E D I T I O N 0 8 / S E P T E M B R 2 0 26
A RECORD-BREAKING SUMMER OF LIVE MUSIC GUEST EDITED BY NICK SAUNDERS FOUNDER & DIRECTOR AT DEPOT & DEPOT LIVE E D I T I O N 0 8 / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 26
King fishr - DEPOT
FEATURES 06-07
WHAT’S ON
08-09
THE MAIN STAGE
10-11
WINE PASSPORT
14-15
NEXT CHAPTER
18-19
CITY SOUND
24-25
CITY LEGACY
27-29
LOVE THY NEIGHBOUR
31-33
CHELSEA PINCHES-BURROWES
36-37
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
44-45
THE NEW CROWD
52-53
PEOPLE AND PLACES
64-65
THE INTENTIONAL THREAD
24 Jihane Rodriguez
SPOTLIGHT NEWS
31
66
40
Front cover photography by @lj_jones_creative & @depotlive
Donald’s Pies
CONTENTS
Edition 08 | September 2026
52 Welsh Fire
04 | Cardiff Life
EDITOR’S LETTER Credit: Sin Lam
GUEST EDITOR
“It is a real privilege to guest edit this issue of Cardiff Life, and to have the chance to celebrate some of the people, places and businesses that make this city feel so alive. This summer has been a special one. Looking after the gigs at our DEPOT venue, Cardiff Castle and Blackweir has been a huge responsibility, but also an enormous honour. To see the Welsh capital full of people, passion and music - with thousands coming together in the heart of the city - is a reminder of just how powerful live events can be, not only culturally, but economically and socially too. But Cardiff’s energy does not begin and end with big summer shows. Behind every major event is a wider ecosystem of independent businesses, hospitality venues, suppliers, creatives, promoters, partners and city-makers who keep the capital moving all year round. In this issue, Cardiff Life has looked at some of the businesses helping to shape Cardiff’s next chapter: from the collaborative work helping to grow the live music scene, to the independent bars and restaurants giving the city its personality, the emerging artists gaining bigger platforms, and the organisations working to make Cardiff greener, busier, better connected and more ambitious. I also asked my dad to share some memories of the Cardiff he knew growing up; he barely recognises parts of the city now. It’s evolving fast, and it’s amazing to be part of that - but whilst there have been huge changes, its greatest strength remains the same: its people. I hope this issue captures just a little of the energy, pride and possibility that make Cardiff so special.” Nick Saunders The DEPOT, DEPOT Live, Blackweir Live, Tiger Yard, Shangri-La Cardiff Life | 05
SPOTLIGHT NEWS
Spotlight
@BETHANMILLERCO & @depotlive
NEWS
THE OLD BREWERY RETURNS Brains has o cially returned to its iconic home on t ary treet Opening in the Brewery uarter, the immersive landmark venue pairs local cask ales and a Welsh BB menu with interactive sports simulators and the ’s rst Bayside triple-serve lager system.
SUMMER OF SOUND Cardiff’s live music scene has hit a massive new high note Together, DEPOT Live at Cardiff Castle and Blackweir Live hosted nights of worldclass live music, drawing nearly , fans into the city. With global superstars packing out iconic landmarks, lighting up warm summer evenings, and delivering an incredible boost to our local hospitality indies, it’s proof that the capital remains an undeniable powerhouse for major outdoor gigs and we already can’t wait to see who takes the stage next year
EISTEDDFOD RETURNS IN 2028 Cardiff has been o cially chosen to host the ational Eisteddfod in s one of Wales’ most signi cant cultural milestones, the iconic festival will bring tens of thousands of global visitors to the capital for an unforgettable weeklong celebration of Welsh language, arts, music, literature, and performance. Transforming our public spaces into a vibrant cultural aes right in the heart of the city. It’s a monumental win for the capital, set to showcase our thriving creative scene and boost local indies across the city. The National Eisteddfod 06 | Cardiff Life
GAME ON AT LANE7 Bouti ue bowling operator Lane is o cially landing in Cardiff, bringing a serious upgrade to the city’s social scene. The stylish new destination promises high-octane fun, combining luxury bowling lanes, retro arcade games, craft cocktails, and sharing plates for the ultimate night out.
Beacons Cymru is championing the next generation of backstage talent with Wales’ rst-of-its-kind music industry traineeship. Thirteen passionate young participants are embarking on a transformative six-month programme, gaining hands-on industry standard training and invaluable mentorship from seasoned music experts.
HOSPITALITY HEROES RUN 10K Cardiff’s vibrant bar and restaurant scene is trading shakers for running shoes On eptember, staff from across the city’s top venues will tackle the Lab ospitality vs Challenge, pounding the pavements in a friendly battle of endurance while raising vital funds for local children’s charity Dreams Wishes. Be sure to spot your favourite bartenders and give them a loud cheer along the route
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LEGEND HONOURED AT ARMS PARK Cardiff ugby is kicking off its historic th season by renaming rms Park’s orth tand after legendary scrum-half ir areth Edwards. The milestone unveiling also coincides with a brand-new heritage exhibition and a specially commissioned oil portrait celebrating a century and a half of capital rugby history, cementing the legacy of one of Wales’ greatest sporting icons for future generations of Blue and Black supporters.
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SPOTLIGHT NEWS
FUTURE MUSIC MOGULS
GK Barry: It’s Giving Life
WHAT’S ON 5 SEPTEMBER - 3 OCTOBER 2026
WHAT’S ON
Cardiff 5 September LAURENT-PERRIER BRUNCH CLUB THE PARKGATE HOTEL Elevate your weekend with free- owing Laurent-Perrier Champagne, live music, and decadent dining Enjoy a two-course lunch from a ichelin uide-listed kitchen in pure luxury. 6 September FUN FOR LITTLE ONES: A TRIBUTE TO MS RACHEL NEW THEATRE CARDIFF Bring the toddlers along for an upbeat, interactive show packed with catchy songs and play-along rhymes Designed for early learners, this tribute brings the online sensation directly to the stage. 08 | Cardiff Life
6 September KIDNEY WALES CDF 10K CARDIFF CITY CENTRE Lace up your trainers for the capital’s premier Dash past city-centre landmarks while soaking up electric crowd energy and raising vital funds for idney Wales. 7 September GK BARRY: IT’S GIVING LIFE NEW THEATRE CARDIFF ocial media icon and podcaster Barry brings her hit live tour to Cardiff Expect un ltered stories, hilarious chaos, and nonstop laughs with the aving race host.
New Theatre Cardiff
8 September HILARY DUFF UTILITA ARENA CARDIFF Pop icon ilary Duff brings her tour to Cardiff for an unmissable night of nostalgia oined by La oux, expect high-energy anthems and pure pop magic. 10 September MASTERING DIVERSITY CONFERENCE ROYAL WELSH COLLEGE OF MUSIC & DRAMA transformative day bringing together keynotes, zone sessions, and networking oin business leaders and changemakers celebrating inclusion, community, and empowerment across Wales.
12 September THE ROYAL WELSH 20TH ANNIVERSARY: PARTY IN THE PARK CARDIFF CASTLE Celebrate two decades of The oyal Welsh with an actionpacked family day Expect live regimental music, historical re-enactments, military displays, and food trucks inside castle grounds. 12 – 13 September ST FAGANS FOOD FESTIVAL ST FAGANS NATIONAL MUSEUM OF HISTORY Treat your tastebuds to Wales’ biggest celebration of local food and drink Explore dozens of stalls, live cooking demos, and delicious street food across historic grounds.
