The 10 Best Live Music Venues In Cardiff

The Globe, situated on Albany Road, lies at the heart of the heavily student populated area of Roath. A former cinema, the venue includes an auditorium and a balcony, and provides a varied and exciting lineup. The Globe’s 350 seating capacity is complemented by a large stage which allows for an intense experience. Whilst many tribute bands are known to play here, it’s important to keep an eye on the schedule as there’s usually something special waiting around the corner.

Hours: 7:30 p.m.-12:00 a.m.

Opposite to Moon Club you’ll find Clwb Ifor Bach, named after a Welsh leader who rebelled against the English during the 12th century. The venue, which first opened in 1983, is used as a social centre for Welsh speakers in the city. The three-story building has been an important part of the live music scene in Cardiff, welcoming acts from across the globe. If there isn’t a live band playing, there is often an alternative club night to enjoy instead.

Hours: Monday-Tuesday 7:00 p.m.-3:30 a.m.; Wednesday-Sunday 7:00 p.m.-4:00 a.m.

Gwdihw Café Bar, located near the Motorpoint Arena, is a cosy, homely venue, which promotes a variety of music genres. Boasting a fantastic beer garden and serving a wide array of ciders, ales, and spirits behind the bar, Gwdihw is well worth a visit. Live music genres includes funk, soul, indie, and more. With an ever-changing lineup and series of events, this bar has been referred to as one of the best live music venue in Wales.

Hours: Varies Everyday

St David’s Hall is not only a performing arts theatre but it’s also the National Concert Hall of Wales, and hosts the country’s proms. Opened in 1983 by the Queen Mother, the hall’s brutalist architectural style has caused the building to become an important part of the city’s landscape. The venue’s programme consists of a wide range of live music, including classical, jazz, contemporary, and more. More often than not they will offer a free, or relatively cheap, concert which can be enjoyed during a lunch break, so keep an eye on the schedule.

Hours: 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

Cardiff’s Tramshed is the city’s newest music venue, located just across the River Taf from the Central Station. Set in a historical building of great cultural significance, the venue is a breath of fresh air for Cardiff. This old city tram depot has already managed to line up an exciting and varying programme that caters to all interests.

Cardiff Bay has lacked a live music venue for sometime, due to the recession and various other reasons. Gleecomedy and live music club has partially filled this void by putting on a range of live music events, alongside some comedy, of course. With a decent stage and prices that are particularly friendly to the student wallet, the club has welcomed local and international artists to their stage. Glee’s in-house restaurant and well stocked bar only adds to the atmosphere in the redeveloped area of Cardiff Bay.

Hours: Monday 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Tuesday-Friday 9:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Saturday 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Cardiff’s Students’ Union is a great place to catch live gigs at reasonable prices. With two venues, Y Plas and The Great Hall, there are typically multiple events happening each week. Y Plas caters for the smaller gigs, whereas The Great Hall welcomes chart toppers and great bands to play to a 1,600-strong crowd. The gigs are not limited to students, and offer decent drinks prices and a large dance floor.

Hours: Open 24/7