What’s On in Cardiff this Summer: Your Guide to the Best Parks, Outdoor Feasts, Coastal Charms, & Thrills

Explore Cardiff

Summer in Cardiff is a time to explore and enjoy the city’s diverse offerings. From lush parks and delightful outdoor dining to scenic beaches and thrilling adventures, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the summer season. Whether you’re looking to unwind in green spaces or embark on exciting escapades, Cardiff has it all!

Dive into our What’s On in Cardiff guide to discover how to enjoy the best summer experiences.

Magnificent Parks for Picnics, Strolls, and Wildlife Sightings

Relax and catch up with friends and family at one of Cardiff’s picturesque parks. The city boasts some magnificent spots where you can picnic, walk your dogs, enjoy exquisite nature and wildlife, and engage in sporty fun. So if you’re searching for what’s on in Cardiff and have parks in mind, here are the best locations to spend quality time:

• Heath Park: Spanning 37 acres of wooded areas, wetlands, and ponds, Heath Park is fantastic for a day out with the kids. It offers plenty of fun activities, including a pitch & putt golf course, footgolf and footrugby, a miniature railway, a children’s playground, a trail to explore wildlife, and a sensory garden.

• Roath Park: As one of the first public parks in Cardiff, Roath Park maintains its cultural heritage with a timeless Victorian layout. It features a stunning lake with the iconic Scott Memorial Lighthouse towering over. A scenic walking path surrounds the lake, providing a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls. As you wander, you’ll encounter diverse wildlife, vibrant flowers, and ample recreation spaces. Ideal for picnicking, Roath Park also offers a children’s playground, a conservatory, tennis courts, and a bowling green, making it a fantastic destination for both fun and relaxation.

• Bute Park: As Cardiff’s largest city centre park, Bute Park spans 130 acres of meadows, woodlands, and parklands. The park features three cafés and a myriad of attractions, from tree and wildlife trails to stunning flower gardens. It even offers an outstanding view of Cardiff Castle. Bute Park is the perfect spot for summer picnics, relaxing walks, and soaking up the natural beauty of the city.

Delicious Al Fresco Dining in Cardiff

Make the most of the outdoors with al fresco dining in Cardiff. The city offers a variety of restaurants with inviting patios and terraces where you can enjoy delicious meals while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. Here are some top spots to dine outdoors:

• Lo Lounge Cardiff Bay: With expansive, immersive views of Cardiff Bay, Lo Lounge provides the perfect waterside setting to enjoy the outdoors. Sip on cocktails, cider, wines, and draught lagers while taking in the majestic sunset. This dog-friendly spot is ideal for relaxing with your furry friends and snacking on popular street food.

• The Heathcock: Serving thirsty locals for over a century, The Heathcock is a beloved pub known for its legendary ales, wines, and seasonal drinks. The pub makes perfect use of its outdoor space, creating a welcoming environment for enjoying top-notch food and drinks. Alongside the bar, you’ll find a delicious seasonal menu featuring the best produce from the Vale and Cardiff. Locally sourced meat, vegetables, and game, along with homegrown fruit and veggies, are transformed into dishes. You can also indulge sourdough, butter, and pasta made from scratch. Experience the essence of Welsh cooking in the capital city.

• Porro: Porro offers a seasonal menu of British food with an Italian twist, emphasising simple, quality ingredients sourced from local and Italian suppliers. Enjoy a selection of drinks that perfectly match the menu.  Enjoy classic dishes like handmade ravioli and a variety of pizzas made from homemade Italian dough.

Best Beaches Near Cardiff

Cardiff is right on the doorstep of pristine coastlines that promise unforgettable days out for the whole family. Whether you’re looking to surf exhilarating waves or relax on the shore while reading a book or building sandcastles with the kids, here are the best beaches in and around Cardiff:

• Whitmore Bay: Just half an hour from Cardiff, Whitmore Bay, more commonly known as Barry Island Beach, offers golden sands and a vast promenade adorned with 24 colourful beach huts. The beach is surrounded by the promenade, hosting year-round events and plenty of entertainment for kids, including a climbing wall, adventure golf, and beautifully landscaped gardens.