La bohème
13 September JOHN BARROWMAN: MY LIFE IN MUSICALS NEW THEATRE CARDIFF West End legend ohn Barrowman takes centre stage for a glittering celebration of Broadway hits Expect unforgettable showstoppers, hilarious behind-the-scenes stories, and pure musical theatre magic. 13 September WEDDING FAYRE ST MELLONS COUNTRY CLUB Planning your perfect day eet handpicked local suppliers,from orists to venue stylists,explore the venue, and gather expert inspiration Plus, enjoy free entry and complimentary refreshments. 24 September ANASTACIA NEW THEATRE CARDIFF Pop powerhouse nastacia hits Cardiff on her T tour Celebrate years of iconic hits with an unmissable night of soaring vocals and highenergy anthems. 24 - 27 September GREAT CARDIFF FEAST QUEEN STREET
St Mellons Country Club
Wedding Fayre
Taste your way through the capital as ueen treet transforms into a vibrant street food festival Expect delicious global eats, artisan stalls, live music, and craft drinks. 27 September - 3 October WELSH NATIONAL OPERA: LA BOHÈME WALES MILLENNIUM CENTRE Experience Puccini’s heartbreaking masterpiece live on stage ollow young creatives in Paris through timeless romance, devastating tragedy, and unforgettable operatic music.
Utilita Arena Cardiff
Anastacia Cardiff Life | 09
WHAT’S ON
Wales Millennium Centre
CITY IN MOTION
THE MAIN STAGE
A SUMMER THAT PUT CARDIFF CENTRE STAGE
There are summers when a city simply feels alive, and for Cardiff, has been one of them. cross Cardiff Castle and Blackweir, some of the biggest names in live music brought thousands of people into the Welsh capital, lling parks, streets, hotels, bars and restaurants with the energy that only major live events can create. dd in a summer of heatwaves, World Cup football, two major Principality tadium gigs from etallica and Take That, and so many warm, dry evenings, and Cardiff felt like a capital fully in motion. Behind those big nights is a huge amount of work. onths of planning go into every show: licensing, production, safety, sound, staging, sta ng, suppliers, transport, hospitality, waste management, resident liaison and the thousand unseen details that must be right before the rst note is played. But when it works, the impact reaches far beyond the stage.
une Beauclair data shared by O Cardiff supports the wider picture of a strong start to summer. Cardiff city centre total sales rose . year on year in une, outperforming cities like Bristol, ewport, ottingham - and the B benchmark. The data does not attribute spend to any single cause - and nor should it. Weather, sport, stadium concerts, tourism, school and university calendars, city centre campaigns and wider consumer patterns all play their part. But it does point to a city centre moving in the right direction during a month packed with reasons to visit. or the Welsh capital, the value of this summer is not only in the artists who played here. It is in the visitors attracted, the hotel rooms lled, the restaurant tables booked, the bars discovered and the sense of con dence created. With another year of major events, live music, hospitality openings and city-wide investment to come in , the challenge is to build on that momentum and make sure Cardiff keeps giving people reasons to come back long after the nal encore.
Ticketing data from this summer’s Castle and Blackweir programme shows that audiences didn’t just come from across Wales, but across the outh West and the wider , too. cross all Castle and Blackweir shows, only . of ticket holders were from Cardiff ale, meaning more than four in ve came from outside that immediate local market. It shows these events are not simply giving Cardiff residents something to do; they are actively pulling people into the city. The combined ticket-holder data shows . came from the rest of the , . from Bristol and the outh West, . from ewport went, . from hondda Cynon Taf erthyr, . from wansea eath and . from West Wales. The story is clear: Cardiff’s live music programme has become a genuine regional tourism driver. @lj_jones_creative & @depotlive
10 | Cardiff Life
@still_s
CITY IN MOTION
sin_ & @depotlive
@lj_jones_creative & @depotlive
Cardiff Life | 11
Cardiff
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WINE PASSPORT
THE INDEPENDENT INGREDIENT On major event days, Cardiff knows how to show up. s crowds pour into the city centre for stadium shows, summer gigs and cultural moments, it is the capital’s independent hospitality scene that keeps visitors fed, watered and excited about what makes Cardiff feel different.
t Parallel, head waiter arrison tandley says the restaurant is best known for “carrots, hospitality and memorable experiences”, making ne dining feel accessible through local produce, contemporary cooking and relaxed, personalised service.
But a city’s food and drink culture is not measured only by how it performs when the crowds are in town. ow halfway through its run, Cardiff Wine Passport is encouraging people to explore the bars, restaurants and neighbourhood venues shaping the city week in, week out.
Cardiff
14 | Cardiff Life
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indred owner Oliver Banks describes Cardiff as “one very large village - the evin Bacon theory on speed”, where everyone is connected and independent venues create a brilliant support network.
Lowkey owner lexander Taylor says personality is what independents do best. rom service and drinks to d cor, independent venues can make every detail feel considered and individual - and while competing with chains is challenging, “Cardiff customers are ercely loyal once won over.”
t Bacareto, director Becca Thomas says the artistled bar brings uni ueness, community and a safe space to the city centre, while providing secure, digni ed jobs for a team made up largely of people working in outh Wales’ creative sector.
t Daffodil, general manager enny Brookes says Cardiff’s hospitality community is unusually supportive. Independent venues celebrate one another, while local suppliers help showcase Welsh food, drink and culture. or ermut general manager elix ay, independents bring community, economic value and a true re ection of Welsh hospitality, giving locals and visitors a diverse food and drink scene to explore. Cardiff
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Lab bar manager am Lloyd says Cardiff hospitality is lively, fun and full of people who want to talk. “That’s the main reason we all do this, right We just bloody love a chat.” or Ben Potts, general manager of Curado Bar, Cardiff’s independents offer something more intimate: the chance to connect with produce, people and places where regulars are remembered and drinks are matched to their taste. F i Ra
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Together, they show why Cardiff’s independent scene matters: not just for good wine, great food and memorable nights out, but for the personality, jobs, creativity and community that make the capital worth coming back to.
Cardiff Life | 15
WINE PASSPORT
or loria rcerito, founder of hione icilian Delicatessen, independents “give a city its soul”. hione brings the avours and traditions of icily to Cardiff, working directly with small producers and sharing the stories behind the food and wine.
CARDIFF LIFE NEWSLETTER
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ADVERTORIAL
ADAPTING TO CHANGE:
WHY THE FUTURE OF WINE IS BRIGHTER THAN EVER The wine industry is undoubtedly changing. Consumers are drinking differently, younger generations are exploring new types of drinks, and producers are facing economic and environmental challenges. Yet at ine Wines Direct , we see these changes as opportunities to work more closely with our wine producers, and bring exciting new wines to Wales. One of the most encouraging developments we are seeing is innovation. As drinking habits evolve, producers are nding creative ways to engage both existing wine lovers and new audiences. A great example is Fines Bulles de Peyrassol from Provence, rance . . Rosé remains the fastest growing wine style in the , while sparkling wine continues to thrive compared to red and white. By combining these two trends, Domaine Peyrassol has created a fresh, fruity, contemporary sparkling wine perfectly suited to today’s lifestyle.
Greppicaia from I Greppi comes from Bolgheri, Tuscany, . , which is one of Italy’s most prestigious wine regions. What gives this bottle an exceptional local touch is General anager Dale, who traded his roots in Porthcawl to forge an incredible career in the heart of Tuscan winemaking.
nother signi cant change within the wine industry is drinking less, but drinking better. Escorihuela Gascón Gran Reserve Malbec from endoza, rgentina . re ects this perfectly. Malbec is Fine Wines Direct UK top selling red grape and this more premium expression offers
wine drinkers a more re ned and rewarding experience from a style they already love. By embracing innovation, celebrating authentic stories and championing uality, ine Wines Direct UK continues to work with outstanding wine producers to ensure the future of wine remains every bit as exciting as its past. All wines available from finewinesdirectuk.com or our retail shop on Penarth oad, where Cardiff Life readers can claim a 15% discount using the code ‘CardiffLife15’.
