URGENT UPDATE: Paradise Garden, a beloved music venue in Cardiff, has issued a heartfelt plea for support, warning that without increased patronage, it may close its doors before the end of the year. The venue, located on City Road, has been a cornerstone of Cardiff’s vibrant independent music scene since its opening in 2022.
In a statement released on Monday, the owners emphasized that their financial situation has become critically precarious. “Unless we stay busy during the rest of the year, we likely won’t make it into 2026,” they stated. The venue, known for hosting intimate performances for up to 100 people, has struggled with low attendance, ongoing maintenance costs, and a two-week closure during the May bank holiday.
Founded by local musicians and creative couple David Bull and Esther Taylor, Paradise Garden has been an innovative space for live music, featuring a range of local and international artists. However, the venue’s recent financial struggles echo challenges faced by other independent businesses in the area. Just last month, the North Star pub on North Road warned patrons about drastic actions to avoid closure amid rising costs.
Paradise Garden’s owners explained, “Running a small grassroots venue is a tough gig in the current climate. It’s a constant juggling act of cash flow and razor-thin margins.” They highlighted that even a few low turnout gigs can significantly impact their viability.
As autumn continues to present challenges, the venue has seen a drop in attendance, leaving them unable to recover significant running costs. To rally community support, the owners are encouraging locals to visit over the next two months, whether for an early evening drink, a late night dance, or to catch one of their upcoming events.
“We appreciate everyone is strapped for cash at the moment, but if we continue to have low turnout for the remainder of this year, we probably won’t make it into 2026,” they cautioned.
Paradise Garden is calling for immediate action from the community to ensure its survival. They invite everyone to reserve a table, book their unique yurt, or simply swing by for a gig.
As the clock ticks down to the new year, the situation at Paradise Garden is urgent and requires swift community engagement to keep this cherished venue alive.
