Anyone who’s lucky enough to go to uni in Cardiff knows that it’s a gorgeous place to explore. But it’s not just the obvious landmarks and attractions which make the Welsh capital such a delight. The city has a whole host of beautiful locales and hidden shops and bars to discover. To help you get even more out of Cardiff, we’ve put together this list of the eight best secret places to explore in the city.

The Secret Garden Cafe in Bute Park

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Credit: Bute Park/Facebook
Where: North Road, CF10 3DX

Nestled away in the already-gorgeous Bute Park, the Secret Garden Cafe is an even quieter getaway from the real world than the park that houses it. The cafe has a small courtyard area with outside seating, featuring some lovely views of the park and a great place to get some grub.

World Of Boats

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Credit: Cardiff Bay/Facebook
Where: Heol Porth Teigr, Porth Teigr, CF10 4GA

World Of Boats might not be the most eye-catching part of Cardiff Bay (that would probably just be the beautiful bay itself), but hidden away inside this quaint little collection on the bay are incredible boats from around the world and throughout time. You can even pop into the workshop, which is open to visitors, to check out what repairs or work the staff are doing on boats right now.

Pipes Brewery

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Credit: Pipes Beer/Facebook
Where: 183A Kings Road, CF11 9DF

This superb artisan brewery prides itself on giving customers a choice from some of the more unique, and much lesser-known, beers from around the whole world. With a very stylish setup and knowledgeable staff, you can also check out their popup bar in Pontcanna once a month.

The flea market on Rose Street

Credit: Luka Lynch/Instagram
Where: 37A Rose Street, CF24 3EA

This junk shop is a truly secret place hidden away in Roath. Owned by the mysterious and reclusive Frank, there is a whole host of weird and wonderful objects to be found here. It’s open every weekend from 10am to 4pm, and it’s definitely one of the city’s best-kept secrets, which makes for a ridiculously charming day of shopping.

Cardiff Castle’s Rooftop Garden

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Credit: Cardiff Castle/Facebook
Where: Castle Street, CF10 3RB

While Cardiff Castle itself hardly qualifies as being ‘hidden’, out of sight and on top of the structure you can find a delightful rooftop garden. At the top of the huge spiral staircase, you’ll rise to see this gorgeous collection of plants and fountains, away from the busy crowds of the castle itself.

St Fagans Secret Garden

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Credit: St Fagans/Facebook
Where: Just off the A4232, CF5 6XB

Despite being another staple of the city, St Fagans still has its own little secrets to discover for the more adventurous visitor. Check out its numerous gardens which aren’t as obvious to the public as the museum itself, and you’ll be treated to some amazing foliage and secluded walks.

The canals in Forest Farm

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Credit: Hungrycityhippy/Instagram
Where: Forest Farm Road, Whitchurch, CF14 7JH

The whole Forest Farm reserve was built around a series of old canals in Cardiff. The Glamorganshire canal is just one of the bodies of water you can see the last remaining stretches of. It makes for a beautiful and peaceful walk, truly away from any hustle and bustle.

Hard Lines Coffee

hard-lines

Credit: Hard Lines Coffee/Twitter
Where: Hard Lines Market, Unit 25, Cardiff Central Market CF10 1AU or Hard Lines Cafe, St Canna Court, CF5 1GX

Not only does Hard Lines serve incredible cups of joe, it’s also a purveyor of excellent records for the discerning music fan to peruse. It changed it’s name from Outpost Coffee several years ago but fear not, it’s still retained its hidden, classy vibe and is still the best place to go for great coffee. Hard Lines are a Welsh coffee brand that are active in the community too, so you know you’re buying a good product from a good company.