The Pumping Station: Cardiff’s Treasure Trove of Antiques
Explore Cardiff’s premier antique hub with diverse vintage treasures, handcrafted furniture, and timeless collectibles under one roof.
Nestled on Penarth Road in Cardiff, The Pumping Station is a vibrant antique furniture shop offering a diverse collection of unique collectibles, vintage furnishings, and handcrafted pieces. Open daily from 10am to 5pm, this well-established venue features multiple small stores under one roof, creating a fascinating maze for antique enthusiasts and casual browsers alike.
A brief summary to The Pumping Station
- Penarth Rd, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF11 8TT, GB
- +442920221085
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter browsing experience and more personalized attention from dealers.
- Allow at least two hours to explore the multiple stores fully and discover unique hidden gems.
- Bring cash as some smaller vendors may prefer it, although card payments are often accepted.
- Check for special events or seasonal sales on the official website to catch exclusive offers.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus
Take Cardiff Bus routes 8 or 9 from the city center to Penarth Road; the journey typically takes 15–20 minutes. Services run frequently but check schedules for weekend variations. A single fare costs around £2.50.
-
Car
Driving from central Cardiff takes approximately 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. Free parking is available on-site, but spaces can fill up during weekends and holidays.
-
Taxi
A taxi ride from Cardiff city center to The Pumping Station usually takes 10 minutes and costs about £7–£10. Taxis are readily available throughout the city.
The Pumping Station location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Pumping Station
A Hub for Antique Enthusiasts in Cardiff
The Pumping Station stands as a celebrated destination for lovers of antiques and vintage items in Cardiff. Located on Penarth Road, it is a large complex housing numerous independent antique dealers, each offering a distinctive range of products. The venue is known for its eclectic mix of items, from intricately hand-crafted furniture and reclaimed doors to vintage leather goods and recycled garden ornaments. This diversity makes it a compelling place to explore for anyone interested in historical and decorative pieces.Varied Collections and Unique Finds
Inside The Pumping Station, visitors can wander through multiple little stores, each brimming with treasures. The stock is frequently updated, ensuring a fresh selection of artwork, antique posters, home furnishings, and even church pews. Whether you seek a statement piece for your home or a collectible with a story, the venue offers a broad spectrum of options. Its reputation is built on the quality and uniqueness of its inventory, catering to both serious collectors and casual shoppers.The Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
The Pumping Station’s atmosphere is a blend of nostalgia and discovery. The layout encourages leisurely browsing through its maze of stalls, where the scent of aged wood and vintage leather fills the air. The friendly dealers provide personal attention, sharing knowledge and stories behind the items. Open seven days a week from 10am to 5pm, the venue is accessible and welcoming, making it ideal for spontaneous visits or planned shopping excursions.Historical and Cultural Significance
While primarily a commercial space, The Pumping Station also serves as a cultural repository, preserving and showcasing pieces that reflect Cardiff’s and broader British heritage. The presence of reclaimed architectural elements and traditional furnishings connects visitors to the past, offering insight into craftsmanship and design trends through the ages. This cultural dimension enriches the shopping experience, transforming it into a journey through time.Practical Details and Amenities
The Pumping Station provides free parking, enhancing convenience for visitors traveling by car. Basic amenities such as restrooms and seating areas are available, supporting comfortable visits. The venue’s location in a lively part of Cardiff adds to its appeal, with nearby cafes and shops complementing the experience. Its accessibility and comprehensive opening hours make it a reliable choice for antique shopping throughout the week.Community and Sustainability Efforts
By promoting the sale and reuse of vintage and reclaimed items, The Pumping Station contributes to sustainable consumption practices. The focus on recycled garden ornaments and reclaimed doors highlights an eco-conscious approach within the antique trade. This aligns with growing interest in reducing waste and preserving heritage through responsible purchasing, positioning the venue as a mindful choice for environmentally aware shoppers.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ship Weather Vane - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
2.3 km
A dynamic copper and steel ship weather vane celebrating Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage atop the historic Pilotage Office.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
2.4 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
2.6 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
The Scott Antarctic Memorial Cardiff Bay
2.6 km
A poignant memorial in Cardiff Bay honoring Captain Scott and his Antarctic expedition, set against a historic maritime backdrop.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
2.7 km
Historic bronze statue in Cardiff honoring the visionary who transformed the city through the development of its docks and industrial growth.
Premier Inn Cardiff Bay hotel
2.7 km
Comfortable, accessible, and modern hotel steps from Cardiff Bay’s cultural and waterfront attractions.
Roath Lock
2.8 km
Discover Roath Lock, Cardiff’s iconic BBC drama village blending cutting-edge production with waterfront heritage charm.
River Cruises
2.9 km
Explore Cardiff's rich history and stunning architecture from the serenity of the water with unforgettable river cruises through the heart of the city.
8 St Mary St
2.9 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of 8 St Mary St in the heart of Cardiff, a must-see for every traveler.
