Celebrate Pride Month: LGBTQ+ Friendly Places to Visit in Cardiff
Cardiff has long been recognised as one of the UK's most welcoming and inclusive cities, with a vibrant LGBTQ+ community at its heart. From iconic nightlife venues and community spaces to independent businesses championing queer creativity, there are countless ways to celebrate Pride Month while supporting local organisations.
Whether you're a Cardiff local or visiting the city for the first time, here are some of the best LGBTQ+ friendly places to explore this Pride Month.
The Queer Emporium
No guide to Cardiff's LGBTQ+ scene would be complete without mentioning The Queer Emporium. Located in the historic Royal Arcade, this community-led space is home to a collection of queer-owned businesses, alongside a café, events programme and welcoming social hub.
More than just a shop, The Queer Emporium hosts everything from drag performances and comedy nights to workshops, craft clubs and community gatherings, making it one of Cardiff's most important LGBTQ+ spaces.
Mary's
A staple of Cardiff's LGBTQ+ nightlife, Mary's has built a reputation for its friendly atmosphere, lively cabaret performances and karaoke nights. Located on St Mary Street, it's the perfect place to enjoy cocktails, entertainment and a warm welcome seven days a week.
The Golden Cross
One of Cardiff's most iconic LGBTQ+ venues, The Golden Cross has been at the centre of Cardiff's queer community for decades. Known for its drag acts, DJs and regular entertainment, it remains a popular destination for both locals and visitors looking to experience the city's vibrant nightlife.
Kings
Located in the Canal Quarter, Kings is a lively LGBTQ+ bar known for its karaoke nights, drag performances and welcoming atmosphere. It's a popular meeting point for Cardiff's queer community and a great place to start a night out in the city.
Discover LGBTQ+ Friendly Local Businesses
Cardiff is home to a thriving network of LGBTQ+-owned businesses, creatives and makers. Supporting these businesses is a fantastic way to celebrate Pride all year round.
Some local favourites include:
Love Stories Bookshop – Located in Castle Arcade, inclusivity and community are at the heart of everything they do. Browse their carefully curated collection of books, including plenty of LGBTQ+ stories and authors.
Lucy & Yak – Found in Royal Arcade, this colourful clothing brand regularly supports Pride Cymru, hosts inclusive community events and champions causes that celebrate diversity and self-expression.
Nighthawks– Nestled in Castle Arcade and known for their incredible cheese toasties and carefully selected wines, Nighthawks is a welcoming, queer-friendly space. They're even serving special Pride-themed slushies throughout June.
Hard Lines Coffee – A Cardiff favourite, known for creating welcoming spaces for all and regularly supporting local community initiatives.
Other local LGBTQ+ spots include:
Scaredy Cats
Cardiff Theatre Cafe
Tonight Josephine
Tiny Rebel
Porters
The Dock Feeder
Studio Tarw
Experience Cardiff's Creative Side
Cardiff's arts and culture scene has long championed LGBTQ+ voices. Throughout the year, venues across the city host queer-led events, exhibitions and performances.
Keep an eye out for events from the internationally recognisedIris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival, which brings together filmmakers and audiences from around the world and has become one of the most important LGBTQ+ film festivals globally.
You can also discover exhibitions, live performances and community events taking place across the city throughout Pride Month and beyond.
Pride in Cardiff All Year Round
While Pride Month offers an opportunity to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, Cardiff's inclusive spirit can be experienced throughout the year. Whether you're discovering a queer-owned business, attending a community event or enjoying a night out with friends, there are countless ways to support and celebrate the people who help make Cardiff such a welcoming city for everyone.
Happy Pride from all of us at FOR Cardiff and the City of Arcades.