!ndicates an easy walk!ndicate a slightly more energetic walkYou need to be fairly fit for a three boot walkSuitable for disabledBiodiversity interest1km = 0.62 miles

How to use this guide

March 20161. Cathays Cemetery - A European TourTuesday 22nd March - 19.00 - 21.00Friends of Cathays Cemetery An illustrated talk giving some examples of how research into the cemetery and the people buried there can take you to some surprising places. The history you never learned at school.Meet at the John Percival Building, Cardiff University, Colum Drive, Colum Road, Cardiff FREE -

2. Easter Fun in Victoria ParkSunday 27th March -14.00 - 16.00Join the Park Rangers for some eggciting Easter arts and craft activities. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at the bandstand in Victoria Park. £1.00 per child -

April 20163. Spring Flowers in Cath Cobb Woods - St MellonsSaturday 9th April - 14.00Join the Community Park Rangers and the Friends of Cath Cobb Woods for a walk around this semi - ancient woodland to discover the spring flowers in bloom.Meet at the TESCOs car park nearest to the woods.FREE - - 1km -

4. Cathays Cemetery – Historical WalkSunday 10th April - 14.00 - 15.30Bereavement ServicesDiscover the history of one of the largest Victorian cemeteries in Britain. Find out about famous residents and events in Cardiff’s past whilst walking through this beautiful place. Meet at the main gates on Fairoak Road.FREE - No Dogs Allowed -

5. Spring Flowers in Coed Y Felin, LisvaneSunday 10th April - 10.30Join the Community Park Rangers and the Friends of Coed Y Felin for a walk around this semi- ancient woodland to discover the spring flowers in bloom. Meet at the Heol Cefn Onn entrance.FREE - - 1 km -

6. RHS show Friday 15th & Saturday 16th April - 10.00 - 17.30 Sunday 17th April - 10.00 -16.30A partnership between Cardiff Council and the Royal Horticultural Society. The RHS show Cardiff has been held in the parklands of Cardiff Castle since 2005, and last year attracted crowds of more than 20,500 visitors from across the UK. The setting is particularly appropriate for the first outdoor show of the RHS season, as the parklands are hugely significant in horticultural heritage terms. You can browse through more than 30 local artisan producers in the Farmers Market and over 40 craft exhibitors. Please refer to the official RHS website rhs.org.uk for ticket pricing a purchasing.

7. Monthly Nature Ramble at Forest FarmSaturday 16th April - 10.00 -12.00Led by the Friends of Forest FarmA guided walk to identify the birds and other wildlife, which vary from month to month. Bring binoculars if you have them.Meet at the warden Centre Forest Farm FREE - -

8. Dawn Chorus Walk Forest FarmSaturday 30th April - 6.00 to catch the early bird.Led by the Community Park Rangers.Experience the delights of the dawn chorus. Experts will be on hand to help identify those tricky trills, warbles and whistles. Please bring binoculars if you have them. Breakfast rolls and drinks provided by the Friends of Forest Farm. Donation required.Meet at the Wardens Centre, Forest Farm. FREE - - - 3 km

BookingSome of the events have a limited number of places. Where this is stated these should be booked in advance, as early booking is recommended to save disappointment. . To book a place on the events listed please phone the Ranger Service on 029 20445 903 or 07976 132824

Meeting PointsMeeting points are specified for each event but if you require further information please contact the Ranger Service on 029 20445 903

Contacting Park ServicesFor further information on anything involving parks and open spaces in Cardiff please call our main office on 029 2233 0235 or visit our website www.cardiff.gov.uk/parks

Event Leaders

Special thanks must go to the volunteers who are leading some of the walks and events. They give their time freely to pass on a wealth of knowledge to help us provide a varied programme.

DogsA few of the walks do not allow dogs (except assistant dogs), where this is the case it is clearly stated. For all other walks and activities dogs are allowed but should be kept on a lead at all times. Owners are asked to keep Cardiff’s parks clean by cleaning up after their dogs. Be prepared and carry a bag with you and ‘ Bag it and Bin it ‘.

