best places to visit in cardiff at night

• City / Town

© Hawlfraint y Goron / Crown Copyright

Roxy Lanes, Cardiff, South Wales

Nightlife in Cardiff

Planning a night out in Cardiff? Dive into our guide featuring the city’s most unique nightlife activities, including axe throwing, rave bingo and an Owain Glyndŵr-themed escape room.

From cosy pubs and independent restaurants to bustling bars and secret speakeasies; Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife has plenty to offer those seeking a good night out. In recent years, exciting new venues have popped up across the capital – including American-style bowling alleys and rave bingo halls. To help you explore some of Cardiff’s newest nightlife additions, we’ve put together a handy guide.

Roxy Lanes on Queen Street is the perfect venue for a memorable night out with friends. Here you'll find shuffleboard, karaoke and 10-pin bowling, so plenty of activities to choose from – whether it’s a birthday night out or just a catch-up with your mates. And don’t worry, there’s plenty of food on offer to keep you going, including American-style pizzas and Bratwurst hot dogs. Book ahead to guarantee your place.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Roxy Lanes (@roxylanesuk)

Chance and Counters

If you prefer testing your competitiveness in a slightly more casual environment, you’ll enjoy Chance and Counters , located just a short walk from Cardiff Castle . Open seven days a week, this late-night board games café has over 650+ games for you to choose from, including classics like Dungeons & Dragons, Guess Who?, Draughts and Trivial Pursuit. They serve delicious burgers too (with vegetarian and vegan options available), so you can fuel up as you prepare to go into battle.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chance & Counters Cardiff (@chancecounterscardiff)

Escape Rooms

Put your skills to the test at Escape Rooms Cardiff , located on St Mary Street. Here, you’ll find out how well you do under pressure when tasked with the challenge of solving codes and clues against the clock. You can either pair up with a partner or invite six people to join you. There are seven games available for you to choose from, including one where you must help Owain Glyndŵr storm Cardiff Castle. Quite the night if you ask us. There’s no food available at the venue, but you can get 15% off at nearby pizza restaurant, Franco Manca .

Golf Fang takes crazy golf to a whole new level. Again, located on St Mary Street, this 18-hole course is less of a game and more an experience. The venue has teamed up with a group of graffiti artists to create a fully immersive and vibrant course, with different, colourful themes greeting you around every corner. With DJs, a selection of cocktails, and even a slide, Golf Fang is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a unique party atmosphere.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 📍Cardiff | Golf Fang (@golffangcardiff)

Flight Club Darts

Another recent addition to St Mary Street is Flight Club : the darts venue that offers three floors of bars and boards. If you’ve always fancied yourself as a bit of Gerwyn Price or Richie Burnett, here’s your chance to test out your skills. As well as the many dart boards dotted around the venue, there’s also a heated roof terrace – perfect for a good catch up with your mates. After you’ve beaten them all in a couple games, of course.

Better still, you don’t have to go far for your food either. Flight Club’s menu features sharing platters, pizzas and burgers – plenty of delicious dishes for you to enjoy.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝗙𝗟𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧 𝗖𝗟𝗨𝗕 𝗗𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗦 🎯 (@flightclubdarts)

Boom Battle Bar

Boom Battle Bar is another exciting place to visit and they have lot of activities to choose from. This bustling venue, situated on Caroline Street, offers electric darts, karaoke, axe throwing, pool, shuffleboard, and plenty more. Once you've finished battling your friends for the top spots, you can sit down and enjoy a variety of cocktails, soft drinks, and a delicious selection of street food.

Located on the outskirts of the city at St Catherine’s Park, just off Newport Road,  Lumberjack is a great place to release some tension if you’ve had a busy week. After a quick demonstration, you’re then tasked with perfecting the art of axe throwing. The goal: Get the axe to stick in the target. Sounds simple enough, doesn’t it? If you think you’re up for the challenge, grab your mates head over there to give it a go.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝐋𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐣𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐀𝐱𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠🪓 (@lumberjack_axe_throwing)

Bingo Lingo

Finally, we have Bingo Lingo . You might think you know what to expect here, but this isn’t your average bingo night out. At Bingo Lingo, alongside the usual call for a full house, expect to see stage performers, lots of dancing, and on-stage battles. It’s a popular event so if you plan on heading down to DEPOT – located on Curran Road, a short 10-15 minute walk from Cardiff Central Station – make sure you book ahead. Don’t worry about eating beforehand, there’s plenty of street food to choose from – all served up by local food traders.

Whether you want to laugh, sing, dance, or solve a mystery, if you’re looking for a fun and unique night out in Cardiff, you won’t be disappointed in this vibrant city. So why not book ahead and experience the best that Cardiff has to offer?

Related stories

Art galleries in wales .

Art galleries in Wales are packed with creative brilliance, both old and sparkling new.

Enjoy a short stay in Cardiff

Explore Cardiff, a lively city with a warm Welsh welcome. See why it's the perfect destination for a city break.

Luxurious summer retreats for two

Romantic Welsh hideaways - think relaxing spas, castle hotels and epic scenery.

Special ways of asking 'Will you marry me'?

Will you marry me? It’s the most important question you’ll ever ask. Here’s how to do it in style.

• St Dwynwen's Day

Before you start...

This site uses animations - they can be turned off.

Terms and Conditions

By using this site, you confirm you agree to our Terms and Conditions . 

We'd Like to Hear From You

By  answering a few questions , we'll give you the chance to win £500. By doing so you will also help us improve this website and help with your holiday planning and travel needs.

Good for you. Good for us. Teamwork!

10 Best Nightlife in Cardiff

Where to go at night in cardiff.

The nightlife in Cardiff is widely known as one of the UK’s liveliest, but while it can certainly get pretty raucous on the Welsh capital's streets after dark, there are more sophisticated pleasures to be had as well. From the upcoming maritime quarter of Cardiff Bay to the hipster neighbourhood of Pontcanna, there are loads of options in this major student hub to keep lovers of coffee shops and bars on their toes.

The city's hubbub certainly doesn't stop when night falls. Multicultural kitchens serve spicy Indian dishes between hearty rugby pubs down the same street. Music venues rock with local Welsh talent in another spot. There are homegrown Celtic brewhouses and even refined wine bars to boot. Our guide to the most popular places to go at night in Cardiff has the lowdown on the best of the bunch.

Westgate Street

Enjoy a welsh ale before the rugby.

Every rugby fan who's ever attended a showdown at the huge Principality Stadium should know of Westgate Street. It runs just along the eastern edge of the home of the Welsh game, offering a series of local pubs, bustling breweries, and rollicking bars.

As you might imagine, the energy is pumping on game days (especially when the English are in town). A sea of red fills the beer terraces and the interiors, where dark Celtic ales and cheery pub grub is the order of the hour. During the summertime, the green areas of Bute Park, just to the north, are also lively in the evening, scented with barbecues and hosting alfresco gatherings and food fests.

Location: Westgate Street, Cardiff CF10 1DG, UK

photo by https://www.flickr.com/photos/126337928@N05/39348149942 Jeremy Segrott ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Cardiff's edgy hipster district

Pontcanna is now considered one of the trendiest quarters of the Welsh capital. Wedged in by the River Taff and the Sophia Gardens cricket ground, it's a leafy and green residential neighbourhood. But it's been on the up for years, sprouting microbreweries, cafés and loads more.

At night, it's one of the best areas in Cardiff for gastronomy and more refined drinking bouts. You could start at Milkwood for some rustic Welsh cooking. Or, perhaps you'd prefer the French-Celtic fusion at Bullys Restaurant ? Either way, the homegrown Pipes Brewery and the quaint Brewhouse and Kitchen cottage pub take care of the afterhours.

photo by Moochocoogle ( CC BY-SA 3.0 ) modified

10 Best Parks in Cardiff

11 Best Things to Do in Cardiff

10 Best Markets in Cardiff

Cardiff bay, dine and drink by salty quaysides.

The locals refer to Cardiff Bay as, simply, The Bay. It's just where you'd expect it to be, spreading around the coast where the capital meets the salty waters of the Bristol Channel. Family-friendly draws like the curious Techniquest science exhibit have long been popular in these parts, but a regeneration throughout the noughties also brought some bumping nightlife.

The evening can start with jalapeno-filled tacos or soy-topped Japanese sushi in the multicultural array of eateries. Then, it's easy to skip onto The Glee Club for some late-night comedy, or scoot across to the Eli Jenkins for some Welsh ales in a heated garden.

Saint Mary Street

Bumping clubs where you can dance the night away.

Saint Mary Street is the buzzing epicentre of downtown Cardiff, cutting right through the heart of the city from Duke Street. By day, it's a shopping haven, with everything from boutiques to bakeries up its sleeve. By night, it converts into a hedonistic medley of Irish pubs and rocking alt clubs that can keep you going until the early hours.

Stand-out venues include Aussie-themed chain Walkabout, the vibrant Peppermint Bar, and the cocktail hub of Be At One. It's a good idea to arrive early on weekends because queues are the norm come Friday night.

Location: St Mary St, Cardiff CF10 1AB, UK

photo by Lucas Migliorelli ( CC BY 3.0 ) modified

Brewery Quarter

Drinking places aplenty in the heart of the city.

The Brewery Quarter does precisely what its name implies, and then some. Joined at the hip to the middle of sleepless St Mary Street, it hosts a hodgepodge of restaurants, bistros, and – of course – drinking holes.

You'll be able to kick-start the evening with refined Indian fusion food. Then, move onto a gastropub to sample frothy beers with Welsh names you can hardly pronounce. Finally, you'll catch cocktail bars that hum with chatter until well past midnight. On rugby days, expect the Brewery Quarter to be ram-packed – the Principality Stadium is just a stone's throw up the road, after all.

photo by Elliott Brown ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Womanby Street

Brewpubs, rock venues, and loads more.

Womanby Street flies the flag for Cardiff's more alternative nightlife venues. It's suitably tucked away in a maze of alleys behind High Street and Westgate Street, in a small enclave of its own. There, it welcomes partiers with bars and music dives of a quirkier disposition.

Tiny Rebel is the obvious place to begin. It's arguably the best-known name on the Welsh craft beer scene, with fruity, zingy IPAs and more all gushing from the taps at its location on Womanby. Up the road is live-music haven Clwb Ifor Bach. Next door is solo-twanging Fuel club, built for the metalheads. 

Location: Womanby Street, Cardiff CF10 1BR, UK

photo by Jeremy Segrott ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Where the students go for a late-night out

Cathays is synonymous with the campus of Cardiff University. A whole district that spreads northwards from the city centre, it's a sprawling mass of lecture halls and student accommodation. Of course, that youthful vibe means nightlife shouldn't be far behind.

Cue Senghennydd Road and its mix of affordable gastropubs, where meal deals can sometimes mean a burger and a pint for under a tenner. Alternatively, there's City Road for Cardiff football pubs and cheery takeaway eats. Of course, there's also always the student union, which sees big-name bands and DJs gracing its stage during term time.

photo by peter clayton ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Local pubs and tasty eats

Grangetown is part industrial, part residential, with just a sprinkling of casual evening and night-time establishments on its roster. The bulk of them sit to the north side of the district, near Saltmead and the winding River Taff. The good news is that makes them perfectly walkable from the town centre and the train station.

Highlights for gourmands will include Veggie Food Studio and Grange Pub, which both offer intriguing takes on British and Indian classics. Closer to town are excellent music and arts venues like the Tramshed, which has hosted all sorts – slam poetry readings, Radio 1 DJ shows, and alternative rock bands, just to name a few.

photo by Tiia Monto ( CC BY-SA 3.0 ) modified

Refined dining and cafés by the coast

Pretty Penarth sits over the River Ely and Cardiff Bay from the city proper, about 15 minutes' drive in normal traffic from the train station. It's hailed as one of the most upscale and chic parts of the Welsh capital, and that certainly shines through in the local nightlife offerings.

Sleek and boho drinking spots like Bar 44 offer curated wine lists along with Spanish tapas. The Mint and Mustard plates up Indian fusion dishes with an elegant edge. There are also sophisticated Welsh fish bars and snazzy cocktail lounges. All in all, it's a quieter scene than the centre of Cardiff that's excellent for the more discerning traveller. 

Indian flavours mingle with quirky bars

Canton caps off the west side of Cardiff. It's a big area, including the Cardiff City football stadium and large Victoria Park. However, when it comes to nightlife, you really need to focus in on Cowbridge Road, which cuts all the way through the middle of things.

It's known locally as a hotspot for Indian eating. Rajasthani cookhouses mingle with Bengali takeaways and creative spots like Chai Street – try the thali (plate) – to offer oodles in the way of spice. There's also a smattering of Chinese and East Asian dining, along with some good local pubs with spacious interiors and low prices.

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writings appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

Start planning your trip

Related stories.

Cardiff Travel Essentials

10 Best Local Restaurants in Cardiff

10 Things to Do in Cardiff on a Small Budget

10 Great Restaurants in Cardiff

9 Best Family Things to Do in Cardiff

Keep exploring.

• Eryri National Park
• North Wales
• United Kingdom
• Bedfordshire
• Bishop's Stortford
• Borehamwood
• Bournemouth
• Buckinghamshire
• Bury St Edmunds
• Cambridgeshire
• Channel Islands
• Cirencester
• East Midlands
• East Sussex
• English Riviera
• Gloucestershire
• Great Yarmouth
• Herefordshire
• Hertfordshire
• Isle of Man
• Isle of Skye
• Isle of Wight
• Lake District National Park
• Lincolnshire
• Milton Keynes
• New Forest National Park
• Newcastle-upon-Tyne
• North West England
• Northampton
• Northumberland
• Nottinghamshire
• Oxfordshire
• Peak District National Park
• Peterborough
• Royal Tunbridge Wells
• Scarborough
• Scottish Borders
• Scottish Islands
• South Coast
• Southampton
• Southend-on-Sea
• Staffordshire
• Stoke-on-Trent
• West Midlands
• West Sussex
• Northern Ireland
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific

Mexico and central america, middle east, north america, south america, top destinations, top countries & regions, support & faqs, website feedback.

