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Local Report: Explore the Potting Shed Café at Insole Court, Llandaff
Published: 12 September 2026 | Updated: 12 September 2026
Cardiff residents can enjoy a charming café experience at the Potting Shed Café and Bakery, located on the grounds of the historic Insole Court in Llandaff. This Grade II*-listed Victorian Gothic mansion has been transformed into a community-run heritage site, featuring beautifully restored rooms and lush gardens open to the public.
The café, managed by the Insole Court Trust, offers a menu of homemade food and drinks, including lunch options and a selection of cakes. The café prides itself on using ethical ingredients sourced from the community garden located at Insole Court, a feature that aligns with the area’s emphasis on high-quality, locally-grown produce.
Visitors can access the ground floor of the mansion and explore its gardens free of charge, although donations are welcomed to support the ongoing preservation of the heritage site. The mansion, originally named Ely Court, was built by James Harvey in 1855, who famously invested in exotic plants and established a stunning landscape spanning 57 acres.
Insole Court is currently participating in the Cadw Open Doors event, providing an opportunity for the public to engage in activities such as the upcoming Extraordinary Garden Tour on 20 September. This tour showcases the historical significance of the grounds, including the various structures that once served the Insole family.
The Potting Shed’s menu features several breakfast and lunch options including a variety of brunch items, soups, and homemade cakes. Prices for lunch dishes range from £6.50 to £9, with a notable offering being the Welsh Rarebit served on sourdough with chilli jam.
Overall, the Potting Shed Café provides a unique dining experience in a historic setting, encouraging visitors to enjoy both the food and the picturesque grounds of Insole Court.
