Area Overview for CF3 7AL

Area Information

Living in CF3 7AL means residing within Penylan, a distinguished district situated in the east of Cardiff. This postcode covers a specific residential cluster with a defined population of 1,981 residents. The area sits to both the north and south of the A48 dual carriageway, distinguishing it as one of the most affluent districts in the capital. Historical records indicate that the name means "the summit" in Welsh, reflecting the geography of the site which was originally pasture land before Victorian and Edwardian development transformed the farms into grand properties. You will find yourself amongst spacious tree-lined roads where Edwardian era period houses remain the dominant architectural style. St Margaret's Church, rebuilt in 1870 by architect John Pritchard using original Norman foundations, stands as a central landmark near the corner of Albany Road and Newport Road. The southern section of Roath Park provides expansive green space directly adjacent to the community. This location offers a blend of historical significance and modern convenience, situated comfortably between the city centre and the more rural outskirts of Cyncoed. The area has evolved from a farming settlement to a sought-after residential community, maintaining its character while benefiting from proximity to Cardiff's main employment hubs.

Area Type
Postcode
Area Size
Not available
Population
1981
Population Density
3036 people/km²

Levying a complete view of the housing market in CF3 7AL requires understanding the specific tenure and construction types prevalent in the postcode. With a 57% home ownership rate, this area functions primarily as an owner-occupied community rather than a high-turnover letting market. The housing stock is defined by one accommodation type: houses. You will encounter large Victorian period properties alongside sturdy Edwardian era homes, consistent with the history of farms being subdivided into grand villas. This consistency means buyers looking for flats or conversions will not find them within these immediate boundaries. The prevalence of owner-occupied housing typically reflects a desire for stability and a preference for single-family dwellings with gardens. Subdivision is beginning to occur in the southern boundaries of the area, reflecting trends seen in neighbouring Plasnewydd, but the core character remains that of spacious family homes. For prospective homebuyers, this suggests lower competition than areas dominated by landlords seeking short-term tenancies. The market here rewards those who appreciate period features and mature trees, as these are the defining assets of every address in the CF3 7AL cluster.

House Prices in CF3 7AL

No properties found in this postcode.

Energy Efficiency in CF3 7AL

Daily life in CF3 7AL centres on spacious green spaces and convenient access to major retail chains. You can walk to Lidl Penylan, Sainsburys Colchester, and Iceland Cardiff for your weekly shopping requirements without needing a car. The area is characterised by large parks that define the local atmosphere, with the southern part of Roath Park being the most significant amenity. Waterloo Gardens and Mill Gardens, both donated by Lord Tredegar, offer historical interest and peaceful walking routes. Those who enjoy outdoor sports will find the Harlequins Recreation Ground near Newport Road readily accessible. Cultural residents may visit Penylan Library for local resources or attend services at St Margaret's Church. For leisure on the water, the Cardiff Castle Waterbus Stop and Taffs Mead Waterbus Stop provide ferry links to St Fagan's National History Museum and the City Centre. The presence of five railway stations and five recreational boat stops within a short distance highlights the connectivity of the location. Residents benefit from a lifestyle that combines the tranquility of a residential cluster with the immediate availability of commerce and recreation. The Proximity of these five major retail outlets ensures that running errands is always possible without significant travel time.

Amenities

Schools

RankSchoolTypeEntry genderAges

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Demographics

The people living in CF3 7AL form a mature and established community. The median age is 47, which aligns with the most common age range of adults aged 30 to 64 years. This demographic profile suggests a population that has put down permanent roots rather than consisting primarily of students or transient workers. Home ownership stands at 57%, indicating that more than half of the residents possess their own property. The remaining third of households likely comprise tenants or buyers under negative equity. Accommodation in this postcode is exclusively comprised of houses, meaning you will not find flats or bungalows as the standard dwelling type. The predominant ethnic group is White, reflecting the traditional composition of this affluent Cardiff suburb. These facts paint a picture of a stable neighbourhood where long-term residents have shaped the local character over decades. The absence of mixed tenure areas suggests a consistent standard of living across the streets. Residents here are drawn by the desire for a quiet domestic environment away from the immediate city bustle, yet close enough to access urban amenities quickly.

Household Size

One person
most common

Accommodation Type

Houses
most common

Tenure

57
majority

Ethnic Group

White
most common

Religion

N/A
most common

Household Composition

N/A
most common

Age

47
median
Adults (30-64 years)
most common

Household Deprivation

N/A
with no deprivation

NS-SEC

45
in Lower managerial occupations

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Planning

Planning Constraints

  • Flood Risk
    Premium
  • Ramsar Wetland Sites
    Premium
  • Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
    Premium
  • Protected Nature Reserve
    Premium
  • Protected Woodland
    Premium
  • Crime Risk
    Premium

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the community feel like for someone moving to CF3 7AL?
The community in CF3 7AL is mature and stable, dominated by adults aged 30 to 64 years. With a median age of 47 and a 57% home ownership rate, the area attracts long-term residents who value the Edwardian era period houses and tree-lined roads. The population of 1,981 indicates a small, close-knit environment rather than a sprawling suburb.
How is the transport situation for commuters living in CF3 7AL?
Residents benefit from strong digital and physical connectivity. Broadband quality scores 99 out of 100, while mobile coverage reaches 85 out of 100. Five railway stations are nearby, including Cardiff Central and Cardiff Queen Street, alongside access to the Cardiff Bus Interchange and multiple ferry stops for leisure travel to the city centre.
Are there proper shops and amenities close to CF3 7AL?
Yes, five retail outlets are within practical reach, including Lidl Penylan, Sainsburys Colchester, and Iceland Cardiff. Leisure options include the southern section of Roath Park, Mill Gardens, and the Harlequins Recreation Ground. You also have access to Penylan Library and St Margaret's Church for cultural activities.
What type of housing can I expect to buy in CF3 7AL?
The accommodation type is exclusively houses, with no flats available in this postcode. Most properties are owner-occupied, reflecting the affluent and mature nature of the district. The housing stock consists primarily of large Victorian period properties and Edwardian era homes situated on spacious, tree-lined streets.

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