Canton (Welsh: Treganna) is an inner-city district and community west of Cardiff, the capital of Wales, lying 2 miles (3.2 km) west of the city’s civic centre. It is located adjacent to Pontcanna, Cardiff. Canton is one of the most ethnically diverse Cardiff’s suburbs, with a significant Pakistani and Indian population. The total population of Canton increased to 14,304 at the 2011 census. It is also the most Welsh-speaking district of central Cardiff, with 19.1% speaking Welsh.
The main road through the district is Cowbridge Road East, a busy thoroughfare with many shops and cafes as well as pubs, restaurants and independent retailers. This is known locally as ‘The Strip’. Canton is home to Thompson’s Park, Victoria Park, Sanatorium Park, the education centre Llanover Hall, and the Chapter Arts Centre, which is housed in the former buildings of Canton High School.
Though the area has solid working-class roots, many artists and young professionals have found the proximity to the city centre and the number of arts venues and pubs an attraction, resulting in gentrification and a bohemian feel.
The name (from “St. Canna’s Town”) refers to the 6th-century female saint after whom Pontcanna is also named. Canton, also known as Treganna (tref town + Saint Canna), was a 13th-century manor in Llandaff. It became part of Victorian-era Cardiff in 1875.