• Review a property

For suppliers, affiliates and the media

• Affiliate with us
• Expedia Partner Solutions
• Promote with us
• Travel agents

User terms & Privacy

• Terms & Conditions (excluding Vrbo bookings)
• Vrbo Terms & Conditions
• Legal Information

Modern Slavery Act statement

List your property.

• Travel Guides
• Vacation Rentals

* Some hotels require you to cancel more than 24 hours before check-in. Details on site.

© 2024 Hotels.com is an Expedia Group company. All rights reserved.

Hotels.com and the Hotels.com logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Hotels.com, LP in the United States and/ or other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

* Learn more about Hotels.com® Rewards

THE 10 BEST Cardiff Nightlife Activities

Nightlife in cardiff.

• Bars & Clubs
• Dance Clubs & Discos
• Gay Clubs & Bars
• Comedy Clubs
• Bar, Club & Pub Tours
• Karaoke Bars
• Coffee Shops
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• City Centre
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Kids
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

2. The Dead Canary

3. Gassy's Cardiff

4. Be At One Cardiff

5. The Bootlegger

6. The Golden Cross

7. The Crwys

8. The Albany

9. Cardiff Distillery

10. Retro Cardiff

11. Peppermint Bar & Kitchen Cardiff

12. Walkabout Cardiff

13. Flight Club Cardiff

15. Mary's

16. The Libertine Cocktail Bar

17. The Romilly

18. Fuel Rock Club

19. The Glee Club Cardiff

20. Alcotraz Cardiff: Cell Block Nine-One

21. Church Inn Llanishen

22. Barocco Cardiff

23. Tonight Josephine Cardiff

24. Porter's

25. Ballie Ballerson Cardiff

26. The City Arms

27. Twisted Hen and Stag Parties

28. The Gwaelod y Garth Inn

29. Popworld

30. The Rummer Tavern

What travellers are saying

Best Places to Enjoy Cardiff’s Nightlife

Cardiff, the vibrant capital of Wales, offers an eclectic mix of nightlife activities that promise to cater to a wide array of tastes.

From the historic charm of its pubs to the modern allure of its dance clubs, this energetic city comes to life after sunset.

Whether you fancy a laid-back evening sipping craft beers or a night out dancing to the latest beats, Cardiff has you covered.

Pockets of nightlife excellence are scattered throughout the city, such as Pontcanna with its hipster vibe, or the city center where live music thrives.

Exploring Cardiff by night is an adventure.

Some locales whisk you away on ghost tours, letting you explore the city’s past in a uniquely eerie atmosphere, while others provide a playground for adults with activities like bowling and karaoke.

Cardiff’s clubs don’t just play music; they create experiences, with venues like Revolution offering ample space to dance and socialize in a stylish setting.

For those who love planning, Cardiff’s nightlife can easily accommodate, with many resources available to ensure a smoothly plotted evening out.

Key Takeaways

• Cardiff offers a rich selection of nightlife options, from pubs to clubs.
• The city’s nightlife includes special events and cultural venues for diverse experiences.
• Thoughtful planning can enhance your night out in Cardiff.

Iconic Clubs and Dance Venues

Cardiff’s nightlife is vibrant, offering a diverse range of clubs and dance venues to suit your party preferences.

Whether you’re into high-energy dance floors or live music events, you’ll find an iconic club that hits the right note.

Coyote Ugly

At Coyote Ugly , embrace your wild side on one of the city’s largest dance floors.

Known for its energetic vibe and unique bar experience, this spot regularly hosts events that will keep you on your toes all night long.

Tiger Tiger

Tiger Tiger beckons with its multiple themed rooms, each offering a distinct experience from chill-out spaces to electrifying dance zones.

Your night can be as varied as the music playlists, with a range of live events to enhance your visit.

Clwb Ifor Bach

For a taste of Cardiff’s local music scene, head to Clwb Ifor Bach .

This intimate venue is a staple for live music in Cardiff, boasting a reputation for showcasing up-and-coming talent as well as established acts across diverse genres.

Bars and Pubs Hub

Cardiff’s nightlife offers a variety of bars and pubs where you can enjoy everything from expert mixology to live music. Here are some must-visit spots.

Lab 22 is not just a bar, it’s a cocktail laboratory where the art of mixology is showcased.

As you step in, you’ll be immersed in an atmosphere where bartenders concoct innovative drinks, pushing the boundaries of traditional cocktails.

Be prepared for a unique experience as each drink tells a story on your palate.

The Live Lounge

For live music, The Live Lounge is your go-to destination.

This lively spot provides a stage for musical talents every night of the week, ensuring that your visit is filled with the vibrant sounds of various genres.

You can also enjoy a wide range of drinks at affordable prices, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the Cardiff music scene.

Lastly, DEPOT offers a retro vibe to your nightlife adventures. This venue is known for its eclectic events, ranging from street food markets to bingo nights.

DEPOT is more than just a pub—it’s a cultural space where you can enjoy drinks in a casual, friendly setting while being entertained throughout the evening.

Specialty Nights and Events

Cardiff’s nightlife offers some unique specialty nights and events that provide a refreshing twist to your typical evening out.

From the sing-along fun of karaoke to the lively atmosphere of themed bingo, these experiences are perfect for those looking to add a bit of variety to their night-time entertainment.

Bingo Lingo

Bingo Lingo takes the traditional game of bingo and turns it up a notch with music, challenges, and dance-offs.

While it’s not your grandmother’s bingo night, it still holds onto the thrill of the game, but with an energetic and comedic twist.

Expect a spirited crowd and be ready to engage in a modern take on bingo that’s full of surprises.

• Location : Various venues throughout Cardiff.
• What to Expect : A high-energy game night, infused with humorous twists.
• Top Tip : Bring your friends and embrace the playful atmosphere.

Karaoke at Blanca Bar

At Blanca Bar, unleash your inner pop star with a night of karaoke. Here, you can sing your heart out to your favorite tunes in a friendly and welcoming environment.

Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a first-timer, karaoke at Blanca Bar is a great way to enjoy Cardiff’s nightlife scene.

• Location : Blanca Bar, known for its cozy setting.
• What to Expect : A wide selection of songs and a supportive crowd.
• Top Tip : Choose a song you love and enjoy the moment, regardless of your singing ability.

Cardiff’s Cultural Venues

Your evenings in Cardiff are never dull, particularly if you’re exploring its cultural venues.

They’re the city’s hubs for live performances ranging from dazzling theater productions to soothing jazz and blues nights.

Wales Millennium Centre

At the heart of Cardiff’s cultural scene, Wales Millennium Centre stands as a beacon for the performing arts. Here, you can indulge in an array of live entertainment options.

• Live Music: Enjoy a diverse programme featuring everything from contemporary music to classic opera.
• Theatre: Experience world-class theatrical performances in a state-of-the-art setting.

Cardiff Bay

Cardiff Bay is more than just a picturesque waterfront; it’s a cultural playground. The area thrives with a vibrant atmosphere where music resonates through the air.

• Jazz and Blues: Find venues hosting live jazz and blues, offering a relaxing end to your day.
• Cardiff Bay Events: The bay often buzzes with outdoor concerts and cultural festivals that you won’t want to miss.

Nightlife Planning Made Easy

Crafting your evening escapade in Cardiff can be a breeze with a little help from technology and some local insights. To ensure your nights out are unforgettable, consider the following tips:

Trip Planner and Wanderlog

Utilize these apps for a comprehensive view of Cardiff’s nightlife scene.

They’re great for creating itineraries and can seamlessly integrate various venues onto a mapped-out plan, making it easy for you to navigate through the city’s hotspots.

Planning Apps

Download some of the popular nightlife planning apps.

They often provide user reviews and real-time updates on the atmosphere of bars, clubs, and events, allowing you to make informed decisions based on your preferences.

Organization

Keep track of your plans by using your smartphone’s built-in organizational tools. Set reminders for event start times or make notes of venue locations and happy hour timings.

Have your ID, cash, and a fully charged phone – essentials for a smooth experience.

Most importantly, venture out with an open mind and readiness for spontaneity; sometimes the best nights are the least planned!

Similar Posts

Cardiff’s Best Photography Locations for Shutterbugs

Cardiff, the vibrant capital of Wales, boasts a diverse range of picturesque locations that are perfect for photographers of all levels. From the historic grandeur of castles and arcades to the natural serenity of parks and waterfronts, Cardiff provides a rich tapestry of scenes waiting for you to capture. Whether you’re a local or planning…

Cardiff’s Most Romantic Things to Do for Couples

Cardiff holds a treasure trove of experiences that beckon couples seeking both the thrill of adventure and the solace of romance. As the capital of Wales, it’s a city where historic architecture provides a picturesque backdrop to modern attractions, offering a perfect setting for love to blossom. Whether you’re strolling through the lush greenery of…

Safe and Fun Solo Adventures in Cardiff

Cardiff, the capital of Wales, beckons solo travelers with its blend of historical landmarks, modern attractions, and a tranquil yet vibrant atmosphere. Embracing solo travel means taking safety as a priority, and Cardiff’s friendly environment offers a comforting backdrop for your adventures. You’ll find navigating the city to be straightforward, thanks to its comprehensive public…

Uncover Cardiff’s Hidden Treasures: Tips for Experienced Travelers

Cardiff, the capital city of Wales, brims with cultural richness and historical depth, offering a treasure trove of experiences that often evade the conventional travel itinerary. As an experienced traveler, you’re already familiar with the allure of exploring beyond the tourist trail to uncover a city’s authentic charm. In Cardiff, this means venturing into its…

Discover Art and Culture in Cardiff’s Museums and Galleries

Cardiff offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, anchored by its diverse range of museums and galleries. As you traverse this historic city, you’ll uncover stories woven through time, from ancient artefacts to contemporary art. Each cultural institution in Cardiff serves as a portal into different eras and ideas, showcasing everything from the natural history…

Guide to Cardiff’s Top Spots for Live Music Fans

Cardiff’s vibrant music scene is an essential experience for fans of live performances. The city bursts with a plethora of venues that cater to a wide range of musical tastes, from intimate gigs at cozy bars to stellar performances at larger, historical sites. Whether you’re a fan of indie, rock, jazz, or electronic music, there’s…

Where to go on a night out in Cardiff? 9 amazing places with the best nightlife

11th March 2020 by Mara Van Geffen

Home to some of the UK’s most eccentric clubs and bars, the Cardiff nightlife scene will leave you spoilt for choice when deciding on the best places to visit. Forget waking up to expensive taxi fares or sore, blistering feet, Cardiff’s centrally-located nightlife makes travelling from one bar to the next that little bit easier. Searching for a touch of class at a sophisticated cocktail lounge, or after a vibrant clubbing experience with a killer line-up? A night out in Cardiff has it all and is an outing you will not want to miss.

Read our list of the top recommended bars and clubs to visit in Cardiff for a fun-filled night you won’t forget…

1. Coyote Ugly

Prepare yourself for a fast-paced night in this electric, trendy bar. Open 7 days a week, Coyote Ugly is loved by both locals and students alike for its constant streaming of daytime sports contrasted with wild bar dancing at night. Thinking of attending a large group? Why not book in advance and guarantee yourself not just a table spot but also a fine selection of drinks for you and all your friends!

Mix a 1920s authentic speakeasy with a scientific experiment and Lab 22 is the outcome. With award-winning cocktails and a steady flow of merry customers, it comes as no surprise that this eccentric club has been named as one of the best bars in Cardiff. Fight the urge to try out all 14 signature cocktails on offer and expect nothing more than the most spectacularly presented cocktails imaginable!

3. Ten Mill Lane

If you’re a sucker for a 2-4-1 cocktail offer, how about experiencing them at Ten Mill Lane on a Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday? This fashionable bar and dance club makes the perfect night out in Cardiff with a unique blend of music from across all genres to suit everyone’s tastes.

Kick back your feet after a long night out at the Fitzhamon Apartments , which are just short of a 15-minute walk away from this lavish cocktail bar. Offering a selection of one and two bedrooms, these apartments are perfect for both long or short term stays in the popular Welsh capital.

4. Live Lounge

As its name suggests, the Live Lounge offers a vibrant bar setting with quality live music to enjoy. It is a popular venue enjoyed by young and old for its excellent prices and a wide selection of drinks available. Experience first-hand the up and coming artists from the local area with every genre of music catered for. Whether it’s a 9pm live act or 2am DJ set, be sure to get your dancing shoes out as long as the night goes on!

5. Clwb Ifor Bach

Explore the side streets of Cardiff’s city centre and you will find the Clwb Ifor Bach – an intimate music venue offering incredible live acts, shown on a weekly basis. Having hosted some of the biggest names in the music industry, such as Biffy Clyro and The Killers, this diverse venue is renowned for providing a fantastic night out in Cardiff and is a must-visit whilst on your city break to the Welsh capital.

Discover one of Cardiff’s hidden treasures and experience a unique night out in Cardiff unlike any other. Since being established in 2015, DEPOT has revolutionised the Cardiff nightlife scene with its alternative event arena. One of the most sought after events to attend here is the Bingo Lingo. Confetti-covered and filled with fun, this is a great event to take your friends along to and will be sure to keep you on your feet, if not dancing on the tables!

