Cardiff Bay Trail Walk
Explore Cardiff Bay’s vibrant waterfront on a scenic 10km trail featuring iconic landmarks, tranquil parks, and family-friendly activities.
The Cardiff Bay Trail is a scenic 10 km (6.2 mile) circular walking and cycling route around Cardiff Bay, featuring waterfront views, iconic landmarks such as the Wales Millennium Centre and the Senedd, and access to parks, wetlands, and vibrant dining spots. It offers a refreshing urban escape with plenty of family-friendly activities and cultural heritage along the way.
A brief summary to Cardiff Bay Trail Walk
- CRXP+W3F, Cardiff, GB
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Walk or cycle the full 10 km loop to experience all the highlights, but shorter sections are available for less time or lower fitness levels.
- Rent a bike from local providers to cover more ground easily and enjoy the dedicated cycling paths.
- Stop at cafes and restaurants along Mermaid Quay for refreshments and local cuisine.
- Visit the Cardiff Bay Wetland Reserve for a peaceful break and birdwatching opportunities.
- Dress in layers as it can get breezy by the water, especially near the Barrage.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the train to Cardiff Bay Station, located about a 5-minute walk from the Millennium Centre, the usual starting point of the trail. Frequent buses also serve this area from central Cardiff, with journey times ranging from 15 to 25 minutes. Tickets typically cost between £2 and £4.
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Car
Drive to Mermaid Quay or Havannah Street car parks near Cardiff Bay. Parking fees range from £3 to £8 depending on duration. Note that parking can be limited during weekends and events, so early arrival is recommended.
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Cycling
Cycle to Cardiff Bay using dedicated bike lanes from the city centre. Bike rental shops are available locally for those without their own bicycles. The trail itself is mostly flat and well-maintained, suitable for all levels.
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Walking
If staying in central Cardiff, walking to the Bay takes about 30 to 45 minutes on mostly flat terrain via the Taff Trail and city paths. The route is accessible and family-friendly.
Cardiff Bay Trail Walk location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Cardiff Bay Trail Walk
A Waterfront Journey Through Cardiff's Urban Heart
The Cardiff Bay Trail is a captivating circular route approximately 10 km long, weaving around the expansive Cardiff Bay and its surrounding attractions. This trail offers visitors a unique perspective on the city’s waterfront, combining natural beauty with urban sophistication. Completed in the late 1990s alongside the creation of the Cardiff Bay Barrage, the trail transformed what was once a tidal harbour into a freshwater lake, redefining the area as a vibrant leisure and cultural destination.Landmarks and Cultural Highlights Along the Path
As you traverse the trail, you encounter several iconic landmarks that celebrate Welsh heritage and modern architecture. The Wales Millennium Centre, with its striking design and cultural significance as a premier performing arts venue, stands prominently near Roald Dahl Plass, an open event space dedicated to the famed Cardiff-born author. Nearby, the Senedd building houses the Welsh Parliament, symbolizing the nation’s governance and democratic spirit. The trail also passes the historic Norwegian Church, once a place of worship for seafarers, now a cultural centre and gallery.Natural Retreats and Recreational Spaces
Beyond the urban attractions, the trail offers tranquil escapes such as the Cardiff Bay Wetland Reserve, a peaceful sanctuary on reclaimed salt marshland where visitors can observe diverse birdlife from wooden boardwalks. Hamadryad Park, named after a hospital ship moored here in the 19th century, provides leafy green spaces perfect for picnics and relaxation. The route’s proximity to the River Taff and the Bristol Channel offers panoramic views, including sights of Flat Holm and Steep Holm islands and the distant Somerset coast.Engaging Activities and Family-Friendly Features
The trail is well-suited for families, with playgrounds and picnic areas, especially near the Cardiff Bay Barrage. Numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants line the route, offering refreshments and local cuisine to suit all tastes. Visitors can also enjoy boat trips departing from the bay, cycling along the dedicated paths, or simply strolling at a leisurely pace to soak in the atmosphere. The Pont y Werin footbridge connects Cardiff Bay to Penarth, extending the experience to the nearby seaside town.Accessibility and Trail Experience
The Cardiff Bay Trail is generally easy underfoot, making it accessible to walkers of various fitness levels, including families with children. The path is well signposted and includes options for shorter routes or shortcuts, such as crossing the Taff Viaduct. Bike rentals are available locally, allowing for a more extensive exploration of the 6.2-mile circuit. The trail is a model for urban walkability, encouraging outdoor exercise and providing inclusive access to nature and city life.Seasonal and Environmental Considerations
Weather can influence the experience, as the bay area may be breezy, so layering is recommended. The trail is enjoyable year-round, with each season offering different scenic qualities—from vibrant summer waterside activity to tranquil winter views. The balance of urban amenities and natural settings makes the Cardiff Bay Trail a versatile destination for locals and visitors alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Scott Antarctic Memorial Cardiff Bay
1.3 km
A poignant memorial in Cardiff Bay honoring Captain Scott and his Antarctic expedition, set against a historic maritime backdrop.
