The Vaults, Cardiff's Premier Underground Nightclub
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.
Located in the basement of Portland House on Bute Street, The Vaults is a renowned underground nightclub in Cardiff, housed in a former 1926 bank building. Known for its vibrant techno music scene, themed raves, and multi-level layout, it offers an immersive nightlife experience with three floors and multiple bars. The Vaults is a hotspot for clubbers seeking a unique, energetic atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff's city centre.
A brief summary to The Vaults
- 114 Bute St, Cardiff, CF10 5AB, GB
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early on event nights to avoid long queues and ensure entry, as the club can reach full capacity.
- Check event listings in advance for special themed nights and guest DJ appearances.
- Be prepared for an underground, multi-level layout with stairs; accessibility may be limited.
- Carry cash for entry fees and drinks, although card payments may be accepted at bars.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The Vaults location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about The Vaults
A Historic Venue Transformed into a Nightlife Hub
The Vaults occupies the basement of Portland House, a former bank constructed in 1926, located on Bute Street in Cardiff. This historic building has been repurposed into one of the UK's most celebrated underground clubs, blending architectural heritage with contemporary nightlife culture. The transformation retains the building's imposing character while creating an intimate, subterranean party environment that feels both exclusive and vibrant.Atmosphere and Music Experience
The Vaults is famed for its electric atmosphere, driven by a strong focus on techno and electronic music. It regularly hosts holiday-themed raves and events featuring renowned DJs such as Amelie Lens, Pete Tong, Nina Kraviz, and Marcel Dettmann. The club’s layout spans three floors, providing ample space for dancing, socializing, and enjoying a variety of music styles within the electronic genre. The venue is often described as having a cinematic vibe, making visitors feel like they have stepped into a film set.Facilities and Layout
With a capacity of around 700 people, The Vaults offers three individual bars, including a dedicated cocktail bar serving themed drinks. The multi-level design allows for diverse experiences within the same venue, from high-energy dance floors to more relaxed bar areas. The club’s underground setting adds to its allure, creating a distinct ambiance that separates it from typical city nightlife spots.Community and Cultural Significance
The Vaults has become a cultural landmark within Cardiff’s nightlife scene, attracting a diverse crowd that appreciates underground music and club culture. Its reputation as one of the best underground venues in the UK has made it a destination for both locals and visitors seeking authentic, high-quality clubbing experiences. The venue also occasionally serves as a filming location for music videos and TV series, further cementing its iconic status.Challenges and Considerations
While The Vaults is celebrated for its music and atmosphere, some reports have highlighted issues such as overcrowding and concerns about safety and staff conduct. Visitors should be aware that the club can become very busy, especially on weekends and event nights, which may affect comfort and accessibility. Despite these challenges, The Vaults remains a key player in Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife landscape.Location and Surroundings
Situated in Cardiff city centre on Bute Street, The Vaults benefits from proximity to other nightlife venues, bars, and eateries. Its central location makes it accessible for those staying in or visiting the city, placing it within a lively urban environment rich with entertainment options. The venue’s basement setting offers a unique escape from the bustling streets above, providing a focused and immersive clubbing experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ship Weather Vane - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
0.3 km
A dynamic copper and steel ship weather vane celebrating Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage atop the historic Pilotage Office.
Premier Inn Cardiff Bay hotel
0.3 km
Comfortable, accessible, and modern hotel steps from Cardiff Bay’s cultural and waterfront attractions.
The Scott Antarctic Memorial Cardiff Bay
0.6 km
A poignant memorial in Cardiff Bay honoring Captain Scott and his Antarctic expedition, set against a historic maritime backdrop.
Roath Lock
0.6 km
Discover Roath Lock, Cardiff’s iconic BBC drama village blending cutting-edge production with waterfront heritage charm.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
1.2 km
Historic bronze statue in Cardiff honoring the visionary who transformed the city through the development of its docks and industrial growth.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
1.2 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
1.6 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
John Batchelor Statue
1.7 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Fogo's Free Tours
1.7 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
HMP Cardiff
1.7 km
Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
The Cardiff Market
1.8 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Cardiff Market, a must-visit destination for food lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, Cardiff
1.9 km
Experience the warmth of community and spirituality at RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, a welcoming Church of Christ in the heart of Cardiff.
Canal Quarter
1.9 km
Explore the scenic beauty and cultural richness of Canal Quarter, Cardiff's hidden gem for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure.
Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries Cardiff.
1.9 km
A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
Capitol Cardiff
1.9 km
Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mermaid Quay
0.2 km
Vibrant Cardiff Bay waterfront alive with dining, shopping, comedy, and bay views—maritime heritage meets modern leisure in this regenerated gem.