There’s no better feeling than coming home from a night out to a cosy serviced apartment and Century Wharf Apartments offer the perfect amenities for you to do just that. Situated close to the DEPOT venue and with a selection of studio, one and two bedrooms available to choose from, make sure you snap up a room here quickly with Citybase Apartments.

7. Peppermint

Transition into sophistication at Peppermint , one of Cardiff’s most highly rated food and drinks venue. Dine in the day with their exclusive food menu and complement your meal with a choice of your favourite alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages. The buzzing ambience and welcoming staff members will leave you wanting more and you are guaranteed to want to spend your whole evening here.

If nineties music and a fancy-dress themed nights get your heart racing, then Retro is the perfect place for you! Spread across three floors, this popular Cardiff nightclub is bursting with classic anthems and reasonably priced drinks. For something a little different, why not book you and your friends in for a cocktail making masterclass? For only £15 per person, this bargain package will leave you walking out the door a connoisseur in mixology.

9. The Dead Canary

No guide to a night out in Cardiff would be complete without recommending a visit to The Dead Canary . Tucked away and disguised as a fire escape door, this secret cocktail bar has a mysterious yet soothing ambience and is bound to leave you in awe. Booking in advance is crucial as this popular bar has limited space to ensure you get the best experience from your night.

Experience Cardiff’s nightlife on your next city break and find the perfect accommodation for you with Citybase Apartments. Location, price and quality: we have it all and will guide you through the entire booking process. Get started by reading about our top 5 recommended serviced apartments in central Cardiff . 

Mara Van Geffen

Leave a comment, related blogs.

6 Serviced Apartments That Will Make You Fall in Love With Newcastle

What to Do in Manchester in 48 Hours

Revealed: The Most Instagrammable Places in Dublin

Have You Been Pronouncing These 20 British Place Names Incorrectly? [Infographic]

• Explore Destinations
• Benefits of Serviced Apartments

We use cookies to enhance your online experience. By continuing to use this site, you agree to our Cookie Policy

THE 10 BEST Cardiff Nightlife Activities

Nightlife in cardiff.

• Bars & Clubs
• Dance Clubs & Discos
• Gay Clubs & Bars
• Comedy Clubs
• Bar, Club & Pub Tours
• Karaoke Bars
• Coffee Shops
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• City Centre
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Kids
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

2. The Dead Canary

3. Gassy's Cardiff

4. Be At One Cardiff

5. The Bootlegger

6. The Golden Cross

7. The Crwys

8. The Albany

9. Cardiff Distillery

10. Retro Cardiff

11. Peppermint Bar & Kitchen Cardiff

12. Walkabout Cardiff

13. Flight Club Cardiff

15. Mary's

16. The Libertine Cocktail Bar

17. The Romilly

18. Fuel Rock Club

19. The Glee Club Cardiff

20. Alcotraz Cardiff: Cell Block Nine-One

21. Church Inn Llanishen

22. Barocco Cardiff

23. Tonight Josephine Cardiff

24. Porter's

25. Ballie Ballerson Cardiff

26. The City Arms

27. Twisted Hen and Stag Parties

28. The Gwaelod y Garth Inn

29. Popworld

30. The Rummer Tavern

What travellers are saying

I am raw html block. Click edit button to change this html

Cardiff Nightlife • A Complete Guide

Welcome to Cardiff’s premier nightlife guide.

On this page, you’ll discover the vibrant and varied nightlife scene in Cardiff. You’ll find the perfect venue for you and your preferred night out. Whether you want to go all-out clubbing or if you’d like a more laid back dinner and drinks with a view, we’ve got your covered.

An Intro to Cardiff

Cardiff is the capital of Wales and its the largest city. The eleventh-largest city in the United Kingdom, it is Wales’s chief commercial center, the base for most national cultural institutions and Welsh media, and the seat of the National Assembly for Wales. At the 2011 census, the unitary authority area population was estimated to be 346,090 and the wider urban area 479,000. Cardiff is a significant tourist center and the most popular visitor destination in Wales with 21.3 million visitors in 2017. In 2011, Cardiff was ranked sixth in the world in National Geographic’s alternative tourist destinations.

The city hosted the 1958 British Empire and Commonwealth Games. The city was awarded the title of European City of Sport twice, due to its role in hosting major international sporting events: first in 2009 and again in 2014. The Principality Stadium hosted 11 football matches as part of the 2012 Summer Olympics, including the games’ opening event and the men’s bronze medal match.

The Cardiff City has several significant landmark buildings such as the Principality Stadium, Pierhead Building the Welsh National Museum and the Senedd, the home of the National Assembly for Wales. Cardiff City is also famous for Cardiff Castle, St David’s Hall, Llandaff Cathedral and the Wales Millennium Centre.

Cardiff Castle is a major tourist attraction in the city and is situated in the heart of the city center. The National History Museum at St Fagan’s in Cardiff is a large open-air museum housing dozens of buildings from throughout Welsh history that has been moved to the site in Cardiff. The Civic Centre in Cathays Park comprises a collection of Edwardian buildings such as the City Hall, National Museum and Gallery of Wales, Cardiff Crown Court, and buildings forming part of Cardiff University, together with more modern civic buildings. These buildings are laid out around the Queen Alexandra Gardens, a formal park which contains the Welsh National War Memorial and a number of other, smaller, memorials.

The Nightlife of Cardiff City

Likewise, the other neighboring cities, nightlife in Cardiff City has always been one of the city’s best features and with a complete host of new venues, there are hundreds of Cardiff nightclubs/bars/ restaurants to choose from to experience a wonderful, cheerful and joyous weekends. Spending time with your friends and loved ones in Cardiff City will definitely be an unforgettable event for a long time. Cardiff City also has a brilliant sense of being big on atmosphere but tight-knit in scale, so you don’t really need to go very far to find somewhere you like. To give you a starting point, here’s our pick of the best pubs and eateries in The Cardiff City for either a stag do or hen party, or if you are planning a night-out gathering with your friends and loved ones to cheer up your moments.

Salt Cardiff Bay

At SALT, having two bars over two floors, the soaring interior of Salt is really amazing. Floor to ceiling windows will provide the visitor stunning views of Cardiff Bay & driftwood furniture and cozy sofas, roaring fires in the winter months and plenty of outdoor terrace seating to enjoy when the sun pops out, make it by far the best bar in the bay! With live DJ’s every Friday & Saturday night and there are monthly live bands too, the SALT is a perfect place to party at the weekends!

Revolution is one of the largest nightclubs in Cardiff City, which is located opposite to the castle. Stylish and plush, there is a lot of space there to move around in with ample bars and dance floors. It does not go in for the themed approach so much, but it still manages to make a big impact on a night. It’s very proud of its hand-made cocktails and range of party music, but its popularity can result in a long queue on big and famous nights, so it might be worth calling in advance to find out about its queue jumping packages.

This is a very popular choice for both stag and hen weekends in Cardiff City and while it isn’t huge, it is got more than enough room for most groups. They proudly called them “the home of the 90s”, so you can surely expect the dance floor to be dedicated to all of the old school hits ranging from Britpop to the Spice Girls. The nostalgia-fuelled venue has a decent bar packs in a lot of fun and breweries. You can find it on Mill Lane, towards the back end of town, across the way from The Marriott Hotel.

The visitors will be having one of Cardiff’s most unique party experiences with its showbar setup. It specializes in hen parties and stag dos as well, putting on drag queen and cabaret acts to entertain the audiences. There is even a Girls-night-out night dedicated to hen dos specifically. It’s tucked away behind St David’s shopping center, so it can take a little hunting down. Head down Hill Street and you’ll find it opposite Debenhams.

Revolucion de Cuba

While going through the joyful nightlife in The Cardiff City, if you are looking for something with a lot of Latin spirit and brilliantly outlandish cocktails then Cardiff City’s Revolucion de Cuba is well worth putting on the list. It may not appear to be all that well set up for parties and gathering during the routine daily life, but in the night it opens out into a Samba Club with live Latin music and maracas for everyone. It’s a good-sized venue with an ample arrangement of necessities and quick bar service, and it’s located on The Friary, just opposite The Hilton Hotel, one of the more cosmopolitan of Cardiff nightclubs.

Best Bar Restaurants in Cardiff City

While checking the recommendations provided in the aforementioned paragraphs, when you go out fulfilling your cocktailing needs in The Cardiff City, chances are there, at some point you are going to crave for deliciously and exotic food as well. With Cardiff City bar scenes continuing to grow and innovate, it’s no wonder that a restaurant bar would be a great idea to kill the craving need. Cardiff City has some of the best restaurants that serve delicious food along with great cocktails and drinks that blend perfectly with the best food to provide a great combination. For a City that likes to drink a lot, it’s no surprise that they’re quickly becoming drinking spots in their own sense. The best thing to do is to choose a bar that also serves delicious food. That way your need for booze and craving for the food will be catered under one roof. Therefore, to fulfill your extreme craving for delightful food and awesome booze, we have jotted-out with a list of Cardiff City’s best bar restaurants and definitely, they are good enough to stimulate your taste buds to take you to the cloud noun :

Pieminister

Proper British food at its best, The Pieminister serves up award-winning pies with a whole load of sides and indulgent desserts. You certainly won’t leave hungry here. Located in the heart of the city on St. Mary Street near the Principality Stadium, Pieminister is the place to go for award-winning pies in Cardiff. Be sure to book in for their iconic Sunday Best: pies and roasts, united as one almighty mega-feast. Or check out Pieminister’s Bottomless Brunch starting in Spring. The ultimate treat of limitless prosecco, mimosas, Bloody Marys or Aperol Spritz accompanied by the best brunch pies. Weekend perfection.

The Park House Restaurant & Wine Bar

Park House Restaurant is housed in one of the Whales most stunning houses, a grade one listed Gothic style mansion house. Park House is an award-winning French-influenced restaurant and wine bar that was established in 2005. The wealthy Marquess of Bute built the property in 1874, he also commissioned the first of the great docks, which transformed the Cardiff from a sleepy town into a modern, prosperous city. The Park House Restaurant & Wine Bar offers a unique, selective fine dining experience. Customers can enjoy Michelin Star quality food, incredible service & over 100 available wines in a Grade 1 listed building.

Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill

Take a trip up to the Marco Pierre White Steakhouse rooftop restaurant and bar, and you’ll experience a classic British menu with some truly delectable steaks, perfectly paired with tantalizing cocktails. Their team pride themselves on delivering a memorable experience, with great food and an unforgettable ambiance. Visit one of their 2 terrace areas for a welcome breath of fresh air as you hear the sounds of live music beating from the heart of the bar. You can expect live music every week, indeed, it will be a perfect way to make the most of your dining and drinking experience along with your loved ones. Their exclusive private dining room is set to be the perfect place for an intimate celebration in the city of Cardiff.

Pitch Bar & Eatery

Pitch Bar & Eatery is a fun and friendly spot to savor the flavor of Wales serving all things Welsh from the cocktail card to the standard food menu. Open from breakfast till cocktails daily, every dish served at the restaurant is lovingly handmade and is being produced from their home on Mill Lane. If you would like to book a table at Pitch for up to 8 people, you need to have a prior booking over the phone call and they will surely send you their confirmation on the same.

The Grazing Shed

At “The Grazing Shed”, they are passionate about making quality burgers, so much so that they have developed their very own unique and delicious range of Super Tidy Burgers. Super Tidy Burgers are a specialty at The Grazing Shed, using only the finest quality locally sourced ingredients with an extensive range of beef, chicken, veggie and vegan options.

Bella Italia

Whether it’s a romantic meal for two, a family gathering or great conversation with friends – Bella is the place to be, with guaranteed fantastic food, welcoming service and having warm Italian hospitality. Their Old Brewery Quarter Bella Italia restaurant is situated in the center of the City, a stone’s throw from the Principality Stadium. Bella is open on weekends for breakfast from 9 am and for lunch and dinner every day, serving their A’La Carte menu from 1130am, plus a lunch menu every weekday until 5 pm. They also have a fantastic children’s menu in two portion sizes, to suit smaller and larger appetites as required.

The Nightclubs of Cardiff City

Nightlife in Cardiff has always been one of the city’s best features and with a whole host of new venues, there are plenty of Cardiff nightclubs to choose from for a stag or hen weekend. As stated earlier, Cardiff City has a brilliant sense of being big on atmosphere but tight-knit in scale, so you don’t really need to go very far to find somewhere you like. To give you a starting point, here’s our pick of the best nightclubs in Cardiff for either a stag do or hen party.

The Glam Nightclub

Glam is an absolute opulent clubbing destination found on Cardiff’s Greyfriars Road. The nightclub fuses bold light displays with Funktion One sound quality and premium spirit mixes. Get some pals together and set up camp on their main dance floor. Specific playlists depending on the night you are visiting, but you can usually expect a mix of RnB, hip hop, house, and electro tunes to provide the soundtrack to the night at it’s best. Upstairs is the Lounge Area; a plush affair equipped with VIP booths and its own dancing space as well, while the separate VIP Lounge offers a chance to party with added exclusivity.

The Tiger Tiger

This heaven of tropical paradises, plush lounges, delicious grills, and funky retro escapes takes you on a journey across land and time, finding you the very best in banging beats as you soak up a vibrant atmosphere and some incredible decor. Get intimate in a cozy, red velvet booth over candlelight in the Jewel Bar, get your freak on the baby in the retro multi-colored lights of Decadia, or get down low in The Club, and you still haven’t traversed the whole venue. You don’t have to wait until the weekend, let loose whenever it takes your fancy and work off the weekday stresses in a venue that will take you away down all kinds of rabbit holes.

