Step away from the chaos and opt for the uniqueness of the Royal and Morgan Arcades. With a collection of over sixty independent shops and places to eat, you will always find something special tucked away within their walkways.

ROYAL AND MORGAN ARCADES

Preferring to wander off the beaten track in search for something a bit different and reflective of my personality and lifestyle, it's no wonder that Cardiff's arcades hold so much fascination for me. So, what is it that lures me into the warren-like network of Victorian arcades?

■ They're pretty and full of character and with 150 years of history.
■ Most shops are independent, run by local business people and friendly, helpful staff.
■ You can find everything from fashion to footwear, cafés to restaurants, gifts galore, beauty products, food, books, hair salons, jewellers, stationers, furniture and homeware accessories.

The Arcades have pretty much got it covered - oh yes and that's another advantage, they are fully covered and so provide a welcome relief from the wind, rain and other natural forces! Here's some of City Life's hot picks.

MORGAN ARCADE
Fred & Grace's
Fred & Grace's showcases designer European clothing for children aged from newborn to 10 years for everyday outfits or special occasions. They specialise in children's clothing for weddings, christenings and naming ceremonies, as well as offering Moses baskets and baby accessories. New clothing ranges this spring include Pom Pom and Pan con Chocolate.

Jon Ian
Stocking designer footwear for men and women there's bound to be a style for you! Brands include Armani, Anya Hindmarch, Moschino, Coccinelle, Juicy Couture, Uggs, Dubarry, C By Chloe and Michael Kors. Jon Ian celebrates its 40th birthday this year and continues to attract customers from throughout Wales and beyond who are looking for casual or special occasion shoes and beautiful leather accessories including handbags, purses and clothing. New!

Joules
Known for its true British eccentricity, clothing company Joules comes to town this season with twists of colour, vibrant prints and hidden details. Prepare to breathe new life into your wardrobe for 2011 with exciting equestrian inspired pieces for the whole family that will last from season to season.

ROYAL ARCADE
White Stuff
With over seventy shops in the UK, White Stuff sells casual and leisure clothing and accessories for men and women who place comfort, style and adventure high on their list. A range of footwear, loungewear and underwear provides further choice and ensures a top to toe approach to dressing.



Rossiters
Rossiters is a family-run store with a 50 year history originating in Bath. Awash with design-led home furnishings and accessories, Rossiters provides an eclectic mix of beautiful and unique gifts, garden products, home and kitchenware, china and glass, handbags and luggage as well as an extensive range of furniture, fabrics and wallpapers.

Health With Herbs
Stocking quality brands such as Solgar, Pukka, and professional sports nutrition products such as Maximuscle and Sci-MX, Health with Herbs is an independent health supplement shop. Customer service is high on the agenda and whether your concern relates to digestion, women's health, sporting nutrition or allergies, you can be assured of friendly assistance and advice on the most appropriate products.



NEW!
Dr. Martens
The famous bootmaker Dr. Martens recently celebrated its 50th birthday and has arrived with its flagship store at the Hayes end of the Royal Arcade. Fans of Doc Martens will be pleased to see the classic 8-eye boot as well as colourful footwear from the ordinary to the outrageous including a collaboration with Sanrio to feature well-loved characters such as Hello Kitty®, Chococat®, Keroppi® and Little Twin Stars®.

Latest News

■ Neal's Yard Remedies launches a new organic make-up range - the first of its kind, with Soil Association approved status.

■ The Pembrokeshire Pasty and Pie Shop has arrived at the St Mary Street end of the Royal Arcade.

■ Designer boutique Sebry R welcomes seasonal collections from Penhaligons, Basler, Marc Cain, Daks, slinky little dresses from Wolford and trends that are heavily influenced by the TV series Mad Men. Expect pieces with old world gracefulness, mid length full skirts and cinched waists.

Fred & Grace’s Morgan Arcade 029 2064 4820 Jon Ian Morgan Arcade 029 2039 7339 Joules Morgan Arcade 029 2039 7882 White Stuff Royal Arcade 029 2064 1206 Rossiters Royal Arcade 029 2022 4118 Health With Herbs Royal Arcade 029 2022 9048 Dr. Martens Hayes/Royal Arcade 029 2038 9241 Opening times: Monday to Friday 9.30am - 8pm Saturday 9.30am - 6pm Sunday 11am - 5pm www.royalandmorganarcades.co.uk