Ship Weather Vane - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
1.5 km
A dynamic copper and steel ship weather vane celebrating Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage atop the historic Pilotage Office.
Roath Lock
1.5 km
Discover Roath Lock, Cardiff’s iconic BBC drama village blending cutting-edge production with waterfront heritage charm.
Premier Inn Cardiff Bay hotel
1.7 km
Comfortable, accessible, and modern hotel steps from Cardiff Bay’s cultural and waterfront attractions.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
2.9 km
Historic bronze statue in Cardiff honoring the visionary who transformed the city through the development of its docks and industrial growth.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
2.9 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
3.1 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Principality Stadium
3.4 km
Experience the energy and excitement of Principality Stadium, Cardiff's premier venue for sports, concerts, and unforgettable events.
John Batchelor Statue
3.4 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Fogo's Free Tours
3.4 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
8 St Mary St
3.5 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of 8 St Mary St in the heart of Cardiff, a must-see for every traveler.
HMP Cardiff
3.5 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
3.5 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
3.5 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
St David's Metropolitan Cathedral
3.5 km
Experience the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of St David's Metropolitan Cathedral, a must-visit spiritual landmark in Cardiff.
Unmissable attractions to see
Scott of the Antarctic Exhibition
0.2 km
Explore the heroic legacy of Captain Scott’s Antarctic expeditions in Cardiff Bay’s immersive and family-friendly exhibition.
Roald Dahl - The Enormous Crocodile
0.3 km
Step into the enchanting world of Roald Dahl in Great Missenden, where stories come alive through interactive exhibits and original manuscripts.
Cardiff Bay Barrage
0.4 km
A modern engineering masterpiece offering scenic waterfront walks, vibrant leisure activities, and fascinating maritime operations in Cardiff Bay.
Cardiff Bay Barrage Locks
0.4 km
Explore the impressive Cardiff Bay Barrage Locks, a stunning engineering marvel offering scenic waterfront views, dynamic lock operations, and family-friendly recreation.
Age of Coal exhibition
0.5 km
Discover Wales’ coal mining heritage through immersive displays and personal stories at Cardiff Bay’s Age of Coal Exhibition.
Cardiff Bay
0.6 km
Explore Cardiff Bay, Europe’s largest waterfront transformation blending culture, leisure, and scenic beauty in a vibrant urban setting.
The Deck
0.9 km
Modern Welsh dining and floating hotel rooms with stunning marina views in Penarth’s vibrant waterfront setting.
The Jetty
1.1 km
A peaceful waterfront escape in Cardiff Bay blending natural beauty, wildlife, and urban vibrancy in a scenic setting.
Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve
1.1 km
A serene 8-hectare freshwater wetland reserve in Cardiff Bay, offering rich biodiversity and peaceful birdwatching amidst urban surroundings.
Cardiff International White Water
1.2 km
Experience thrilling white water rafting and kayaking adventures at Cardiff’s premier urban water sports centre.
Norwegian Church Arts Centre
1.3 km
Historic Norwegian Church turned vibrant arts centre with panoramic Cardiff Bay views, Nordic cuisine, and a rich cultural legacy.