• Bendricks Beach: Only 20 minutes from Cardiff, Bendricks Beach is a beautiful, quieter spot featuring a mix of sandy and rocky areas. It’s perfect for exploring tide pools and rock formations, making it an ideal destination for a more serene seaside adventure.

• Trecco Bay: Located 40 minutes away, Trecco Bay is a sandy beach that attracts plenty of visitors during the summer months. With its golden sands and inviting waters, it’s perfect for paddling and swimming, offering a quintessential beach day experience.

• Cardiff Bay: When summer arrives, Cardiff Bay transforms into a bustling hub filled with locals and tourists. Just five minutes from central Cardiff, this “beach” offers a variety of fun activities and live entertainment, making it a vibrant spot to soak up the summer vibes.

Adventure Seeking Trail in the Vale of Glamorgan

So, what’s on in Cardiff and surrounds for those with a hunger for adrenaline? Look no further than the Adventure Seeking Trail in the Vale! Surrounded by breathtaking nature, this trail is packed with thrilling attractions that promise heart-pounding excitement at every turn.

• Get Wild in the Waves 

Dive into the exhilarating world of water sports. Island SUP invites you to master the art of stand-up paddleboarding, where you can experience the serene yet thrilling sensation of gliding across the water. For a broader range of water activities, Vale Paddle Sports offers everything from stand-up paddleboarding and sit-on-top kayaks to sea kayaks and canoes, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned adventurers.

If you’re craving even more excitement, look no further than OBS Watersports. They provide all the gear you need, from surfboards to mountain bikes and paddleboards. Whether you’re exploring the waters or navigating through the stunning landscapes, OBS Watersports ensures you experience the Vale’s natural beauty up close and personal.

• Let Loose on Land 

Cardiff and its surroundings also offer high-dose excitement for those who prefer letting loose on land. Take the wheel of a supercar like a Ferrari, Lamborghini, or Aston Martin at Llandow Circuit and conquer the open roads. For a tactical challenge, head to Taskforce Paintball where you can strategise with your team and engage in competitive play.

For those who love climbing, Boulders in Culverhouse Cross is an indoor climbing centre that caters to all skill levels. It boasts towering walls with diverse routes and climbing challenges, perfect for an adrenaline-pumping adventure.

What’s On in Cardiff This Summer: Don’t Miss These Seasonal Highlights

Cardiff offers an array of seasonal activities and events to fill your days with summer fun. Here’s a list to mark on your calendar and savour every minute of the season. 

• Waverley – The Last Seagoing Paddle Steamer

Embark on an exciting cruise aboard the Waverley, the last seagoing paddle steamer. Offering voyages across various UK locations, this unique experience culminates with its final sailing on Sunday, October 20th. Don’t miss the chance to sail into history on this iconic vessel!

• Vale of Glamorgan Walking Festival

From September 3rd to 8th, lace up your walking shoes for the Vale of Glamorgan Walking Festival. This event offers a variety of guided trails and hikes, taking you through historic sites, stunning countryside, and breathtaking seascapes. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore the beauty of the Vale!

• Family Fun Day

On August 8, Family Fun Day returns with a fantastic lineup of entertainment for the whole family. With free entry and affordable activities, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy the summer holidays. This community-centred event highlights local traders and features on-stage performances from local musicians and bands like It Takes Two, Rich’s Rock School, Nia Tyler, and more. 

• School Holiday Camps

Keep your kids entertained with a plethora of exciting holiday camps in Cardiff. Choose from options like Acorns Action Pak Cardiff, Kings Summer Camp, The Talent Shack, and Active Kids. Each offers a range of activities designed to keep kids engaged and having fun during the school break.

Masons Moving Group: Trusted House Movers for over 100 Years

At Masons Moving Group, we pride ourselves on being Wales’ preferred home removals experts with over a century of experience in Cardiff and the wider Vale of Glamorgan. We understand that planning a move can be stressful, so why not take some time to enjoy the summer activities and attractions around Cardiff? Once you’ve had a chance to relax, let us take the reins to ensure your moving day is smooth, hassle-free, and seamless from start to finish.

For more information or to get a tailored quote for your office or home move, call our friendly team at 0800 141 3688 or email us at [email protected] for your free quote!