors are advised to bring snacks and drinks to fully savor the time spent in this natural sanctuary, where patience is often rewarded with sightings of rare species and peaceful moments away from the city bustle.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Scott Memorial Lighthouse
5.1 km
Historic lighthouse memorial in Roath Park honoring Captain Scott’s Antarctic expedition, set beside Cardiff’s scenic Victorian lake.
City Hall
5.9 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
South African War Memorial
5.9 km
A poignant bronze and stone tribute in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who served in the Second Boer War, embodying peace, war, and grief.
Cardiff International Film Festival
6.0 km
Discover the Cardiff International Film Festival, where cinema comes alive through captivating screenings and inspiring workshops in the heart of Wales.
Cardiff Castle
6.0 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Cardiff Castle, a treasure in the heart of Wales that combines culture, beauty, and adventure.
Gorsedd Gardens
6.0 km
Explore Gorsedd Gardens, a captivating city park in Cardiff, rich in history and natural beauty, perfect for relaxation and cultural experiences.
Nereid Statue
6.0 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
Firing Line Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier
6.0 km
Explore the rich military heritage of Wales at the Firing Line Museum, set within the historic Cardiff Castle in the heart of Cardiff city.
Cardiff Town Wall
6.1 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Historical Wales
6.1 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
Aneurin Bevan Statue by Robert Thomas (1987)
6.2 km
Discover the Aneurin Bevan Statue in Cardiff, a magnificent sculpture honoring the founder of the NHS and showcasing Welsh heritage.
Principality Stadium
6.2 km
Experience the energy and excitement of Principality Stadium, Cardiff's premier venue for sports, concerts, and unforgettable events.
The Cardiff Market
6.3 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
6.3 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
Castell Coch
2.1 km
A Victorian fairy-tale castle nestled in ancient woods, blending medieval fantasy with lavish interiors near Cardiff.
Blue Ocean Activities
2.4 km
Experience thrilling gorge walking, canyoning, and outdoor adventures with expert guides in the stunning landscapes of South Wales.
Fforest Fawr
2.8 km
Explore ancient woodlands, dramatic geology, and rich heritage in the heart of South Wales’ Brecon Beacons National Park.
Llandaff Cathedral
3.1 km
Explore centuries of Welsh history and artistry in the serene and architecturally rich Llandaff Cathedral, Cardiff’s spiritual heart.
Old Bishop's Palace
3.3 km
Explore the tranquil medieval ruins and gardens of the Old Bishop's Palace, a historic ecclesiastical site nestled beside Llandaff Cathedral in Cardiff.
St Fagans Castle
3.8 km
Explore centuries of Welsh history and culture at St Fagans Castle and its vast open-air museum set in stunning Cardiff parkland.
St. Fagans National Museum of History
3.9 km
Explore Wales’s rich history through authentic buildings, crafts, and landscapes at St. Fagans, one of Europe’s premier open-air museums.
Mountain View Ranch
3.9 km
Explore 10 acres of magical woodland, themed play zones, and scenic mountain views at Mountain View Ranch in Caerphilly.
Victoria Park
4.3 km
Historic Victorian park in Cardiff blending heritage charm with vibrant family-friendly recreation and green spaces.
Thompson's Park
4.3 km
Historic and tranquil green space in Cardiff’s Canton, featuring woodland, a duck pond, and iconic fountain sculpture.
Roath Park Wild Gardens
4.9 km
Discover Cardiff’s tranquil Wild Gardens, a natural woodland retreat with flowing streams and rich wildlife within historic Roath Park.
Roath Park
5.1 km
A historic Victorian park in Cardiff featuring a vast lake, iconic lighthouse, tropical conservatory, and diverse recreational spaces for all ages.
Roath Park Conservatory
5.2 km
Step into a tropical haven within Cardiff’s historic Roath Park, where exotic plants and tranquil koi ponds create a serene escape.
Sensory Dome
5.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s Sensory Dome, an immersive attraction where all five senses come alive through interactive themed rooms and creative experiences.
Gôl Centres Ltd
5.2 km
Cardiff’s vibrant sports hub offering top-quality 5-a-side football, leagues, soccer schools, and dynamic group activities for all ages.
Essential places to dine
The Heathcock
2.9 km
A modern gastropub in Llandaff with a Michelin Bib Gourmand, serving seasonal British dishes and craft beer in a relaxed, stylish setting.
Porro Llandaff
3.2 km
A stylish, modern Italian-inspired restaurant in Llandaff village, serving hearty breakfasts, pasta, grilled meats, and seasonal dishes in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Nook
4.3 km
Cozy Cardiff eatery specializing in seasonal small plates and natural wines, perfect for intimate dining and wine lovers alike.
Sunnys Street Food - Mexican & Italian Restaurant Cardiff
4.5 km
Bold street food flavors, generous portions, unbeatable prices—where Cardiff gathers to eat well.
Milkwood
4.6 km
Innovative Welsh brunch and vibrant evening pizzette bar in Cardiff’s lively Pontcanna neighborhood.
Thomas by Tom Simmons
4.7 km
Refined Welsh cuisine meets elegant design in Cardiff’s stylish Pontcanna district at Thomas by Tom Simmons.
Heaneys Restaurant
4.8 km
Discover Cardiff’s celebrated fine dining gem, Heaneys Restaurant, where innovative British tasting menus meet stylish comfort in Pontcanna.
Svago Italian
5.0 km
Authentic Italian flavors and vegan delights served in a welcoming Cardiff setting with a lively bar atmosphere.