Clwb Ifor Bach

It is a hub for live music in Cardiff, this Womanby Street nightclub venue has been a vital part of the city’s alternative music scene since the 80s. Spread over three floors, this award-winning event space is the perfect place to swoon before your all-time favorite singers, to mosh out in the crowds or to get jiggy on a club night with your messiest of mates. Head downstairs for Dirty Pop and get sweaty on the dance floor, stay on the ground floor with Mr. Potter for some jump jive, soul, funk, and blues, or head upstairs for Vinyl Vendettas, bringing you the best in indie, classics, and rock’n’roll. Whether you’re gigging or just out for a good old boogie, this place has it all covered.

Mocka Lounge

It is a pumped up party joint on the thriving heart of Mill Lane in Cardiff, Mocka Lounge is a must-try for lush lunches, VIP boozing in the evening, affordable cocktails and more in nightlife. A menagerie of spaces, guests can wander through the contemporary, bare brick laced innards of Mocka between cool dining tables, uplit VIP booth areas, lush seating areas, and sophisticated spaces. A rocking weekend haunt that plays a pumped up selection of commercial hits, Mocka is at the thriving heart of Cardiff’s late-night party scene thanks to its regular DJs and bustling dancefloors that have produced Mocka as the best nightclub in Cardiff.

To conclude the whole article, it can be said that Cardiff City is an absolute house of bars, restaurants and loads of memorable things that one could ever think of. To overcome your boozing needs, the city, no doubt, has some of the finest breweries where you can enjoy your drink with the mesmerizing architectural beauty of the hand-crafted bars and their decors throughout the city’s coastal line. Moreover, to really bump up the entertainment game, Cardiff City has covered you with plenty of the festivals and events that one can attend throughout the year. To present you a factual sense of what nightlife is really mean in Cardiff City we also went through a comprehensive jotting of Bars and Restaurants and nightclubs that further refines your experience at the Cardiff City. All of the aforementioned experiences will work together to make your trip more memorable. A perfect and balanced blend of the above-identified activities can really boost your experience and make your trip unbelievably unforgettable for you.

Video To Watch To Discover

Can I wear trainers on a night out in Cardiff?

DRESSCODE: As it’s a student night, smart casual is the dress criterion, meaning turning up in sports trainers, hoods or baseball caps could get you refused entry.

Can you wear trainers in clubs in Cardiff?

The wearing of dirty or wet clothing, beachwear, T-shirts, athletic wear, trainers, hats or caps is not permitted . Tailored shorts and smart denim jeans are allowed in the clubhouse. Clean golf shoes are allowed in the bar and main corridors but not in the function room or lounge.

Keep exploring!

Best Nightclubs in Cardiff

Latin Clubs In Cardiff

EDM Dance Clubs in Cardiff

Salsa Clubs In Cardiff

House Clubs In Cardiff

Techno Clubs In Cardiff

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » United Kingdom » Wales » Cardiff

10 BEST Places to Visit in Cardiff (2024)

The capital of Wales is an exciting place for a tourist as there’s no end of things to do. You might even be surprised to know that this area has the highest concentration of castles in the United Kingdom. Yes, even more than Scotland! So, it’s not surprising to know that Cardiff is absolutely dripping in history. It’s not only history though, there is also great shopping, a number of cool cultural sites (that aren’t castles), and plenty of places to chill out and relax.

In this post, we’ll take a look at the best places to visit in Cardiff. Hopefully, you’ll find the list helpful as you plan your trip to the Welsh capital. Perhaps you’ll even feel like a local! First though, let’s check out the best places to stay in Cardiff.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Cardiff:

These are the best places to visit in cardiff, faq on the best places to visit in cardiff.

City Centre

Cardiff City Centre is a reasonably sized area just south of Cardiff University and Cooper’s Field. There are some small and narrow lanes to meander through, as well as wide-spaced avenues with all sorts of shopping and street performers to be found.

• Visit the Museum of Cardiff, interactive and fun!
• Head to Clwb Ifor Bach, the three-story nightclub, for after-hours amusement!
• Catch a show at the (not so) New Theatre, from Victorian times.

These are just a few of the best places to visit in Cardiff, but they’re our absolute favorites. If you have a tight time schedule and want to see as much as possible of Cardiff, get we’d recommend getting a hop-on-hop-off bus ticket , so you can get to see all of the important sights within a short amount of time.

However, if you have the time to explore by yourself, this is where we’d start…

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

#1 – Cardiff Castle – One of Cardiff’s coolest historical sites!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

• One of the most popular attractions in the whole of Wales
• Don’t miss the opulent Arab room
• See the history of those who lived and worked here in the state apartments

Why it’s awesome: Let’s kick off with not only one of the most popular attractions in Cardiff but the whole of Wales! In a city that has the highest concentration of castles anywhere in the UK, this one is the undisputed daddy of them all. It’s built on top of a Roman fortification which dates back 2,000 years, but the oldest sections of the best-preserved castle in town don’t go back quite that far. However, they’re still pretty impressive as they do go back to the 10th century! It’s also awesome because it’s located in Atlantic Wharf, one of our favourite places to stay in Cardiff .

What to do there: As this is one of the most popular places to visit in the country, it may be worth getting tickets to skip the line so that you don’t spend half your day waiting in a queue! Once you get in, take in the fascinating displays in the State Apartments. Not only will they give you more info on the castle itself, but those who used to live and work here. Another highlight is the Arab Room! Inspired by the Moorish architecture of Spain and North Africa, this was added in the 1880s and is one of the glitziest rooms in the castle! On your way out, see the Victorian menagerie of the animal wall. If you get all this in, you’ve done justice to one of the most recognisable landmarks in Cardiff!

#2 – Wales Millennium Centre – A great place to visit in Cardiff at night

• A Cardiff must-see if you’re interested in arts and culture
• One of the top-performing arts centres in the world
• Check out the events calendar and treat yourself to a performance

Why it’s awesome: Cardiff has a legendary nightlife, but it’s not all about pubs, bars, and clubs. The Wales Millennium Centre is one of the top-performing arts centres in the world and should be on every culture vulture’s Cardiff Itinerary. It’s more than just a performing arts centre though. It’s set across five acres of grounds which make for a lovely place to walk around during the day too. If you’re visiting Cardiff, you really can’t miss this place off your list of things to do!

What to do there: First of all, we’d recommend taking in a performance here. No matter what you’re into, there’ll probably be something for you! Opera, ballet, contemporary dance, and literary events are all on the menu. If your budget doesn’t quite stretch to that, or you’re only in Cardiff for the day, it’s still worth a visit. As well as taking a walk in the expansive grounds, check out the activities on offer. There are guided tours, which will show you more of the incredible building and its architecture. If that’s not for you, sign up for one of the workshops or educational talks that happen regularly!

#3 – National Museum Cardiff – A fascinating educational place to visit in Cardiff

• Step back in time… all the way back to when dinosaurs roamed the Earth!
• Learn all about the history of Wales
• Check out the art gallery to see some original masterpieces

Why it’s awesome: If you have any interest in the history of Wales, then the National Museum is a Cardiff must see! You’ll find it right in the city centre, inside the beautifully constructed Civic Centre building. The National Museum has a huge variety of things to see across both permanent and temporary exhibitions. In the past, it has hosted Tim Peake’s spacecraft, artwork by the famous Grayson Perry, and in October 2019 it will be the temporary home of Dippy the Diplodocus – a huge dinosaur skeleton!

What to do there: Learn as much as you can about the city (and country’s) history. Explore Cardiff’s past all the way to pre-historic times! There’s lots here relating to archaeology over the years, and you’ll even be able to visit a display on Bronze age weaponry. Don’t worry though, no-one will be able to get their hands on it! The art gallery in this museum is another Cardiff must-see. The collection is pretty spectacular, and includes sculptures from Rodin, as well as paintings from the great impressionists such as Picasso and Monet! It’s a journey through more than 500 years of exquisite art!

#4 – Cardiff Bay – An awesome place to visit in Cardiff for half a day

• One of the most successful redevelopment projects in the whole of Europe
• Plenty of things to do – especially if you’re travelling with kids
• Spot wildlife in a wetlands preserve

Why it’s awesome: Cardiff Bay covers over 2,700 acres, and the former dockyard is one of the most successful redevelopment projects on the continent. It’s where you’ll find the Wales Millennium Centre, but there’s a whole lot more to the area than that! Numerous parks are in this area, with lots of walking paths and trails going through it. There’s even a wetlands centre too where you’ll be able to spot local wildlife. Cardiff Bay is probably the best spot in town if you’re travelling with kids though – as there’s a lot to see with them!

What to do there: There are a couple of Cardiff must-sees in this area if you’re with the family. Readers of all ages love the works of Roald Dahl, and the Norwegian writer spent much of his upbringing in Cardiff. Why not head to Roald Dahl’s Plass (that’s square in English) or to the historic Norwegian Church? For those who are more science-minded, Techniquest is a good place to stop off. It’s chock full of interactive exhibits that will keep the kids entertained for hours! When you’ve tired yourself out exploring the bay, take your pick from the best places to eat in Cardiff – many of them are in the Bay!

#5 – Castell Coch

• A fairytale Castle, also known as the Red Castle.
• Spot the carvings of fairytale creatures
• An opulent masterpiece from the High Victorian Area

Why it’s awesome: No, we haven’t spelt the name wrong in the title! It’s Welsh! Castell Coch is much newer than Cardiff Castle, in fact it only dates back 200 years. Castell Coch is an example of what happens when a very rich man and an extremely talented architect collaborate. You’ll spot the conical towers rising up above the Fforest Fawr, but that won’t be preparation for the sheer amazingness of the interior! Castell Coch is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Cardiff, and you’ll definitely not regret a visit here!

What to do there: Often voted by the Welsh public as the most popular building in the country, it might become your favourite spot too. Although the castle itself was only constructed in the 19th century, it’s possible for you to trace the original 13th century castle that it was built on top of as you explore. Also, look out for carvings of fairy tale creatures and religious iconography that adorn the chambers. It’s one of the best Cardiff vacation ideas as it’ll show you a traditional Welsh settlement too. The castle is in a little town called Tongwynlais.

#6 – Bute Park – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Cardiff

• Follow the Bute Park Sculpture Trail
• Ideal to combine a visit here with Cardiff Castle
• One of the best places in Cardiff to relax and disconnect

Why it’s awesome: If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city without actually leaving it… then this might just be the perfect place for you! One of the biggest and best-loved green spaces in Cardiff, Bute Park wasn’t always there for the public to enjoy. In fact, it used to belong to Cardiff Castle and wasn’t open to the public until the Marquess of Bute gifted it to the city in 1948. Nowadays, it’s a favourite spot of locals and tourists alike to spend a few hours relaxing in the sunshine.

What to do there: Bute Park is a great place to relax and disconnect from busy city life. However, if that sounds a little too slow-paced for you, there’s an alternative. Throughout the 130 acres of the park, you’ll find the Bute Park Sculpture Trail. Unusual beetles, frogs, and benches are placed throughout the park, making for a fun treasure hunt. If you need a hand finding them, there’s an interactive map on the park’s website! Alternatively, you could also let a guide take you around the park . However, if you’d just like to sit with a picnic or a book, who could blame you? It’s lovely here, and a must for your Cardiff itinerary!

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

#7 – Cardiff International White Water – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Cardiff

• Man-made white-water rafting courses originally for the 2012 Olympics
• Kayak, Canoe, and raft here
• Take lessons at the Paddle School if you’re a complete beginner!

Why it’s awesome: Yet another cool attraction in Cardiff Bay? Surely not! Originally built for the 2012 Olympics, Cardiff International White Water is one of the coolest attractions in Cardiff, and a great alternative activity if you’ve maxed out on castles, museums, and galleries! It’s open to any level, so if you’re a serious river rafter looking for a thrill, or just a beginner hoping to take your first paddles in a kayak, everyone is welcome. Who’d have thought you could travel to Cardiff and do activities that are usually right out in national parks?!

What to do there: If you’re looking for a huge variety of things to do in the same spot, this is the place for you. The 250 meter course can be adjusted to meet your needs. So, if you want to go on a relaxing family rafting trip with your nearest and dearest, that can be arranged. Likewise, if you want to go bombing down an aggressive Canadian river, that can be set up too! If you don’t want to get in a boat, there are a load of other water sports activities here. Check out paddle boarding, canyoning, and even surfing!

#8 – The Taff Trail – A nice quiet place to see in Cardiff

• A great way to explore Cardiff by bicycle
• A 55 mile walking and cycling trail all the way north to Brecon!
• Follow along the pretty banks of the River Taff

Why it’s awesome: The River Taff runs from the centre of Wales all the way to Cardiff. There are some really noteworthy points on its banks and taking the Taff Trail is the perfect way to see them. The trail starts (or ends, depending on which way you do it) at Cardiff Bay. It’ll take you through Fforest Fawr too, where you can take some time away from the trail to explore the forest. It’s also where you’ll find one of the other best places to visit in Cardiff from our list: Castell Coch!

What to do there: Whether you want to walk, cycle or even horse ride on the Taff Trail, all those options are a possibility. Thanks to the increasing amount of bike rental services in Cardiff, that’s one of the most popular ways to tackle the trail. It’s good whether you’re looking for a relaxed Sunday afternoon cycle ride, or you really want to push yourself! If the second one sounds like you, try cycling the 27ish miles to Merthyr Tydfil in under 3 hours. Although, why would you want to do it so quickly when there’s so much to stop for?!

