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Life in Cardiff: The Secret Behind a Happy City

27 July 2018

It’s been proven that being close to parks, water and other open spaces can make you happier, so it’s no wonder Cardiff is such a friendly city. With beautiful parks, fields, and lakes at every turn and the beach only a train ride away, you can always find somewhere to relax and enjoy nature. Here are a few of our favourites.

Bute Park

A five-minute walk from the city centre, this glorious 56 hectacre urban woodland is quite literally our back garden. It has its own little artisan café, a tea rooms, and another café hut, all serving delicious treats and refreshments.

Roath Park Lake

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Once a city reservoir, now an idyllic lake perfect for a stroll or, in the summer months, renting a rowing boat. The lake is adorned with a charming little café, and more importantly, an ice cream hut with flavours to suit every mood.

Roath Recreation Ground

Close to the lake and the busy, café-filled, Wellfield Road, the recreation ground is a spot for sports, sunbathing and dog walking. It’s not far from studentsville and a lovely place to relax on a warm day. Plus, you can visit Joe’s ice cream parlour on the corner of Wellfield Road on your way!

Llandaff Fields

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If you dare to stray to the other side of town, great things await you. On the other side of Bute Park lies the stunning expanse that is Llandaff Fields where you will always be able find a quiet spot to read or revise.

Victoria Park

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Slightly further afield, on Cowbridge Road East, is this grade 2 listed park, complete with bandstand, floral displays and a fantastic crêperie. A perfect getaway from the city.

These are just a few of the many green spaces on our doorstep. Hop on a train and you’ll soon find yourself in the stunning white sands of the Gower –  Mumbles beach is a particular favourite. Or slightly closer to home, you could visit Barry Island, famous as the home of BBC sitcom Gavin & Stacey, and explore the funfair and seaside.