National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens
Explore 55 acres of Edwardian garden rooms, exotic plants, and woodland arboretum surrounding a grand Victorian mansion near Cardiff.
Dyffryn Gardens, located near Cardiff in Wales, is a spectacular 55-acre Edwardian garden featuring a diverse collection of themed garden rooms, a tropical glasshouse, a working kitchen garden, and a vast arboretum with trees from around the world. Designed by Thomas Mawson in the early 20th century, it offers formal lawns, woodland walks, and family-friendly play areas, all centered around the grand Victorian Dyffryn House. The gardens are open daily from 10am to 6pm and provide a rich horticultural and historical experience.
A brief summary to National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens
- Duffryn Ln, Cardiff, Saint Nicholas, Wenvoe, CF5 6FZ, GB
- +442920593328
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during late summer or autumn to see spectacular dahlias, ginger lilies, and seasonal displays in the glasshouse.
- Borrow sensory or explorer backpacks from the Welcome Team to enhance family visits, especially for children with sensory needs.
- Check the schedule for volunteer-led talks and guided tours on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays to learn about the gardens’ history.
- National Trust members enjoy free entry and parking, making membership a great value for repeat visits.
- Explore the arboretum for a peaceful walk among rare and champion trees, and let children enjoy the natural play areas.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Car
Driving from Cardiff city center takes approximately 25-35 minutes via the A48 and local roads. Parking is available on-site but can be limited during peak times. Entry fees apply for parking unless you are a National Trust member.
-
Bus
The X2 bus service connects Porthcawl to St Nicholas, stopping about 1 mile from Dyffryn Gardens. From the bus stop, a 20-minute walk on country lanes leads to the gardens. Service frequency varies, so check local timetables in advance.
-
Train and Taxi
Take a train to Cardiff Central station, then a taxi to Dyffryn Gardens, which takes around 30 minutes. This option is suitable for visitors preferring a direct and comfortable journey, with taxi fares typically ranging from £25 to £35.
-
Walking
For nearby residents or visitors staying in St Nicholas or Wenvoe, walking to Dyffryn Gardens is feasible within 30-45 minutes over gently rolling terrain. Paths are mostly accessible but may be uneven in places.
National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about National Trust - Dyffryn Gardens
A Legacy of Edwardian Elegance and Vision
Dyffryn Gardens is a grand Edwardian estate near Cardiff, Wales, spanning 55 acres of meticulously designed horticultural beauty. Conceived in the early 1900s by industrialist John Cory and his son Reginald, the gardens were brought to life by renowned landscape architect Thomas Mawson. The design reflects the Edwardian era's love for structured garden rooms, formal lawns, and exotic plant collections, creating a living tapestry of botanical artistry. The estate’s centerpiece is the imposing Victorian Dyffryn House, whose restored ground and first floors hint at the grandeur of a bygone age, while an exhibition in the Morning Room reveals the house’s layered history and ongoing restoration efforts.Diverse Garden Rooms and Botanical Treasures
Visitors can explore a variety of themed garden rooms, each offering unique atmospheres and plant collections. Highlights include the formal South Garden with its sweeping lawns and water features, the productive working kitchen garden cultivating fruits, vegetables, and flowers, and the exotic glasshouse showcasing an impressive collection of cacti, succulents, orchids, and tropical plants. The Pompeiian Garden and the walled garden add historical and architectural interest, dotted with sculptures, sundials, and fountains that enrich the sensory experience. Seasonal displays such as spectacular dahlias and ginger lilies provide color and texture from late summer through autumn.The Arboretum and Woodland Walks
On the estate’s eastern side lies a 22-acre arboretum, home to one of the National Trust’s most significant tree collections. This wild and exotic woodland area invites visitors to wander winding paths beneath towering trees sourced from across the globe. The arboretum is notable for its 17 Champion Trees, some of the largest of their kind in the British Isles. It offers a tranquil escape into nature, with opportunities for birdwatching, spotting squirrels, and discovering insects like dragonflies and butterflies. The woodland also includes natural play areas for children, blending adventure with environmental education.A Family-Friendly Destination with Engaging Activities
