Cathays • Our Neighbourhoods • Visit Cardiff

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Why visit Cathays?

Cathays is one of Cardiff’s most lively neighbourhoods, known for its bustling nightlife, affordable food and drink, and vibrant student life. Home to popular attractions such as the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Sherman Theatre, and Cathays Park, it offers a brilliant mix of entertainment, creativity, and independent cafés, bars, and restaurants. Just a short stroll from the city centre, Cathays is great place to visit and explore.

Cathays at a Glance

❓KNOWN FOR:
Student life and affordable eateries

✨ ATMOSPHERE:
Lively, youthful, energetic

🚶‍➡️ DISTANCE FROM CENTRE:
10-20 min walk

Visit Cardiff says: Head to The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama on a Friday to experience Jazz Time, a free weekly event that brings live music and a great atmosphere to the heart of the neighbourhood.

ATTRACTIONS

ROYAL WELSH COLLEGE OF MUSIC AND DRAMA

Experience an incredible musical performance from some of the most gifted students in the world.

CATHAYS PARK

Against the backdrop of the Civic Centre, this grade 1 listed historic park houses a First World War memorial.

SHERMAN THEATRE

Next to Cathays train station, it’s a leading Welsh production house, showcasing fascinating performances.

THE GREAT HALL

This 1,600-capacity venue, which is a prime location on the national tour circuit, plays host to some of the biggest acts in the world.

WATERING HOLES

RHOSTIO

Bringing specialty coffee roasting to Cathays, it also stays open late for weekend drinks and unique grassroots events.

THE PEN AND WIG

Serving traditional, hearty pub grub, you won’t go hungry. Also offering real ale sourced from local breweries and a few from further afield.

THE WOODVILLE

This pub has a chilled out vibe specialising in giant tower burgers. Whether you’re a student or local, you will be made to feel welcome.

THE FLORA

A pub situated in Cathays with exciting and innovative food, great quality ales and beers, friendly service and a sunny beer garden!

COFFEE BREAK

COCO GELATO

This café is a hub for the most incredible waffles, crepes, signature sundaes and freak shakes.

HOFFI COFFI

An independent coffee spot with a cosy, laptop-friendly vibe located next to Cardiff University’s libraries.

BRODIES COFFEE CABIN

Located in Gorsedd Gardens is one of Cardiff’s smallest coffee shops, known for its artistic ice cream.

METCHY'S CAFE BAR

Top quality coffee and freshly prepared meals, this cafe's caters for a cosy get-together with friends or family.

PECKISH?

GRAND INDIAN

Whether you’re dining in or ordering for a special occasion, discover the rich culinary traditions of India.

TUK TUK

Enjoy cosy, Thai‑style surroundings, creative cocktails and a great selection of beers and wines.

CALABRISELLA

Bringing authentic Italian flavour to the heart of Cathays, serving up handmade dishes that locals love.

MINA

A traditional Lebanese restaurant compromising of good food and a welcoming atmosphere.

HOW TO GET TO CATHAYS

Walk: Cathays is a half an hour walk from Cardiff City Centre. The majority of restaurants can be found on Crwys Road and around Cathays Terrace.

Bike: Ride your bike into this neighbourhood, then dock it up on Park Place. Find more cycling information here, including the best routes, cycle paths and parking facilities.

Train: This neighbourhood is served by Cathays railway station. This neighbourhood is a 30-minute walk from Cardiff Central railway station.

Bus: Catch Cardiff Bus 35 from Cardiff Bus Interchange and alight at Cathays Terrace which is packed full of pubs, bars and restaurants to enjoy.

Car: Most streets in Cathays are reserved for resident parking.Pay and displays are available.

Interested in studying at Cardiff? Find out about student life in our capital.

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WHERE TO NEXT?

It’s time to live like a local. Each area of the city has its own unique quality.

View Our Guide to the 'Must Visit' Neighbourhoods

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