Animal Wall
2.9 km
Explore the Animal Wall in Cardiff, a historical landmark filled with whimsical animal sculptures that tell the story of the city's rich heritage.
The Cardiff Market
2.9 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
John Batchelor Statue
3.0 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Fogo's Free Tours
3.0 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
Museum of Cardiff
3.0 km
Explore Cardiff’s vibrant history and culture in the heart of the city at the Museum of Cardiff, housed in the historic Old Library.
Historical Wales
3.0 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cardiff International White Water
1.5 km
Experience thrilling white water rafting and kayaking adventures at Cardiff’s premier urban water sports centre.
Hamadryad Park
1.7 km
Urban sanctuary where maritime heritage meets wetland wilderness in Cardiff's regenerated waterfront.
Cardiff City Stadium
1.8 km
Step onto the pitch and behind the scenes at the home of Cardiff City FC and the Wales national team in this modern 33,000‑seat stadium in Cardiff.
The Jetty
1.8 km
A peaceful waterfront escape in Cardiff Bay blending natural beauty, wildlife, and urban vibrancy in a scenic setting.
Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve
2.0 km
A serene 8-hectare freshwater wetland reserve in Cardiff Bay, offering rich biodiversity and peaceful birdwatching amidst urban surroundings.
Cardiff Bay
2.1 km
Explore Cardiff Bay, Europe’s largest waterfront transformation blending culture, leisure, and scenic beauty in a vibrant urban setting.
The Deck
2.2 km
Modern Welsh dining and floating hotel rooms with stunning marina views in Penarth’s vibrant waterfront setting.
Techniquest
2.3 km
Explore hands-on science, immersive shows, and family fun at Techniquest, Cardiff’s premier interactive discovery centre in vibrant Cardiff Bay.
Mount Stuart Square
2.3 km
Historic Victorian square in Cardiff Bay centered on the iconic Coal Exchange, showcasing maritime heritage and architectural grandeur.
Gôl Centres Ltd
2.3 km
Cardiff’s vibrant sports hub offering top-quality 5-a-side football, leagues, soccer schools, and dynamic group activities for all ages.
Landsea Square - Cardiff Bay
2.3 km
A peaceful, art-filled square nestled in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant waterfront, perfect for quiet moments and scenic views.
Landsea Gardens Cardiff Bay Viewing Deck
2.3 km
A serene garden retreat with stunning panoramic views over Cardiff Bay’s waterfront and city skyline.
Panorama Stone - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
2.4 km
Discover Panorama Stone, a symbolic bronze sculpture linking Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage with global connections on the vibrant Cardiff Bay Art Trail.
Scott of the Antarctic Exhibition
2.4 km
Explore the heroic legacy of Captain Scott’s Antarctic expeditions in Cardiff Bay’s immersive and family-friendly exhibition.
Mermaid Quay
2.4 km
Vibrant Cardiff Bay waterfront alive with dining, shopping, comedy, and bay views—maritime heritage meets modern leisure in this regenerated gem.
Essential places to dine
Harvester Cardiff Bay Penarth
1.0 km
A lively family-friendly British bar & grill in Penarth offering hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere near Cardiff Bay.
Cedar Tree Farm - Farmhouse Inns
1.0 km
A family-friendly pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, famed for its hearty carvery, legendary desserts, and welcoming atmosphere.
Tir a Môr
2.2 km
Savor the fusion of Welsh land and sea at Tir a Môr, Cardiff’s stylish coastal restaurant celebrating local flavors and traditions.
The Classroom
2.3 km
Experience fine dining with panoramic city views while supporting Cardiff’s future chefs at The Classroom.
Bill's Cardiff Bay Restaurant
2.3 km
Historic waterfront dining with colorful charm, seasonal British classics, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff Bay.
Neighbourhood Kitchen & Cocktails
2.3 km
Intimate Riverside restaurant with rotating menus, exceptional seafood, and craft cocktails in Cardiff.
Culley's Kitchen & Bar
2.3 km
Historic charm meets fresh Welsh flavors in Cardiff Bay’s Culley's Kitchen & Bar, a must-visit for seasonal dining and craft cocktails.
The Botanist Cardiff Bay
2.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Cardiff Bay - where live music meets delicious British cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.
Hub Box Cardiff
2.4 km
Lively American-style burger bar with waterfront views, bold flavors, and inclusive menu options in the heart of Cardiff’s Mermaid Quay.
Giggling Squid - Cardiff Bay
2.4 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and botanical charm in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay.
Cosy Club
2.4 km
Stylish and relaxed dining with eclectic decor and a vibrant bar in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay.
Signor Valentino
2.4 km
Handcrafted Italian dining with panoramic Cardiff Bay views from an elevated Mediterranean terrace.
Las Iguanas - Cardiff - Mermaid Quay
2.4 km
Sizzling Latin American flavors and killer cocktails meet Cardiff Bay's waterfront sparkle at this fiesta-ready hotspot.
Côte Cardiff Bay
2.5 km
Experience the elegance of modern French dining with classic flavors and waterfront views at Côte Cardiff Bay in Mermaid Quay.
