Roath Park and Lake

Roath Park is the city's favourite place for an unhurried stroll, a Victorian pleasure park about two miles north of the castle, built around a large boating lake. The lake covers roughly thirty acres and is the park's defining feature, with a promenade running around it, rowing boats and pedalos in season, anglers and a cast of ducks, swans and geese that keep children entertained. At the southern end stands the Scott Memorial Lighthouse, a stone tower on the water that commemorates Captain Robert Falcon Scott, whose last expedition sailed from Cardiff in 1910, and it is one of the best-known images of the city. Visitors can row beside it, and the sight of a small lighthouse in the middle of a city park never fails to surprise. Entry is free, the park is open all day, and there are gardens, play areas and cafes nearby, so it makes a relaxed contrast to the castle and the museums.

Getting there takes a little planning because the park lies north of the centre in the Roath and Cyncoed area. Buses run from the city centre along Albany Road and Wellfield Road, the walk from Queen Street is about thirty minutes, and cycling is easy, while drivers will find on-street parking and a small car park nearby that can be busy at weekends.

The most popular circuit follows the promenade around the whole lake, which takes about forty minutes at a slow pace, with benches and viewpoints along the way. Many visitors begin at the southern end near the lighthouse, wander the gardens and play area, then follow the path along the water to the far end and back.

Match the visit to the season. Spring brings blossom and daffodils, summer is the time for boating and ice cream, autumn colours the trees around the lake, and winter has a quiet charm with mist on the water and waterfowl gathering near the banks. Boat hire is seasonal and weather dependent, so do not count on it outside the warmer months.

A cafe and refreshment kiosks near the lake serve hot drinks, and the park is a pleasant place for a picnic when the weather behaves. Paths are mostly level and suit pushchairs and wheelchairs, though surfaces can be muddy after heavy rain. Bring a bag of bird food if you have children, but follow any signs about what the birds can eat.

Roath Park works best as a half-day away from the main sights, especially for families and for anyone who has had their fill of castles. Combine it with a visit to the nearby shops and cafes on Albany Road, or head back to the centre by bus for dinner. Because it is local rather than a tourist attraction, you will see Cardiff residents walking dogs, jogging and meeting friends, which gives a different picture of the city.

Check the council's park pages for any event days or temporary closures, and bring a waterproof, because the weather can change quickly. Allow one to two hours, or longer if you hire a boat or want to sit and watch the water.

Finish the visit with a look at the gardens and the quieter corners. The southern end of the park has formal planting and open lawns where families spread blankets in summer, and the path around the lake passes bridges, reed beds and viewpoints that give changing views of the lighthouse.

Dog walkers, joggers and cyclists share the main path, so keep an eye on young children, and note that the park closes its gates at night. If rain arrives, shelters and cafe seating are close at hand, and the bus back to the centre is a short walk away.