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City of Arcades best describes Cardiff's rich legacy of Victorian and Edwardian shopping and architecture. You only have to amble through Cardiff's oldest Royal Arcade to get a sense of the 19th-century genteel.
IN ARCADIA
Nowadays the combined network of all Cardiff's covered arcades makes it the largest in Britain and provides some of the best specialist and independent stores in the city.
In the mid-19th-century The Royal Arcade and The Morgan Arcade were built to connect The Hayes and St Mary Street in an attempt to increase the number of shops available to the local people and each running parallel to each other; they were later followed by the Castle, Duke Street, High Street and Wyndham Arcades.
The city's many arcades are firm favourites with visitors and tourists alike who choose to explore the parts of the city that are rich in history and architectural design.
In fact, their historical setting only adds to the unique shopping experience. Each arcade has its own personality and point of difference and they have in turn managed to retain their period features, some with the original shop fronts intact. Even if spending isn't on your agenda, you can't fail to marvel at the timelessness of it all.
You'll find an eclectic mix of old and contemporary with stores selling everything from stationery, art and fashion to jewellery, welsh crafts, food and homeware. It's a shopper's paradise and the arcades provide some of the best selection of shops and businesses in the city, especially if you are looking for something individual and unusual.
Shoppers visit for a peaceful shopping experience, to escape the crowds and harshness of the modern city landscape. It's reassuring that some businesses have traded there for many years, whereas others in the High Street have been a flash in the pan. Cardiffians should be proud that the arcades have stood the test of time, but don't take our word for it - take a few minutes to change your route and refamiliarise yourself with the city's past heritage - we think you'll be pleasantly surprised.
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Saswa
An 'unusual and far from run-ofthe- mill' shop is how you would describe Saswa.
If you're looking for gifts with a difference this Christmas then pop along. A little money goes a long way and you're likely to find some inspiring and thoughtful gift ideas. Look out for Kit Heath silver jewellery, the eyecatching Autumn jewellery collection by Welsh designer Carrie Elspeth and a variety of trinkets and greetings cards. Finally, anyone with style would feel incomplete without a statement watch, so check out the selection by Storm, Calvin Klein and Swatch.
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Isabella's
If you're stuck for gift ideas and want something a bit different, then a detour to Isabella's in the Morgan Arcade is sure to provide the solution.
A haven of inspiring ideas for last minute gift ideas and for stocking up early for Christmas, from cards to vases and the much desired Murano glass jewellery from Italy. Lovers of Welsh giftware will be pleased to find an increasing range of made-in- Wales crafts, souvenirs practical and novelty items which are proving popular with visitors wanting a reminder of Wales.
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The Pen and Paper Sationery Company
Wendy Bottrill, seen here with Cheryl Carr, Pen Consultant, is passionate about paper, pens and good old fashioned stationery.
Stockists of professional art supplies, quality notepaper, luxury Moleskine notebooks, craft paper or the perfect self-defining fountain pen and coloured ink, discounts for students are available and a selection of writing instruments from Parker, Cross, Waterman, Sheaffer and Visconti provide the perfect gift for anyone who appreciates the power and sentiment of the written word.
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The lost art of letter writing
How have we lost the art of letterwriting?
As a youngster I was
taught that the pen is mightier
than the sword.
In novels by Jane Austen I learned that
one scribed a message to a loved one
and when I left home, nothing
provided an antidote to homesickness
as much as a letter from my parents
telling me their news.
We stored love letters tied in ribbon,
and it was polite to send a note to
thank your host for dinner or a dear
friend for your birthday gift. To live in a
paperless society would be my worst
nightmare for how can you replace the
feel of the pages of a book?
Fountain pens assume the personality
of their owners - your handwriting is defined by its shape and feel, and god forbid anyone who borrows it, as the nib performs to your own will only, and to no one else's - a bit like Harry Potter's wand!
They become treasured possessions and what was once perhaps a simple gift will pass through the generations as a treasured family heirloom.
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Cardiff Antique Centre
Lovers of 19th-century British military medals, helmets and memorabilia will find a treasure trove awaits them in the Cardiff Antique Centre.
Louis Bannon trades in Welsh mining lamps, curios and militaria to antique medals, tokens, bank notes and coins - including gold coins which he sources from around the world. Enthusiasts come from all over Wales and beyond to satisfy their interest. With Christmas on the horizon there is plenty to offer anyone who is stuck for unusual gift ideas for family and friends who have more than a passing fancy for mining and military collectables.
21 Royal Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1AE
029 2022 1528 / 07968 855288 |
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Janet Butler Antiques
Imagine owning a diamond ring
crafted by a master that has a
history like no other.
Owner Janet Butler specialises in
vintage and antique jewellery and, as
a Member of the Jewellery Historian
Society, she really knows a thing or
two. Customers looking for antique
diamond rings appreciate the subtle
differences between old and new and
enjoy wearing pieces with a story to
tell. Janet stocks precious metals and
gems and younger customers love the
selection of costume vintage pieces for
style and value-for-money. Valuations
are available.
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Neal’s Yard Remedies
Providing the best in organic and
natural skincare and cosmetics,
their Soil Association certified
products are packed with plant
ingredients to add brightness
and luminosity to your skin.
This winter, protect your face from the
elements with Wild Rose Beauty Balm,
an aromatic three-in-one product that
smoothes, repairs and adds radiance to
tired, dehydrated skin. Rejuvenate body
and mind with treatments from their
therapy rooms or pamper yourself with
a gift box for your own indulgent home
spa. Look out for the exciting range of
organic, synthetic-free make-up in store.
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David Edwards Jewellers
A real gem of a find, David Edwards
Jewellers are specialists and
stockist of precious metal jewellery
and diamonds.
A traditional jewellers with years of
experience trading in quality graded
gems and timeless jewellery pieces,
they've remained steadfast in their own style. Whether looking for bracelets, earrings, necklaces, rings or for a vintage keepsake, there is something to suit all tastes and budgets. And if you already have something you love that needs a valuation or remodelling, or any unworn items that could be sold, David Edwards is the place to go.
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Hawkes Essentials
A high end boutique for modern urban men, offering elegant, timeless clothing and stylish brands such as Sand, Matinique, Gibson, Milena, and Boateng.
With unrivalled service and attention to detail, and outstanding quality tailoring, clothing and accessories at a range of prices, it is a well-known destination for style-conscious men. For anyone wanting something unique and individual, then you'll be excited by the bespoke tailored suits by the talented, creative designer Gresham Blake, currently one of the hottest names in men's tailoring.
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Seren
Why would you follow the crowd when you can stand head and shoulders above it?
At the tiny Seren boutique you can be sure to find a little number fit for any occasion whether that be a red carpet event or something individual for the workplace. Owner Linda makes it her mission to source unique, quirky pieces from little known but up and coming designers who offer an urban, yet glamorous twist to fashion clothing for women. Also look out for this season's stock by Arrogant Cat, Dahlia, Darling and Feud - all guaranteed to revamp your winter wardrobe a treat.
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Ushi's
Any woman who loves fashion yet prefers an individual and quirky approach to style, need look no further than Ushi's in Morgan Arcade.
It's on the hit list of style conscious women, local stylists and personal shoppers. What's so great, you may ask? Simply, it's their unwavering passion to serve you with a smile and to be truly helpful in a way that doesn't compromise your budget or style; and the interior styling of the shop goes a long way in itself to welcome you in.
Stocking French, Italian and Scandinavian brands, the clothes provide a much welcome solution to the art of 'layering' which at the best of times can be a real dilemma for most women to interpret. What's more the pieces are wearable and affordable which is the key to Ushi's success and the reason why they have relocated to bigger premises in the Morgan Arcade.
This autumn sees the latest looks by Lauren Vidal, Soleil and Elisa Cavaletti. A selection of handbags, jewellery, scarves, hats, accessories and trinkets complete your look.
The Castle, Duke and High Street
Arcades can be found at the lower,
castle end of St. Mary Street.
Together, they form a trio of
interlinking covered shopping
arcades that in Victorian and
Edwardian times were the life
blood of Cardiff's retail economy.
Nowadays, these Grade II listed buildings provide the shopping fraternity with shelter and sanctuary from the outside elements and offer the reward of some interesting, one-off independent shops, worthy of perusing for something that little bit different.
The High Street Arcade which forks and divides into the Duke Street Arcade. runs from St. John Street to High Street. A quick minute of open air strolling leads you to the opposite side and into the Castle Arcade. This delightful labyrinth of shops is a 'must visit' destination for visitors and tourists and it is the pride and joy of the local people's heritage.
