The lake is the centrepiece of Roath Park, a wide, calm stretch of water with rowing boats for hire, a lighthouse folly at one end and the kind of peaceful atmosphere that makes Cardiff feel very liveable. It's distinctly separate from the wider park experience.
On a sunny afternoon it fills up with picnic blankets, slow walkers and couples on the water. Bring food, take the rowing boat, and stay longer than you think you need to.