#9 – The Principality Stadium

• Hosts some of the biggest sporting events in Wales
• A great music venue
• Also known as the Millennium Stadium

Why it’s awesome: The Welsh really love their sports, especially when it comes to rugby. So, get yourself immersed in Welsh culture with a visit to the Principality Stadium, one of the most raucous landmarks in Cardiff… especially on a match day! The stadium was built for the new Millennium. It’s quite modern, and you can tell that from the state-of-the-art facilities and architecture. Did you know that when the New Wembley was under construction in London, this was where English FA Cup finals took place?

What to do there: Nothing is quite like experiencing the atmosphere of the Principality Stadium when you’re visiting Cardiff. If you can’t make it for rugby, at least try to take in a football match! Or perhaps even try and see one of your favourite artists – it hosts music gigs too! If all of those don’t match your budget, or more likely it sells out quick, you can always take a tour of the stadium. They’re well organised and you’ll even get to see the national rugby team’s changing rooms! A Cardiff must-do! Speaking of budget, Cardiff has some great hostels to stay in , if you need to make the most of your money elsewhere (like at the stadium).

Looking for a place to stay near Principality Stadium? Check out these awesome bed and breakfasts in Cardiff, a few of which are right in the center of all the action!

#10 – The City of Arcades – A great place in Cardiff if you love to shop

• Beautiful Victorian arcades all over the city centre
• A shopper’s paradise
• Some of the best places to eat in Cardiff hidden away in these

Why it’s awesome: If you search for the City of Arcades in Google Maps, you won’t find anything. But we had to find a way to do justice to the incredible Victorian arcades that you’ll find when you travel to Cardiff. Forget about modern shopping centres, and instead pay a visit to either Morgan Arcade, Castle Arcade, or Royal Arcade to pick up your Cardiff souvenirs!

What to do there: Shop till you drop! Cardiff’s arcades are full to the brim of cool independent shops. If you’re a music lover, don’t miss going to Spillers off your Cardiff itinerary. It’s the oldest record shop in the world, which you’ll find in the Morgan Arcade. After all that shopping, check out the delis in Royal Arcade, which are some of the best places to eat in Cardiff. Or just chill out and people watch with a coffee. The arcades are one of the best places in Cardiff for shopping, eating, and relaxing!

Get insured for your trip to Cardiff!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Cardiff

What is the most visited place in Cardiff?

Cardiff Castle is the most visited attraction in Cardiff.

Is Cardiff worth visiting?

If you’re planning a trip to Wales, then stopping off in Cardiff for one or two days is worth it. But you don’t need more time than this.

What is Cardiff famous for?

Cardiff is most famous for being a large producer and exporter of coal.

Is Cardiff an expensive place to visit?

Cardiff is a much more affordable city than London, but compared to other major cities in Europe, it is still quite expensive.

Final Thoughts

So, that concludes our list of the best places to stay in Cardiff. We hope that you’ve found our extensive list useful and informative and you have a better idea of how to plan your trip! You’ll also have a good idea of where to stay in Cardiff, thanks to our quick list of the best places to stay.

In addition to the castles, hopefully, you’ll see it’s a cool place to enjoy museums, galleries, parks, and perhaps even take in some nightlife after dark. You certainly won’t be bored here with all the places to put on your Cardiff itinerary. It really is a great place for a city break!

Hopefully, you’ll not only have a better idea of the best places to visit in Cardiff but how to see the city like a local. You might even get to practice some Welsh! We hope you have an incredible trip.

Heading to Swansea after your time in Cardiff? Check out the hostels in Swansea for some great budget accommodation in the second city of Wales.

Sophie Steinebach

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

What are you looking for?

PUBS & BARS IN CARDIFF

Great nightlife & places to drink.

Find bars and pubs in Cardiff, explore the best nightlife in the city centre and Cardiff Bay. From cocktails to craft ales, Cardiff’s neighbourhoods also have some really cool places to drink, so start planning your night out…

Looking for that perfect Welsh pint? Find our local craft taphouses.

THE PONTCANNA INN

The Pontcanna Inn on Cathedral Road. Open for breakfast, brunch and dinner 7 days a week

LAS IGUANAS

Las Iguanas restaurants are home to fresh and authentic Brazilian, Mexican and Latin American food and cocktails. 2FOR1 cocktails all day everyday!

THE LIVE LOUNGE

REVOLUCION DE CUBA

BOOM BATTLE BAR

COYOTE UGLY

NEWSLETTER SIGN UP

Sign up to the Visit Cardiff E-Newsletter today for exciting Cardiff news, special offers, the latest content and more from VisitCardiff.com

STAY IN TOUCH

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to do
• Restaurants
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Your ultimate guide to Cardiff

Restaurants and bars, museums and galleries, clubs and music, shops and more from across cardiff.

The essential guide to Cardiff

The best of cardiff.

The 20 best things to do in Cardiff

Cardiff is a lively city, especially on big sporting days when it can feel as though the entire Welsh...

The 13 best restaurants in Cardiff

Cardiff might just be the best-kept foodie secret in the UK. The Welsh capital gets overlooked in favour...

The 10 best Airbnbs in Cardiff

If you're craving history, culture and somewhere to splash your cash, Cardiff should be on...

The 12 best museums to visit in Cardiff

Cardiff may be a relatively young capital in international terms (it became the capital of Wales in...

Time Out listings

A perfect day in Cardiff

Friendly and full of life, Cardiff is unlike anywhere else in the UK. Close to the coast, near...

Other places you might like

Abergavenny

Castle Combe

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide
• Time Out London

• Bournemouth
• My Bookings
• My Email Preferences
• Edit this page
• Access admin
• Back to search

Fun Things To Do In Cardiff

It's no secret that the Welsh capital is a bustling hub of activity most of the time - from historic castles to quirky cocktail bars, its got a little something for every area of interest. With that in mind, we've put together our own DesignMyNight-approved list of the best things to do in Cardiff, so whether you're a local looking to branch out with your eating and drinking destinations, or a tourist hoping to uncover some of the city's hidden gems, we've got you covered.

Last edited by Izzah Kazi

Last updated on 19th April 2024

Alcotraz Cardiff: Cell Block Nine-One

@ Alcotraz Penitentiary: Cardiff on Various dates from Wednesday 15th May 2024

For a fun night, head to the immersive theatrical Alcotraz: Cell Block Nine-One, a secret speakeasy. Smuggle liquor in orange jumpsuits past the warden to the longest-serving inmates. They'll make you and your friends bespoke cocktails, however, there's no menu because it's, well, prison.

• Food & Drink ⋅ Something A Little Different ⋅ Themed Nights
• Tickets from £36.50 - £58.50

Try Our Easy-To-Use Table Search Engine

Whether you're looking for activity bars, restaurants with entertainment or anything else, have a gander at our exciting, brand-new table search engine which lists 1000s of UK venues. And when you book through DesignMyNight, you'll also be able to earn rewards points to spend on stellar experiences.

Check Out These Themed Parties

Coming complete with bottomless booze, Tonight Josephine's themed brunches are bring you all kinds of fun. From Harry Styles to Mamma Mia and Beyonce, there's a bash for everyone across the pretty in pink space here.

Boom Battle Bar Cardiff

Seeking fun activities in Cardiff? Venture to Boom Battle Bar in The Old Brewery Quarter. Step inside this top-notch bar, where you'll get to dig into delicious American-inspired eats, all before playing 'crazier' golf, darts, axe throwing and much more.

• City Centre
• Event Space ⋅ Nightclub ⋅ Party Bar

Paint A Masterpiece

On the hunt for indoor activities for adults in Cardiff? Get a load of Paint a Pic. Setting up shop at Paradise Gardens, they're helping you unleash your creative side with assistance from a resident artist. And, while you put brush to canvas, enjoy a few drinks from the bar.

Discover Cardiff Bay By Night

Spend a day or a romantic evening discovering Cardiff's waterside haunts. Home to a charming selection of pubs, bars and restaurants, the views of Cardiff Bay bring a little extra magic to any occasion, making it the perfect spot for an end-of-holiday dinner, or an enchanting date night.

NQ64 Cardiff

Looking for quirky activities in Cardiff city centre? Make sure to give NQ64 a visit. This neon cavern of retro arcade and console games is sure to give you a hefty dose of kidulting fun, plus there's a fantastic menu of themed cocktails and brunch events to wet your whistle.

Head To Drag Brunch

If you're after a wild time, Bougie Drag & Boy Toy Events have got you covered. Not only will there be killer, themed performances covering queens from Britney to Gaga, but also 90 minutes of bottomless booze to accompany your food.

Bougie Drag Bottomless Brunch Cardiff

@ Walkabout Cardiff on Saturday 1st June 2024 and 6 other Saturdays

Splits and fries are on the menu at Bougie Drag Bottomless Brunch, taking place on Saturdays at Walkabout. Bag your spot from £16 each for just the show and enjoy an array of performances from some of the best queens in the country, as they high-kick their way across the stage. £44.95 tickets include 90 minutes of unlimited bubbles alongside a dish of your choice, plus four hours of hilarious entertainment.

• Fun Time Partying ⋅ Hen Party ⋅ Bottomless Brunch
• Tickets from £16.00 - £44.95

Take In The Skyline From A Rooftop Bar

To our mind, there's no better way to see the sights of a city than with a stiff in drink in hand and these phenomenal Cardiff rooftop bars are offering you just that, from city centre cocktail spots fronting gorgeous garden terraces, to secret bars with even secret-er outdoor areas.

• DesignMyNight Review Writer Finding Banner 2023

Get Competitive With Play At Pins

Play at Pins Cardiff is perfect whether you're after a cool destination for group outings, or something a little different for a date. Not only is there karaoke and an escape room, but also plenty of bar games ranging from shuffleboard to pool, bowling and a retro arcade.

• Cocktail Bar ⋅ Party Bar ⋅ Event Space

Treat Yourself To Smoking Concoctions

You can always rely on The Alchemist on St Mary's Street for a little added magic. Explore the dark arts of molecular mixology at this crackin' venue, all before enjoying bottomless brunches and tasty meals. Wanna learn from the best? Sign up for a cocktail masterclass.

• Cocktail Bar ⋅ Restaurant Bar ⋅ Restaurant

Ballie Ballerson Cardiff

One of the only ball pit bars in the world, Ballie Ballerson offers a crazy mix of quirky cocktails, crazy shenanigans, and a massive neon ball pit playground for adults. Whether you're stopping by for some after-work drinks or booking a birthday bottomless balls session with unlimited pizza and Prosecco, Ballie Ballerson is a brilliant way to let loose and have some weekend fun.

• Cocktail Bar ⋅ Nightclub ⋅ Party Bar

Treetop Adventure Golf Cardiff

When it comes down to quirky things to do in Cardiff, Treetop Adventure Golf has got you covered. Inside this activity hub, you'll get to have a go on the wacky 18-hole courses and take a few snapshots in the photobooth, all before chowing down on pizza. Sounds like a plan to us.

• Event Space

Dirty Martini Cardiff

Happy Hour (excluding major event days): and 1 other offer

There's all sorts of fun to be had at Dirty Martini, a popular cocktail bar in the city centre. They offer a delicious bottomless brunch, as well as an impressive drinks menu featuring dozens of creative concoctions and premium spirits.

• Cocktail Bar ⋅ Lounge Bar ⋅ Event Space

Enjoy Bottomless Pizza, Bubbles And Social Darts

@ Flight Club Cardiff on Various dates from Saturday 18th May 2024

Flight Club on Mary Street is sprucing up your boring ol' plans with its Cardiff Brunch Social. Enjoy quaffing bubbles or mimosas all while chowing on bottomless slices of the good stuff. If you're feeling extra? You can also add an hour of social darts to your brekky event too.

• Hen Party ⋅ Activity ⋅ Brunch
• Tickets from £30.00 - £35.00

Check Out The City's Foodie Hub

Easily one of the best things to do in Cardiff these days, a visit to Pontcanna's lauded eateries is a no-brainer. The area has seen a monumental rise in popularity due to an influx of quality restaurants serving up astounding eats, and now's your chance to check out the goods.

Get A Taste Of Welsh Cuisine At These Restaurants

From its agriculture to its artisans, Wales is home to some of the finest food producers in the world. Get to know the venues making the most of them with a trip to some of the best bars and restaurants in Cardiff serving Welsh food and drink.

Treat Yourself To A Meal Cooked By A MasterChef

The brainchild of MasterChef contender Tom Simmons, Pontcanna restaurant Thomas has fast become one of Cardiff's most sought-after reservations. A fine-dining destination with buckets of style, you'll find a fusion of Welsh and French-influenced plates on the menu, alongside a speakeasy-inspired bar with some enticing cocktails to quaff.

Spend A Rainy Afternoon At A Board Game Cafe

It's no secret that Cardiff gets its fair share of drizzly days, but lucky for you its also got the ideal location spend a rainy afternoon. Head over to Chance & Counters, the board game bar that also happens to serve some absolutely killer cocktails, and plenty of tasty comfort food.

• Restaurant Bar

Grab A Pint Of Locally-Brewed Beer

Looking to enjoy a little of the local ale? Cardiff is home to a wealth of excellent craft beer producers and microbreweries just waiting for you to sample their wares. We've rounded up our pick of the litter, from the neighbourhood bars whipping up the good stuff on-site, to some of Wales' most impressive brewers.

