Whether you're after a late night jam sesh, slinky evening of smooth jazz or wild night out with a helluva lot of head banging, these Cardiff bars have got you sorted. Sometimes you've just got to let your hair down and a night in with your old playlist won't cut it. So if you're after a decent night out with live music in Cardiff, read our recommendations of these absolute scorchers.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Last updated on 8th December 2025
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Promising a non-stop lineup of live music throughout the week, The Piano Works is a brand new bar on St Mary Street. This vibrant venue takes requests for all your favourite tunes, and you can enjoy performances from a range of talented musicians.
The night begins with their famous singing waiters and professional piano vocalists, followed by their house band. Plus, there are musical bottomless brunches and late-night DJ sets on the weekends.
As a live music bar, The Botanist Cardiff stands out thanks to its lush interiors and curated performance lineup. From early-evening acoustics to later-night bands, the entertainment is always on the right side of lively.
You can settle in with a Picante Margarita or strawberry shrub spritz, enjoy the greenery-filled surroundings and let the music spill through the space.
If you're looking for a pub that has live music in Cardiff, O'Neills is the city centre boozer that boasts its very own stage. Head on over to watch a range of local talent, from rockin' bands to solo singers, all the while sinking many the tasty drink and wolfing down top nosh.
Inspired by the end of the Prohibition era, The Bootlegger Cardiff is just the place to let your hair down to some live music. Whether you fancy a band or late-night DJs, this quirky spot, which is decked out in graffiti murals and cool reclaimed materials, has you covered.
When you're not admiring the retro village hall vibes of Brewhouse, you'll be lapping up the best in local and new live music talent. Join the live music pub for regular line-ups, with bands taking to the stage every night of the week.
Not only is The Dead Canary a secret, speakeasy-style bar that's whipping up cool cocktails in teacups, flower pots, cauldrons and more, but there's also a roster of live music here. Think weekends of jazz, folk, 50s and other songs throughout the ages.
For a good ol' night in Cardiff's city centre, venture to The Live Lounge. Not only will you be able to catch a range of live music from DJ sets and artists alike, but there's also tasty grub or booze on offer. To top it off? This venue is open 7 days a week.
If you're after something a little more fiesty, head to this vivacious bar and restaurant. Transporting you all the way to Havana, there's Latin-inspired food, cocktails and Cuban parties with regular live bands. Get your dancing shoes ready, the fiesta starts here.
The Cricketers is one of the city's most popular watering holes and we can see exactly why. Think Welsh ales, mouth-watering wines and seasonal dishes. With two beer gardens and a buzzing atmosphere, the live music events are just the tip of the iceberg.
With a weekly open mic night, Tuesday showcase and Friday nights dedicated to jazz, Porter's is a top choice for live music in Glasgow. Grab some mates or bring a date and impress away with an evening of smooth sounds and classy musicians.
Move over Will Schuester, this Glee Club isn't messing around. Nestled in Cardiff Bay, this quirky spot is a haven for comedy acts and live music from far and wide. It's even friendly on the purse strings, so you can have a night as cheap as it is cheerful.
Named after the famous Welsh leader who fought against the English, this venue is rooted firmly in rebellion. Spread over three floors, Clwb Ifor Bach is an important part of Cardiff's live music scene, with bands and alternative nights taking centre stage.
