What are the best areas to live in Cardiff?
What are the best areas to live in Cardiff?
In the northern part of Cardiff, Rhiwbina, Caerphilly, and Pontprennau are popular with families. These areas offer quiet, suburban living, with plenty of green space and good schools. Rhiwbina, in particular, has a strong community feel, while Whitchurch provides easy access to Bute Park, ideal for weekend outings.
Cathays and Roath attract many young professionals. Both areas have a mix of cafes, shops, and restaurants, along with excellent transport links to the city centre. Cathays is also great for students, with a lively vibe and closeness to Cardiff University.
Cardiff Bay offers waterfront views, modern apartments, and easy access to the city's cultural attractions for those seeking modern living in Europe’s largest waterfront development.
Public transport in Cardiff
Cardiff has a great public transport system with regular buses and trains connecting major areas of the city. For longer journeys, Cardiff Central Station offers excellent train links to cities like London, Bristol, Swansea, and Manchester. The Valley Lines service also connects smaller towns. You can pay for travel using contactless cards or travel passes and can easily get tickets in advance.
Education and Schools
Moving to Cardiff from within Wales with school-age children during term time involves transferring school registrations. Ensure you check the availability of spaces at your preferred schools and be aware of transfer deadlines. Visit Cardiff Council’s School Admissions for detailed guidance on the process.
If you are moving from outside Wales, it’s important to check school dates as the school holiday dates may differ.
Parking and Permits
You’ll need to apply for a parking permit for resident parking if you're moving into a controlled parking zone (CPZ). You can do this through the Cardiff Council website once you have proof of address, such as council tax forms or a tenancy agreement. If you're arranging a parking suspension to load/unload during your move, you'll need to apply for this through Cardiff Council at least 7 days before your move.
Storage Facilities
All of these companies have several locations across the capital. No matter where you are, you’ll find a solution for short-term storage as you settle in or longer-term storage needs.
- Big Yellow Self Storage : Big Yellow offers flexible storage options for both personal and business use. They have secure facilities, 24/7 access, and a range of sizes to suit different needs.
- Access Self Storage : Storage Giant provides secure and affordable storage options for short- and long-term rentals. They offer both personal and business storage solutions.
- Shurgard Self Storage : SafeStore offers a variety of storage units, including climate-controlled options. It also offers flexible rental terms and 24/7 security monitoring.
- Storage King : Pink Storage has convenient options near major transport hubs. They offer secure, accessible storage with flexible rental terms, ideal for both short-term and long-term needs.
Waste and Recycling
One of the most effective ways to reduce moving costs is to declutter before the big day. Items that are in good condition can be donated to local charity shops such as BHF, who offer collection for large items, or through council donation programs. For larger items, such as damaged furniture, that cannot be donated, you will need to dispose of them at the local tip or recycling centre.