Start Sipping At The City's Dedicated Vermouth Bar

A dedicated sherry and vermouth bar on Guildhall Place, Vermut is alleged to be the first of its kind in the whole country. Step inside its unobtrusive doorway and you'll be treated to a stunning selection of authentic aperitifs along with a range of complimentary snacks and sharing boards.

Recommended by

How to work with us.

Whether you own a bar, restaurant, pub, club, private hire space, pop-up and/or run events, you can take advantage of our full suite of products. Explore one or more from the below.

Revolutionary booking and enquiry management software for bars, restaurants, pubs and clubs. Table management, pre-orders, payments and more.

An online event ticketing box office, catering for all kinds of events, pop ups to big music festivals, and free marketing and exposure to help sell more tickets.

Sell e-gift vouchers to your customers; whether it be a packaged up experience or a monetary value. Generate an extra revenue stream and open up your venue/event to even more customers.

Advertising

Need to get your venue out to millions? Use our targeted marketing packages to instantly push your venue to a young professional audience.

The 50 most romantic places in Cardiff

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

1 Cardiff Castle

2 St. Fagans National Museum of History

3 Wales Millennium Centre

4 national museum cardiff, 5 treetop golf.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

6 Principality Stadium

7 chapel 1877, 8 chapter arts centre, 9 royal hotel cardiff, 10 park plaza, 11 cardiff bay, 12 the potted pig, 13 bute park, 14 pettigrew tea rooms - bute park, 15 techniquest.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

16 The Ivy Cardiff

17 roath park, 18 llandaff cathedral, 19 new theatre, 20 curado bar, 21 maria's greek taverna, 22 coco gelato, 23 castle quarter arcades, 24 jolyons boutique hotel, 25 sticky fingers street food.

All travel reservations in 1 place

Never dig through your emails again — access all your flights, lodging, and any reservations in 1 place.

26 Castell Coch

27 voco st. david's cardiff, an ihg hotel, 28 the glee club cardiff, 29 boulders newport road, 30 spillers records, 31 roath park lake, 32 number one hundred bed and breakfast, 33 tŷ rosa rooms, 34 dexby town house, 35 cafe citta.

Perfect for road trips

See time and distance between places, and optimize your route to get the most of your day.

36 The Clink Restaurant Cardiff

37 la pentola, 38 museum of cardiff, 39 roald dahl plass, 40 vindico arena, 41 jacobs antique centre, 42 sherman theatre, 43 alexandra gardens, 44 martin tinney gallery, 45 clayton hotel cardiff.

Collaborate with friends in real time

Plan along with your friends with live syncing and collaborative editing.

46 Cardiff Marriott Hotel

47 copthorne hotel cardiff-caerdydd, 48 the coal exchange hotel, 49 barkers tea rooms, 50 pierhead, top searches in cardiff, popular road trips from cardiff, what's the weather like in cardiff.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Cardiff for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Cardiff in January
• Weather in Cardiff in February
• Weather in Cardiff in March
• Weather in Cardiff in April
• Weather in Cardiff in May
• Weather in Cardiff in June
• Weather in Cardiff in July
• Weather in Cardiff in August
• Weather in Cardiff in September
• Weather in Cardiff in October
• Weather in Cardiff in November
• Weather in Cardiff in December

All road trips from Cardiff

• Cardiff to London drive
• Cardiff to Paris drive
• Cardiff to Dublin drive
• Cardiff to Amsterdam drive
• Cardiff to Edinburgh drive
• Cardiff to Barcelona drive
• Cardiff to Rome drive
• Cardiff to Birmingham drive
• Cardiff to Berlin drive
• Cardiff to York drive
• Cardiff to Liverpool drive
• Cardiff to Brussels drive
• Cardiff to Prague drive
• Cardiff to Madrid drive
• Cardiff to Blackpool drive
• Cardiff to Florence drive
• Cardiff to Milan drive
• Cardiff to Portsmouth drive
• Cardiff to Oxford drive
• Cardiff to Manchester drive
• Cardiff to Vienna drive
• Cardiff to Bruges drive
• Cardiff to Brighton drive
• Cardiff to Budapest drive
• Cardiff to Venice drive
• Cardiff to Lisbon drive
• Cardiff to Bournemouth drive
• Cardiff to Glasgow drive
• Cardiff to Torquay drive

Explore nearby places

• Snowdonia National Park
• Dinas Powys
• Saint Georges-super-Ely
• St Nicholas
• Taff's Well
• St. Brides Wentlooge
• Llantrisant
• Pontymister
• Maesycwmmer

All related maps of Cardiff

• Map of Cardiff
• Map of Snowdonia National Park
• Map of Penarth
• Map of Dinas Powys
• Map of Wenvoe
• Map of Saint Georges-super-Ely
• Map of Sully
• Map of St Nicholas
• Map of Taff's Well
• Map of Dyffryn
• Map of Barry
• Map of Nantgarw
• Map of Caerphilly
• Map of Rudry
• Map of Bonvilston
• Map of Coedkernew
• Map of Hensol
• Map of St. Brides Wentlooge
• Map of Llancarfan
• Map of Abertridwr
• Map of Llantrisant
• Map of Pontyclun
• Map of Rhoose
• Map of Rogerstone
• Map of Pontymister
• Map of Pontypridd
• Map of Cwmcarn
• Map of St Athan
• Map of Gileston
• Map of Maesycwmmer
• Map of Newport

Cardiff throughout the year

• Cardiff in January
• Cardiff in February
• Cardiff in March
• Cardiff in April
• Cardiff in May
• Cardiff in June
• Cardiff in July
• Cardiff in August
• Cardiff in September
• Cardiff in October
• Cardiff in November
• Cardiff in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Cardiff?

Get inspired for your trip to Cardiff with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Cardiff Itinerary
• 2-Day Cardiff Itinerary
• 3-Day Cardiff Itinerary
• 4-Day Cardiff Itinerary
• 5-Day Cardiff Itinerary

Best romantic places in nearby cities

• The most romantic places in Snowdonia National Park

Best attractions in nearby cities

• Top things to do and attractions in Snowdonia National Park
• Top things to do and attractions in Barry
• Top things to do and attractions in Caerphilly
• Top things to do and attractions in Penarth

Best restaurants in nearby cities

• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Snowdonia National Park
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Barry
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Penarth
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Llantrisant

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

How to see the Northern Lights in the UK on Saturday night

• Published 4 days ago

The lights shone all over the UK on Friday night, seen here in Loose, Kent

If you woke up on Saturday morning well rested but filled with regret over missing the Northern Lights - don't worry. They're set to return tonight.

On Friday night, the lights dazzled the country, and the internet was awash with photos of bright pinks, purples and greens splashed across the night sky.

Here is everything you need to know about how to catch them on Saturday night.

Where in the UK can I see the Northern Lights on Saturday?

Just as on Friday night, the Northern Lights are set to light up the skies all across the UK.

That means you have a chance to see it no matter where you are, as long as the skies are clear (which is looking likely).

On Friday, we saw pictures from Inverness to Kent, and Omagh to Anglesey to Norwich, so it truly is a nationwide spectacle.

Ordinarily, somewhere away from light pollution with a clear view of the night sky has the best opportunity to see the lights, but based on Friday night, that didn't matter.

For Saturday night, the Met Office says there's a good chance of sightings across Scotland, Northern Ireland and parts of northern England and Wales in particular.

What time will they be brightest?

Aurora activity is expected again across the UK and while the geomagnetic storm is still expected to be in the 'strong' category, early indications are that it may not reach the 'extreme' of last night with activity declining.

Weather conditions are ideal with clear skies but it needs to be dark, so you'll need to wait until at least 22:30 BST.

At this time of year, when nights are shorter, 23:30 into the early hours of the morning is when the night is darkest.

The activity of the lights itself is more unpredictable, the Met Office says, so expect it to ebb and flow with different colours in different places at different times.

Coincidentally, if you are tuning into Eurovision tonight, the winner is due to be crowned just before the best time to see the lights (even better if the contest runs over time, as it often does, and you peek outside later in the night).

How do I get the best photo of them?

On Friday night, our BBC Weather Watchers captured the magic with more than 3,000 photographs sent into us between 21:00 and 1:00 on Saturday morning.

Given the lights are not expected to be as bright as they were on Friday, you may need to employ some camera tricks to get the most out of your photo if you are heading out on Saturday night.

Anne Wilkie photographed the lights above her home in Woodside, Scotland

Amateur photographer Anne Wilkie was among those who captured the lights on her iPhone on Friday night.

Her tips for getting the best photo include:

Switch off the flash

Set the camera to night mode, and adjust the slider to three to five seconds

Keep the camera as steady as possible or use a tripod

"I found that the camera is very sensitive and picks up the colours so much more than the naked eye, so, if you think you see light in the sky, point the camera in the direction and the pinks, greens and purples should show on the screen, if you're lucky," Ms Wilkie said.

All phone users will want to play with the exposure to capture the best of the lights – most phones will bring up this option by tapping the screen when in the camera app.

Northern Lights stun UK in spectacular display

In pictures: Northern Lights dazzle around the world

Some more recent phone models may have even more advanced camera settings, which allow for shutter speed and the length of exposure to be adjusted.

Setting a long exposure time can capture the dance of the lights, but you will have to keep the phone still to avoid blurring.

What are the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are caused by atoms with electric charges, called charged particles.

The lights appear when these charged particles are shot out from the sun and hit gases in the Earth's atmosphere.

In this instance, the Sun is experiencing an extreme geomagnetic storm, which is sending out solar winds with those particles into the solar system.

We see different colours in the sky when the various gases in the Earth's atmosphere are energised by the charged particles.

The two most common gases in the Earth's atmosphere are oxygen and nitrogen. Oxygen atoms glow green - the colour most often seen in the Northern Lights, while nitrogen atoms emit purple, blue and pink.

Why are the lights shining for two nights in a row?

The last time we had an extreme geomagnetic storm hit Earth was in 2003, so Friday's event was rare. We are much more used to seeing the Northern Lights limited to northern parts of the UK.

There have been more occasions in the last year or so where we have seen a weak showing of the aurora in southern parts of the UK.

This is because in the Sun's 11 year solar cycle, we are approaching the 'solar maximum', where there are naturally more sunspots on the Sun's surface.

Sunspots are like huge volcanos erupting charged particles in Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs). With more of them at the moment, there is a greater chance of more frequent and strong auroral activity.

It is also worth pointing out that because we can forecast these events better and with most of us having a smart phone able to capture the bright lights of the aurora, there has been an increase in sightings over the last decade or two.

Related Topics

• Northern Lights

More on this story

How do you capture the Northern Lights on camera?

• Published 5 March

• Published 4 March

Easter Holidays 2024: The best things to do in and around Cardiff

T he Easter holidays have already started for most children in Wales which can be a daunting prospect for some parents. When the kids ask: "What are we going to do today?" there is no need to panic.

There are so many options in and around Cardiff to keep you and your children busy for the next two weeks. To make life a little easier we have compiled a round up of all the fun things you can do in Cardiff from March 23 to April 7.

From Easter egg hunts to castles, museums and dinosaurs at Mermaid Quay there is something for everyone. We have also included some free options for those who don't want to break the bank. Find out about the latest events in Wales by signing up to our What's On newsletter here

READ MORE: Restaurant with food 'to die for' is named one of the best for Sunday roasts in the UK

READ MORE: The brilliant zoo less than an hour's drive from Cardiff

1. 'Into the Wild' Animal Trail

During the Easter holidays you can explore the free brick model animal trail at St David's in Cardiff where you can meet a giant panda, a Bengal tiger, a gorilla and so many more wild animals. But not to worry, they are built out of half a million toy bricks which took a staggering 2,356 hours to build.

Organised by FOR Cardiff, the "Into the Wild" BRICKLIVE animal trail will be free to visit from Monday, March 25 to Sunday, April 7. You can explore the four habitats: the wildlands, snow and ice, the ocean and the jungle whilst learning about endangered species and their habitats.

Last Easter, FOR Cardiff brought the Dino Discovery Trail to St David’s Cardiff featuring toy brick dinosaurs which attracted more than 7,000 visitors. Carolyn Brownell, FOR Cardiff executive director (interim), said: “Following the success of last year’s BRICKLIVE trail, we are delighted to be able to bring the ‘Into the Wild’ trail to St David’s Cardiff this Easter. This impressive animal trail is the perfect free activity to keep the whole family entertained over the school holidays.”

2. Dinosaurs takeover at Mermaid Quay

Inside the Mermaid Quay in Cardiff Bay , dinosaurs will be taking over and roaming the area this Easter. Between Saturday, March 23 to Sunday, April 14 you can take part in a host of different activities including colouring in competitions and the Dino discovery trail as well as being entertained on events days.

You will be able to meet lifelike dinosaurs such as, Razor the Velociraptor, Nibbles the baby T-Rex and Boulder the baby Ankylosaurus on April 2 and April 3. Aspiring palaeontologists can attend the Palaeontology School, where they'll dig for fossils and bones on April 4 and April 5. Additionally, children can get creative with Roarsome Rocks, crafting realistic fossils using air drying clay and mini dinosaurs.

Becky Jones, Marketing Manager at Mermaid Quay, said: “We are delighted to have a jam packed half term planned at Mermaid Quay. The Dino takeover will provide fun for the entire family and we hope that the free of charge activities we have planned will provide plenty of entertainment for little ones during the school break.”