Contacting Bute Park Education CentreThe education Centre is located within Bute Park next to Secret Garden Café. For further information regarding events in Bute Park visit our website www.bute-park.com To book places on events in Bute Park contact 029 2087 2730

Contacting Bereavement ServicesFor more information on anything involving Bereavement Services phone 029 2054 4820

Roath Park ConservatoryDid you know we have our own tropical rainforest in the middle of Roath Park? Visit Roath Park Conservatory to see tropical plants from around the world, feed the Koi carp and terrapins and meet our whistling ducks, Jack and Vera.

Opening Times:Autumn/Winter/Spring 10.30 - 15.00Summer 10.30 - 18.00 Entrance charges apply and season tickets are available

Giving Nature a Home in CardiffGiving Nature a Home in Cardiff is a partnership project between Cardiff Council and RSPB Cymru.

The project is an exciting partnership aiming to inspire and enthuse families and communities to connect with the natural environment around them.

The project team to deliver this is a combination of Cardiff Council’s Community Ranger Team and the RSPB Giving Nature a Home team. As part of the project this year we will be delivering a number of events which you will find in this programme. For further information about the project or to get involved look at the RSPB website link for giving nature a home.

School and group visits to Cardiff’s parksParks are an excellent resource for outdoor learning. We can help you arrange a tailor made and curriculum linked educational visit to your park, whether it be Roath Park, Bute Park, Cardiff Bay, Forest Farm Country Park or your local park. If you would like to arrange an educational visit to one of our parks please contact us on 029 20445903 and we will be happy to help.

Would you like to volunteer?If you enjoy the outdoor life, there are plenty of opportunities for volunteers to get involved in looking after our parks and green spaces. We have a varied programme of volunteering throughout the year in our parks. Volunteers can get involved in conservation, events and education. If you are interested in ensuring the future of our beautiful parks and green spaces in Cardiff, please contact 029 20445 903.

May 2016Enjoy this year’s Cardiff Walking Festival during National Walking Month.To find out more and the events being held go to: www.outdoorcardiff.com or scan the QR code below:

9. Cefn Onn Spring WalkSunday 1st May - 10.00 -13.00Led by the Community Park RangersJoin the Rangers for a brisk walk from Cefn Onn to Tranch y Hebog to discover the spring flowers and other wildlife that abound in this beautiful woodland on the edge of Cardiff.Meet at Cefn Onn car park FREE - - - 3km

10. North Cardiff Ridgeway Walk from Taffs Well to LisvaneSaturday 7th May - 10.00 - 16.00Led by the Community Park RangersA linear walk exploring the wooded Ridgeway Path to the North of Cardiff, if weather allows panoramic views can be seen from Craig yr Allt. Please remember to bring train fare for the return journey to Taffs Well and refreshments for this long walk. Sensible clothing and foot wear is essential.Meet at Taffs Well Train Station.FREE - - - 11km

11. Foods of the ForestWednesday 11th May - 18.00Take a pleasant stroll around Forest Farm Country Park and discover the tasty treats Mother Nature has in store this time of year. This is followed by a tasting session of some delicious delicacies.Meet at the Warden Centre Forest Farm £4.00 per person - -

12. Monthly Nature Ramble at Forest FarmSaturday 21st May - 10.00 -12.00Led by the Friends of Forest FarmRefer to item no 7 FREE - -

13.”Somme Stories” - An Illustrated TalkTuesday 17th May - 19.00 - 21.00Friends of Cathays CemeteryTo mark the 100th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme, Gary Williams of the Western Front Association shares some of his own research on the battle.Meet at the John Percival Building, Cardiff University, Colum Drive, Colum Road, Cardiff Charge £2.00 for Non Members -

14. Spring Walk at Plymouth Great woodSaturday 28th May - 10.30 - 12.30Join the Ranger on a circular walk around this Ancient semi natural woodland, where you will learn about the history of the battle of St Fagans and see the wide variety of flora and fauna that this woodland has to offer.Meet at the Plymouth Arms car park St Fagans. FREE - -

15. Cefn Onn Botanical WalkSunday 29th May - 14.00 -16.00Led by a long-time Friend, Peter Kent, this guided walk reveals nearly 80 of the park’s fascinating botanical specimens including our Champion Trees. Peter explores all corners of the Park identifying trees from the smallest to the tallest and from the most common to one which is only one of five in the entire UK. Meet at Cefn Onn Car Park.FREE - -