Dyffryn Gardens caters to visitors of all ages, featuring two wooden play areas called the Log Stacks, perfect for children to explore and enjoy. The gardens offer sensory and explorer backpacks to enhance discovery, including tools for children who benefit from quiet or calming aids. Seasonal self-led trails and volunteer-led talks provide deeper insight into the gardens’ history, horticulture, and conservation. Amenities include a café near the Nant Bran stream, a shop with unique gifts and plants, and a second-hand bookshop with a strong children’s literature selection. Dogs on short leads are welcome, and the site is largely wheelchair accessible.Seasonal Highlights and Special Events
Throughout the year, Dyffryn Gardens celebrates seasonal changes with events such as autumn walks featuring gourd and dried flower displays, sensory reflection trails, and art installations like the Helios sun sculpture. The gardens are open 363 days annually, closing only on Christmas and Boxing Day, with shorter winter hours. The Gallery Café operates during school holidays and weekends, while the main house remains mostly closed for restoration but accessible via exhibitions. The gardens’ rich seasonal variety ensures a different experience with each visit, inviting repeated exploration.Preserving Heritage and Nature for Future Generations
Managed by the National Trust on a 50-year lease since 2013, Dyffryn Gardens is a protected heritage site combining cultural history with ecological stewardship. Restoration projects funded by heritage grants have revived the original Mawson designs and conserved the estate’s natural and built features. The gardens promote sustainable practices, wildlife habitat preservation, and public enjoyment of historical landscapes. Membership offers free entry and supports ongoing conservation, ensuring Dyffryn remains a treasured destination for education, relaxation, and inspiration.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
WWII Coast Artillery Search Light Emplacement
6.8 km
Explore a pivotal WWII coastal defense site in Barry, where history meets stunning views of the Bristol Channel.
Visit the Vale
6.9 km
Explore the Vale: Your gateway to stunning landscapes, rich heritage, and unforgettable experiences in a picturesque region.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
9.0 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Animal Wall
9.1 km
Explore the Animal Wall in Cardiff, a historical landmark filled with whimsical animal sculptures that tell the story of the city's rich heritage.
Bute Park
9.2 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Bute Park, Cardiff's premier urban park and a hub of culture and nature in the heart of the city.
Cardiff Bay
9.2 km
Explore Cardiff Bay, a vibrant waterfront destination in Wales, rich in culture, history, and stunning views, perfect for unforgettable experiences.
Cardiff Castle Museum
9.2 km
Explore Cardiff Castle Museum, a historic landmark that invites you to dive into the rich heritage of Wales with captivating exhibits and stunning architecture.
Firing Line Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier
9.3 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 Castle
9.3 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Cardiff Castle, a treasure in the heart of Wales that combines culture, beauty, and adventure.
Historical Wales
9.3 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
8 St Mary St
9.3 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of 8 St Mary St in the heart of Cardiff, a must-see for every traveler.
Cardiff Bay Barrage Locks
9.3 km
Discover the breathtaking views and engineering marvels at Cardiff Bay Barrage Locks, a must-visit tourist attraction in Wales.
The Cardiff Market
9.3 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Penarth Pier Pavilion
9.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of art, culture, and scenic beauty at Penarth Pier Pavilion, a historic gem on the Welsh coast.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
9.3 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Garden Cafe
0.0 km
A peaceful garden retreat in Wenvoe offering cozy indoor and scenic outdoor dining nestled in nature’s embrace.
St Lythans Burial Chamber
0.5 km
Step back 6,000 years at St Lythans Burial Chamber, a mysterious Neolithic tomb nestled in the tranquil Welsh countryside near Cardiff.
Tinkinswood Burial Chamber
0.9 km
Explore Tinkinswood, Wales’ awe-inspiring 6,000-year-old Neolithic burial chamber crowned by Europe’s largest capstone.
Caerau Fort
4.6 km
Explore Caerau Fort, a vast Iron Age hillfort in Cardiff blending ancient history with vibrant community heritage.
King Square, Barry
4.9 km
Historic King Square in Barry blends Edwardian civic pride with vibrant community life in the heart of this Welsh town.
St. Fagans National Museum of History
5.1 km
Explore Wales’s rich history through authentic buildings, crafts, and landscapes at St. Fagans, one of Europe’s premier open-air museums.
St Fagans Castle
5.1 km
Explore centuries of Welsh history and culture at St Fagans Castle and its vast open-air museum set in stunning Cardiff parkland.
Barry Castle
5.4 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Barry Castle, a medieval manor house with a storied past nestled in the heart of Barry, Wales.
