Next week, South Wales will witness one of the most spectacular astronomical events in decades as up to 90% of the Sun will be covered during a rare partial solar eclipse.
With the Sun setting in the west during the eclipse, Cardiff is blessed with plenty of fantastic viewing spots, whether you’re looking for panoramic countryside, a waterfront sunset or somewhere to enjoy a drink while the Moon slowly moves across the Sun.
Here are some of the best places to watch it.
Cardiff Bay Barrage
One of the city’s best sunset spots. The Barrage offers wide, uninterrupted views across the Bristol Channel, with the Sun setting behind the Garth and the surrounding hills. There’s plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the eclipse.
Grangemoor Park
One of Cardiff’s newest viewpoints could also be one of its best eclipse locations. The man-made hill at Grangemoor Park offers 360-degree views across Cardiff, with seating and grassy areas where you can sit back and watch the spectacle unfold. From the summit you’ll have uninterrupted views towards the western horizon, making it an excellent place to experience the eclipse as the Sun begins to disappear behind the Moon.
Lo Lounge
If you’d rather watch the eclipse with a cocktail or glass of wine in hand, Lo Lounge is hard to beat. Sitting right on the waterfront, it’s a relaxed setting with music, food and one of the best sunset views in Cardiff.
Clearwell Farm
For something a little different, Clearwell Farm is hosting a dedicated Sunflower & Eclipse Evening. Visitors can wander through the sunflower fields and maize maze before settling down to watch the eclipse with panoramic views across the Machen countryside. Food, live music, cocktails and cider will all be available throughout the evening, and eclipse viewing glasses can be purchased on site.
Goose on the Loose
This hidden gem on the River Ely boasts a floating jetty that catches the evening sun beautifully. It’s an ideal place to enjoy a quieter eclipse with uninterrupted riverside views.
The Captain’s Wife & Sully Island
For one of the most dramatic locations, head to Sully. If the tide is low, you can walk across to Sully Island and watch the eclipse from your own little island. Just make sure you check the tide times before setting off, as the causeway quickly disappears beneath the sea. If you don’t fancy crossing, The Captain’s Wife offers equally stunning coastal views nearby.
Barry Island & The Knap
Just a short drive from Cardiff, Barry Island and The Knap provide fantastic west-facing views across the Bristol Channel. If you’re happy to travel a little further, the coastline from Barry through Southerndown offers some of the best eclipse viewing locations in South Wales.
Wherever you decide to watch, remember never look directly at the Sun without certified eclipse glasses. With around 90% of the Sun expected to be obscured, this promises to be one of the biggest eclipses visible from Cardiff for decades and one you won’t want to miss.