June 201616. Summer Wildlife Festival at Forest Farm Saturday 4th June - 10.00 - 16.00Led by the Giving Nature a Home in Cardiff TeamA day of wildlife activities from pond dipping and bug hunting to worm charming and bird spotting. Fun for all the family!Meet at Forest Farm, Forest Farm Road, Whitchurch.FREE activities and parking -

17. History and Wildlife of the Glamorgan CanalSaturday 11th June - 14.00 -16.00 Led by the Community Park Rangers A gentle stroll to look at the social and natural history of this fascinating site. Meet at the Warden Centre, Forest Farm. FREE - - - - 1.5km

18. Heath Park Pond Watch Sunday 12th June - 14.00 - 16.00 Led by the Friends of Heath Park Woodland and the Community Park RangersCome and have a go at pond dipping in Heath Park, it’s an ideal opportunity to use nets to examine the wide range of aquatic life that lives in the main pond. Favourites are the newts and the legendary leeches! All children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at Heath Park main pond FREE - -

19. Wenallt WalkSaturday 18TH June - 10.00 - 13.00Led by the Forest Farm WardensJoin the Wardens on a brisk walk up the Wenallt and surrounding area whilst looking at some local natural history.Meet at the Deri Arms Public House, Wenallt Road, Rhiwbina.FREE - - - 4km

20. Monthly Nature Ramble at Forest FarmSaturday 18th June - 10.00 -12.00Led by the Friends of Forest FarmRefer to item no 7 FREE - -

21. Howardian Orchid WalkSaturday 18th June 14.30 - 16.00Led by the Friends of Howardian LNRA leisurely walk around the reserve to look and learn about it’s wild orchids.Meet at the entrance on Ipswich Road by the David Lloyd CentreFREE - - - 3km

22. Cathays Cemetery – Midsummer Heritage WalkTuesday 21st June - 19.00 - 21.00Friends of Cathays CemeteryDiscover more about the history and heritage of the cemetery. Find out about some of the famous residents and events from Cardiff’s past whilst walking through this beautiful site.Meet at the Cemetery Chapels, Fairoak RoadFREE - - No dogs allowed

23. Babies Remembrance ServiceSunday 26th June - 11.30 -13.00Bereavement ServicesThe memorial service supported by Sands allows those who have lost a baby to come together to remember them. After the service there will be an opportunity to place a memory pebble in the Memory Bowl within the Ilex Garden. Refreshments to follow.Meet at the Wenallt Chapel – Thornhill Crematorium

July 201624. Nant Fawr Fun DaySaturday 2nd July - 11.00 - 15.00Led by Cardiff University, Friends of Nant Fawr and the Community Park RangersA chance to get up close with the creatures that live within the Nant Fawr stream and meadows, using microscopes and magnifying glasses. There will also be wildlife trails and other fun activities. Please bring lunch to have a picnic. All Children must be accompanied by an adultMeet at Llanishen Reservoir Car Park off of Rhydypenau RoadFREE - -

25. Fly Fishing for Adults - BeginnersSunday 10th July - 10.30 -16.30A chance to learn some basic fly fishing skills. The day will involve some theory followed by practical instruction on the River Taff. Places are limited and will need to be booked by contacting the Ranger service on 07976 132824 or 029 20445903. Please bring wellies or waders if you have them and a packed lunch. Tea and coffee provided. Meet at the Warden Centre Forest Farm. Cost: £20.00 per person

26. Cathays Cemetery – Historical WalkSunday 10th July - 14.00 -15.30Bereavement ServicesDiscover the history of one of the largest Victorian cemeteries in Britain. Find out about famous residents and events in Cardiff’s past whilst walking through this beautiful place. Meet at the main gates on Fairoak Road.FREE - - - No Dogs Allowed

Guided Walks &Park Events 2016

Wild About Cardiffwww.outdoorcardiff.comThis document is available in Welsh / Mae’r ddogfen hon ar gael yn Gymraeg.