3. The Big Museum Easter Trail

The National Museum Cardiff are hosting their annual Easter trail from Friday, March 29 to Monday, April 1. The trail includes three 'eggciting' challenges including counting eggs, spotting the difference between Easter bunnies and finding a golden egg for your child to enjoy. Try WalesOnline Premium for FREE by clicking here for no ads, fun puzzles and brilliant new features

The Big Museum Easter Trail costs £4 and is suitable for children aged four and above. It is available at: National Museum Cardiff, St Fagans National Museum of History, National Waterfront Museum, Big Pit National Coal Museum, National Wool Museum, National Roman Legion Museum, National Slate Museum. To book tickets and more information visit here.

4. CoedLan - High Ropes at St Fagans

If you're looking for a more thrilling, adventurous activity this Easter then St Fagans is the place to visit. From Saturday, March 23 to Sunday, April 7 you can climb, swing, balance and wobble through the trees on the CoedLan high ropes at the museum.

CoedLan has 18 different obstacles including a balance beam, zig zag bridge, cargo net and a 50m zip wire. To participate children must be aged over six and at least 110cm tall. Children between 110cm and 130cm must be accompanied by an individual over 130cm and aged over 12. Tickets cost £20 per person and can be purchased here.

READ MORE: Two Welsh restaurants named among UK's top new venues by Conde Nast Traveller

READ MORE: Taylor Swift's Eras Tour named cheapest to see in Cardiff as tickets go on resale

5. Easter Adventures at Dyffryn Gardens

Just outside of Cardiff, Dyffryn Gardens in St Nicholas will be hosting their annual Easter trail. The trail will include 10 Easter themed activities for all of the family to enjoy over the holidays.

You will be able to take part in visitors favourite activities from last year including the egg run, feed the bunny and animal dress-up stations as well as new additions. Explore the beautiful gardens at Dyffryn as you take part in the trail to collect a dairy or vegan and Free From chocolate egg.

The Easter adventures are taking place from Saturday, March 23 to Tuesday, April 2, between 10am and 5pm. Prices are £3 per trail on top of normal admission fees. Find out more here.

6. Zog And The Flying Doctors

Throughout the year the New Theatre put on entertaining productions for all of the family to enjoy and this Easter is no different. Over the Easter weekend, you can join Zog and his crew for a 'roar-some' adventure in Zog And The Flying Doctors, based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

Zog, the dragon, is teaming up with his Flying Doctor crew, Princess Pearl and Sir Gadabout as they tend to a sunburnt mermaid, a unicorn with one too many horns and a lion with the flu. Trouble strikes as the King does not believe princesses should be doctors and locks Pearl in the tower. It is up to Pearl and her friends to change his mind and prove princesses can be doctors too. Find out about the latest events in Wales by signing up to our What's On newsletter here

The production will be performed at the New Theatre in Cardiff from Friday, March 29 to Sunday, March 31. Tickets prices begin at £16 and can be purchased here.

7. Velociraptors at The Depot

Dinosaurs are headed to Cardiff this Easter and will be making their way to The Depot. Teach Rex are bringing their life-like Velociraptors to The Depot as they perform their educational show.

The production teaches children about the anatomy and life of the prehistoric beast. The show includes effects and music as well as giving the audience the chance to get up close and personal with the realistic creatures.

The show is suitable for all ages but is recommended families with children aged three and above. The popular show has almost sold all tickets so be sure to get in quick. Ticket prices start at £11.25 and are available here.

8. Ea ster Extravaganza at Castell Coch

Over the Easter holidays you can visit the historic Castle and join in their Easter activities. Castell Coch will be hosting their Easter Extravaganza from Thursday, March 28 to Tuesday, April 2 from 11am to 3pm.

The event includes an array of Easter themed activities including, an Easter egg hunt, springtime crafts, decorating an Easter card as well as being able to explore the castle. General admission fees apply with no extra cost for the Easter Extravaganza, it is advised to book tickets in advance, which you can do here.

READ MORE: Gorgeous village pub being reopened by boss 'with pubs in his veins'

READ MORE: The 50 best restaurants in Cardiff in 2024: The best places to eat in the city

9. Evolution drone show

A huge light show will be taking over the skies of Cardiff this Easter for all of the family to enjoy. Evolution, the immersive outdoor experience, is bringing hundreds of drones to Sophia Gardens on Friday, March 29 for one night only. The drones involved in the show will tell a magical story from the dawn of time on the birth of the universe and millions years of evolution.

Tickets cost £20 for adults and £15 for children and concessions and are available to book here. Gates will open at 5.30pm, with food and drink outlets on site, while a live DJ plays ahead of the show starting at 7.30pm. The event itself is suitable for both families and individuals of all ages to enjoy.

Where to see northern lights Saturday night, what times they will be visible

A severe geomagnetic storm powered by five coronal ejections from the sun will result in a vivid aurora borealis. Here are some tips for seeing it this weekend.

This article has been updated to include a recap of Friday’s aurora activity and Saturday’s forecast.

One of the strongest geomagnetic storms in two decades hit Earth on Friday afternoon, with more activity continuing through the weekend.

Friday’s storm already brought beautiful northern lights displays as far south as Mexico. It also disrupted some power grids and radio and GPS communications, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Geomagnetic storms occur when the sun sends a punch of charged particles and parts of its magnetic field to Earth, often through eruptions from its surface called coronal mass ejections. This severe geomagnetic storm — rated a Level 5 out of 5 — resulted from numerous coronal mass ejections this week, some of which are catching up with one another as they hurtle through space.

Forecasters said the sun has launched additional coronal mass ejections , which could extend geomagnetic activity and displays of the northern lights through this weekend and into early next week.

Both Saturday and Sunday nights could offer more celestial viewing, though early Sunday morning and Sunday evening could be more promising, with displays as far south as Friday night if forecasts hold.

Here’s what you need to know about your chances to see the aurora and threats to satellite systems.

Where are the best places to see the northern lights this weekend?

The northern lights appeared unusually far south in the Northern Hemisphere on Friday night. People snapped photos in Italy, southern Switzerland and India. In North America, people reported sightings in Florida, Southern California and even Mexico.

In the Southern Hemisphere, aurora were photographed in Chile , Argentina and New Zealand , where they are known as aurora australis or the southern lights. Activity was exceptionally strong Friday night to Saturday morning Eastern time, hitting a Level of 5 out of 5.

Current NOAA models show geomagnetic storm activity will initially be less intense Saturday night. By the pre-dawn hours Sunday, however, storm activity may increase markedly, offering early risers a memorable display of the northern lights, especially after around 4 a.m. Eastern. The exact timing of the increase in storminess is very uncertain, though.

If the storm activity reaches a Level 4 or 5 early Sunday, which NOAA indicates is possible, the northern lights may become visible again in most of the United States.

A secondary peak in the current solar storms appears likely... pic.twitter.com/WMlbGKNfaB — NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center (@NWSSWPC) May 12, 2024

When the storm activity increases, the aurora will tend to be most vibrant in northern areas and will become more faint to the south — in some places only visible through cameras.

“Cellphones are much better than our eyes at capturing light,” Brent Gordon, chief of NOAA’s Space Weather Services Branch, said in a news conference Friday. “Just go out your back door and take a picture with a newer cellphone, and you’d be amazed at what you see in that picture versus what you see with your eyes.”

If severe to extreme geomagnetic storm activity (Levels 4 and 5) lasts into the evening Sunday, the northern lights may continue to be visible unusually far south for yet another night.

Will the aurora be blocked by clouds?

Even if geomagnetic activity is high, clouds can block out the light show. Unfortunately, considerable cloud cover will blanket the Northeast and south-central United States, although some gaps in the cloud canopy are probable. Clear skies are most likely over the Midwest, Southeast and Western United States.

If you are in a cloud-free area, make sure you find a dark sky location away from city lights.

What will the aurora look like near me?

Not all auroras look the same. Some are undulating bright green and purple curtains, and others are a diffuse red and orange glow. The colors and structure of the aurora appear differently depending on the latitude and altitude.

Auroras are created when solar particles and plasma temporarily disturb Earth’s magnetosphere. Some solar particles get trapped along Earth’s magnetic field lines into the upper atmosphere. Here, they excite nitrogen and oxygen molecules and release photons of light in different colors. Excited oxygen atoms shine red when they are more than 120 miles above the surface and glow green from 60 to 120 miles. Excited nitrogen atoms give off pink or purple hues below 120 miles.

Dancing green or purple auroras are typically seen at higher latitudes. Lower latitudes usually see more red auroras because red occurs at higher altitudes and can be seen further away from the poles. If you’re in the mid-latitudes (in Virginia or Arizona, for example), your aurora may appear more red than those in Canada or Finland.

Will this affect communications systems or the power grid?

A severe geomagnetic storm can cause issues with power systems, spacecraft operations, radio communications and even pipeline systems, if not appropriately prepared for.

“Our role is to alert the operators of these different systems so that they’re aware and can take actions to mitigate these kinds of impacts,” Rob Steenburgh, a space scientist at NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, said at a news conference Friday.

Steenburgh and his colleagues work with grid operators across North America to ensure high-voltage transmission lines can withstand the incoming surge of energy from the sun. Over past decades, engineers have built systems that can protect power lines rapidly and keep them online during geomagnetic storms.

Geomagnetic storms can also affect satellite and radio communications, sometimes interfering with signals transmitted in our ionosphere. Anyone using high-frequency radio in the aurora viewing zone may experience some disruptions, said Shawn Dahl, service coordinator for the Space Weather Prediction Center. Under some circumstances, the influx of solar particles can cause low-Earth orbiting satellites to drag lower into the atmosphere.

For the most part, individuals should not be affected or take extra precautions beyond what they might for a typical severe weather storm. If a power outage does occur, people should make sure they have batteries, weather radio and a generator, if necessary.

“They don’t need to do anything out of the extraordinary, if they’ve already got these measures taken care of, because these events are very rare,” Dahl said.

Jason Samenow contributed to this report.

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

How can I see the northern lights in the UK tonight?

Scientist explains how, when and where to see the northern lights, or aurora borealis, in the UK on Saturday evening

The northern lights might be visible in parts of the UK again on Saturday after the rare phenomenon was spotted across the country overnight.

An “extreme” geomagnetic storm caused the lights, also known as aurora borealis, to be more visible on Friday evening – delighting millions of people across the northern hemisphere.

And for those who missed out, a second chance could arise.

Chris Snell, a meteorologist at the Met Office, said there were sightings “from top to tail across the country”.

Looking ahead to Saturday night, he said: “It is hard to fully predict what will happen in the Earth’s atmosphere, but there will still be enhanced solar activity tonight, so the lights could be visible again in northern parts of the UK, including Scotland, Northern Ireland and the far north of England.”

He advised those hoping to see the lights on Saturday to head to an area with low light pollution and to use a good camera.

“The best chance you have of seeing the lights is if you are away from street lights and areas with lots of light pollution, as any type of light does have a big effect,” he said.

“Also, at this time of year, we are fighting the shorter length of nights, so it is unlikely that they will be visible until around 10.30pm or 11 o’clock when it gets really dark.”

Sightings in southern parts of the UK would be less likely on Saturday, although Snell said the lights might be visible through a strong camera lens.

Aurora displays occur when charged particles collide with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere around the magnetic poles.

In the northern hemisphere, most of this activity takes place within a band known as the aurora oval, covering latitudes between 60 and 75 degrees.

When activity is strong, this expands to cover a greater area, which explains why displays can be occasionally seen as far south as the UK.

• Northern lights
• Meteorology
• Northern Ireland

Most viewed

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Where to See the Northern Lights on Sunday Night

The best weather conditions for viewing the colorful light display will be in much of the West while New England was “a question mark,” a forecaster said.

By Amanda Holpuch

The spectacular aurora borealis, the nighttime light display triggered by solar flares that has been so unusually prevalent since Friday, could be visible again on Sunday night in much of the United States as a powerful geomagnetic storm continues.

The aurora borealis, or northern lights, has been observed from locations much farther south than usual, including much of the United States, Britain and some parts of Central America.

The glowing green, pink and purple lights will be visible again on Sunday night in places with clear, dark skies, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Space Weather Prediction Center.

“There’s a chance that what’s coming at us later today could be quite comparable to what we saw Friday into Friday night,” Mike Bettwy, the operations chief of the Space Weather Prediction Center, said on Sunday. “Our forecast is for it to be right up to that level.”

There were reports of the lights being visible in Puerto Rico, South Florida and parts of Central America on Friday night, Mr. Bettwy said, and it could happen again on Sunday night if the storm is as intense.

He said the aurora “ebbs and flows without much reason,” making it hard to predict the best time to view the phenomenon.

“Generally, the darker the sky is, the higher the chances that you’ll see it,” Mr. Bettwy said.

In places with a lot of bright lights, like a city, it is more difficult to see.

Cloudy weather can also block the view. This could pose a challenge for those hoping to see the northern lights in the central United States, where rain and storms are forecast.

Tony Fracasso, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center, said that the best chances for clear skies would be in much of the West, as well as from Ohio toward the Mid-Atlantic and possibly in North Dakota and Minnesota.

New England was “a question mark,” he said.

In the United Kingdom, thunderstorms were moving north across Wales into northern England and Scotland on Sunday night , but it was clearer in the south and east.

If you are in a clear area, take a picture or record a video with your cellphone. The camera’s sensor is more sensitive to the wavelengths made by the aurora and may reveal an image different from what you can see with the naked eye.

This weekend’s show is the result of the most powerful geomagnetic storm to reach Earth since October 2003. When geomagnetic activity increases, auroras become brighter and more active, and they expand to regions where they are not usually seen.

The Space Weather Prediction Center has a five-level scale to rate geomagnetic storms. A watch was in place on Sunday for conditions to reach the fourth level or higher.

