There is nothing quite like spring in Cardiff – that sweet spot where the sun makes a comeback, but
you’re still safe in a light jacket. As soon as the skies clear I’m out and about, soaking up every second
of this city in bloom. Here’s where you’ll find me when the days get softer.
Let’s start with my ideal spring day: me and my boyfriend grabbing iced drinks from Kin+Ilk in St
David’s, picking up a baguette from Fresh the Baguette Bar in the Arcades, then strolling into Bute
Park to eat under the trees. We’ll usually loop back to The Secret Garden Café, tucked right in the
middle of the park – it’s the perfect ‘pause and breathe’ moment. Their iced maple lattes (topped
with their cold foam, of course) are basically sunshine in a cup. When I’m out solo, nothing beats
Cardiff Market for food on the go. I’ll normally grab a pizza from Ffwrnes or a baguette from Fresh
and head into Bute Park for an impromptu picnic.
Sunshine, carbs, and people watching? Heaven.
I recently discovered Church Street, and now I can’t stay away. It’s one of the city’s hidden food
gems, lined with spots that are basked in sun during golden hour. My current favourite is Honest
Burgers and their £8.95 lunch deal (burger, chips, and a drink) is such a win and an unbeatable spring
treat. For weekends, Pontcanna is where I want to be. Especially when the vintage and farmers
markets pop up. There’s something about that area – the leafy streets, artisan coffee shops, and
relaxed energy – that makes time slow down. When it comes to friends, our go to spring activity must
be a ‘picky bits’ haul from M&S and a picnic in Gorsedd Gardens or ‘Alexandra Gardens’. The
architecture, the sunshine, and closeness to Uni– it’s the perfect lunch spot. You can even study
while you’re out there.
Honourable mention goes to Brodie’s Coffee, for a midday pick me up under the trees. If I’ve got a
whole day to spare, I’ll take the short bus ride to St. Fagans. Just half an hour from the city centre
and totally free, it’s a dreamy mix of Welsh heritage and scenic greenery. On a sunny day, the gardens
make you feel like you’ve been transported straight to Tuscany. And if I’m feeling adventurous? I’ll
walk down to Cardiff Bay. With all its coffee and food spots, it’s perfect for a spring stroll. If you’re up
for it, keep going across the Barrage to Penarth and back, then finish your day at Tiger Yard – an
outdoor food court that was made for sunny lunches.
Cardiff in spring is full of little joys.
You just need to know where to look.
Words by Wiktoria Alicja Gabara
Photo by Evgeny Lazarenko on Unsplash. No Changes have been made to the image.