27. Monthly Nature Ramble at Forest FarmSaturday 16th July - 10.00 -12.00Led by the Friends of Forest FarmRefer to item no 7FREE - -

28. Cefn Onn History WalkWednesday 20th July - 18.30Led by Park servicesCome and join us on a walk around this beautiful park and learn about its history.Meet at the main Car Park, Cefn Onn Country Park FREE -

29. Bat Evening at Hailey Park Wednesday 20th July - 21:00 - 23:00Led by the Community Park Rangers.Discover the bats living in Hailey Park using bat detectors to locate this secretive nocturnal creature. Please bring a torch. Meet at Radyr Road car park, Hailey Park.FREE - - - 3 km

30. Bio Blitz Hailey Park MeadowSaturday 23rd July - 10.00 -13.00Led by the Community Park RangersCome along and join us as we try and identify as many different species of plants and animals living in Hailey Park Meadow.Meet at Radyr Road car park.FREE - - - 3km

31. Meadow Flowers in Nant Fawr Sunday 24th July - 14.00 -16.00Led by the Community Park Rangers.See what wild flowers are growing on the meadows and learn about their uses in human history and the issues involved in modern urban meadow management. Meet at the Reservoir Car Park off of Rhydypenau road. Sensible footwear needed. FREE - - - 3km

August 201632. Bugs and Butterflies at Grangemoor ParkSaturday 6th August - 10.00 -12.00Join the park Rangers on a mini beast safari. A chance to help the Rangers catch, identify and log all the different bugs you find in the pond, meadow and woodland enclosures. A family event. Meet at the entrance to the park opposite Mc Donalds next to the pond.FREE - - - 1km

33. Heath Park Bat walkWednesday 10th August 21:00 -22:30Come and join the Rangers and Friends of Heath park on a late evening stroll through the various habitats in the park, looking for our nocturnal flying friends with the aid of bat detectors. All equipment provided. Meet at the Model railway carpark. FREE - - - 3km

34. Out of the woods FestivalSaturday 20th August - 10.30 - 16.30Led by the Community Park RangersA celebration of woodland crafts and traditions. A day of entertainment and fun for all the family! Attractions will include a free dog show from 12.30, woodland arts and craft demonstrations, locally crafted products and many other fun activities. Hot and cold food will also be available. Although entry is free charges may apply for individual activities. Takes place at Sophia Gardens adjacent to the Car ParkFREE -

35. Monthly Nature Ramble at Forest FarmSaturday 20th August - 10.00 -12.00Led by the Friends of Forest FarmRefer to item no 7 FREE - -

36. Bat Walk at Hendre Lake, St MellonsWednesday 24th August - 20.30Led by the Community Rangers and the Cath Cobb Environmental Group.Discover the bats feeding around the Lake margin using bat detectors. Sensible clothing and footwear essential. Please bring torches with you.Meet at the Hendre lake carpark. FREE - - - 3km

37. Bat walk at Forest Farm, WhitchurchWednesday 31st August - 20.00Led by the Community RangersDiscover the bats feeding around the Reserve using bat detectors.Sensible clothing and footwear essential. Please bring torches with you.Meet outside the Warden’s Centre. FREE - - - 3km

September 201638. Bat Walk Cefn OnnSaturday 3rd September - 20.00 - 22.00Led by the Community Park Rangers Discover the bats feeding around the park and woods using bat detectors. Please bring torches with you. Meet at Cefn Onn car park.FREE - - - 2km

39. Mossfords Monumental Masons – An Illustrated TalkTuesday 13th September 19.00 - 21.00Friends of Cathays CemeteryA talk by Simon Morgan of Mossfords Monumental Masons who will give further insights into aspects of his work and interests.Meet at the John Percival Building, Cardiff University, Colum Drive, Colum Road, Cardiff. £2.00 for Non Members -

40. Foods of the ForestWednesday 14th September - 18.00Take a pleasant stroll around Forest Farm Country Park and discover the tasty treats Mother Nature has in store this time of year. This is followed by a tasting session of some delicious delicacies.Meet at the Warden Centre Forest Farm £4.00 per person -

41. Monthly Nature Ramble at Forest FarmSaturday 17th September - 10.00 -12.00Led by the Friends of Forest FarmRefer to item no 7FREE - -

