
Forest Farm and Glamorganshire Canal LNR
A tranquil nature reserve with well-paved trails, abundant wildlife, and scenic canal views, perfect for photography and outdoor activities.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photography

Forest Farm and Glamorganshire Canal LNR
Best Time
Best light for photography

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil nature reserve with well-paved trails, abundant wildlife, and scenic canal views, perfect for photography and outdoor activities.
"A hidden gem tucked away in nature, this country park offers a tree-sheltered, well-paved trail—a definite favorite."

📸 Patience for Kingfishers
Bring snacks & drinks; kingfisher sightings require patience, but hides offer great views.
🚗 Parking Advice
Two free car parks available. For Taff Trail access, park at Forest Farm Allotments.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kingfisher Hides
Along the River Taff
Prime spots for patiently waiting to capture stunning kingfisher photos. The first hide offers closer perches.

Glamorganshire Canal
Adjacent to Forest Farm
Enjoy beautiful colors and wildlife along the historic canal, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

River Taff Trail
Direct access from Forest Farm
A popular, well-paved path for cycling, running, and dog walking with scenic views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wildlife & Photography
Navigating Trails & Traffic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
What parts of cardiff are atleast a bit green and good for a wildlife lover?
📸 Patience for Kingfishers
Bring snacks & drinks; kingfisher sightings require patience, but hides offer great views.
🚗 Parking Advice
Two free car parks available. For Taff Trail access, park at Forest Farm Allotments.
Please send me suggestions for interesting walking paths in the Cardiff area!
Forest Walks around Cardiff
🚴♀️ Beware of Cyclists
Trails are shared with bikes. Be cautious, especially near Radyr weir.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Walks
Great for dogs, but keep them on a lead and aware of cyclists.
Where are Cardiff's hidden gems?
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Patience for Kingfishers
Bring snacks & drinks; kingfisher sightings require patience, but hides offer great views.
🚗 Parking Advice
Two free car parks available. For Taff Trail access, park at Forest Farm Allotments.
🚴♀️ Beware of Cyclists
Trails are shared with bikes. Be cautious, especially near Radyr weir.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Walks
Great for dogs, but keep them on a lead and aware of cyclists.
🎒 Pack a Picnic
No cafe on-site, so bring your own lunch and drinks for a full day out.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Forest Farm is a cherished local gem, praised for its beautiful walking trails along the canal and river, and its abundant wildlife, especially kingfishers. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained paths suitable for various activities, though the lack of on-site amenities like a cafe is a common point of note. The park offers a peaceful natural escape, though shared paths require awareness of cyclists.
"Lovely place for walk with family and pets.
You can also go paddleboarding on the river Taff (be responsible as there aren't any life guards)"
Ashley John Eynon
"Another Jewel in the crown , only 30min from where I live, this is my 1st time at forest farm, it's a dream for camera enthusiast, plenty of birds, insects, two hides , but don't worry if you're not into photography the walks are lovely, no cafe so bring packed lunch + drinks ."
Stephen Davies
"The place to go if you want to get photos of kingfishers. You might get lucky and see one quickly, you might have to wait many hours, but generally if you're patient you will be rewarded. The first hide is best as the perches are a lot closer.
Nice walks around the area as well, with beautiful colours along the old canal and you can loop around to the river Taff. Plenty of other wildlife around and kids will enjoy the hides when the rabbits and squirrels turn up."
Kevin Arscott (The Walking Kev)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Forest Farm is accessible via Forest Farm Road, off Velindre Road. There are two main parking options: one at the rugby club and a smaller free car park further along. For direct access to the River Taff Trail, continue to the Forest Farm Allotments gate.
While specific public transport routes aren't detailed in user tips, the area is generally accessible by car. Consider checking local bus routes for Cardiff and nearby areas if you're relying on public transport.
The quickest access to the River Taff Trail is by driving to the gate at Forest Farm Allotments. A short footpath to the left from this unmarked dead-end lane leads directly onto the trail.
Forest Farm Road is narrow and shared with joggers and cyclists. Drive slowly and patiently, as puddles can form after rain.
Yes, the River Taff Trail is a popular cycle path, and Forest Farm is accessible via this route. Be mindful of other users on the path.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of an entrance fee in the provided reviews, suggesting it is likely free to enter and explore.
Specific opening hours are not provided, but it's generally described as a country park, implying it's open during daylight hours.
No advance booking is mentioned, and the park seems to be freely accessible for visitors.
The main restriction mentioned is to be considerate of other users, especially cyclists and joggers on the narrow roads.
Absolutely! With lovely walks, wildlife viewing opportunities, and access to the Taff Trail, it's an ideal destination for a day out.
📸 📸 Photography
The hides along the River Taff are specifically mentioned as excellent for wildlife photography, particularly for kingfishers. The first hide is noted for its closer perches.
Visitors can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including birds, insects, rabbits, and squirrels. Kingfishers are a particular highlight for photographers.
If you're patient, you can be rewarded with sightings of kingfishers. While it might take hours, the chance to capture them is a significant draw for photographers.
Early mornings are generally best for photography due to the quality of light, especially for capturing wildlife.
While not explicitly stated, a telephoto lens would be beneficial for capturing distant wildlife like kingfishers. Binoculars are also useful for spotting birds.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The trails are described as well-paved and tree-sheltered, making them suitable for runners, joggers, cyclists, and dog walkers.
There is no cafe on-site, so visitors are advised to bring their own packed lunches and drinks. Restroom facilities are not mentioned.
Yes, children will enjoy the hides when rabbits and squirrels appear. The well-paved trails are also good for younger walkers.
Paddleboarding is possible on the River Taff, but visitors are urged to be responsible as there are no lifeguards.
It's described as a hidden gem, offering a peaceful escape into nature with beautiful colors along the canal and river.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack a picnic as there are no cafes on-site, turning your visit into a delightful outdoor dining experience. The opportunity to see kingfishers, even if it requires patience, can be a memorable adventure for children. Just be sure to keep them close and aware of cyclists on shared paths.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond kingfishers, the diverse wildlife, including insects, rabbits, and squirrels, offers ample subjects. The scenic beauty of the Glamorganshire Canal and the River Taff also provides opportunities for landscape and nature photography. Early mornings are recommended for the best light conditions.
🏃♀️ Runners & Cyclists
Be mindful of other users, particularly joggers and cyclists on the narrower sections of Forest Farm Road. The proximity to Radyr weir also means increased activity. It's a great place for a consistent workout amidst nature, offering a refreshing change from urban running or cycling routes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Photography at Forest Farm
While the park is a dream for camera enthusiasts, it's important to manage expectations. Success in wildlife photography often depends on luck and persistence. Bringing a good telephoto lens will significantly enhance your ability to capture detailed shots from a distance. Remember to be quiet and respectful of the environment to avoid disturbing the wildlife. The presence of the Glamorganshire Canal and the River Taff also adds scenic elements to your photography, offering opportunities for landscape shots alongside wildlife.
Exploring the Trails and Waterways
The River Taff Trail is a significant feature, offering a more extensive route for those looking for a longer excursion. It's easily accessible from Forest Farm, making it a convenient starting point for cycling or walking adventures. Near Radyr weir, the path is also popular, but visitors should be aware of passing bikes. For those with dogs, the trails are generally accommodating, but it's crucial to keep pets on a lead and be mindful of cyclists and other users to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
For the more adventurous, paddleboarding on the River Taff is an option. However, it's essential to exercise caution and responsibility, as there are no lifeguards present. This adds another dimension to the recreational opportunities available at Forest Farm, catering to a range of interests from gentle strolls to more active pursuits on the water.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit