Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff

Clwb Ifor Bach, affectionately known as "Clwb" by the Cardiff Welsh-speaking community and "The Welsh Club" by others in the Cardiff music scene, stands as a pivotal cultural hub in Cardiff. Established in 1983 to promote Welsh culture and language, the venue is located centrally on Womanby Street, near Cardiff Castle. Named after the 12th-century Welsh rebel leader Ifor Bach, the club is not just a music venue but also functions as a community center and a social nucleus for both Welsh and non-Welsh speakers.

With its policy of bilingualism, Clwb Ifor Bach ensures that both Welsh and English are spoken, fostering an inclusive environment free from anti-Welsh sentiment. Originally a British Legion club, the venue has undergone significant transformations since its inception, including a major refurbishment in the 1990s. It houses a bar, stage, and dance floor on each of its three levels, with the largest space on the top floor.

Clwb Ifor Bach, a key hub for Welsh-medium events, has expanded its access by ending members-only nights. The club, integral to the "Save Womanby Street" campaign in 2017, faced threats from nearby developments. Supported by local government and MPs, the campaign successfully halted plans that endangered the venue.

The club is renowned for its diverse music offerings, featuring regular live performances across various genres, including reggae, folk, hip-hop, rock, dubstep, and Welsh music. Themed music nights cater to specific musical tastes, further solidifying Clwb Ifor Bach’s role as a cornerstone of Cardiff’s cultural and musical landscape.