Bute Park Secret Garden café to First Light Coffee Shop in Tongwynlais

On departing the cafe entrance near Bute Park Visitor Centre, we shall cycle through the park towards Tongwynlais via Gabalfa and Llandaf North. The return trip is likely the same route.

This is the first time that we have led this ride so we are both excited. It will be beautiful to see Bute Park and the Taff Trail in the autumn.

The majority of this route is traffic-free. The exception is on leaving Hailey Park at Llandaf North where we will cycle on a shared path (crossing residential roads) and beyond when riding near Forest Farm. This is the Taff Trail official route so drivers will be expecting cyclists. In Tongwynlais, to access the cafe, we will ride a few metres on Merthyr Road. Very nervous riders have the option to dismount and walk this section on the pavement. Much of the route is flat or has gradual slopes.

Due to the cycle hire facility at Pedal Power now being closed on Sundays until the spring, we decided to capitalise by having a cafe stop at First light in Tongwynlais. This is basically a very small room but the hosts are very welcoming of cyclists and it offers delicious hot drinks and pastries.

The following items are recommended - * Clothing/footwear that is comfortable and suitable for the weather * Water bottle * Inner tube for your own cycle tyres * Bike lock for our cafe stop * Cash/bank card * Mobile phone * Gloves if very cold or wet * If dark, cycle lights A helmet is optional. Please be aware that parking at the start/end of the ride is extremely limited. Previous riders have used the free parking facility at Pedal Power (at their own risk) but availability is not guaranteed. Otherwise there is Council parking 5 minutes walk away on North Road or near the Bus Station in Sophia Gardens, or further afield near Cathays Park (both require payment). If driving to us, please allow plenty of time to find parking.

We especially welcome newbies!