Cathays’ Highlights (updated Sept ‘23)
We love being in Cathays and feel the local area has more to offer than you’d imagine. Okay, parking is a bit tricky sometimes, but once you’ve found your spot let's help you make the most of your visit! Whether you’ve arrived early or want to explore the area after your workshop, here are some top tips to make the most of your day with Lark!
We've also put all the following places, and a few more, onto a handy Google map which means you can save it to your phone for when you visit ;-)
Go on a walk in Cathays Cemetery
It sounds a bit weird to suggest a walk here but it's honestly one of the most beautiful places in Cardiff, you'll spot lots of squirrels and birds as you wander.
Interesting facts for you: It opened in 1859, it's the third-largest cemetery in the UK and is home to hundreds of commonwealth war graves.
Cathays Library
This lovely building on the intersection of Crwys and Whitchurch roads is a welcoming space with a good selection of books and historical papers, they also host events so is worth checking out the noticeboard.
Shopping:
We have some great charity shops so close to the studio - we love St Vincents which is at the end of Dogfield Street on Crwys Road, the biggest charity shop is the Cerebral Palsey shop which is next to Lloyds Supersavers (which is also always worth a visit as it is sooooo cheap) and a bit further down Crwys Road you’ll find InterAid, it's one of those proper random charity shops with an amazingly hectic window display!
If you like bikes then the guys in Cyclopedia are always happy to help with anything you need.
Situated on Fanny street, this art gallery is a perfect activity to complete your crafty day out!
Coffee shops:
(click on the titles to follow the following on social media)
1. Mec Coffee
Only a 2-minute walk from our studio on Crwys Road, Mac sells speciality coffee and also stays open late and serves wine Thursday, Friday and Saturday so could be a good option before or after an evening workshop.
2. Blwm Cardiff
This fab cafe is just around the corner on Fairoak Road. They sell some gorgeous gooey cakes, great coffee as well as dried flowers and homeware. It's well worth stopping off for a coffee before your workshop.
3. Pink Kiwi
This place does amazing brunches and lunch items so it is the best place to go if you feel hungry before or after your daytime workshop!
Teacups and Cupcakes offers an amazing selection of cupcakes and hot drinks! Great for a little afternoon treat.
(Images from Tuk Tuk, Maria’s Greek Restaurant, Pink Kiwi, Blwm and Mec Coffee’s social media)
Grab some food before or after an evening workshop
1. Tuk Tuk
Newly opened down Crwys Road and just a few minutes walk from our studio. If you fancy some great Thai street food, this is the place to go!
2. Maria's Greek Restaurant
Maria's have got us through some long shifts with their great value halloumi wraps and also prepared a great buffet for our staff Christmas party. They are open 7 days a week and offer great lunch and evening options so we'd highly recommend fitting them into your Cathays visit sometime!
Only a couple of minutes walk from Lark, Mowlgis offers some tasty Indian dishes!
Fancy a drink?
With so many pubs and bars in this student area, why not get involved and have a drink after (or before!) your craft workshop?