UPDATE: Paradise Garden, a beloved music venue in Cardiff, has issued an urgent plea for community support, warning that without a significant increase in customers, it may close before the end of the year. Opened in 2022 on City Road, this intimate venue has become a cornerstone of Cardiff’s independent music scene but is now facing dire financial challenges.
Just announced, the management of Paradise Garden stated that the situation has reached a critical point. They reported experiencing a “quiet autumn” and ongoing building maintenance costs, leaving them in a “juggling act of cashflow and razor-thin margins.” Unless foot traffic improves significantly, they warn they “won’t make it into 2026.”
Located on the former site of Eartha, Blue Honey, and Milgi, Paradise Garden is known for hosting up to 100 guests, creating an intimate atmosphere for live music. Co-founded by local musicians and DJs David Bull and Esther Taylor, along with the creative collective TEAK, the venue has been a platform for both local talent and international artists.
The venue’s management shared their struggles, stating, “Running a small grassroots venue is a tough gig in the current climate as everyone knows.” They noted that even a few low-attendance gigs can severely impact their financial stability. The venue’s closure for two weeks during the May bank holiday weekend was a significant setback, compounded by a quieter-than-expected summer.
In their heartfelt message, Paradise Garden emphasized the importance of community support. They urged patrons to visit over the next two months, whether for a casual drink, an evening dance, or to enjoy one of their upcoming events. “If we continue to have a low turnout for the remainder of this year, then we probably won’t make it into 2026,” they warned, appealing directly to the community to rally behind them.
Paradise Garden is not alone in this struggle. Earlier this year, the North Star pub on North Road also faced closure threats due to soaring operational costs, highlighting the challenges independent businesses face in today’s economic climate.
As the venue fights to survive, it invites everyone to be part of its journey. “We appreciate everyone is strapped for cash at the moment,” they acknowledged, “but if you are able to make the extra effort to support us, we’d be eternally grateful.” The urgency of this plea resonates with many in the community, as the future of Paradise Garden hangs in the balance.
For those wishing to support, Paradise Garden encourages making reservations, attending gigs, or simply stopping by for a drink. The next two months will be crucial in determining if this cherished venue can continue to thrive in Cardiff’s vibrant music scene.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation develops. The fate of Paradise Garden may depend on community action in the coming weeks.