Each arcade has its own sense of character and the camaraderie among shop owners and traders makes them like micro communities within their own right. If it's fashion, bridal wear, fancy dress, shoes and a quick snack you are after, then the High Street Arcade might be your first stop to check out some individual clothing and accessories. A hop, skip and a jump away is the Castle Arcade where you'll find food, eateries, cafés, hair salons and some quirky little shops not available elsewhere in the city centre.
Even more interesting is the gallery level in the Castle Arcade which provides a second floor of shops and offices.
In all seriousness, you could while away a whole day ambling through Cardiff's arcade network by chatting to proud shop owners, relaxing over a coffee and generally feeling pleased with your special purchases. City Life loves them and we think you will too.
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Rouge
Parisian-born Frédérique and her daughter Sophie bring style and sophistication to Cardiff at their city centre boutique Rouge.
For women who appreciate style, comfort, feminine details and practicality, a distinctive range of labels is offered such as Avoca, American Vintage, Lysgaard, and Saltwater. Style is synonymous with self-assured women and Rouge offers the special qualities of simplicity, soft textures and great design through its pieces. A selection of jewellery, shoes and handbags are available and service is friendly, helpful and delivered with passion.
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Garlands Eatery
Real Welsh soul food awaits you at
family owned and fully licensed
Garlands Eatery.
With a string of rave reviews and an
award for their breakfasts, this is a
perfect pit stop to rest weary feet and
feed body and mind. Regulars love the
hearty Cawl dish, tasty Welsh Rarebit
and home-made Glamorgan sausages;
and visitors come away not only with a
flavour of Welsh food but hot tips on
what to see in the city. Friendly service,
a quaint café-style interior and an interesting menu of locally inspired dishes, sandwiches and snacks will have you returning for more.
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Couture
It's party season, so what better reason to glam up. Couture Boutique is where you need to come if you are looking for dresses for any occasion.
You name it and they'll have it, whether it be a casual day dress, cheeky cocktail number or something fit for a ball. New in this season are wearable and casual pieces from Yumi and edgier labels Supertrash and Hunters & Gatherers. A made-to measure service is available for something more individual and the finishing touches are made possible with Butler & Wilson jewellery and bags from ethical brand Matt & Nat.
16 Castle Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1BU
029 2023 2365 |
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Funky Monkey Feet
Check out Funky Monkey Feet
for fabulous kiddies shoes from
newborn upwards.
Owner Heidi Davies has created a fun,
friendly and interactive shop where
children's feet are professionally fitted to give them a good start in life. Put a spring in their step with stylish, quality footwear from Geox, Start-rite, Lelli Kelly and Welsh brand Inch Blue. Your children will love the warmth and comfort of the desirable UGG brand and the practical Timberland shoes. ACE, podiatrists to the WRU, will soon welcome a Funky Monkey concession to their practice in LLantwit Major.
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Celtic Cakes Studio
Expect a work of art from specialist
cake designer Brendan McGrogan.
Together with his wife Ann his
passion is to create the perfect
occasion cake, designed to your
personal specifications.
Each cake is made to the highest
standard, ensuring every mouthful is
delicious. Whether you prefer rich fruit
cake, light fluffy sponge or indulgent
chocolate fudge, you can be sure that
you and your guests will enjoy a cake
that not only looks spectacular but
tastes delicious too. You name the
occasion and Brendan will deliver
the best in design and flavour.
37 Castle Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1BW
01633 662684 / 07515 539 644
www.celticcakes.com |
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Rules of Play
Recently featured on S4C's Wedi Saith, Rules of Play is an Aladdin's cave of board games for young and old alike. Enjoy a game of Scrabble or Backgammon, or explore some of the more modern games available, such as Carcassonne or the Settlers of Catan.
Children of all ages will be occupied for hours with Harry Potter Cluedo, Rat a Tat Cat, Zeus on the Loose and the best selection of Welsh language children's games in Cardiff. With Christmas looming you won't be stuck for gift ideas and the shop's demo area allows you to try before you buy.
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Constantinou’s Hair Salon
Constantinou's Hair Salon offers a welcome retreat to escape, unwind and relax.
Salon Director Anna Constantinou provides the wisdom and experience of her thirty five years in the hairdressing industry to bring you expert advice on all aspects of hair care. Booking is always recommended but walk-ins are welcome and her team of stylists offer a range of services and prices for men, women and children to ensure you look fabulous. For instant glamour try the Great Lengths hair extensions, Sienna spray tan or experiment with an 'up-do' for perfect party hair.
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