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Canals of Cardiff Bay, Cardiff

An urban walk with peace and quiet

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Start and Finish

Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay

Distance

2 miles or 3 km

Along the way

Starting at the entrance to the Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff’s stunning arts and theatre complex with a striking golden roof, follow the Wales Coast Path in front of County Hall to walk along the edge of the dock. The ships that moored here during Cardiff’s industrial heyday are long gone, replaced by nesting coots, swans and great crested grebes (during summer, keep an eye out for colourful dragonflies and damselflies too).

About half way along the dock, turn left to explore a network of smaller canals crossed by bridges. It’s a quiet spot that’s a perfect temporary escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. When you’re ready to move on, cross Schooner Way to walk back to the Wales Millennium Centre via the other side of the dock, rejoining the Wales Coast Path in front of County Hall.

Walk Highlights

Tricia Cottnam, Wales Coast Path officer’s highlights

"This walk provides you with some tranquillity within the urban surroundings of Cardiff and the Bay area. There are wildlife spotting opportunities here too, Great crested Grebes, and other wildfowl often nest around Atlantic Wharf and along the canal system. You could easily forget you are in the middle of a busy city here".

Need to know

Cardiff Bay has plenty of parking, plus bus and train links to central Cardiff. For refreshments and toilets, there’s a huge choice of waterfront restaurants cafés, bars and pubs.

Want to go further?

Try our Family Walk with a Difference in Cardiff Bay with the Wales Coast Path app, using 3D film, the history of this vibrant part of the capital city of Wales comes to life before your eyes.