Wales Millennium Centre
0.2 km
Wales's premier arts venue showcasing world-class opera, ballet, dance and musicals in Cardiff Bay.
Roald Dahl Plass
0.2 km
A dynamic waterfront plaza celebrating Cardiff’s heritage, culture, and Roald Dahl’s legacy with iconic architecture and vibrant events.
Ianto's Shrine
0.3 km
A heartfelt fan-made memorial on Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay honoring Ianto Jones, a beloved character from the cult TV series Torchwood.
Cargoes Poem
0.3 km
Experience Cardiff’s maritime legacy through John Masefield’s Cargoes Poem brought to life by striking sculptures at Mermaid Quay.
Pierhead Building
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff's iconic Victorian Gothic Revival Pierhead Building, a vibrant museum and landmark overlooking the scenic Cardiff Bay waterfront.
Giant Ferris Wheel
0.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and dazzling light shows atop Cardiff’s iconic 35-meter Giant Ferris Wheel at Harbour Drive.
Cardiff Cruises
0.3 km
Explore Cardiff Bay’s iconic waterfront with Cardiff Cruises—offering scenic tours, themed cruises, and unique maritime experiences from Mermaid Quay.
Landsea Square - Cardiff Bay
0.3 km
A peaceful, art-filled square nestled in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant waterfront, perfect for quiet moments and scenic views.
Techniquest
0.3 km
Explore hands-on science, immersive shows, and family fun at Techniquest, Cardiff’s premier interactive discovery centre in vibrant Cardiff Bay.
The Senedd
0.3 km
Discover the Senedd, Cardiff’s iconic sustainable parliament building where Welsh democracy meets stunning waterfront views and open public access.
Panorama Stone - Cardiff Bay Art Trail
0.3 km
Discover Panorama Stone, a symbolic bronze sculpture linking Cardiff Bay’s maritime heritage with global connections on the vibrant Cardiff Bay Art Trail.
The Open Boat 'Daffodil'
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff Bay’s beauty and history aboard the charming open-air steam launch, The Open Boat 'Daffodil', for a unique and intimate cruise experience.
Landsea Gardens Cardiff Bay Viewing Deck
0.4 km
A serene garden retreat with stunning panoramic views over Cardiff Bay’s waterfront and city skyline.
Norwegian Church Arts Centre
0.6 km
Historic Norwegian Church turned vibrant arts centre with panoramic Cardiff Bay views, Nordic cuisine, and a rich cultural legacy.
Essential places to dine
Culley's Kitchen & Bar
0.1 km
Historic charm meets fresh Welsh flavors in Cardiff Bay’s Culley's Kitchen & Bar, a must-visit for seasonal dining and craft cocktails.
Côte Cardiff Bay
0.2 km
Experience the elegance of modern French dining with classic flavors and waterfront views at Côte Cardiff Bay in Mermaid Quay.
Giggling Squid - Cardiff Bay
0.3 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and botanical charm in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay.
Hub Box Cardiff
0.3 km
Lively American-style burger bar with waterfront views, bold flavors, and inclusive menu options in the heart of Cardiff’s Mermaid Quay.
The Botanist Cardiff Bay
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Cardiff Bay - where live music meets delicious British cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.
Demiro's
0.3 km
Lively Italian dining with a Mediterranean twist, set in Cardiff Bay’s vibrant Mermaid Quay waterfront.
Cosy Club
0.3 km
Stylish and relaxed dining with eclectic decor and a vibrant bar in the heart of Cardiff Bay’s Mermaid Quay.
Signor Valentino
0.3 km
Handcrafted Italian dining with panoramic Cardiff Bay views from an elevated Mediterranean terrace.
Las Iguanas - Cardiff - Mermaid Quay
0.3 km
Sizzling Latin American flavors and killer cocktails meet Cardiff Bay's waterfront sparkle at this fiesta-ready hotspot.
Bill's Cardiff Bay Restaurant
0.3 km
Historic waterfront dining with colorful charm, seasonal British classics, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Cardiff Bay.
Tir a Môr
0.6 km
Savor the fusion of Welsh land and sea at Tir a Môr, Cardiff’s stylish coastal restaurant celebrating local flavors and traditions.
Thomas Restaurant Cardiff Bay
0.6 km
A stylish Cardiff Bay restaurant blending modern British cuisine with warm hospitality and local flavors in a vibrant waterfront setting.
The Classroom
0.9 km
Experience fine dining with panoramic city views while supporting Cardiff’s future chefs at The Classroom.
