The park was built on 130 acres (0.53 km2) of reformed bogland, known then as a malarial bog, and includes a 30-acre (12 ha) lake, 1.3 miles (2.1 km) around, formed by the damming of the Nant Fawr stream.

The main park includes a large playground, floral displays, the glasshouse conservatory and recreational areas.

Two volunteer ‘Friends’ groups work with Cardiff Council to cover the full extent of the historic Roath Park.

[2] The land for Roath Park was donated to the city in 1887, primarily by John Crichton-Stuart, 3rd Marquess of Bute.

In 1915 a lighthouse was constructed in the lake containing a scale model of the Terra Nova ship to commemorate Captain Scott's ill-fated voyage to the Antarctic from Cardiff in 1910.

The lake acts as an important habitat for over-wintering and breeding birds, including mallard, cormorants and herons.

Many wild birds are scared off by the abundance of geese in the lake, and local conservationists actively take measures to control their numbers.

There is a wildflower garden included in the park where the area is managed to encourage wildlife and native species.

High quality bowling greens and tennis courts are provided in the central section of the park, the Pleasure Gardens.

The lake is also home to a local radio-controlled boat society and is used for coarse fishing throughout the year.

A pond and waterfall form a central feature, containing fish, terrapins and whistling ducks.