Bute Park

Visit Bute Park with its central location in Cardiff, it has acres of green space and varied events programme, Bute Park is one of Cardiff city centre’s premier visitor attractions. Formerly the Victorian pleasure ground of Cardiff Castle, the park contains the Blackfriars Friary (a scheduled ancient monument), a magnificent arboretum and a wealth of archaeological and nature conservation interest.

• Grade 1 listed historic park: Listed, along with Cardiff Castle, on the Cadw Register of Landscapes, Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in Wales.
• Blackfriars Friary: An unusual layout of medieval Friary remains which was excavated in the late 19th century by the third Marquess of Bute and interpreted in Victorian brick to show the original building plan.
• Bute Park Arboretum: Created in 1947 and contains a mix of interesting and ornamental trees. Many of these are champion trees, the biggest examples of their type in the UK.
• Animal Wall: The iconic William Burges landmark was cleaned and conserved in 2010 for the delight of residents and visitors.
• Herbaceous border: A renowned herbaceous border runs alongside the River Taff.
• Mill Leat: The line of the former medieval millstream and mill pond, running below the walls of Cardiff Castle has been re-flooded to restore beautiful views of the castle and enhance the character of this forgotten corner of the park.
• Dock feeder: The slow flowing waters of the feeder canal bely its function as a supply of water to Cardiff’s Docks. The feeder is a haven for wildlife and provides a contrast to the more formal areas of parkland.
• Gorsedd stones: Despite their ancient appearance, the stones recall Cardiff’s hosting of the National Eisteddfod in 1978.
• Sculpture trail: A series of timber sculptures, created from tree trunks in the arboretum provide interest throughout the park.
• Blackweir and Salmon pass: During October salmon can be seen leaping the weir to get to their spawning grounds higher up the river.