Romilly Park
5.6 km
A historic Victorian park in Barry blending heritage charm with family-friendly recreation and tranquil green spaces.
Porthkerry Country Park
5.7 km
Explore 220 acres of woodland, meadows, and pebble beach framed by a majestic Victorian viaduct in this vibrant coastal country park.
Bronze age mound
5.7 km
Explore a commanding Bronze Age burial mound overlooking Porthkerry Bay, a silent witness to ancient Welsh funerary traditions and prehistoric life.
Cold Knap beach
6.1 km
Tranquil pebble beach and serene gardens with scenic views, family-friendly walks, and free parking near Barry’s charming coastline.
Barry War Museum
6.1 km
Explore Barry’s wartime heritage through immersive exhibits and community stories at this free, volunteer-run museum near Barry Island.
Barry Island Pleasure Park
6.2 km
Classic seaside fun meets nostalgic charm at Barry Island Pleasure Park, a vibrant family-friendly amusement destination by the Welsh coast.
Whitmore Bay - Barry Island
6.3 km
Lively golden sands, family fun, and scenic coastal walks combine at Whitmore Bay, Barry Island’s beloved seaside retreat.
Essential places to dine
Beefeater Walston Castle
2.6 km
A modern, family-friendly steakhouse in Wenvoe offering hearty British classics with warm service and a relaxed atmosphere.
Three Horseshoes Country Inn
3.3 km
A cozy countryside inn near Barry offering hearty food, comfy rooms, and family-friendly fun in a tranquil Welsh setting.
The Red Lion
3.4 km
A welcoming village pub in Bonvilston offering hearty homemade meals, cozy charm, and friendly hospitality near Cardiff.
The Fox and Hounds Pub
5.1 km
A cozy gastropub in scenic Llancarfan offering hearty food, warm hospitality, and charming rooms for a perfect countryside escape.
The Little Olive
5.2 km
Cozy Italian dining with authentic flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Barry’s Broad Street.
Premier Inn Barry Island Cardiff Airport hotel
5.3 km
Comfortable waterfront hotel near Cardiff Airport with easy access to Barry Island beaches, city attractions, and family-friendly entertainment.
Barry Island Brewers Fayre
5.3 km
Classic British pub dining with family-friendly warmth, scenic waterfront views, and hearty meals near Barry Island Beach.
The Humble Onion
5.7 km
A hidden gem in Dinas Powys serving refined Welsh bistro dishes with masterful technique and warm hospitality.
The Dining Room
6.1 km
A refined British dining experience blending coastal charm and fresh seafood in the heart of Barry’s vibrant seaside scene.
Finnegans Inn
6.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of delicious food and vibrant atmosphere at Finnegans Inn - your go-to grill and sports bar in Barry.
Nook
7.1 km
Cozy Cardiff eatery specializing in seasonal small plates and natural wines, perfect for intimate dining and wine lovers alike.
Porro Llandaff
7.9 km
A stylish, modern Italian-inspired restaurant in Llandaff village, serving hearty breakfasts, pasta, grilled meats, and seasonal dishes in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
The Heathcock
7.9 km
A modern gastropub in Llandaff with a Michelin Bib Gourmand, serving seasonal British dishes and craft beer in a relaxed, stylish setting.
Harvester Cardiff Bay Penarth
8.0 km
A lively family-friendly British bar & grill in Penarth offering hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere near Cardiff Bay.
The Bush Inn
8.1 km
A charming Welsh country pub in Cowbridge offering hearty British fare, cosy atmosphere, and friendly service in a picturesque village setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gallery Boutique
5.2 km
Discover unique women’s fashion and personalized service at Gallery Boutique, a stylish gem on Barry’s High Street.
Curiosity Shop
5.4 km
Explore timeless antiques and hidden treasures at Curiosity Shop, Barry’s charming destination for vintage lovers and history seekers.
The Beach Hut/Barrybados Gift Shop
6.2 km
Discover authentic Welsh souvenirs and beach accessories at Barrybados, a charming gift shop capturing Barry Island’s seaside spirit.
Hyper Value
6.2 km
Explore Hyper Value in Barry for unique gifts and discounts that capture the charm of the local culture, perfect for every tourist's shopping spree.
The Beach Shop
6.3 km
Authentic Welsh gifts and seaside treasures on Barry Island's charming Western Shelter promenade.
