Roath Park is a large Victorian park in Cardiff’s Roath district, with a 30-acre lake, ornamental gardens and open lawns. Walk the lakeside path for views of the Scott Memorial Lighthouse, a white landmark dedicated to Captain Scott and the crew of the Terra Nova. You can also explore the botanical and wild gardens, visit the conservatory, or hire a boat when available. Families have a playground to stop at, while the lake, flower beds and picnic areas make room for a quieter visit.
The lake and Scott Memorial Lighthouse
Roath Park opened in 1894 and retains its Victorian layout. Its 30-acre man-made lake is a focal point for walks, boating and fishing. A path circles the water, with places to sit along the way and views across the lake to the gardens and surrounding trees.
Look for the white Scott Memorial Lighthouse, one of the park’s best-known landmarks. It commemorates Captain Scott and the crew of the Terra Nova, who sailed from Cardiff in 1910 and died in Antarctica in 1912. The structure has three tiers, a clock face and a wind vane shaped like the Discovery, Scott’s ship from an earlier Antarctic expedition.
Gardens and conservatory
The park’s gardens offer a change of pace from the lakeside route. The botanical garden and rose garden have planted beds and seating, while the wild garden provides a different setting for a stroll. The conservatory contains plants and fish, including koi. It is a useful stop if you want to look around indoors as well as spend time outside.
Open lawns and picnic areas give you room to pause between walks. The wider park also includes woodland and a children’s play area, so a visit can suit different ages and interests without staying beside the lake the whole time.
Walking, boating and family stops
The circular walk around Roath Park is about 5 km and takes an average of around 1 hour 25 minutes. The route is flat, so it works for a steady walk or run. You can shorten your visit by choosing a section of the lakeside path, or add time for the gardens and conservatory.
Boat hire, including pedal boats and rowing boats, lets you see the lake from the water when the service is operating. Children can use the playground, which has slides, swings and climbing equipment. The lake is also home to ducks, swans and other birds. If you feed them, take suitable seed rather than bread.
Getting more from your visit
Roath Park is north of Cardiff city centre, in the Roath district. Its lawns and gardens make a picnic an easy option, and there is a café for drinks and cake. The park also has an ice cream kiosk and sports areas.
A sunny day gives you the best chance to enjoy the lake and planted areas outdoors. If you want to cover the full circular route and explore the gardens, allow more time than the walk alone requires. Boat availability can depend on the day, so check before planning your visit around a lake trip.
FAQ
How long does the walk around Roath Park Lake take?
The circular route is about 5 km and takes around 1 hour 25 minutes on average.
What is the lighthouse in Roath Park?
The white Scott Memorial Lighthouse commemorates Captain Scott and the Terra Nova crew, who died in Antarctica in 1912. It has three tiers, a clock face and a wind vane shaped like the Discovery.
Can you hire a boat at Roath Park?
Rowing boats and pedal boats are available to hire when the service is operating. Check availability before making a boat trip the focus of your visit.
What can children do at Roath Park?
The park has a playground with slides, swings and climbing equipment, as well as open space and a lakeside path.