On Saturday, the storm’s conditions were at the third and the fourth levels, with a period of level-five conditions early in the day, the center said.

Geomagnetic storms can interfere with power grids, communications and navigations systems, but there had been no significant impacts from the storm as of Sunday morning, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The storm will continue into Monday, the Space Weather Prediction Center said.

Amanda Holpuch covers breaking news and other topics. More about Amanda Holpuch

What’s Up in Space and Astronomy

Keep track of things going on in our solar system and all around the universe..

Never miss an eclipse, a meteor shower, a rocket launch or any other 2024 event  that’s out of this world with  our space and astronomy calendar .

A dramatic blast from the sun  set off the highest-level geomagnetic storm in Earth’s atmosphere, making the northern lights visible around the world .

With the help of Google Cloud, scientists who hunt killer asteroids churned through hundreds of thousands of images of the night sky to reveal 27,500 overlooked space rocks in the solar system .

A celestial image, an Impressionistic swirl of color in the center of the Milky Way, represents a first step toward understanding the role of magnetic fields  in the cycle of stellar death and rebirth.

Scientists may have discovered a major flaw in their understanding of dark energy, a mysterious cosmic force . That could be good news for the fate of the universe.

Is Pluto a planet? And what is a planet, anyway? Test your knowledge here .

Breaking News

‘Prepare to be enthralled’: How to see Yosemite’s enchanting rainbows that form at night

• Show more sharing options
• Copy Link URL Copied!

We met Brian Hawkins, a Redondo Beach mechanical engineer-turned-videographer, in the near-empty lobby of the Yosemite Valley Lodge. It was just after 9 on a Tuesday night in late April. Our hunt was about to begin, but the weather augured poorly.

“It’s cloudy, clearing later,” he said. “I would not expect to see anything yet.”

This was no chance meeting. A couple of years before I had discovered Hawkins’ website , where he posts photos, videos and very precise predictions of the phenomenon that had lured us to this place, at exactly this time: moonbows.

Travel & Experiences

48 hours in Yosemite: How to see the park’s many wonders on a weekend trip

An itinerary that takes you through the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, El Capitan Meadow, Glacier Point and more.

Sept. 22, 2022

Naturalist John Muir called them lunar rainbows, or spraybows, revealed by a full moon’s light. Roaring spring and early summer waterfalls in Yosemite National Park make the central California destination one of the few spots on Earth to see them. The next viewing opportunity is May 21 to 25.

Moonbows haven’t realized the popularity of the park’s firefall each February, but visitors are gaining awareness. As we navigated the paved trail in darkness to Lower Yosemite Fall , we passed clumps of walkers going in the other direction, evidently discouraged by persistent clouds. At the base, some 25 were gathered in small groups, many behind a bend sheltering onlookers from the falls’ jet-loud spray.

Muir described the Yosemite Falls’ roar as “fine, savage music,” and Hawkins spoke movingly of how the falls, especially in the upper stretch, maintained a voice, even a presence. Having seen spectacular photos by him and others, my wife, Mica, and I impatiently waited for the moon to reflect the sun’s light on the falls. As did others.

One photographer showed me a quarter-moonbow image he had captured 20 minutes before during a cloud break. Another, Eric Krapil, 28, from Laurel, Md., shared a full-arc moonbow photo from the night before, captured on his cellular phone.

“We got lucky,” he said. “Some guy walking past us at the lodge said, ‘Do you want to see a moonbow?’”

We certainly did on this night. And a few minutes later, as the yellowish moon briefly shouldered through the haze, Hawkins pointed to a rock. There, he said, a corner of the moonbow begins.

And I saw it: A quarter arc at best, ghostly white in the moon’s faint light. Not everything I had hoped for, but as we walked back later I thanked Hawkins for helping us see that glimmer — a hint of what might come the following nights.

Yeah, he said. A thoughtful pause ensued.

“That was,” he continued, “the most pathetic moonbow I’ve ever seen.”

Before 2007, nobody was precisely sure when and where moonbows would appear at Yosemite. But a team of researchers from Texas State University harnessed computers to meld topography, geometry and astronomy to accurately predict the moonbows’ appearance and published their findings.

Hawkins first visited the park that same year and became mesmerized by its beauty — particularly after seeing a moonbow in 2011. He started doing his own modeling, and his website debuted in 2018. It’s a labor of love — there are no ads, and he doesn’t do tours or hawk T-shirts.

What he does do is help other seekers. Anna Smits, who lives and works in the Yosemite Valley, saw her first moonbow during the pandemic. The park was closed to visitors, but Hawkins still shared his calculations. Now, Smits — both an avid photographer and outdoorswoman — occasionally pushes the envelope to find more elusive moonbow shots.

One of the best hikes in Yosemite is in this hidden valley of waterfalls

Less crowded than Yosemite Valley, whose roads have been choked with visitors, Hetch Hetchy Valley is a half-forgotten realm filled with granite walls, tall falls and wildflowers.

July 21, 2023

What does that entail? One night, that involved setting an anchor and rappelling about 15 feet to a ledge near Upper Yosemite Fall. Another time, she set her alarm for 1:30 a.m. for a hike in bright moonlight to Vernal Fall. It was so cold that the condensed spray solidly froze her tripod.

“It’s such a rewarding experience,” she said. “It really lights me up just thinking about sitting in the spray and watching this moonbow cross in front of you.”

That visual reward eluded us on the subsequent two nights of our visit last month. Daytime blue skies surrendered to clouds at night. Hawkins had warned me that first night that nothing was guaranteed.

“Prepare to be enthralled by the scene before you but also frustrated by how difficult it is to shoot,” he said. “A lot of things are working against you — it’s cold, it’s wet, the lens has to be dried off, you can’t use auto focus. You just have to be patient and work through solving all the problems.”

And when the moon is hidden by a curtain of clouds, you comfort yourself with the memory of the falls’ voice and a glimmer of the show waiting when you return.

What is a moonbow?

Simply put, it’s a rainbow seen at night, produced by the light of a full moon reflecting off droplets of water suspended in the air. But humans struggle to detect color at night, so — as with the northern lights — they usually appear white to the naked eye. Photographs, especially with timed exposures to allow more light, render them in full color, just like a rainbow.

Is Yosemite the only place to see moonbows?

No, but there are very few waterfall sites where they can consistently be seen. They include Cumberland Falls in Kentucky and Africa’s Victoria Falls, at the Zambia-Zimbabwe border.

When are the best dates, times and locations to see Yosemite moonbows?

They are best observed on the five nights around the full moon. Hawkins has calculated peak 2024 viewing dates and specific hours by location (Upper and Lower Yosemite falls and Glacier Point) for the next viewing window of May 21 to 25 at his website . Best dates for the following full moon, with his time calculations to follow later, are June 19 to 23.

Is any special gear needed?

Useful items include comfortable walking shoes, a rain poncho if viewing near a fall’s base, cloths to dry lenses and cameras, a tripod for longer camera or smartphone exposures and a headlamp or flashlight (red-light settings are preferable for not disrupting night vision). Weather apps such as Clear Outside predict hourly cloud cover. For the super-advanced, apps such as Photo Ephemeris and Planit Pro will help precisely calculate moon positions (and much more).

Are Yosemite National Park reservations required?

Sometimes. Until June 30, daytime (5 a.m. to 4 p.m.) park entry reservations are required on weekends and holidays. From July 1 to Aug. 16, they are required daily for the same time periods. Those with in-park camping or lodging reservations will be granted park entry. Full rules and a reservation link can be found at the National Park Service’s website .

Is it risky looking for Yosemite moonbows at night?

We didn’t find it daunting. Lower Yosemite Fall is just a 10-minute walk from Yosemite Valley Lodge , where we stayed. Cook’s Meadow, with its broad view of Yosemite Falls, is also nearby, but we decided to drive, largely because dense cloud cover obscured the moonlight. Both Hawkins and Smits counseled using common sense in seeking more remote locations. It’s worth noting that the intrepid Muir, who never shrank from a challenge, almost died one night while chasing moonbows behind Yosemite Falls near Fern Ledge; he escaped drenched and numb from a “wild bath in moonlit spray.”

More to Read

The northern lights were barely visible in L.A. Amazing images show what we missed

May 13, 2024

Here’s how to see the Lyrid meteor shower and the full ‘pink moon’ this week

April 22, 2024

This iconic wildflower spot can be dazzling. Is it worth the trek from L.A. this year?

April 16, 2024

Sign up for The Wild

We’ll help you find the best places to hike, bike and run, as well as the perfect silent spots for meditation and yoga.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

Alex Pulaski is a former travel editor at The Oregonian. Since 2013 he has written freelance travel articles for a number of regional and national publications. He has twice been honored in the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalist of the Year awards. Pulaski lives in West Linn, Ore., and often writes about cruising, the outdoors and cultural travel.

More From the Los Angeles Times

Meow Wolf announces its Los Angeles venue

Opinion: Californians love the state’s parks. We just don’t know they’re state parks

Las Vegas’ new must-see show plays with animation, dance and what it means to be human

May 10, 2024

Soon you’ll have to pay to camp on the Lost Coast. Here’s what to know

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

The Picture Show

Photos: see the northern lights from rare solar storm.

Geoff Brumfiel

Christchurch, New Zealand: People look at the Aurora Australis, also known as the Southern Lights, in Rolleston on May 11, 2024. Sanka Vidanagama/AFP/Getty Images hide caption

The largest geomagnetic storm in nearly two decades is hitting Earth's atmosphere . It's producing a beautiful glow in the sky all over the world.

A sunspot has sent a stream of charged particles towards Earth.

As those particles hit the Earth's atmosphere they will be heated and start glowing producing beautiful aurora.

South looks north, as solar storm brings auroras

Lisa Upton is with the Southwest Research Institute. Social media is already filling with photos from places like Finland, Russia, Germany and New Zealand, which catches the same effect in the southern hemisphere. It's not clear how far down in the U.S. the aurora will spread, but Upton is keeping an eye out in Colorado.

Space weather forecasters expect the solar storm to peak overnight, but it will last throughout the weekend.

Brunswick, Maine: The northern lights flare in the sky over a farmhouse, late Friday, May 10, 2024. Robert F. Bukaty/AP hide caption

Brunswick, Maine: The northern lights flare in the sky over a farmhouse, late Friday, May 10, 2024.

Estacada, Ore.: In this image taken with a long exposure, cars pass by as people look at the night sky towards the northern lights, or Aurora Borealis, on Friday, May 10, 2024, in Estacada, Ore. Jenny Kane/AP hide caption

Lake Berryessa, Calif.: The blinking lights of a plane streak through the aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, which is visible on May 11, 2024. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/San Francisco Chronicle/Getty Images hide caption

London, Ontario: People stop along a country road near London, Ontario to watch the Northern lights or aurora borealis during a geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. Geoff Robins/AFP/Getty Images hide caption

Brandenburg, Germany: Light green and slightly reddish auroras glow in the night sky. Patrick Pleul/dpa/picture alliance/Getty Images hide caption

Brandenburg, Germany: Light green and slightly reddish auroras glow in the night sky.

Whitley Bay, England: People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis, commonly known as the northern lights. Ian Forsyth/Getty Images hide caption

Crosby Beach, Liverpool, England: The aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, glow on the horizon at Another Place by Anthony Gormley. Peter Byrne/PA Images/Getty Images hide caption

Crosby Beach, Liverpool, England: The aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, glow on the horizon at Another Place by Anthony Gormley.

Saxony-Anhalt, Schierke, Germany: Northern lights can be seen from the Brocken. The natural spectacle is particularly intense on Saturday night. Matthias Bein/dpa/picture alliance/Getty Images hide caption

Rochester, N.Y: Northern Lights light up the sky on May 11, 2024. Lokman Vural Elibol/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Hesse, Germany: Northern lights appear in the night sky over the Pferdskopf near Treisberg in the Hochtaunus district of Hesse. Lando Hass/dpa/picture alliance/Getty Images hide caption

Mount Mitchell, N.C.: Unusual sun activity created a G5 Geostorm on Earth sparks northern lights on May 10, 2024. Peter Zay/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

London, Ontario: Northern lights or aurora borealis illuminate the night sky near London, Ontario, during a geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. Geoff Robins/AFP/Getty Images hide caption

Debrad, Slovakia: Northern lights illuminate the sky May 11, 2024. Robert Nemeti/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Eindhoven, Ukraine: Northern lights illuminate the sky in Eindhoven, Ukraine, May 10, 2024. Nikos Oikonomou/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Liseleje, Denmark: Northern lights illuminate the sky in Liseleje, Denmark on May 11, 2024. Mohamed El-Shemy/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Markville, Minnesota: The northern lights glow in the sky over St. Croix State Forest late Friday, May 10, 2024. Mark Vancleave/AP hide caption

Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine: Northern lights light up the sky May 11, 2024. Diego Herrera Carcedo/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Skidmore, Missouri: Old tombstones stand against the northern lights at a cemetery early Saturday, May 11, 2024. Charlie Riedel/AP hide caption

Middletown, California: Northern lights illuminate the night sky over a camper's tent north of San Francisco on May 11, 2024. Josh Edelson/AFP/Getty Images hide caption

Middletown, California: Northern lights illuminate the night sky over a camper's tent north of San Francisco on May 11, 2024.

Estacada, Oregon: In this image taken with a long exposure, people look at the night sky towards the northern lights, or Aurora Borealis, on Friday, May 10, 2024. Jenny Kane/AP hide caption

• northern lights
• geomagnetic storms
• aurora bourealis