Cardiff Life | 17
FOR Cardiff
NEXT CHAPTER
CARDIFF’S NEXT CHAPTER OPPORTUNITIES IN A TIME OF TRANSITION
s O Cardiff prepares to begin its third ve-year term, Wales’ capital is entering one of the most signi cant periods of change in a generation. ollowing a decisive yes vote from eligible businesses, O Cardiff will continue its work from December with a renewed mandate, an expanded BID area and a business plan shaped around the city’s next chapter. or the rst time, Cardiff Bay will be brought into the Business Improvement District, creating a more connected approach across two of Cardiff’s most important commercial, cultural and visitor destinations. The expansion comes at a time when major investment, infrastructure improvements and international events are set to reshape how people move through, experience and do business in the city. 18 | Cardiff Life
ere, Carolyn Brownell, Executive Director of O Cardiff, re ects on the opportunities ahead. “Cardiff stands at the threshold of a pivotal period of transformation. rom a new arena in Cardiff Bay and our host role in E E O , to the rapid growth of the outh Wales etro and a new overnment in Cardiff Bay, the next few years will see the city reshaped. With the recent, record-breaking mandate from businesses - a yes vote in favour of a third term - our team will be helping to set up the city, and our members, for Cardiff’s next chapter. rom December , when our new term starts, we will also be bringing Cardiff Bay into the Business Improvement District, uniting two of the city’s key commercial destinations under one shared vision and plan. Of course, transformation brings both signi cant opportunity and distinct challenges. s we navigate
NEXT CHAPTER new infrastructure projects and major investment, we recognise that ongoing economic pressures continue to test the resilience of businesses across the city. The future of Cardiff cannot be de ned by regeneration alone, it re uires a sustained, collective commitment to sustainable economic growth. Our goal is to ensure that public and private investment translates into tangible results: that we build on a decade of delivery to ensure Cardiff offers the best welcome and visitor experience; that our businesses are connected and represented; and that we champion a sustainable and diverse future.
Together, we can remove barriers, unlock investment, and support the vibrant diversity of Cardiff’s economic landscape; building a future that makes Cardiff an even more attractive place to work, live, and visit. To nd out more about our plans for this exciting new chapter, visit forcardiff.com or follow us on socials orCardiff.” - Carolyn Brownell, Executive Director, FOR Cardiff
nder a uni ed business plan, O Cardiff’s new ve-year term will ensure businesses can help to shape decisions on infrastructure and inward investment that affect them, and work together to capitalise on the commercial opportunities owing from that investment. Carolyn Brownell, FOR Cardiff
Cardiff Life | 19
ADVERTORIAL
IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY TO PLAN CHRISTMAS IN CARDIFF
Summer may only just be behind us, but some dates are worth getting in the diary early. Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland returns from ovember to anuary , bringing the magic of Christmas back to the heart of the capital. There are certain moments that signal Christmas is really on its way: the rst festive lights appearing across the city, the start of Christmas shopping and, for thousands of visitors every year, the return of Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland. Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland will once again transform Cardiff Castle and City all Lawn into two spectacular festive destinations, packed with attractions, entertainment, food, drink and plenty of Christmas atmosphere. Whether it’s become an annual family tradition, part of the o ce Christmas night out, a festive date night or simply an excuse to meet friends for drinks in the city, Winter Wonderland has become rmly established as one of the highlights of Christmas in Cardiff.
20 | Cardiff Life
ADVERTORIAL CHRISTMAS AT THE CASTLE t the heart of the experience will once again be the spectacular undercover ice rink and Ice Walk, giving visitors the chance to skate beneath the lights in the historic surroundings of the castle grounds. ou don’t need to get your skates on to enjoy the atmosphere either. rab something festive to eat, warm up with a seasonal drink or head to Tafarn, the Castle’s popular winter bar, and simply enjoy being right in the middle of the Christmas action. BIG WHEEL VIEWS & FESTIVE FUN Our brand-new Big Wheel is one of the unmistakable sights of Christmas in Cardiff, offering views across the city alongside a lively family funfair packed with attractions for all ages. dd festive street food, sweet treats, drinks and entertainment, and it’s easy to turn a uick visit into an entire afternoon or evening.
With free entry to both Cardiff Castle and City all Lawn, you can enjoy the atmosphere and then choose which attractions and experiences you want to add to your visit. GET CHRISTMAS IN THE DIARY December calendars have a habit of lling up fast. o perhaps eptember isn’t too early to be thinking about Christmas after all. Whether Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland is already part of your family tradition or will be your rst visit, there’s one date worth adding to the diary now. CARDIFF’S WINTER WONDERLAND ovember - anuary CARDIFF CASTLE & CITY HALL LAWN Ice kating Tickets on ale soon. Visit c rdi swinterwonder nd.com
nd for those looking for a little apr s-ski without leaving Cardiff, ur la Piste brings the atmosphere of an lpine ski lodge to the city centre. This is the perfect spot for festive drinks, Christmas catch-ups and those annual get-togethers that somehow always seem to come around uicker than expected. Cardiff Life | 21
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CITY SOUND
THE EVOLUTION OF DEPOT DEPOT FINDS ITS FREQUENCY s DEPOT’s agship warehouse venue sharpens its focus as a serious live music venue, its , -person capacity is helping artists, promoters and audiences see Cardiff differently. When DEPOT rst opened its shutters in , it was never meant to be ordinary. What began as a temporary street-food pop-up in a disused warehouse on Dumballs oad uickly became one of Cardiff’s most distinctive indie venues: part food hall, part club space, part cultural experiment. ounder ick saw a gap for something looser, more exible and more original than a traditional night out. decade later, DEPOT has moved twice , grown in scale and sharpened its sense of purpose. ow operating from a , s ft warehouse on Curran oad, its latest evolution is not just about size. Increasingly, DEPOT is positioning itself as a serious live music venue, lling a space Cardiff has needed for years. itting above the city’s grassroots rooms but below arena scale, DEPOT gives Cardiff a exible mid-sized venue capable of attracting shows that might once have skipped Wales altogether. t , capacity, it is larger than Cardiff niversity’s main room, Tramshed, W and Bristol’s O cademy - giving promoters a serious alternative to routing tours elsewhere.
24 | Cardiff Life The DEPOT
The shift is visible across DEPOT’s own programming, too. ecent and upcoming names span The ives, C T, c ly, arina, and D sets from asha Digweed. The venue is also becoming a natural home for rock and heavy music, following illswitch Engage and the summer etallica pop-up merch store hosted around the band’s Principality tadium headline show plus future shows from President, I Prevail, The unna, vatar and Little ngels. Importantly, this is not a move away from DEPOT’s club heritage, but an expansion of it. pcoming shows such as utechre, who will perform live in darkness, point to a venue able to blur the lines between live music, production, club culture and large-scale experience. The result is a more collaborative music scene, where grassroots venues, independent promoters, major outdoor shows and mid-sized rooms can work together rather than compete in isolation.
The DEPOT The DEPOT
rom street food and warehouse parties to live music, comedy, club culture and large-scale production, DEPOT’s story has always been one of adaptation. Its next chapter suggests Cardiff is no longer just making do with the gaps in the touring circuit; now, the capital is making a stronger case to compete for the shows that might once have passed Wales by.
Cardiff Life | 25
CITY SOUND
The DEPOT
That scale is also opening doors for collaboration. Working with Welsh promoters including Clwb Ifor Bach, DEPOT is giving Cardiff’s grassroots music businesses access to a bigger room without losing the spirit and knowledge that made them important in the rst place. hows such as ogwai, The laming Lips and at Dog demonstrate how that partnership can help ambitious bookings stay in Cardiff, while supporting the wider work Clwb does with Welsh artists, Welsh-language music and new audiences.