42. History and Heritage of Cathays Cemetery – Guided WalkSunday 18th September - 14.30 -16.00Friends of Cathays CemeteryA guided walk to look at the northern extension of the cemetery and a chance to learn about famous residents and events from Cardiff’s past.Meet at entrance gates on Allensbank Road near the Hospital entrance – New section of CemeteryFREE - - - 1.5km mainly on paths with some rough ground - No dogs allowed

October 201643. Bats and Bugs in the WetlandsSaturday 1st October - 17.00 - 20.00Led by the Giving Nature a Home in Cardiff TeamJoin the team pond dipping at Cardiff Bay Wetlands to see what creatures live in the depths. As dusk falls swap pond nets for bat detectors to discover the amazing bats that feed over the reserve. A free event for all the family. Please wrap up warm, wear sensible footwear and bring a torch if you have one.Meet at the Cardiff Bay Wetland Reserve off Windsor Esplanade FREE - -

44. Forest Farm Open DaySaturday 8th October - 10.30 -15.30Led by the Friends of Forest FarmCome and see the apple press at work and taste the juice from the orchard. There is also the chance to have a go at some wicker work, pond dipping and nature trails and walks. Refreshments will also be available throughout the day. A fun day for all the family.FREE - -

45. Photography WorkshopSunday 9th October - 10.00 - 12.00Come and join the Rangers on the Adult Photography Workshop, with tips on how to create that perfect picture. Please bring your own camera for this event if you have one. Meet at Cefn Onn Car Park. FREE - -

46. North Cardiff Ridgeway Walk from Cefn Onn to Taffs WellSaturday 15th October - 10.00 - 16.00A linear walk exploring the wooded Ridgeway Path to the North of Cardiff, if weather allows panoramic views can be seen from Craig yr Allt. Please remember to bring train fare for the return journey to Lisvane Station and refreshments for this long walk. Sensible clothing and foot wear is essential. Meet at Cefn Onn Car Park. FREE - - 11km

47. Monthly Nature Ramble at Forest FarmSaturday 15th October - 10.00 -12.00Led by the Friends of Forest FarmRefer to item no 7FREE - -

48. Autumn Wildlife in Bute Park Saturday 22nd October - 10.00 - 16.00Led by the Giving Nature a Home in Cardiff TeamA day of free wildlife activities for children and families, from leaf safaris and colour trails to unusual wildlife exhibits. A brilliant day to wrap up warm and come outside for an autumn adventure!Meet at the Bute Park Education Centre FREE - -

49. Halloween Ghost Walks Forest FarmFriday 28th October, -. 18.00, 18.45, 19.30, 20.15 & 21.00 sessions.Hosted by Community Park Ranger Team.Celebrate Halloween at Forest Farm Country Park. Entertaining storytelling and horror theatre presented by ‘The University of South Wales Theatre and Media Students’. Demand is high so please book early! To book your place on a walk or for further information please phone 029 20445903 or 07976 132824.Strictly no admittance without a ticket. Fancy dress preferred. Please bring a torch. Not suitable for under 5’s.£4 per person

November 201650. Wildlife on the River TaffSaturday 5th November - 10.00 – 13.00 Led by the Community Park RangersA walk along the banks of the River Taff exploring the delights of the river in the autumn, there may be the opportunity to see the Salmon run! Walk ends at the Millennium Stadium Plaza. Please remember to bring train fare for the return journey to Radyr train station. Meet at Radyr Train Station. FREE - - - 8km

51. Birdwatch Cardiff Bay Wetland ReserveSaturday 12th November - 14.00 – duskLed by the Giving Nature a Home in Cardiff TeamAn afternoon birdwatch on the wetland reserve to enjoy the winter wildfowl, gull roost and the spectacular starling murmuration. Please bring binoculars if you have them. Meet by the boardwalk at the Wetland Reserve, off Windsor Esplanade.FREE - -

52. Autumn Art AttackSunday 13th November - 13.00 -15.00Led by the Community Park RangersA chance to create a piece of autumn art to take home from leaves, nuts and berries, autumn pictures and mobiles are favourites. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at the Warden Centre Forest Farm£1.00 per child -

53. Bill Mosley Memorial LectureTuesday 15th November - 19.00 - 21.00Friends of Cathays CemeteryLocal historian and author Jeff Childs will give an illustrated talk on the development of Roath. Meet at the John Percival Building, Cardiff University, Colum Drive ,Colum Road, Cardiff. £5.00 -

54. Monthly Nature Ramble at Forest FarmSaturday 19th November - 10.00 -12.00Led by the Friends of Forest FarmRefer to item no 7 FREE - -

December 201655. Bird Walk around Roath Park LakeSunday 4th December - 10.00 - 12.00Led by the Community Park RangersMeet opposite the lighthouse on Roath Park promenade for the start of this walk around the lake in search of winter birds and wildfowl. Please bring binoculars if you have them.FREE - - - - 2km

56. Christmas Memorial Service at Thornhill CrematoriumSunday 4th December - 14.00 - 15.30Bereavement ServicesAn annual memorial service to commemorate all burials and cremations in Cardiff, everybody is welcome, refreshments to follow. Christmas memorial tree tags available from 2nd December - for a donation of £2.00. Tags to be placed on the memorial tree until 12th night.Meet at the Wenallt Chapel, Thornhill Crematorium

57. Yuletide Log and Wreath Making at Victoria ParkSaturday 10th December - 10.30 -15.30 Last Entry 14.30Led by the Community Park Rangers. Join the Rangers and make your own Yuletide logs and wreaths for the festive season. Meet at the bowls Pavilion, Victoria Park.Logs £2.50 Table Decorations £2.50 Wreaths £6.50 -

58. Yuletide Log and Wreath Making at Roath Pleasure GardensSunday 11th December - 10.30 -15.30 Last Entry 14.30Led by the Community Park Rangers. Join the Rangers and make your own Yuletide logs and wreaths for the festive season. Meet at the bowls Pavilion, Roath Pleasure GardensLogs £2.50 Table Decorations £2.50 Wreaths £6.50 -

59. Carols at Grange GardensTuesday 13th December - 18.30 -19.30Led by the Community Park RangersJoin us for a traditional carol concert at Grange Gardens bandstand. Wrap up warm and bring a torch if you have one.FREE -

60. Carols at Victoria ParkWednesday 14th December - 18.30 – 19.30Join us for a traditional carol concert on Victoria Park bandstand. Wrap up warm and bring a torch if you have one. Entrance via the main gate off Thompsons Avenue.FREE -

61. Carols at Roath Pleasure GardensThursday 15th December - 18.30 -19.30Join us for a traditional Carol Concert at Roath Park Pleasure Gardens. Wrap up warm and bring a torch if you have one. Entrance via the gate on corner of Ty Draw/Alder Road.FREE -

62 Monthly Nature Ramble at Forest FarmSaturday 17th December - 10.00 -12.00Led by the Friends of Forest FarmRefer to item no 7 FREE - -

January 201763. Garth Mountain WalkSunday 8th January 2017 - 10.00 -13.00A walk up the gradual slopes of the nearest mountain to Cardiff, ‘The Garth’.WET WEATHER CLOTHING AND STOUT WALKING BOOTS OR SHOES ARE ESSENTIAL. Also a flask of coffee or soup might cheer you up at the top! Meet at Taffs Well train station FREE - - 11km

64. Bird Walk around Roath Park LakeSunday 15th January 2017 - 10.00 - 12.00Meet opposite the lighthouse on Roath Park promenade for the start of this walk around the lake in search of winter birds and wildfowl. Please bring binoculars if you have them.FREE - - - - 2km

February 201765. Man’s Hand in NatureSunday 19th February 2017 - 10.00 - 12.00The hand of mankind has had a big influence on the landscape and the wildlife that we see in the countryside today. Join the Ranger on a walk around Nant Fawr to see some unusual landscape features.Meet at the Reservoir Car Park – Access from Rhydypenau RoadFREE - - - 2km

April 201766. Annual Memorial service – Thornhill Crematorium Sunday 9th April 2017 - 14.00 - 15.30Bereavement ServicesA memorial service held to commemorate all burials and cremations in Cardiff. Refreshments to follow. Everybody is welcome. Easter memorial tags available for a donation of £2.00Meet at the Wenallt Chapel, Thornhill CrematoriumFREE -