Landsea Gardens Cardiff Bay Viewing Deck
1.4 km
A serene garden retreat with stunning panoramic views over Cardiff Bay’s waterfront and city skyline.
Panorama Stone - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
1.4 km
Discover Panorama Stone, a symbolic bronze sculpture linking Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage with global connections on the vibrant Cardiff Bay Art Trail.
Landsea Square - Cardiff Bay
1.4 km
A peaceful, art-filled square nestled in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant waterfront, perfect for quiet moments and scenic views.
Techniquest
1.5 km
Explore hands-on science, immersive shows, and family fun at Techniquest, Cardiff’s premier interactive discovery centre in vibrant Cardiff Bay.
Essential places to dine
Tir a Môr
1.2 km
Savor the fusion of Welsh land and sea at Tir a Môr, Cardiff’s stylish coastal restaurant celebrating local flavors and traditions.
Cedar Tree Farm - Farmhouse Inns
1.5 km
A family-friendly pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, famed for its hearty carvery, legendary desserts, and welcoming atmosphere.
Bill's Cardiff Bay Restaurant
1.5 km
Historic waterfront dining with colorful charm, seasonal British classics, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff Bay.
Las Iguanas - Cardiff - Mermaid Quay
1.5 km
Sizzling Latin American flavors and killer cocktails meet Cardiff Bay's waterfront sparkle at this fiesta-ready hotspot.
The Botanist Cardiff Bay
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Cardiff Bay - where live music meets delicious British cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.
Cosy Club
1.5 km
Stylish and relaxed dining with eclectic decor and a vibrant bar in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay.
Signor Valentino
1.5 km
Handcrafted Italian dining with panoramic Cardiff Bay views from an elevated Mediterranean terrace.
Hub Box Cardiff
1.5 km
Lively American-style burger bar with waterfront views, bold flavors, and inclusive menu options in the heart of Cardiff’s Mermaid Quay.
Giggling Squid - Cardiff Bay
1.5 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and botanical charm in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay.
Demiro's
1.5 km
Lively Italian dining with a Mediterranean twist, set in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay waterfront.
Harvester Cardiff Bay Penarth
1.5 km
A lively family-friendly British bar & grill in Penarth offering hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere near Cardiff Bay.
Côte Cardiff Bay
1.5 km
Experience the elegance of modern French dining with classic flavors and waterfront views at Côte Cardiff Bay in Mermaid Quay.
Home
1.7 km
Experience innovative fine dining with a warm, intimate atmosphere at Home by James Sommerin in Penarth’s historic Royal Buildings.
Culley's Kitchen & Bar
1.8 km
Historic charm meets fresh Welsh flavors in Cardiff Bay’s Culley's Kitchen & Bar, a must-visit for seasonal dining and craft cocktails.
Sid’s Restaurant and Bar With Rooms
1.9 km
Seaside dining and cozy stays with stunning views on Penarth’s historic Esplanade, blending fresh cuisine and warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gallery Gift Shop at the Norwegian Church
1.3 km
Discover unique Scandinavian-inspired gifts in the historic Norwegian Church Arts Centre, a cultural gem overlooking Cardiff Bay.
Hearth & Co
1.3 km
Discover handcrafted wonders blending Norwegian heritage and Welsh artistry at this gem within Cardiff Bay's iconic Norwegian Church Arts Centre.
Gifts At No. 9
1.4 km
Discover charming, beautifully curated gifts with personal service at Penarth’s beloved boutique on Windsor Road.
Zia Boutique
1.5 km
Discover handpicked jewellery, homeware, and gifts at this independent gem in Cardiff Bay's Mermaid Quay—a stylish haven since 2011.
Polka Dot
1.5 km
Discover dotted delights at this whimsical Cardiff Bay gift shop, where polka patterns meet playful souvenirs in a cozy waterfront nook.
The Queen B Boutique
1.5 km
Elegant occasion wear and personalized service combine at The Queen B Boutique, Penarth’s charming fashion and gift destination.