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CITY LEGACY
SAUNDERS FAMILY HISTORY Long before Nick Saunders began bringing some of Cardiff’s biggest live music moments to life, the Saunders family story was already woven through the city. Across shop counters, newspapers, docks and sport, Cardiff has shaped generations of the family - and Nick’s work today marks the latest chapter. His dad tells us more. “I was born at home in Llanishen in 1958. When I was four, we moved to Llandaff, where I attended Llandaff City Primary and Bishop of Llandaff igh School. On my father’s side, my rampy ran a grocery and ship stores shop in plott, where Dad worked while growing up. I can still picture the brass scales and packets of aunders Tea’ sold there. There is even a display commemorating the business at the Cardiff tory museum on The ayes. Dad would often tell us the story of chasing a young hirley Bassey out of the shop for stealing sweets. y maternal rampy was a committed trade unionist who made sure I understood my rights at work. is father, eorge Baker mith, was active in the Trades and Labour Council and Cardiff Co-operative ociety, and played a prominent role in the eneral trike of 1926.
Cardiff Life | 27
CITY LEGACY
At 18, I secured a place at the University of Liverpool. Dad always believed I was drawn there because, like Cardiff, it was a great port city. omething clicked, and I never really moved back. I met my wife, ngela, at university and began my career working for trade newspapers before launching my own international logistics publication, still printed today. Perhaps some inspiration came from my uncle, eoff ich, who edited the South Wales Echo from 1971 until 1990. ngela and I had four children: Chris, Lawrence, ick and nnie. rowing up in Liverpool, ick became a passionate Liverpool FC supporter, but rugby brought him to Cardiff for university - the beginning of his own relationship with the city. y rst live concert was tatus uo at the Cardiff Capitol in 1973. Nick’s was the Spice Girls at Manchester’s Nynex Arena in 1998. From there, he developed a broad passion for music, particularly dance music, so it is perhaps no surprise that he has built the career he has.
i r ard ardiff
Cardiff will always be my home city, even though the Bay is completely transformed, my Grampy’s shop has disappeared, and the docks where I worked one summer have changed beyond recognition. But part of the former docklands is now home to another of ick’s ventures, Tiger ard. It has been wonderful to see Nick build a life and career in a city that has meant so much to us. Cardiff has shaped our family story in many ways, and I am sure Nick can be proud to have played his own part in its success. We are certainly very proud of him.”
i r ard ardiff
- JOHN SAUNDERS i r ard ardiff
28 | Cardiff Life i r ard ardiff
ADVERTORIAL
WE’RE BACK.
PARK PLACE BY GIOVANNI’S Giovanni’s Park Place, now better known as Park Place by Giovanni’s, has been through a full refurbishment. And it’s back. Opposite the New Theatre, it’s an all day and all night restaurant. Breakfast, cappuccinos, brunch and lunch. Bring your laptop, plug yourself in and work. We don’t mind how long you stay. Afternoon tea, pre-theatre dinner, takeaway and delivery. Then the curtain comes down and the room changes. Park Place becomes a late-night cocktail bar and supper club. Pastas, cicchetti, the OG Planko sharing board, cocktails and ne wines. Live music ridays and Saturdays. Remember No10? Think Giovanni’s meets No10. “Hospitality is a live show,” says Giovanni Malacrino. “The curtain rises and we perform. We create experiences people share, and then they come back. I still love it as much as I ever did. That’s why retirement is not on the cards.” Christmas bookings are now open across all three restaurants. The best dates go rst, so secure your table now and we’ll send the festive menu as soon as it lands.
parties and celebrations of every kind. Weddings at Park Place and In The Bay. Giovanni’s is Wales’s longestestablished independent, family-run Italian restaurant group. 43 years and counting. BOOK NOW! Park Place: 029 2022 6299 inparkplace@giovanniscardiff.co.uk The Hayes: 029 2022 0077 onthehayes@giovanniscardiff.co.uk The Bay: 029 2049 5480 inthebay@giovanniscardiff.co.uk www.giovanniscardiff.co.uk
We’re also taking bookings for birthdays, anniversaries, corporate
Cardiff Life | 29
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LOVE THY NEIGHBOUR
LOVE THY NEIGHBOUR: A SONDER STORY Just over a year ago, Jake Lewis signed the lease on Llandaff Road and began pouring everything he had - and plenty he had borrowed - into Sonder. “Financially, it was probably the least sensible decision I’ve ever made,” he says. “But there’s more to life than money, and something inside me - or perhaps my soonto-be wife, Federica - convinced me it was time to build something for Cardiff.” What followed was the familiar chaos of independent hospitality:
last-minute painting, emergency electricians, late nights, new ovens, kitchen extensions, changing menus, big decisions and countless small moments that gradually turned an idea into a living, breathing restaurant. Sonder began with a name and a 16-dish menu. Today, it is a team of more than 40 people delivering breakfasts, date nights, celebrations and seasonal menus shaped by travel, produce and experience. For Jake, the greatest achievement has not simply been the food, but the feeling in the room.
“The thing I’m proudest of is our atmosphere,” he says. “Watching our team be themselves, care for our guests and enjoy what they do is what makes Sonder special.” That sense of hospitality has now evolved into Vicino, a new neighbourhood wine, cocktail and tapas bar, created as a natural extension of Sonder. Inspired by the Italian word for “neighbour”, Vicino is also a deeply personal tribute to Federica’s family, who have helped shape Jake’s understanding of Italian hospitality over the past eight years. Cardiff Life | 31
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BARD’S TALES RUM A TASTE OF WELSH FOLKLORE
Every bottle has a story. Ours begins in the ancient landscapes of Wales, with a tale woven in the abinogion. Born in Cardiff and inspired by one of Wales’ most enduring fables, Bard’s Tales Rum is a Welsh spiced rum with a story unlike any other. Created by three brothers with a passion for folklore, craftsmanship and rum, Bard’s Tales Rum takes its inspiration from the legendary tale of Blodeuwedd – a story of transformation, love, betrayal and magic. er narrative in uences a rum that refuses to follow convention.
Our small-batch rum brings together a carefully crafted blend of botanicals including meadowsweet and gorse, smoked oak and Lapsang Suchong tea, peach, maple and caramel. The result is a rich, warming and wonderfully balanced spirit of distinctive depth where delicate, sweet fruit meets subtle smoke
and deep, indulgent caramel. Blodeuwedd has been created for those who appreciate something beyond the ordinary. Every element has been chosen to evoke the atmosphere of the Welsh landscape and the duality of Blodeuwedd’s mellow but ery personality. Enjoy it neat and let the layers unfold. Pour it over ice for a slower, richer experience. Or use it as the foundation for a cocktail where its distinctive character can take centre stage. ou can nd out more about our journey by visiting www. bardstalesrum.com or head over to our Instagram page @bardstalesrum - for cocktail ideas and more! Diolch am eich cefnogaith ac am ddarllen ein stori. Josh, Cameron & Connor
32 | Cardiff Life
Designed as a Mediterraneaninspired bar with an Italian heart and a neighbourhood soul, Vicino gives guests a place to meet before dinner at Sonder, stay afterwards for a cocktail, or simply settle in for a relaxed evening with friends.
LOVE THY NEIGHBOUR
Through them, he says, he learned that hospitality is about far more than food. It is about slowing down, sharing stories, bringing people together and making time for the people who matter most. Those values - family, generosity, simplicity and togetherness - now sit at the heart of both Sonder and Vicino.
Jihane Rodriguez
Together, the two venues tell a wider story about what independent hospitality can bring to Cardiff: personality, employment, investment, ambition and a reason for people to keep coming back to their local neighbourhoods. “The truth is, Vicino only exists because of the support Sonder has had,” says Jake. “That’s the impact of backing independents. Support stays local, creates opportunities and allows businesses like ours to grow.” For Jake and Federica, Sonder and Vicino are not separate ideas, but two parts of the same story: built on experience, inspired by people, rooted in community and driven by genuine hospitality. And for ‘Pontcanton’, they represent another con dent chapter in Cardiff’s most exciting neighbourhood food and drink scenes. Jihane Rodriguez
Cardiff Life | 33
KEEP WALES TIDY
THE POWER OF PARTNERSHIP:
KEEPING CARDIFF’S GREEN SPACES LIVE AND CLEAN.
Keep Wales Tidy
Cardiff’s event and hospitality sector is thriving, and the summer’s Blackweir Live concerts proved that major music events can rock the capital while respecting our environment. Welcoming huge crowds to Bute Park is fantastic for the city’s economy, but protecting the natural beauty of the iver Taff corridor re uires true collaboration.
This year, event organisers DEPOT put their commitment to sustainability into action by partnering with environmental charity, eep Wales Tidy.
The experience also inspired new environmental champions, with one volunteer already signing up as a permanent eep Wales Tidy Litter Champion.
While Cardiff Council managed the litter on the main gig site, eep Wales Tidy mobilised teams of dedicated volunteers to tackle the adjacent woodlands. Together they collected bags of litter, ensuring waste didn’t reach the river or harm local wildlife. The collaboration delivered bene ts far beyond a cleaner landscape.
Importantly, the partnership also raised awareness of eep Wales Tidy’s work and generated vital income to support our mission of caring for Wales’ environment.
olunteers were rewarded with free gig tickets, creating a uni ue opportunity to give back to the community while enjoying worldclass live music.
If your organisation is looking to strengthen its environmental credentials, engage local communities and create lasting positive impact, eep Wales Tidy would love to explore bespoke partnership and sponsorship opportunities with you, so please get in touch. Louise Tambini Deputy CEO, Keep Wales Tidy
Keep Wales Tidy
Cardiff Life | 35
@photos_byshan
FOUNDER STORY
CHELSEA PINCHESBURROWES
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Chelsea Pinches-Burrowes is the owner of Cardi! Life. She’s also the Founder and CEO of WCS Agency, and is a force to be reckoned with. From a blog that she started as a first-time mum, Chelsea has grown WCS into one of Cardi!’s leading marketing agencies with some of the city’s biggest names on the books. But how did she do it? A small piece of advice with a realistic goal truly set her up for success; “You just need to make £1,000.” Q: HOW DID THE JOURNEY BEGIN? A: I had my first baby at 23, and although it wasn’t on the bingo card, it gave me a new focus - in more ways than just being a new mum. While I was at home with baby bottles, all of my friends were partying and I needed to jot down my feelings. My dad loves to write and told me to start my own blog. My aim was to just engage with young mums, but instead, lots of people found my content and a little community was born. Q: DID YOU EVER START YOUR BLOG WITH THE VISION OF GROWING IT INTO A COMPANY? A: Never, ever! I mean… I still can’t believe it. It still amazes me every day that my vulnerability and willingness to be open brought people together. Q: WHAT WAS THE MOMENT WHICH MADE YOU THINK, “I CAN DO THIS”? A: It was definitely when my husband, Connor, said, “You just need to make £1,000 and we can make the household work.” I didn’t believe in myself at the time, but he believed in me. It wasn’t just belief either. There was enablement, and it made me think, “it’s now or never… I can’t let this opportunity go.”
Q: WHAT ADVICE WERE YOU GIVEN WHEN YOU FIRST STARTED GROWING YOUR BUSINESS? A: Both my dad and my father-in-law had run successful businesses and they taught me the importance of knowing the numbers and understanding that entrepreneurship isn’t glossy. It can take U-turns and go haywire, but nothing is more valuable than working hard. Q: HOW DID YOUR SUPPORT NETWORK HELP YOU MANAGE YOUR WORK/LIFE BALANCE? A: There’s a direct correlation between the success of my business and the support I have from those around me. Not everyone can say their husband left their dream job to help them build the companies they founded on a whim. From friends to family, we’re incredibly lucky to have been able to give the business the attention it’s needed over the years. Q: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO WOMEN WHO WANT TO TAKE THE LEAP AND WORK FOR THEMSELVES? A: Throw yourself in! It won’t be easy, but like I say to my kids, nothing in life worth having comes easy. From a written blog to the chaos of new motherhood, Chelsea’s story is proof that big ambitions don’t always start with a big plan. Sometimes all it takes is the willingness to throw yourself in. Keep up to date and connect with Chelsea on LinkedIn! linkedin.com/in/chelseapinchesburrowes
Cardiff Life | 37
FOUNDER STORY
FROM BLOG TO BUSINESS
PETTIGREW 38 | Cardiff Life
Owen Friend
Will Barker
Will Barker
Will Barker
PETTIGREW
PETTIGREW BREADQUARTERS:
A DECADE IN THE BAKING Ten years after opening its rst neighbourhood bakery opposite ictoria Park, Pettigrew Bakeries is preparing for its biggest move yet. The Cardiffborn business, which has grown from six employees to a team of , is bringing its previously split production operation together under one roof at a new , s ft home in Penylan. Dubbed the Pettigrew Bread uarters’, the Colchester ve site will give its bakers the space and infrastructure to increase production without losing the hands-on craft that has de ned the business since . It will also include a new bakery caf , complete with a theatre-style window giving customers a view directly into the working bakery. ounders David and Lee Le asurier re ect on the last decade - and why going bigger doesn’t mean becoming less Pettigrew. “Ten years ago, on t David’s Day , we opened a small indie bakery in ictoria Park with the simple goal of creating a neighbourhood hub for real, handmade bread. Well before P s dominated headlines, and back when sourdough’ was still widely misunderstood as just a style of loaf rather than an ancient, nutritious way of baking. Over the past decade, Pettigrew Bakeries has grown from a team of six to over fty. But natural growth can get messy. Peek under the bonnet of our logistics over the last months and you’d have seen a complex puzzle: chasing across the city moving bakers, ingredients, and products to keep the show on the road.
ooting our team directly in our communities has kept our skills on show, our craft transparent, and our standards high. or years in Canton, half our team expertly laminate pastries and tirelessly roll Welsh Cakes; while in oath, the other half mix and bake sourdough as the city sleeps. We deliberately rejected the out-of-town factory model. But nding a sustainable way forward while remaining a hands-on craft bakery in touch with our customers, took time and careful thought. s we approached our -year anniversary against a backdrop of global uncertainty and business risk, we did what we’ve done before: blocked out the noise and chose to be brave. That meant securing a space big enough to house all our craft bakers under one roof, big enough to welcome customers inside to watch us work, and big enough to solve our epic logistical tangle. That new home is in Penylan on Colchester venue. We bake seven days a week to supply our shops in ictoria Park, oath, hiwbina, and Castle rcade, alongside Cardiff’s best independent restaurants and at the weekly Cardiff armers’ arkets. We enter our second decade focused, con dent, craftled, and deeply grateful for the continued support of our brilliant customers.” David Lee Le asurier Pettigrew Bakeries, Cardiff
Cardiff Life | 39
Studio Severn
HOMEGROWN
FROM CARDIFF, WITH APPETITE Two homegrown food businesses are taking their Cardiff success stories into new cities - without leaving their roots behind. Two of Cardiff’s best-loved independent food businesses are proving that a strong local identity does not have to mean staying local. Donald’s and Brother Thai have taken very different routes through the city’s hospitality scene, but both are now using the audiences they built in Cardiff as a foundation for growth beyond Wales. Donald’s began with a weekend food van at adyr Cricket Club before opening its rst permanent shop on uay treet. second bricks-andmortar site followed on Trade treet in arch, and the business is now preparing to open in ackney; its fourth trading location overall and its rst permanent foothold outside Wales. ounder areth Owens, a former coffee-machine technician, built Donald’s around a deliberately straightforward proposition: excellent coffee, generously lled homemade pies and a growing range of baked goods designed for breakfast, lunch and the journey home. Behind that apparently simple offer is an increasingly serious operation. production kitchen on Penarth oad increased capacity tenfold, allowing Donald’s to supply its shops, online customers and wholesale partners while keeping production rmly in Cardiff. Greg Caine and Morgan Church
40 | Cardiff Life
HOMEGROWN Studio Severn
Do
nal
d’s
Pie
s
The business has also tested its appeal beyond its usual city-centre audience through partnerships with Barry Town C and Tiny ebel, alongside a ix ations residency at the London Welsh Centre. ackney is the clearest test yet of whether a business shaped in Cardiff can translate to a very different neighbourhood without losing the character that made it work. Brother Thai’s journey has been slower and more restaurant-led. ounder ndrew Chongsathien began trading as a Cardiff pop-up at The DEPOT in , before developing the roti that would become the business’s signature dish and gaining national recognition at the British treet ood wards. Its rst permanent restaurant opened on Whitchurch oad in
.
fter years of regular trading at Bristol’s arbourside, Brother Thai opened a second restaurant on tokes Croft in pril . The move has given the team con dence that the concept can travel beyond Wales, and accelerated plans to build a regional group of ve company-owned restaurants. ow employing more than people across Cardiff and Bristol, Brother Thai recorded its strongest year of trading before the Bristol launch. Its growth plan, however, is deliberately measured: every new opening must protect the uality of the food, service and team culture rather than dilute them. s ndrew puts it: “Every new location has to strengthen the brand, not stretch it.” or both businesses, Cardiff remains more than an origin story. It is where their menus, audiences and operating models were built. Their next chapters will show just how far a distinctly Cardiff-made hospitality business can travel. Cardiff Life | 41
ADVERTORIAL
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42 | Cardiff Life
Supporting the UK’s Energy Transition The UK’s journey to a low-carbon future depends on substantial investment in grid infrastructure. Developers, energy providers and industrial customers require trusted partners that can deliver projects e ciently while managing ational rid and Distribution Network Operator (DNO) requirements. Winshall’s experience operating both inside and outside the ational rid environment provides a distinct advantage. The company acts as a critical link between customers, contractors and network
RECOGNISED BY INDUSTRY LEADERS A major endorsement of Winshall’s capabilities came through its appointment to ational rid’s D Lot 2 Framework.
Winshall’s vision is to become the leading High Voltage engineering company in Wales and a trusted delivery partner across the UK energy sector, helping deliver the infrastructure needed for the nation’s energy transition and future economic growth. Find out more at www.winshall.co.uk, connect via LinkedIn, or contact the team at info@winshall.co.uk
Selection alongside established industry suppliers demonstrates the con dence placed in Winshall’s technical expertise, operational standards and delivery performance. This achievement further strengthens the company’s role in supporting critical energy infrastructure projects across the UK. GROWTH BUILT ON PEOPLE While technical excellence remains at the heart of the business, Winshall believes sustainable growth is driven by its people. The company’s transition to an Employee Ownership Trust EOT re ects its commitment to accountability, collaboration and shared success. By placing employees at the centre of the organisation, Winshall continues to strengthen engagement, develop talent and create long-term value for clients and staff alike. Investment in skills development also remains a priority. The business actively supports the growth of HV engineering expertise in South Wales while attracting talented individuals from both within and beyond the traditional power sector. POSITIONED FOR FURTHER GROWTH As grid investment and connection activity continue to expand, Winshall is well positioned for its next phase of growth. The company is pursuing opportunities across ational rid outage programmes, grid connection schemes and major infrastructure projects while continuing to grow its customer base nationwide. With ambitions to achieve £25 million turnover in the coming year, Winshall remains focused on sustainable growth, technical excellence and exceptional project delivery. Cardiff Life | 43
ADVERTORIAL
operators, helping projects progress smoothly from concept and design through to energisation. By providing expert guidance throughout the connection process, Winshall helps reduce programme risk, improve communication and support successful project delivery.
TASTE & TALK
FOOD FOR THOUGHT Every September, Abergavenny becomes one of the UK’s most exciting foodie meeting places; a weekend where food is not just cooked and eaten, but debated, celebrated and FIND OUT MORE properly explored. Abergavenny Food Festival
44 | Cardiff Life
The 2026 festival returns on 19–20 September , with two Cardiff voices as part of the conversation. Owen organ, the restaurateur behind Bar 44, Asador 44 and Parador 44, and ikey Bell, one of the city’s newest food personalities, are both appearing at the festival with talks that re ect the ambition - and reality - of Wales’ food scene.
TASTE & TALK
HOW AN EGG CHANGED MY LIFE – MIKEY BELL IN CONVERSATION WITH JANE COOK SEPTEMBER 19TH / 3.30 – 4.15PM / ABERGAVENNY CASTLE “I love nothing more than talking about food and books, so the fact I get to do both at this year’s Abergavenny Food Festival is particularly exciting. Writing my food memoir, How an Egg Changed My Life, was a dream come true, but the best thing about it has been meeting so many people who want to also talk about food and the important space it holds in our lives. That’s why I’m especially happy to be around likeminded people at this year’s festival. I will be interviewed by Jane Cook of HUNGRY Cardiff; we’re both aligned in knowing just how signi cant food can be when used to tell the story of our lives. Food has the power to connect all of us in weird and wonderful ways, and all of us have a food story to tell. I am counting down the days until I get to share mine, and hopefully, hear yours too!” - Mikey Bell.
Matt Inwood
HOSPITALITY IN CRISIS - OWEN MORGAN, 44 GROUP - SEPTEMBER 20TH / 1PM – 2PM / THE DOME At last year’s Abergavenny Food Festival, Owen Morgan helped turn a spare half-day in the programme into one of the weekend’s most urgent conversations. Having approached organisers with the idea for a last-minute panel on “hospitality in crisis”, he led an hour-long discussion that, despite not appearing in the o cial programme, drew a packed and highpro le audience. “It struck a chord,” says Owen. For him, the pressures facing hospitality are no longer abstract. Rising operating costs, reduced customer spending and successive policy changes have left many businesses struggling to make the numbers work, even when demand is there. “Now, even when venues do have high demand and are at full capacity, they don’t even break even,” he says. “It’s soul destroying, seeing everyone losing money every month, whilst doing a great job.” This year, the conversation returns - this time on a bigger stage, in the festival’s main dome.
Mikey Bell
“Where else is more suitable to discuss the topic than at one of the UK’s most iconic food festivals?” asks Owen. Cardiff Life | 45
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PHOTOGRAPHY Photography by Lennon Nicholas - @visualsbylennon Cardiff Life | 47
MORE THAN FOOD
Maasi’s
THE JOURNEY CONTINUES
Maasi’s
FOR MAASI’S, FOOD HAS NEVER BEEN JUST FOOD.
Created by Sabrina Khan from a passion for fresh, authentic Punjabi cooking and a warm welcome, Maasi’s has become one of Canton’s most distinctive independent food stories: part café, part community space and part act of cultural preservation.
Maasi 48 | Cardiff Life
From its home at St Luke’s Church in Victoria Park, Maasi’s set out to challenge the stereotype of the traditional curry house while giving a voice to people often under-represented in hospitality, particularly women who face barriers to employment. The space offered the chance to build something rooted in avour, identity and belonging - a place where food could tell stories as much as feed people.
While the doors at St Luke’s may be closing, Sabrina is clear that Maasi’s is not ending. Its mission remains the same: to share an authentic and unique experience of Punjab through food, while preserving both Welsh and Punjabi identity. “The food we make at Maasi’s is an act of preservation,” she says. “It is an international language that brings us together because food is home. It is about what makes us different and what makes us the same; a re ection of our stories and our heritage.” Since announcing the closure, Sabrina says the response from customers has been overwhelming. “It restores our faith in community and con rms that we are valued and appreciated,” she says. “I want to say a big thank you to all of our lovely customers. We have loved being part of your lives.” The response from Cardiff’s independent food scene has also been
encouraging, with local venues offering support as aasi explores its next chapter. Sabrina is now working with key partners to secure outlets for future pop-up events, while continuing Curry Club nights, cookery lessons, food demonstrations and community projects built around women cooking their family recipes. or Cardiff, aasi’s has always represented more than a place to eat. It has shown how independent hospitality can create jobs, share culture, support women, bring communities together and add something genuinely different to the city’s food scene. “Our journey has been shaped by the work, the people and the stories along the way,” says Sabrina. “The key message is: it is not the end. And all will be revealed in good time.” For now, Maasi’s leaves St Luke’s with gratitude, pride and a loyal community ready to follow wherever it goes next.
si’
M aa
s
Food Cardiff Cardiff Life | 49
MORE THAN FOOD
“It has been an amazing journey,” says Sabrina. “We are disappointed that the Church in Wales has decided to end our agreement, and devastated at losing our home, but it is now time to move on.”