Antoinette Antiques and Vintage Clothing
7.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s largest vintage hat collection and timeless antiques in a historic Pumping Station setting.
The SHO Gallery and Shop
8.0 km
A vibrant Cardiff hub offering art supplies, handmade gifts, and local creativity in a welcoming gallery and shop environment.
B&M Home Store
8.0 km
Discover incredible deals on home essentials and unique items at B&M Home Store in Cardiff Bay - your go-to discount shop!
Cardiff Bay Retail Park
8.1 km
Value-packed shopping hub amid Cardiff Bay's waterfront allure—superstores, groceries, and easy parking for practical pit stops.
Gifts At No. 9
8.8 km
Discover charming, beautifully curated gifts with personal service at Penarth’s beloved boutique on Windsor Road.
The Queen B Boutique
8.9 km
Elegant occasion wear and personalized service combine at The Queen B Boutique, Penarth’s charming fashion and gift destination.
Londis
9.2 km
Your friendly local convenience store in St Athan, offering fresh groceries and daily essentials with welcoming service and convenient hours.
Castle Quarter Arcades
9.2 km
Discover unique shops and delightful cafes at Castle Quarter Arcades, Cardiff's charming shopping destination, blending history with modern retail.
The Spotted Zebra Company
9.2 km
Charming gift shop in St Athan offering unique Welsh fashion accessories and local treasures that capture the essence of Welsh culture.
Great Welsh Gifts
9.3 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cherry Orchard
4.3 km
A modern, family-friendly pub in Barry offering great ales, tasty meals, and a welcoming atmosphere in a charming historic setting.
The Six Bells
5.4 km
Historic Welsh village pub with medieval roots, cozy fires, and locally sourced fare in the heart of Penmark.
Star Inn
5.8 km
Cosy village pub in Dinas Powys offering classic dishes, a friendly atmosphere, dog-friendly spaces, and seasonal celebrations year-round.
Bar Enzo
6.2 km
A cozy, friendly bar on Barry’s seafront offering Welsh lagers, cocktails, and a relaxed coastal vibe with inviting indoor and outdoor seating.
The Flying Club
6.4 km
A friendly, affordable bar in Rhoose offering unique planespotting views and a cozy atmosphere near Cardiff Airport.
The Highwayman Inn
6.5 km
Rustic British pub in Rhoose famed for hearty portions, classic dishes, and a warm, lively atmosphere.
Ocean Lounge
6.7 km
Charming coastal pub nestled in Porthkerry Caravan Park offering stunning sea views, local ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in South Wales.
The Sully Inn
6.8 km
A stylish gastropub in Sully offering locally sourced dishes and a warm, inviting atmosphere for dining and socializing.
The Bar
7.5 km
A stylish cocktail bar and restaurant in Cardiff’s Canton, offering craft drinks, live music, and a welcoming vibe for all occasions.
Fontygary Inn
7.8 km
A friendly traditional pub in Rhoose offering hearty meals, local ales, and a vibrant community atmosphere in the heart of the Vale of Glamorgan.
The Grange Pub
8.4 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Captains Wife
8.7 km
Rustic coastal pub in Penarth offering hearty British fare, cask ales, and a cozy seaside atmosphere.
Gin 64
8.7 km
Discover Penarth’s chic gin bar offering extensive selections, expert cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
The Bootlegger
9.2 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
9.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s vibrant craft beer scene and lively pub culture at Tiny Rebel, a hub for award-winning brews and eclectic events.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Coco Cubanas
5.2 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
5.2 km
Experience Barry’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Bar Cocoa, a lively nightclub where music and dancing keep the party going until the early morning.
Fuel Rock Club
9.2 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Clwb Ifor Bach
9.2 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
Popworld - Cardiff
9.3 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Walkabout - Cardiff
9.3 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience in Cardiff, offering vibrant nightlife, delicious food, and live sports in a lively atmosphere.
For Your Eyes Only
9.3 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Metros
9.4 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
Retro
9.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cardiff at Retro, where nostalgia meets fun in a lively bar and nightclub atmosphere.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
9.5 km
Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of The Live Lounge Cardiff, where live music, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife await.
The CUBE
9.6 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
9.6 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The Vaults
9.6 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.
Yates - Cardiff
9.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Yates in Cardiff, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a lively setting.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
9.7 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
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