High Street Arcade, Cardiff
A beautifully preserved Victorian shopping arcade in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, filled with independent boutiques, vintage shops, cafés, and historic charm.
Step into Cardiff’s High Street Arcade, a beautifully preserved Victorian shopping arcade dating from 1885. Curving gracefully between High Street and St John Street in the Castle Quarter, this Grade II listed arcade is lined with independent boutiques, vintage shops, cafés, and quirky businesses. Original tiled floors and a glass roof create a bright, inviting atmosphere, making it a delightful place to browse, sip coffee, and soak up the city’s historic charm away from the main shopping streets.
A brief summary to High Street Arcade
- Cardiff, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday or Saturday afternoon for the best chance of all shops and cafés being open; many are closed on Sundays.
- Look up to appreciate the ornate glass roof and architectural details, and down to see the original patterned tiled floor.
- Combine your visit with Castle Arcade and Duke Street Arcade to explore Cardiff’s interconnected network of Victorian shopping passages.
- Stop for coffee or tea at Barker’s Tea House or Corner Coffee to fully enjoy the relaxed, historic atmosphere of the arcade.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
On foot from Cardiff Central Station
From Cardiff Central Station, follow signs for the city centre and walk approximately 10–15 minutes through the main shopping streets to reach High Street Arcade in the Castle Quarter. The route is flat and well‑signed, suitable for all mobility levels.
-
By bus
Several local bus routes serve Cardiff city centre, with stops within a 5–10 minute walk of High Street Arcade. Check local timetables for routes serving the Castle Arcade or St Mary Street area; journey times from nearby suburbs typically range from 15–30 minutes.
-
From nearby car parks
The closest multi‑storey car parks are St David’s Shopping Centre and Capitol Shopping Centre, both about a 5–10 minute walk from High Street Arcade. Allow 10–15 minutes to walk from the car park to the arcade, depending on your route and pace.
High Street Arcade location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about High Street Arcade
Victorian elegance in the heart of Cardiff
High Street Arcade opened in 1885 as part of Cardiff’s golden age of Victorian arcades, built to shelter shoppers from the weather while creating a sophisticated retail environment. Designed by T Waring and Son with J P Jones, the arcade curves sinuously between High Street and St John Street in the Castle Quarter, forming a key link in Cardiff’s network of covered shopping passages. Its elegant glass roof floods the space with natural light, highlighting the original tiled floor and ornate architectural details that have earned it Grade II listed status. Once home to apothecaries and fortune tellers, the arcade today retains its intimate, human scale and sense of discovery.Independent shops and local flavours
The arcade is a haven for independent traders, with a carefully curated mix of vintage clothing stores, specialist cafés, and unique boutiques. Longstanding favourites like Barker’s Tea House and Corner Coffee offer a relaxed spot for tea, coffee, and light bites, while vintage shops such as Hobo’s and Knight Vintage cater to those seeking distinctive fashion finds. The arcade also hosts a tattoo and barber shop, a bubble tea bar, and other small creative businesses, giving it a lively, contemporary edge while respecting its historic character. This blend of old and new makes High Street Arcade a favourite with both locals and visitors looking for something different from the standard high street.A living piece of Cardiff’s history
High Street Arcade is more than just a shopping destination; it is a tangible link to Cardiff’s rapid growth in the late 19th century, when the city expanded dramatically around its coal-exporting port. The arcade was later connected to Duke Street Arcade, creating one of the city’s first adjoining arcades and reinforcing the role of these covered passages as an alternative circulation system through the city centre. Over the decades, the arcade has adapted to changing tastes, but its core structure and atmosphere remain remarkably intact. The upper floors, once used as living accommodation for shopkeepers, now house creative and professional businesses, continuing the arcade’s role as a vibrant, multi‑use urban space.Atmosphere and visitor experience
Walking through High Street Arcade feels like stepping into a quieter, more intimate version of Cardiff’s city centre. The glass roof softens the light, the tiled floor echoes with footsteps, and the gentle hum of conversation from cafés and shops creates a relaxed, unhurried mood. It is an ideal place to escape the bustle of the main streets, browse at a leisurely pace, and enjoy a coffee or snack in a setting that feels both historic and welcoming. The arcade’s compact length and level floor make it easy to explore, and its connection to Duke Street Arcade and the wider Castle Quarter encourages further wandering through Cardiff’s distinctive network of Victorian passages.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historical Wales
0.1 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
Cardiff Town Wall
0.1 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Fogo's Free Tours
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
0.2 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Nereid Statue
0.3 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
South African War Memorial
0.4 km
A poignant bronze and stone tribute in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who served in the Second Boer War, embodying peace, war, and grief.
