Nia's Local Guide: 3 Top Things to Do Near Pontcanna Emerald

Hello! I’m Nia Reis, co-founder of Guesture — and someone who doesn’t just manage properties, but genuinely falls in love with the neighbourhoods we serve. Our newest gem, the Pontcanna Emerald, sits right in the heart of my favourite corner of Cardiff. And when I say “premium stay,” I’m not just talking about the underfloor heating or the luxury bedding — it’s about the lifestyle you step into the moment you walk out the door.

Pontcanna has that rare blend of village calm and instant access to the very best of the capital. If you’re planning a trip and wondering about things to do in Pontcanna, here are my top three must-dos — all within a short, scenic stroll from the Pontcanna Emerald.

1. Step Into Cardiff’s Green Heart: Bute Park & Sophia Gardens

One of the greatest joys of staying in Pontcanna is the effortless access to green space. Within 5–10 minutes from the Pontcanna Emerald, you can leave the leafy streets behind and wander into the vast beauty of Bute Park.

Bute Park is the city’s green lung — stretching right up to Cardiff Castle. It’s perfect for a morning jog, a riverside cycle, or a quiet coffee on a bench surrounded by ancient trees.

Just next door is Sophia Gardens, home to Glamorgan County Cricket Club. If you’re visiting during cricket season, you’ll be able to catch a match without battling traffic or crowds — guests absolutely love this.

Seasonal Highlights

• Summer: open-air theatre, family festivals, and long days by the river

• Autumn: some of the most breathtaking autumn colours in Wales

  
  

2. Taste Local Life: Riverside Market & Cowbridge Road Food Scene

One thing I adore about a Pontcanna stay is the food — independent, creative, and all a short walk away.

Just 5–10 minutes from the Emerald, Cowbridge Road East offers everything from sushi and Italian trattorias to artisan bakeries and classic Welsh pubs. It’s vibrant and multicultural — the perfect place to live like a local and escape the tourist trails.

If you're here on a Sunday, you simply must stroll over to Riverside Market. It’s a celebration of Welsh makers and produce: artisan cheeses, craft breads, fresh coffee, street food and local ingredients you’ll want to bring back to the apartment kitchen. It’s Cardiff community spirit at its finest.

3. Events Central: Access to Principality Stadium & Festive City Life

Pontcanna might feel calm and leafy, but it’s still wonderfully close to the action — ideal for guests travelling for major Cardiff events.

For rugby weekends, the Principality Stadium is just a scenic 20-minute walk along the river. You get all the atmosphere without the chaos of staying in the centre — and our guests love returning to the peaceful comfort of the Pontcanna Emerald after a triumphant match.

In winter, the walk into the city centre takes you straight into the Cardiff Christmas Markets — glowing lights, festive stalls, mulled drinks and handmade gifts. And when you’re ready, it’s only a short wander back to your warm apartment with its cosy underfloor heating.

At Guesture, we choose our properties not only for their beauty, but for the lifestyle they unlock. And the Pontcanna Emerald truly delivers — offering an elegant, authentic, and wonderfully convenient base for anyone looking for Cardiff attractions near accommodation.

I can’t wait for you to discover this neighbourhood the way we have: with curiosity, comfort, and a little touch of Cardiff magic.

Warmly,

Nia Reis

Co-Founder, Guesture