Elgano Italian Restaurant
5.1 km
Authentic Italian dining in a stylish, romantic setting on Cathedral Road – perfect for date nights, family meals, and special occasions in Cardiff.
The Hellenic Eatery
5.2 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality at The Hellenic Eatery in Cardiff’s vibrant Crwys Road.
Calabrisella Cathays
5.3 km
Savor authentic Italian pizzas and pasta in a lively Cardiff setting with warm service and a vibrant atmosphere.
Chickaros Cardiff
5.9 km
Savor succulent chicken and gourmet flavors in a lively, welcoming spot on Cardiff’s Albany Road.
Neighbourhood Kitchen & Cocktails
6.0 km
Intimate Riverside restaurant with rotating menus, exceptional seafood, and craft cocktails in Cardiff.
Silures
6.1 km
Experience exquisite modern European cuisine with elegant ambiance and impeccable service in the heart of Cardiff.
SaraZtro
6.1 km
Authentic Greek flavors and warm hospitality await you at SaraZtro, Cardiff’s beloved Mediterranean gem on Wellfield Road.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pearls Gift Shop
2.0 km
Handpicked Welsh treasures and locally crafted souvenirs in the heart of Cardiff.
Nest Cardiff
2.4 km
Discover unique gifts and charming children’s clothes in a welcoming boutique nestled in Cardiff’s leafy Rhiwbina suburb.
Ethical Boutique Charity Shop
4.3 km
Vintage vibes meet ethical impact: shop sustainably, swap smartly, and support global good at Cardiff's coolest charity boutique.
The SHO Gallery and Shop
5.0 km
A vibrant Cardiff hub offering art supplies, handmade gifts, and local creativity in a welcoming gallery and shop environment.
Cathays High Store
5.3 km
Discover the convenience of Cathays High Store in Cardiff, your local supermarket offering a wide range of groceries and local specialties.
Gift shop Cardiff Home 4 You Home goods and craft store
5.9 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.
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
6.1 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Boutique 53
6.1 km
Discover curated ladies' fashion on Cardiff's vibrant Wellfield Road, where independent style meets personalized service in Roath's chic shopping heart.
Rainbow Bargain
6.1 km
Explore Rainbow Bargain in Cardiff for incredible discounts on homewares, arts, crafts, and more in a vibrant shopping destination.
Castle Quarter Arcades
6.1 km
Discover unique shops and delightful cafes at Castle Quarter Arcades, Cardiff's charming shopping destination, blending history with modern retail.
Style Bird
6.1 km
Uncover curated fashion treasures at Style Bird, Cardiff's intimate boutique in Roath where unique styles and personal service create wardrobe magic.
Rokit Cardiff
6.1 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
Penny Lane Vintage
6.1 km
Unearth hand-picked 1940s-1970s treasures—vintage clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and homewares—in Cardiff's charming Roath arcade boutique.
Great Welsh Gifts
6.2 km
Unearth authentic Welsh crafts, treats, and treasures on Cardiff's High Street—a delightful dive into Cymru's cultural heart at Great Welsh Gifts.
Hobos Vintage
6.2 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bar
4.6 km
A stylish cocktail bar and restaurant in Cardiff’s Canton, offering craft drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe for all occasions.
Cathays Sports & Social Club
5.1 km
Cardiff's unpretentious social hub: cheap pints, games galore, live tunes, and community vibes in student-favorite Cathays.
Bar 105
5.1 km
Intimate Cardiff cocktail haven with killer drinks, DJ nights, and pop-up feasts in student-fueled Cathays.
The Flora
5.2 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.
Cathays Beer House
5.2 km
Cozy Crwys Road craft beer haven with high ceilings, expert pours, live events, and outdoor vibes in Cardiff's vibrant Cathays.
Crwys Hotel
5.4 km
Cathays' cozy corner for pub grub, pints, sports screens, sunny garden escapes, and quiz nights in Cardiff's student heartland.
The Woodville
5.4 km
Cathays' go-to pub for burgers, brews, sports screens, and unbeatable student specials in a lively, welcoming spot.
Albany Hotel
5.8 km
A friendly, old-school Cardiff pub with affordable rooms above — straightforward food, local ales and a cosy, lived-in atmosphere.
The Royal George
5.8 km
Historic Roath pub at 'Death Junction'—live sports, student deals, and community vibes in a Victorian V-shaped gem.
The Vulcan Lounge
5.8 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
5.9 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
6.0 km
Traditional Cardiff pub haven: award-winning pies, real ales, and a heated beer garden moments from Queen Street's energy.
Revolution Cardiff
6.1 km
A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
The Bootlegger
6.1 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
6.1 km
A lively, multi-level cocktail bar and casual-restaurant on The Friary — made for groups, brunch and evening drinks in central Cardiff.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fuel Rock Club
6.1 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Clwb Ifor Bach
6.1 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
6.1 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The Globe
6.2 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 CUBE
6.2 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
For Your Eyes Only
6.2 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
6.2 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.
Popworld - Cardiff
6.4 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Metros
6.4 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
Pulse
6.4 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.
Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
6.6 km
Experience Cardiff's nightlife at Dirty Martini, the ultimate cocktail bar with expertly crafted drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.
Walkabout - Cardiff
6.6 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience in Cardiff, offering vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and live sports in a lively atmosphere.
Be At One - Cardiff
6.6 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Be At One in Cardiff, where every drink is a celebration and the atmosphere is electric!
Retro
6.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cardiff at Retro, where nostalgia meets fun in a lively bar and nightclub atmosphere.
The Vaults
8.0 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly