The Celtic Bridge - Outdoor Cardiff

Rustic bridges were built in the park in the 1890s and were used to cross Roath brook. The Celtic Bridge is Grade II Listed and replaced a rustic bridge in the 1920s.

This particular bridge is listed because it is a rare example of an early concrete bridge, one of few that have survived the test of time. The intricate Celtic detail of the bridge is not normally seen in bridges made of concrete, making this bridge distinctive and special. The bridge is also listed for its contribution to the Victorian character and charm of Roath Park Pleasure Gardens.

Historic postcard showing a rustic bridge crossing the brook in Roath park — cardiffparks.org.uk

In the 1900s the Pleasure Gardens included a tea room known as ‘ The Island Tea Garden’, located on an island in the brook.

Cadw Grade II Listing

This bridge is listed by Cadw, meaning that because of its special architectural or historic interest, the Welsh Government aims to protect and preserve it for future generations. There are 4 more listed bridges in Roath Park; 3 in the Botanic Gardens and 1 in Roath Recreation Ground close to Alder Road.

historic postcard showing an old wooden bridge over the brook in Roath Park — Rustic Bridge, Postmarked 1905 (cardiffparks.org.uk)