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WHY FAMILIES LOVE HEATFORCE
THE NEW CROWD Glamorgan Cricket
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A SUMMER OF GROWTH FOR WELSH CRICKET If there is one word that sums up Welsh cricket in 2026 so far, it is momentum. Across the game, we have seen more people engaging with cricket than ever before. At Sophia Gardens, that has translated into record demand for major international matches, growing attendances across domestic cricket and increasing interest in both the men’s and women’s game. One of the most encouraging developments has been the continued growth of Vitality Blast T cricket in Cardiff, with ticket sales up 16% year on year. 52 | Cardiff Life
At a time when the sporting and entertainment calendar has never been more competitive, it is a positive indicator that more families, young people and rsttime visitors are choosing cricket as part of their summer. What is particularly encouraging is that this growth is being driven by new audiences. 45% of Welsh Fire ticket buyers are attending for the rst time, while a third are female. These gures demonstrate that cricket is broadening its appeal and reaching audiences that may not previously have considered the sport part of their summer plans.
This summer has also delivered several landmark moments. Welsh ire welcomed its rstever men’s sell-out crowd in The Hundred, while a record 7,338 spectators attended a women’s cricket xture in Wales. ore recently, over 10,000 people attended Welsh ire’s onday night xture, with iconic Welsh band Feeder performing between matches, creating a unique occasion that brought together sport, music and community in the heart of Cardiff. Importantly, our focus extends beyond what happens on the eld.
THE NEW CROWD
Glamorgan Cricket
Glamorgan Cricket
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Welsh cricket’s progress on the pitch has helped too. This year has produced some fantastic displays from young Welsh cricketers across the men’s and women’s teams.
number of tense nal ball thrillers in the Vitality Blast, Tom Norton’s heroics in the County Championship that have us in contention at the top of the table and Sara Phillips’ key role in the Women’s Blast League Two successes all highlight the Welsh talent emerging through Glamorgan’s pathway. There is still plenty of cricket to enjoy this summer too, with a massive England v Sri Lanka T20 on 17th September, but the story of 2026 so far is clear: Welsh cricket is growing, diversifying and attracting new audiences.
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45% OF WELSH FIRE TICKET BUYERS ARE ATTENDING FOR THE FIRST TIME, WHILE A THIRD ARE FEMALE. ED RICE
“
We are proud of our extremely high matchday experience scores recorded this summer, particularly for atmosphere and the warmth of welcome supporters receive at Sophia Gardens. We want cricket to be more than a sporting event; it should be an enjoyable day out for family and friends. Creating memorable experiences is vital if we are to turn rst-time visitors into lifelong fans.
COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR
Cardiff Life | 53
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THE MENOPAUSE DRAIN:
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We cannot afford to lose our best local talent. Businesses must foster Cardiff Life | 55
OUT OF TOWN
WHY WELSH HOSPITALITY IS WORTH THE JOURNEY
Cardiff may be Wales’ capital and its busiest shop window, but some of the country’s most compelling hospitality stories are being told beyond the city limits. In arberth, The rove has built a reputation as one of Wales’ leading luxury country house hotels - but its appeal is not simply that it offers high-end hospitality in a beautiful corner of Pembrokeshire. Its strength lies in how deeply rooted that experience feels in Wales.
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“ t The rove, our sense of place is everything,” says eneral anager aren de oning. “It is not something we’ve added on top of the luxury, it is the luxury.” rom Welsh love spoons and traditional woollen blankets to spindles, miners’ lamps and the uiet craftsmanship woven through its interiors, The rove’s identity is deliberately local rather than imported. But for aren, the real luxury is less about show and more about space, calm and ease. “We deliberately keep our service understated rather than showy,” she says. “It’s about making guests feel genuinely at home in a Welsh country house, not performing luxury at them.” 56 | Cardiff Life
OUT OF TOWN That sense of place extends beyond the hotel itself. Set among the rolling Narberth hills, with meadows, woodland, mature gardens and views towards the Preseli Hills, The Grove uses its rural location as a reason to travel, not a barrier to overcome. grovenarberth.co.uk
Guests are encouraged to explore Narberth’s independent shops and restaurants, the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, nearby coastal towns and local activity suppliers - creating a ripple effect that bene ts more than one business. “This isn’t a one-way relationship,” says Karen. “The local businesses and partnerships we work with bene t from us just as much as we bene t from them, and together that’s what makes Pembrokeshire such a compelling destination in its own right.”
or Cardiff, after a summer of major events and hospitality activity, The rove offers a useful reminder: city hospitality and destination hospitality do not need to compete. Together, they strengthen Wales’ overall appeal. “ guest might come for Cardiff’s energy and events calendar and be tempted to extend their stay with a few days somewhere like Pembrokeshire, or vice versa,” says Karen. “Every time that happens, it bene ts the whole of Wales as a destination.”
That matters in a hospitality and business context. As guests increasingly seek tailored, personal and experience-led stays, destination hotels are having to offer more than a beautiful room and a good meal. t The Grove, a new activities programme has responded to that shift, from coastal boat trips to sauna sessions followed by gourmet picnic hampers on the beach. Food, wine and local sourcing are equally central to the model. “It goes well beyond the guest experience for us,” says Karen. “Our partnerships with local suppliers and independent businesses are fundamental to how we operate as a business.”
grovenarberth.co.uk
Cardiff Life | 57
Going private is easier than you think Spread the cost over 24 months with an interest-free payment plan.
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MORE THAN A MATCHDAY:
WHY BUSINESSES ARE TURNING TO RUGBY TO DRIVE GROWTH s summer comes to a close, businesses across Cardiff are refocusing their attention on growth, strategy and building momentum for the months ahead. While business plans, marketing strategies and sales targets will undoubtedly dominate boardroom discussions this September, many organisations are also recognising the value of something less tangible but equally important: relationships. In an increasingly digital world, genuine face-toface connections remain one of the most powerful drivers of business success. Whether it’s winning new clients, strengthening existing partnerships, rewarding employees or building brand awareness, businesses are looking for environments where meaningful conversations can happen naturally. That is where sport, and particularly rugby, continues to play a unique role. t Cardiff ugby, we see rst-hand how partnerships have evolved. Sponsorship is no longer simply about branding or logo placement. Instead, organisations are seeking opportunities that help them engage with customers, connect with fellow businesses, support their communities and create memorable experiences that re ect their values. Matchdays bring together decision-makers from a wide range of industries, creating opportunities to network, entertain and strengthen relationships in an environment that feels authentic and engaging. Beyond the game itself, hospitality has become a valuable business tool, helping organisations reward teams, secure new business and build stronger connections with clients. For many businesses, those conversations around a hospitality table are just as valuable as those taking place in the o ce.
s Cardiff ugby celebrates its historic th season, there has never been a more exciting time to become involved. The season will see a packed calendar of xtures, events and celebrations, providing businesses with a uni ue platform to raise their pro le, align themselves with one of Wales’ most recognisable sporting institutions and become part of a landmark year in the club’s history. To nd out more about hospitality, sponsorship and partnership opportunities during Cardiff ugby’s th season, contact the Commercial Team at Cardiff rms Park. os it it c rdi ru .w es Cardiff Life | 59
ADVERTORIAL
THE NEW WAY TO NETWORK IN CARDIFF BY HANNAH PECKHAM, FOUNDER OF BEYOND THE BUSINESS CARD beyond the business card is bringing human connection back to networking through events designed to help people connect naturally. For a long time, when we thought about networking, the image was fairly predictable: a room full of professionals, a drink in one hand, a name badge on your chest and a lot of conversations beginning with, “So, what do you do?” I started to wonder whether networking had to look like this every time. I kept seeing the kinds of events and communities I wanted to be part of happening in London, and eventually I started asking myself: why can’t we have this in Cardiff Why couldn’t professional networking be something you actually looked forward to, somewhere you could meet interesting people, build your network and have a genuinely great time? That became the idea behind beyond the business card. I wanted to create a different kind of professional community where networking still happens, but it doesn’t necessarily feel like networking. That could mean meeting someone over a drink at a rooftop social, being put on a quiz team with people you’ve never met, heading to a wellness event after work or sitting down at an industry event and having a conversation that turns into something much bigger.
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ADVERTORIAL Kassra Bayat
The professional connection is still there; it’s just happening alongside actually enjoying yourself. Since launching in March 2026, more than 500 people have attended our events. We’ve run rooftop parties, industry-speci c events, casual after-work drinks and wellness events, and collaborated with brands including weaty Betty and Tiny ebel. nd we’re only just getting started. We have a mix of events planned for the rest of the year, from pub uizzes and spin classes to founder events, marketing events and even an I event, as well as the launch of our membership, the network. The aim is simple: create a community for founders, marketers and professionals where people can keep coming back, meet new people, discover opportunities, learn something new and, most importantly, enjoy themselves. This isn’t necessarily a replacement for traditional networking, but another way of doing it. The strongest networks aren’t always built through one conversation or one exchange of LinkedIn details. They’re built by seeing people repeatedly, having genuine conversations and gradually getting to know each other. ltimately, networking is about people and maybe it’s time we made a little more room for the human side of it. Tom Wilkins
ee upcoming beyond the business card events at beyondtbc.com Cardiff Life | 61
ADVERTORIAL
BURNOUT DOESN’T HAPPEN OVERNIGHT: LOOKING AFTER
YOURSELF WHEN THINGS ARE TOUGH Sometimes in life, the pace quickens, to-do lists pile up, and life demands more of us again. Whether it’s family pressures, di cult relationships, work, money worries, or simply the demands of everyday life, it can soon take a toll on sleep, mood, and even health.
e ect on what’s helped before. Think about other times you’ve felt this way. Did you reach out for support, or make time for yourself ? And notice the less helpful patterns too, avoiding things or numbing out might help short-term, but it isn’t sustainable.
Platfform Wellbeing’s Counsellors, atie and ath talk about why burnout happens and what helps.
ocus on what you can control. Break big tasks into smaller steps, set boundaries, and be honest when your plate is full.
Burnout is your body’s way of reacting to pressures without enough recovery, says ath. It can show up as being irritable, tired, or emotionally checked out from work you used to care about. It creeps in slowly, adds atie. We push through until we hit breaking point. igh stress or lack of support can make everything feel overwhelming, but our ability to cope can grow again. START WITH AWARENESS. sk what’s changed, your workload, your role, what you’re carrying, and whether it’s temporary or here to stay.
62 | Cardiff Life
NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE BASICS. Taking breaks, getting outside, going for a walk, talking to a trusted friend and making time for activities that bring you joy can all help you to feel more grounded. Platfform Wellbeing offers support for people and workplaces, including training, consultancy, counselling and more. t ormwe ein .com
Counselling and talking therapies
A SAFE SPACE TO TALK Whether there’s a specific challenge you’re facing, or you just aren’t feeling yourself right now, our counsellors can work with you in a non-judgemental space. You may be struggling with difficult thoughts, or looking to move forward. Whatever you’re going through, talking can help gain clarity and better understand your thoughts, feelings and past experiences. The first step is to book an initial appointment where one of our Counsellors will guide you through the process of finding the right therapy for you and the best counsellor to talk to. Online, over the phone or face to face in Cardiff and Swansea.
Get started today platfformwellbeing.com
PEOPLE AND PLACES
FINE WINES DIRECT X POMMERY SUMMER PARTY ummer in Cardiff doesn’t get much better than this. ine Wines Direct returned for another year of its much-loved ummer Party, throwing open the mar uee for a golden uly evening of zz, food, and familiar faces. Pommery Champagne took top billing as headline partner, keeping glasses lled from the moment guests arrived and lending the night its unmistakably premium sparkle. Over at the re pit, Prime by Pasture kept the crowd well fed with fresh-off-the- ame burgers, the smell of which drifted through the mar uee all evening. dd live music, warm weather, and the easy buzz of good company, and it made for a proper Cardiff celebration, relaxed and generous, but with real style. It’s the kind of evening that reminds you how much the city’s independent businesses bring to the table, and judging by the smiles all round, guests will already be counting down to next year’s.
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PEOPLE AND PLACES Cardiff Life | 65
LOOK 1
COLUMNIST
THE INTENTIONAL THREAD
BY CHESELLE EFTHIMIADIS
ome of you may know that I have an immense collection of vintage. I’ve recently had a huge cull and have been doing yard sales every aturday to try and reduce my very cluttered collection; you should keep an eye out on my socials for my next virtual or I L sale, so many gorgeous garms.
LOOK 2
ABSTRACT MESH DRESS FUSSY VINTAGE £22 fussyvintage.com VINTAGE GUCCI BAG LUCKY COW VINTAGE @luckycowvintage MARY JANE DR MARTENS FLAMINGOS VINTAGE @flamingosvintagecardiff
What a summer we have had here in Cardiff. ot only has the temperature been hot, but the entertainment has been even hotter. rom food festivals to music festivals, Cardiff has been the Welsh hub of fun. Of course, most of the thanks go to the team at DEPOT. They have been iconic here ever since the rst Bingo Lingo, but now they are also bringing some incredible artists to our city to perform against the backdrop of Cardiff Castle and Bute Park. I have a -month-old, so I haven’t been able to get out much, but I have been able to enjoy the live music from my back garden in oath and I will say this year my favourites have been Pete Tong, aty Perry and The treets, the latter being my ultimate favourite 66 | Cardiff Life
I’ve also enjoyed it by watching everyone’s social media posts and also checking out Cardiff’s street styling when in the centre on a gig day. There have been some incredible festival-es ue out ts on the streets of Cardiff, including the classics of abstract-print dresses and D s, but also some new classics such as oversized ’s blazers with Bermuda city shorts and Timberlands granted they were for the David Byrne gig but it’s a total vibe . Buying vintage in Cardiff has never been so easy. There are some really fab new independent vintage shops in Cardiff such as Lucky Cow, night intage, obo’s, ussy intage, lamingos and the occasional vintage goodie at Dejavu.
LOGO TEE HOBOS VINTAGE @hoboscardiff COMME DES GARÇONS STRIPE BLAZER £270 | KNIGHT VINTAGE knightvintage.co.uk RALPH LAUREN SUEDE SHORTS DEJA VU £56 dejavu.wales VINTAGE TIMBERLANDS ROCKIT £65 rokit.co.uk
s ion
Ch r
C e l s e a b r m at t si
at the Vale Resort Our 2026 calendar of festivities caters for every taste and budget - from Festive Party Nights and New Year Gala Dinners to informal gatherings with family and friends - we have Christmas 2026 all wrapped up for you to enjoy!
Festive Party Nights
Through the Decades Party Nights
West End Party Night
‘Gin’gle Bell Ball at Hensol Castle
Family Sunday Lunch
Christmas Eve Laurent-Perrier Champagne Afternoon Tea
Christmas Day Family Carvery Lunch
New Year’s Eve Laurent-Perrier Gala Dinner
Prices from
£50*pp
01443 665803 | www.valeresort.com/christmas CL.08.26
Vale Resort, Hensol Park, Hensol, Vale of Glamorgan, CF72 8JY