Historical Wales
Discover Celtic charms and UK souvenirs in a Victorian arcade gem opposite Cardiff Castle—perfect for authentic Welsh keepsakes.
Nestled in the heart of Cardiff's historic Duke Street Arcade, Historical Wales is a captivating two-floor gift shop brimming with Welsh souvenirs, Celtic crafts, and mementos from across the UK. Positioned opposite the iconic Cardiff Castle, it offers unique treasures like traditional Welsh slate pieces, woolen textiles, and dragon-themed keepsakes that evoke the spirit of Wales. Perfect for visitors seeking authentic gifts amid Victorian architectural charm.
A brief summary to Historical Wales
- 2-4 Duke St, Cardiff, CF10 1AY, GB
- +442920231701
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-8 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-8 pm
- Saturday 9 am-8 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Hunt for unique slate dragon ornaments on the upper floor, handcrafted to symbolize Wales' national emblem.
- Pair your visit with a stop at neighboring New York Deli for a classic hoagie amid the arcade's mosaic floors.
- Seek out Celtic knot jewelry for intricate designs rooted in ancient Welsh artistry.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
Historical Wales location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Historical Wales
Gateway to Welsh Treasures
Tucked within the elegant confines of Duke Street Arcade, completed in 1902, Historical Wales stands as a beacon for those enchanted by Celtic heritage. This two-story emporium at 2-4 Duke Street specializes in souvenirs that capture the essence of Wales, from intricately carved slate ornaments to vibrant woolen scarves adorned with traditional patterns. Opposite the towering walls of Cardiff Castle, the shop's location immerses shoppers in a blend of medieval might and Victorian finesse, where the arcade's painted floors and stained-glass accents enhance the allure of discovery.Curated Collections Across Two Floors
Ascend to the upper level for an expanded array of delights, including Scottish tartans and English porcelain mingling with Welsh specialties like laverbread-inspired ceramics and leek motifs. The ground floor bursts with compact treasures: keychains bearing the red dragon, Celtic knot jewelry, and books on Welsh folklore. Each item reflects meticulous curation, drawing from the rich tapestry of British Isles traditions while prioritizing local pride. The shop's layout encourages leisurely browsing, with displays that tell silent stories of ancient myths and modern craftsmanship.Victorian Arcade Enchantment
Duke Street Arcade, the shortest among Cardiff's six Victorian and Edwardian passages, links Duke Street to High Street Arcade via a gracefully curved pathway. Its preserved features—ornate lamp posts, mosaic tiles underfoot, and wrought-iron details—transport visitors to an era when Cardiff boomed as a coal port. Historical Wales complements this setting perfectly, its facade blending seamlessly with neighboring delis and salons, creating a microcosm of Cardiff's vibrant shopping heritage.Cardiff's Historic Pulse
Positioned in Cardiff, Wales' capital since 1955, the shop benefits from the city's layered past: Roman forts from the 1st century, Norman fortifications by 1081, and industrial expansion via Glamorganshire Canal in 1794. Today, it serves as a modern outpost amid this evolution, offering tangible links to the Silures tribe's Iron Age territory and the castle's 450-year role as Glamorgan's seat. Shoppers here connect with echoes of battles like St Fagans in 1648, all while handling finely wrought replicas.Souvenirs Steeped in Story
Beyond trinkets, Historical Wales stocks pieces infused with narrative: harps symbolizing Welsh bardic traditions, slate maps of ancient Caer-Taff (Fort on the Taff), and pottery echoing Llandaff Cathedral's medieval grace. These aren't mere commodities but portals to Wales' cultural heartbeat, from Neolithic settlements predating Stonehenge to the port's post-1963 reinvention as a cultural hub. The shop invites contemplation of Cardiff's green expanses and Jurassic cliffs nearby, fostering a deeper appreciation for this resilient corner of the Bristol Channel.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historical Wales
0.0 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
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Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Nereid Statue
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A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
Fogo's Free Tours
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Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
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A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
South African War Memorial
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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
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Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
The Gathering - Cardiff
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Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
Capitol Cardiff
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Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
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A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Alexandra Gardens
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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
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A solemn Gothic Revival monument in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who sacrificed their lives in both World Wars.
RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, Cardiff
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Experience the warmth of community and spirituality at RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, a welcoming Church of Christ in the heart of Cardiff.
Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries Cardiff.
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A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
Cardiff International Film Festival
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Discover the Cardiff International Film Festival, where cinema comes alive through captivating screenings and inspiring workshops in the heart of Wales.
Unmissable attractions to see
Firing Line Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier
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Discover the rich military heritage of Wales beneath Cardiff Castle in this immersive museum dedicated to the Welsh soldier.
Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Castle
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Discover Cardiff Castle, a majestic blend of Roman roots, Norman strength, and Victorian splendor in the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital.
Rummer Tavern
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich local culture at Rummer Tavern, a must-visit pub in the heart of Cardiff.
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.
High Street Arcade
0.1 km
A beautifully preserved Victorian shopping arcade in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, filled with independent boutiques, vintage shops, cafés, and historic charm.
Aneurin Bevan Statue by Robert Thomas (1987)
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A powerful bronze tribute in Cardiff to Aneurin Bevan, visionary founder of the NHS, sculpted by Robert Thomas in 1987.
Cardiff Castle
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Discover nearly 2,000 years of history and stunning architecture at Cardiff Castle, the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital city.
St John The Baptist City Parish Church
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Cardiff’s oldest medieval church, blending historic grandeur with vibrant community spirit in the city centre.
The Cardiff Market
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff Market’s vibrant Victorian charm, where fresh local produce and unique stalls create a lively city-centre shopping experience.
Cardiff Market
0.2 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.
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.
8 St Mary St
0.2 km
Historic Victorian commercial site in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, blending rich heritage with vibrant city life.
Museum of Cardiff
0.2 km
Explore Welsh art, natural history, and archaeology in Cardiff’s grand historic museum with free admission and rich cultural treasures.
Animal Wall
0.2 km
A whimsical Victorian stone menagerie along Cardiff’s Bute Park, featuring 15 expressive animals carved into a historic wall near Cardiff Castle.
St David's Hall
0.3 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.
Essential places to dine
The Welsh House Cardiff
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Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
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Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
The Potted Pig
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A stylish underground eatery in Cardiff serving seasonal Welsh-inspired modern British cuisine in a unique former bank vault setting.
Maison de Bœuf
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An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
Cafe Citta
0.1 km
Cozy Italian eatery in Cardiff city center serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and pasta in an intimate, stylish setting.
The Botanist Cardiff
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A vibrant gastropub in Cardiff city centre where botanical décor, creative cocktails, and live music bloom together.
Asador 44 Spanish Grill & Wine House
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Authentic Spanish charcoal grilling and fine wines in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Casanova
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A long-standing Cardiff trattoria serving authentic regional Italian food with warm service and an excellent all-Italian wine list.
Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
0.2 km
Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
The Alchemist Cardiff
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Experience the magic of mixology at The Alchemist Cardiff, where innovative cocktails meet exquisite dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Turtle Bay Cardiff
0.2 km
Caribbean soul meets Welsh hospitality—bold jerk, tropical cocktails, and island warmth in Cardiff city centre.
Bar 44 Cardiff
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Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in Cardiff's vibrant Castle Quarter.
Revolución de Cuba Cardiff
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Experience authentic Cuban cuisine and vibrant culture at Revolución de Cuba Cardiff - your gateway to Havana's flavors in the heart of Wales.
Lezzet Turkish Kitchen
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Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
The Sorting Room Restaurant
0.3 km
Elegant modern European dining in Cardiff’s city centre, celebrated for Welsh beef specialties and refined brasserie ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
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Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Hobos Vintage
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A vibrant Cardiff vintage shop packed with retro fashion, trainers, and accessories from the 1950s to today – perfect for throwback style and bargain finds.
Great Welsh Gifts
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Unearth authentic Welsh crafts, treats, and treasures on Cardiff's High Street—a delightful dive into Cymru's cultural heart at Great Welsh Gifts.
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.
The Works
0.1 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Mojo King
0.2 km
Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
Knight Vintage
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
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
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Handcrafted Welsh wonders from 45+ local artisans await in Queens Arcade's creative gem—unique gifts that sparkle with personality and heritage.
Flying Tiger
0.3 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
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Welcome Things
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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.
elephants and flowres
0.4 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Libertine Cocktail Bar
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A stylish Cardiff cocktail bar blending gothic charm with expertly crafted drinks and a lively city center vibe.
Rum & Fizz
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Discover Cardiff’s rum haven with over 200 rums, crafted cocktails, cozy elegance, and live jazz every Friday in Castle Arcade.
Revolution Cardiff
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A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
Penny
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Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
The Bootlegger
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A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
Flight Club Cardiff
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Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant city nightlife at Flight Club Cardiff’s unique multi-level bar and rooftop terrace.
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
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Discover Cardiff’s vibrant craft beer scene and lively pub culture at Tiny Rebel, a hub for award-winning brews and eclectic events.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
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Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
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A lively, multi-level cocktail bar and casual-restaurant on The Friary — made for groups, brunch and evening drinks in central Cardiff.
Glassworks
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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
0.3 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.
Mary's Cardiff
0.4 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife at Mary’s, a lively bar and nightclub blending modern lounge vibes with energetic party spirit.
Yates - Cardiff
0.4 km
Lively sports bar and nightclub in Cardiff city centre with unbeatable sports coverage, great drinks, and a unique dancing doorman.
Slug & Lettuce - St Mary St Cardiff
0.4 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
0.4 km
Cardiff’s ultimate bar for games, street food, cocktails, and late-night fun in a lively, interactive setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
For Your Eyes Only
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Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Clwb Ifor Bach
0.1 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
0.1 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Metros
0.3 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
0.3 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
2.0 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
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
