Cardiff Bay Wetland Reserve

Located on the northern shore of Cardiff Bay between St David’s Hotel and the River Taff. The Harbour Authority has developed and manages the Cardiff Bay Wetland Reserve, this attraction is an area of approximately 8 hectares. Take the children on a family fun activity, looking for some creepy crawlies and the interesting species along the accessible path through the Wetlands. The reserve is easily accessible via a gravel walkway and boardwalk, and boasts a viewing area that extends out over the water, providing the perfect location for bird watching.

Visit the website to download the ‘Wetlands Wildlife Explorer’ and take them on a family fun tour of the reserve. Find the 12 marker post to make a rubbing of the find. While parents can take in the fresh air and enjoy the views across the gorgeous bay of Cardiff.

Created on a former salt marsh, the area supports a rich diversity of plants and animals, including invertebrates, fish and other wildlife.

Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve is home to a number of invasive species. Invasive plants such as Japanese knotweed, Himalayan balsam and Giant hogweed grow along the riverbanks. Cardiff Harbour Authority (CHA) has a treatment programme in place to reduce the spread of, and where possible eliminate, these plants.

Zebra mussels and invasive shrimps are present in the water. These can out-compete other aquatic creatures and reduce biodiversity. Zebra mussels can also cause damage to underwater structures and vessels. It is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act to cause the spread of invasive species.

To reduce the risk of spreading these creatures to other sites, CHA requests that all Bay users follow the principles of ‘Check, Clean, Dry’. The Harbour Authority is a member of the Wales Biodiversity Partnership Invasive Non-Native Species group, which aims to develop best practice across Wales to minimise the spread and impact of non-native species.