The Bootlegger — Cardiff Speakeasy & Cocktail Lounge
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
Tucked into cobbled Womanby Street, The Bootlegger is a two-level speakeasy-style cocktail bar serving a huge, inventive drinks list and late-night live music in an intimate, vintage-inspired setting. Expect craft cocktails, a well-stocked gin selection, low lighting, and soul, jazz or funk from local DJs and bands — a polished nightspot for groups, couples and cocktail fans seeking atmosphere rather than showy theatrics.
A brief summary to The Bootlegger
- 5A Womanby St, Cardiff, CF10 1BR, GB
- +442920377706
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 5 pm-2 am
- Wednesday 5 pm-2 am
- Thursday 5 pm-2 am
- Friday 5 pm-2:30 am
- Saturday 4 pm-2:30 am
Local tips
- Book ahead for weekend evenings — the venue is compact and tables can be limited during live-music nights.
- Try a signature cocktail or one of the gin options; bartenders can often tailor a drink to your taste.
- Arrive with time to linger: music runs late and the atmosphere suits a slow, sociable evening rather than a quick drink.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Information Boards
The Bootlegger location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about The Bootlegger
Foundations and local roots
The Bootlegger in Cardiff began as part of a small independent family of speakeasy-style bars and grew into a neighbourhood institution on Womanby Street. Its identity leans into Prohibition-era motifs — vintage fittings, dark wood and leather booths — but the story is contemporary: locally run, music-focused and designed to be social without being ostentatious.Interior character and layout
The venue occupies two levels: a snug ground-floor bar and a late-night upstairs cocktail lounge. Lighting is deliberately low, with brass or copper accents and framed retro prints that give the place an intimate, slightly clandestine feel. The upstairs area is where the cocktail menu stretches out — polished counters, comfortable seating and compact standing space for busy evenings.Drinks, flavours and craft
The Bootlegger is best known for a lengthy, varied cocktail list that spans prohibition classics, creative house signatures and an extensive gin offering. Cocktails are prepared with fresh ingredients and thoughtful presentation; portions are designed to be shared or savoured one at a time. Alongside cocktails, you’ll find a selection of sharers and small bar bites that complement the drinks-led experience.Music and nightly energy
Live music, DJs and themed nights are central to the bar’s personality. Programming leans towards soul, jazz, funk and upbeat retro styles that pair well with the speakeasy theme. Sound levels are energetic but not overwhelming — designed to keep conversation possible while giving the room a lively pulse well into the early hours.Atmosphere and crowd
The mood at The Bootlegger is polished yet relaxed: a mix of groups celebrating an evening out, couples on date nights and cocktail enthusiasts sampling inventive serves. The decor, music and dim lighting create a sense of occasion; service tends toward friendly and expert, with bartenders who focus on craft and presentation.Practical character notes
The bar’s compact footprint means the space can feel busy on weekend nights; booking is commonly used for groups and tableed evenings. Opening rhythms skew to later in the afternoon and into the night, with extended weekend closing times. The Bootlegger places emphasis on cocktails and music rather than food-led dining, making it an ideal stop for drinks before or after other evening plans.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Castle
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Animal Wall
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Cardiff Castle Museum
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High Street Arcade
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Cardiff Castle
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The Cardiff Market
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Cardiff Arms Park
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Cardiff Market
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The Alchemist Cardiff
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Turtle Bay Cardiff
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Great Welsh Gifts
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Hobos Vintage
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Mojo King
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Knight Vintage
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Little Welsh Company
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The Works
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Rokit Cardiff
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Morgan Quarter
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Quirky
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Retro Vibes
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunset Spots
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
- Nightlife
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Adult Friendly
- Family Friendly