Shore
1.7 km
A charming coastal gift shop on Penarth’s Esplanade, perfect for seaside souvenirs and nautical-themed treasures with a local touch.
Cardiff Bay Retail Park
1.7 km
Value-packed shopping hub amid Cardiff Bay's waterfront allure—superstores, groceries, and easy parking for practical pit stops.
B&M Home Store
2.0 km
Discover incredible deals on home essentials and unique items at B&M Home Store in Cardiff Bay - your go-to discount shop!
Antoinette Antiques and Vintage Clothing
2.5 km
Discover Cardiff’s largest vintage hat collection and timeless antiques in a historic Pumping Station setting.
Ganesha Handicrafts
3.3 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
3.3 km
Bright, bold Welsh art and homewares in the heart of Cardiff’s Royal Arcade – perfect for souvenirs, gifts, and a splash of contemporary Welsh culture.
Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
3.3 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
elephants and flowres
3.3 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Cardiff Antique Centre
3.3 km
Discover unique antiques and collectibles at Cardiff Antique Centre, a must-visit destination for history lovers and treasure seekers alike.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lo Lounge
1.1 km
Industrial-chic waterfront bar in Cardiff Bay serving cocktails, street food, and live tunes amid stunning sunset views and pet-friendly vibes.
The Waterguard
1.4 km
Sam Smith's dockside gem in Cardiff Bay: crisp ales, pub grub, dog-friendly gardens, and panoramic harbor views for effortless waterfront unwinding.
The Dock
1.5 km
A waterside bar and kitchen in Mermaid Quay — bright windows, bay views, live music and big‑screen sport for daytime dining through late-night sessions.
The Eli Jenkins
1.6 km
Lively Cardiff Bay pub in a historic building, with beer garden views, live sports, cask ales, craft beers, and hearty grub—perfect for sports fans and casual nights out.
Bar One
1.6 km
Harborside bar beside Wales Millennium Centre, blending terrace views, inclusive eats, cocktails, and theatre-ready vibes in Cardiff Bay's lively waterfront scene.
The Packet
1.6 km
Traditional Cardiff Bay pub with 160 years of history, darts, games, real ales, and homely vibes amid modern surroundings.
Gin 64
1.7 km
Discover Penarth’s chic gin bar offering extensive selections, expert cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
The Grange Pub
2.7 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Peppermint Bar
3.1 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and a heated outdoor terrace in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Mocka Lounge
3.1 km
Lively cocktail bar and nightclub in Cardiff’s Mill Lane with great drinks, friendly service, and a vibrant social scene day and night.
Be At One - Cardiff
3.1 km
Lively cocktail bar in Cardiff city centre with 100+ drinks, happy hours, masterclasses, and a buzzing party atmosphere.
Heidis Bier Bar Cardiff
3.1 km
Experience authentic Bavarian fun and lively nightlife at Heidi's Bier Bar, Cardiff’s quirky hotspot on Mill Lane open late every day.
Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
3.1 km
Sophisticated cocktails and vibrant nightlife meet in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre at Dirty Martini.
Retro
3.2 km
A lively multi-floor nightclub in Cardiff celebrating retro hits, wild parties, and unforgettable nights until the early morning.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
3.2 km
A dynamic three-floor cocktail bar in Cardiff offering inventive drinks, lively music, and unforgettable nights out.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cabaret at Wales Millennium Centre
1.6 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.
The Vaults
1.8 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.
Popworld - Cardiff
3.4 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
3.4 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
For Your Eyes Only
3.6 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Clwb Ifor Bach
3.6 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
3.6 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Revolution Cardiff
3.6 km
Discover the energy of Revolution Cardiff, where delicious food and innovative cocktails meet vibrant nightlife in the heart of the city.
Pulse
3.6 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 Live Lounge Cardiff
3.7 km
Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of The Live Lounge Cardiff, where live music, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife await.
The CUBE
3.8 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
3.8 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.
Yates - Cardiff
3.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Yates in Cardiff, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a lively setting.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
3.8 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The Globe
4.9 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Tranquil
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- 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
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
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