City Hall
0.5 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
Capitol Cardiff
0.5 km
Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.5 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
0.6 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries Cardiff.
0.6 km
A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
Alexandra Gardens
0.6 km
Discover the beauty and history of Alexandra Gardens in Cardiff, a peaceful retreat filled with stunning landscapes and rich cultural significance.
Wales National War Memorial
0.6 km
A solemn Gothic Revival monument in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who sacrificed their lives in both World Wars.
Cardiff International Film Festival
0.7 km
Discover the Cardiff International Film Festival, where cinema comes alive through captivating screenings and inspiring workshops in the heart of Wales.
Parc Mackenzie
0.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Parc Mackenzie, a lush park in Cardiff perfect for relaxation, strolls, and enjoying nature's charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rummer Tavern
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich local culture at Rummer Tavern, a must-visit pub in the heart of Cardiff.
St John The Baptist City Parish Church
0.1 km
Cardiff’s oldest medieval church, blending historic grandeur with vibrant community spirit in the city centre.
The Cardiff Market
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff Market’s vibrant Victorian charm, where fresh local produce and unique stalls create a lively city-centre shopping experience.
Cardiff Market
0.1 km
A bustling Victorian indoor market in Cardiff city centre, alive with fresh produce, street food, vintage finds and local character under a grand glass roof.
Blue Bell
0.1 km
Discover the charm of The Blue Bell, Cardiff's premier pub for traditional food, local ales, and a warm atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Aneurin Bevan Statue by Robert Thomas (1987)
0.1 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Cardiff to Aneurin Bevan, visionary founder of the NHS, sculpted by Robert Thomas in 1987.
8 St Mary St
0.1 km
Historic Victorian commercial site in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, blending rich heritage with vibrant city life.
Castle Quarter Arcades
0.1 km
Explore Cardiff’s historic Castle Quarter Arcades—Victorian charm, independent shops, and vibrant dining in the city’s heart.
Firing Line Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier
0.1 km
Discover the rich military heritage of Wales beneath Cardiff Castle in this immersive museum dedicated to the Welsh soldier.
Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Castle
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff Castle, a majestic blend of Roman roots, Norman strength, and Victorian splendor in the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital.
Museum of Cardiff
0.1 km
Explore Welsh art, natural history, and archaeology in Cardiff’s grand historic museum with free admission and rich cultural treasures.
St David's Hall
0.2 km
Experience world-class acoustics and bold brutalist design at Cardiff’s iconic St David’s Hall, a vibrant cultural landmark in the city centre.
Cardiff Castle
0.2 km
Discover nearly 2,000 years of history and stunning architecture at Cardiff Castle, the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital city.
Cardiff Castle Museum
0.2 km
Wales' capital castle where 2,000 years of Roman, Norman, and Victorian history converge in the heart of Cardiff.
Morgan Arcade
0.3 km
Step into Morgan Arcade, Cardiff’s enchanting Victorian shopping arcade where historic charm meets modern boutiques and cozy cafes.
Essential places to dine
The Botanist Cardiff
0.0 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cardiff city centre where botanical décor, creative cocktails, and live music bloom together.
Cafe Citta
0.0 km
Cozy Italian eatery in Cardiff city center serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and pasta in an intimate, stylish setting.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
0.1 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
The Welsh House Cardiff
0.1 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
0.1 km
Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
The Potted Pig
0.1 km
A stylish underground eatery in Cardiff serving seasonal Welsh-inspired modern British cuisine in a unique former bank vault setting.
The Alchemist Cardiff
0.1 km
Experience the magic of mixology at The Alchemist Cardiff, where innovative cocktails meet exquisite dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Turtle Bay Cardiff
0.1 km
Caribbean soul meets Welsh hospitality—bold jerk, tropical cocktails, and island warmth in Cardiff city centre.
Asador 44 Spanish Grill & Wine House
0.1 km
Authentic Spanish charcoal grilling and fine wines in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Maison de Bœuf
0.1 km
An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
Casanova
0.1 km
A long-standing Cardiff trattoria serving authentic regional Italian food with warm service and an excellent all-Italian wine list.
Bar 44 Cardiff
0.2 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in Cardiff's vibrant Castle Quarter.
Lezzet Turkish Kitchen
0.2 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
The Sorting Room Restaurant
0.2 km
Elegant modern European dining in Cardiff’s city centre, celebrated for Welsh beef specialties and refined brasserie ambiance.