Demiro's
2.5 km
Lively Italian dining with a Mediterranean twist, set in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay waterfront.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Antoinette Antiques and Vintage Clothing
0.0 km
Discover Cardiff’s largest vintage hat collection and timeless antiques in a historic Pumping Station setting.
B&M Home Store
0.8 km
Discover incredible deals on home essentials and unique items at B&M Home Store in Cardiff Bay - your go-to discount shop!
Cardiff Bay Retail Park
0.9 km
Value-packed shopping hub amid Cardiff Bay's waterfront allure—superstores, groceries, and easy parking for practical pit stops.
Zia Boutique
2.4 km
Discover handpicked jewellery, homeware, and gifts at this independent gem in Cardiff Bay's Mermaid Quay—a stylish haven since 2011.
Polka Dot
2.4 km
Discover dotted delights at this whimsical Cardiff Bay gift shop, where polka patterns meet playful souvenirs in a cozy waterfront nook.
Gallery Gift Shop at the Norwegian Church
2.6 km
Discover unique Scandinavian-inspired gifts in the historic Norwegian Church Arts Centre, a cultural gem overlooking Cardiff Bay.
Hearth & Co
2.6 km
Discover handcrafted wonders blending Norwegian heritage and Welsh artistry at this gem within Cardiff Bay's iconic Norwegian Church Arts Centre.
Gifts At No. 9
2.6 km
Discover charming, beautifully curated gifts with personal service at Penarth’s beloved boutique on Windsor Road.
The Queen B Boutique
2.8 km
Elegant occasion wear and personalized service combine at The Queen B Boutique, Penarth’s charming fashion and gift destination.
The SHO Gallery and Shop
2.8 km
A vibrant Cardiff hub offering art supplies, handmade gifts, and local creativity in a welcoming gallery and shop environment.
Ganesha Handicrafts
2.8 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
2.8 km
Bright, bold Welsh art and homewares in the heart of Cardiff’s Royal Arcade – perfect for souvenirs, gifts, and a splash of contemporary Welsh culture.
Morgan Quarter
2.8 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
2.8 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
elephants and flowres
2.8 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Grange Pub
1.7 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Dock
2.4 km
A waterside bar and kitchen in Mermaid Quay — bright windows, bay views, live music and big‑screen sport for daytime dining through late-night sessions.
The Packet
2.4 km
Traditional Cardiff Bay pub with 160 years of history, darts, games, real ales, and homely vibes amid modern surroundings.
The Eli Jenkins
2.5 km
Lively Cardiff Bay pub in a historic building, with beer garden views, live sports, cask ales, craft beers, and hearty grub—perfect for sports fans and casual nights out.
Bar One
2.6 km
Harborside bar beside Wales Millennium Centre, blending terrace views, inclusive eats, cocktails, and theatre-ready vibes in Cardiff Bay's lively waterfront scene.
Lo Lounge
2.6 km
Industrial-chic waterfront bar in Cardiff Bay serving cocktails, street food, and live tunes amid stunning sunset views and pet-friendly vibes.
The Waterguard
2.7 km
Sam Smith's dockside gem in Cardiff Bay: crisp ales, pub grub, dog-friendly gardens, and panoramic harbor views for effortless waterfront unwinding.
Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
2.7 km
Sophisticated cocktails and vibrant nightlife meet in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre at Dirty Martini.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
2.7 km
A dynamic three-floor cocktail bar in Cardiff offering inventive drinks, lively music, and unforgettable nights out.
The Philharmonic
2.7 km
A bustling multilevel pub and nightclub in Cardiff city centre, offering cocktails, brunches, rooftop vibes, and lively entertainment.
Peppermint Bar
2.7 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and a heated outdoor terrace in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Be At One - Cardiff
2.7 km
Lively cocktail bar in Cardiff city centre with 100+ drinks, happy hours, masterclasses, and a buzzing party atmosphere.
Coyote Ugly Saloon Cardiff
2.7 km
Neon-lit, party-first American saloon on St Mary Street — loud music, bar-top dancing and grill fare for groups and celebrations.
Mocka Lounge
2.7 km
Lively cocktail bar and nightclub in Cardiff’s Mill Lane with great drinks, friendly service, and a vibrant social scene day and night.
Heidis Bier Bar Cardiff
2.7 km
Experience authentic Bavarian fun and lively nightlife at Heidi's Bier Bar, Cardiff’s quirky hotspot on Mill Lane open late every day.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Vaults
2.4 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
2.6 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.
Popworld - Cardiff
2.8 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
Metros
2.9 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
Fuel Rock Club
2.9 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Clwb Ifor Bach
2.9 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
For Your Eyes Only
3.0 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
3.2 km
Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of The Live Lounge Cardiff, where live music, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife await.
The CUBE
3.3 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
3.3 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
Yates - Cardiff
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Yates in Cardiff, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a lively setting.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
3.3 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
3.3 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
4.8 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.
Coco Cubanas
8.6 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
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
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