Viva Brazil Cardiff
1.4 km
Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio and vibrant flavors in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre, perfect for groups and special occasions.
Pitch Bar & Eatery
1.5 km
Experience the best of Cardiff at Pitch Bar & Eatery – where delicious breakfasts meet exquisite cocktails in a lively setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Polka Dot
0.2 km
Discover dotted delights at this whimsical Cardiff Bay gift shop, where polka patterns meet playful souvenirs in a cozy waterfront nook.
Zia Boutique
0.3 km
Discover handpicked jewellery, homeware, and gifts at this independent gem in Cardiff Bay's Mermaid Quay—a stylish haven since 2011.
Gallery Gift Shop at the Norwegian Church
0.6 km
Discover unique Scandinavian-inspired gifts in the historic Norwegian Church Arts Centre, a cultural gem overlooking Cardiff Bay.
Hearth & Co
0.6 km
Discover handcrafted wonders blending Norwegian heritage and Welsh artistry at this gem within Cardiff Bay's iconic Norwegian Church Arts Centre.
Ganesha Handicrafts
1.6 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
1.6 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.
Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
1.6 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
elephants and flowres
1.6 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Welcome Things
1.6 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.
Sobeys Vintage Clothing
1.6 km
Discover unique reworked vintage fashion in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at Sobeys Vintage Clothing, where creativity meets sustainability.
Cardiff Bay Retail Park
1.6 km
Value-packed shopping hub amid Cardiff Bay's waterfront allure—superstores, groceries, and easy parking for practical pit stops.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
1.6 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Menkind
1.7 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts for men at Menkind Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Shopping Centre.
B&M Home Store
1.7 km
Discover incredible deals on home essentials and unique items at B&M Home Store in Cardiff Bay - your go-to discount shop!
Morgan Quarter
1.7 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Packet
0.1 km
Traditional Cardiff Bay pub with 160 years of history, darts, games, real ales, and homely vibes amid modern surroundings.
The Eli Jenkins
0.2 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
0.2 km
Harborside bar beside Wales Millennium Centre, blending terrace views, inclusive eats, cocktails, and theatre-ready vibes in Cardiff Bay's lively waterfront scene.
The Dock
0.3 km
Lively live music bar and restaurant in Cardiff Bay with panoramic waterfront views and an extensive drinks selection.
The Waterguard
0.5 km
Sam Smith's dockside gem in Cardiff Bay: crisp ales, pub grub, dog-friendly gardens, and panoramic harbor views for effortless waterfront unwinding.
Lo Lounge
0.8 km
Industrial-chic waterfront bar in Cardiff Bay serving cocktails, street food, and live tunes amid stunning sunset views and pet-friendly vibes.
Mocka Lounge
1.5 km
Lively cocktail bar and nightclub in Cardiff’s Mill Lane with great drinks, friendly service, and a vibrant social scene day and night.
Peppermint Bar
1.5 km
Sophisticated cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and a heated outdoor terrace in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Heidis Bier Bar Cardiff
1.5 km
Experience authentic Bavarian fun and lively nightlife at Heidi's Bier Bar, Cardiff’s quirky hotspot on Mill Lane open late every day.
Be At One - Cardiff
1.5 km
Lively cocktail bar in Cardiff city centre with 100+ drinks, happy hours, masterclasses, and a buzzing party atmosphere.
Retro
1.5 km
A lively multi-floor nightclub in Cardiff celebrating retro hits, wild parties, and unforgettable nights until the early morning.
Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
1.5 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
1.5 km
A dynamic three-floor cocktail bar in Cardiff offering inventive drinks, lively music, and unforgettable nights out.
The Grange Pub
1.5 km
A vibrant community pub in Cardiff’s Grangetown, offering quality local beers, hearty British fare, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Philharmonic
1.5 km
A bustling multilevel pub and nightclub in Cardiff city centre, offering cocktails, brunches, rooftop vibes, and lively entertainment.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Vaults
0.0 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
0.3 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
1.7 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
1.7 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
For Your Eyes Only
1.9 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Pulse
1.9 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.
Clwb Ifor Bach
2.0 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
2.0 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Revolution Cardiff
2.0 km
Discover the energy of Revolution Cardiff, where delicious food and innovative cocktails meet vibrant nightlife in the heart of the city.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
2.0 km
Immerse yourself in the energetic atmosphere of The Live Lounge Cardiff, where live music, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife await.
The CUBE
2.0 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
2.1 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.
Yates - Cardiff
2.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Yates in Cardiff, where great food, drinks, and sports come together in a lively setting.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
2.1 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
The Globe
3.2 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Nightlife
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adults Only
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