Revolución de Cuba Cardiff
0.2 km
Experience authentic Cuban cuisine and vibrant culture at Revolución de Cuba Cardiff - your gateway to Havana's flavors in the heart of Wales.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hobos Vintage
0.0 km
A vibrant Cardiff vintage shop packed with retro fashion, trainers, and accessories from the 1950s to today – perfect for throwback style and bargain finds.
Little Welsh Company
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
Great Welsh Gifts
0.1 km
Unearth authentic Welsh crafts, treats, and treasures on Cardiff's High Street—a delightful dive into Cymru's cultural heart at Great Welsh Gifts.
Knight Vintage
0.1 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Mojo King
0.1 km
Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
0.1 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
The Works
0.1 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Rokit Cardiff
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
Cardiff Creative Shop
0.2 km
Handcrafted Welsh wonders from 45+ local artisans await in Queens Arcade's creative gem—unique gifts that sparkle with personality and heritage.
Flying Tiger
0.2 km
Discover quirky Scandinavian gifts and creative everyday essentials at Flying Tiger in Cardiff’s St David's Centre.
Morgan Quarter
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Urban Outfitters
0.3 km
Curated lifestyle retail celebrating creativity, fashion, and cultural expression in Cardiff's city centre.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Sobeys Vintage Clothing
0.3 km
Discover unique reworked vintage fashion in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at Sobeys Vintage Clothing, where creativity meets sustainability.
Welcome Things
0.3 km
Discover whimsical treasures in Cardiff's historic Royal Arcade at this eclectic gift shop, where unique Welsh-inspired finds meet global curiosities in Victorian splendor.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rum & Fizz
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s rum haven with over 200 rums, crafted cocktails, cozy elegance, and live jazz every Friday in Castle Arcade.
Flight Club Cardiff
0.1 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant city nightlife at Flight Club Cardiff’s unique multi-level bar and rooftop terrace.
Penny
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
The Libertine Cocktail Bar
0.1 km
A stylish Cardiff cocktail bar blending gothic charm with expertly crafted drinks and a lively city center vibe.
Revolution Cardiff
0.1 km
A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s vibrant craft beer scene and lively pub culture at Tiny Rebel, a hub for award-winning brews and eclectic events.
The Bootlegger
0.2 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
Glassworks
0.2 km
Lively Cardiff pub pouring Greene King ales, serving pub classics, and screening sports in the heart of the city center—perfect for meals, pints, and pre-event vibes.
Main Stage
0.2 km
Cardiff's vibrant gay bar and cabaret club with lively drag shows, DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
0.2 km
Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
0.3 km
A lively, multi-level cocktail bar and casual-restaurant on The Friary — made for groups, brunch and evening drinks in central Cardiff.
Mary's Cardiff
0.3 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife at Mary’s, a lively bar and nightclub blending modern lounge vibes with energetic party spirit.
Slug & Lettuce - St Mary St Cardiff
0.3 km
Vibrant Cardiff cocktail bar on St Mary Street, famed for bottomless brunches, creative mixes, and lively nights in the city heart.
Boom Battle Bar Cardiff
0.3 km
Cardiff’s ultimate bar for games, street food, cocktails, and late-night fun in a lively, interactive setting.
Yates - Cardiff
0.3 km
Lively sports bar and nightclub in Cardiff city centre with unbeatable sports coverage, great drinks, and a unique dancing doorman.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
For Your Eyes Only
0.0 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Clwb Ifor Bach
0.2 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
Fuel Rock Club
0.2 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Metros
0.2 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
Popworld - Cardiff
0.2 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
The CUBE
0.3 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
0.3 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
0.4 km
Cardiff's largest nightclub ignites Greyfriars Road with 1,500-capacity energy, state-of-the-art production across themed rooms, and epic nights from club beats to private spectacles.
Pulse
0.5 km
A city-centre LGBTQ+-friendly bar that becomes a neon-lit nightclub after dark, blending casual daytime dining with late-night DJs and themed club nights.
The Globe
1.8 km
A compact Grade II-listed former cinema turned lively live-music venue and nightclub, famed for intimate gigs and energetic club nights on Albany Road.
The Vaults
1.9 km
Dive into Cardiff’s iconic underground club housed in a historic former bank, where techno beats and vibrant nightlife come alive beneath the city streets.
Cabaret at Wales Millennium Centre
2.2 km
Dive into Cardiff Bay's sizzling hub of drag, burlesque, comedy, and live music at Cabaret – where inclusive performances sparkle with pop culture magic and high-energy fun.
Coco Cubanas
11.5 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
11.5 km
Experience Barry’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Bar Cocoa, a lively nightclub where music and dancing keep the party going until the early morning.
Eclipse Nightclub
15.7 km
Experience Pontypridd’s vibrant midweek nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community come alive every Wednesday night.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
