Driftwood Designs Cardiff
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.
Tucked inside Cardiff’s elegant Royal Arcade, Driftwood Designs is a vibrant Welsh gift shop bursting with original art, homewares, and stationery. Celebrating Welsh language and coastal charm, its bright, hand-illustrated cards, tea towels, mugs, and prints make perfect souvenirs or thoughtful gifts. The shop reflects a deep love for Wales, with nearly all products printed or made in Wales or the UK, supporting local craftsmanship and sustainable production. It’s a joyful stop for anyone wanting a piece of contemporary Welsh culture to take home.
A brief summary to Driftwood Designs Cardiff
- 6 Royal Arcade, Cardiff, CF10 1AW, GB
- +442920232229
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 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-4 pm
Local tips
- Look for the Welsh-language designs and seasonal collections – they often include limited-run items and special editions.
- Check the end-of-line section for discounted items; it’s a great way to pick up prints, cards, and homewares at lower prices.
- If you’re buying gifts, ask staff for recommendations – they know the designs well and can help match products to the recipient.
- Combine your visit with a walk through the Royal Arcade and nearby St David’s shopping centre for a full Cardiff shopping experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Driftwood Designs Cardiff location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Driftwood Designs Cardiff
A Welsh Heart in the City
Nestled in the historic Royal Arcade in central Cardiff, Driftwood Designs is more than just a shop – it’s a celebration of Welsh identity, language, and coastal life. Founded in Aberystwyth by artist Lizzie Spikes and business partner Becky Barratt, the brand has grown into a beloved Welsh design house, with its Cardiff branch bringing that same spirit into the heart of the capital. The shop is filled with original illustrations that capture the rhythm of Welsh life: seaside cottages, rolling hills, sheep-dotted fields, and heartfelt phrases in the Welsh language. It’s a place where art, culture, and everyday objects come together in a uniquely Welsh way.Art That Lives on Everyday Objects
The shelves and displays are packed with bright, bold, and often witty designs turned into practical, beautiful things. Greeting cards remain a cornerstone, but the range extends to tea towels, mugs, coasters, magnets, lampshades, cushions, calendars, and children’s books. Many designs draw from traditional Welsh songs and sayings, reimagined with a modern, playful touch. The famous Calon Lan and Draig Goch motifs appear in fresh, contemporary styles, making them feel both familiar and new. The shop also features seasonal collections, including Christmas decorations and wrapping paper, all carrying the same distinctive, joyful aesthetic.Welsh-Made with Purpose
What sets Driftwood Designs apart is its commitment to local production and ethical values. Nearly all of its own printing is done in Wales, including fine art prints produced at the National Library of Wales, ensuring high quality and traceability. Other products are sourced from British manufacturers, supporting UK craftsmanship. The company pays a living wage and fosters a positive, supportive work environment, reflecting a belief that people – makers, staff, and customers – are at the heart of what they do. This ethos makes shopping here feel meaningful, not just transactional.Inside the Royal Arcade Experience
The Cardiff shop occupies a charming spot in the Royal Arcade, a Victorian shopping passage with ornate ironwork and glass roofs. The interior is colourful and inviting, with walls covered in prints and shelves neatly arranged with homewares and gifts. It’s a place where visitors can browse slowly, discover hidden details in the illustrations, and find something that feels personal – whether it’s a card with a Welsh phrase, a mug for a coffee lover, or a tea towel for a kitchen back home. The staff are knowledgeable and friendly, happy to talk about the designs, the stories behind them, and the company’s Welsh roots.Perfect for Souvenirs and Thoughtful Gifts
Driftwood Designs is ideal for anyone looking for a distinctive Welsh souvenir that goes beyond the usual tourist clichés. Its products appeal to locals and visitors alike, whether they’re fluent Welsh speakers or simply charmed by the language and landscape. The shop is especially popular for gifts – birthday cards, housewarming presents, or small tokens that carry a sense of place. Because many items are reasonably priced, it’s easy to pick up several small things, creating a little curated collection of Welsh design to take home.More Than Just a Shop
Beyond selling products, Driftwood Designs feels like a small cultural ambassador for contemporary Wales. Its illustrations give the Welsh language a fresh, everyday presence, turning phrases from songs and poems into art that lives on walls, tables, and in pockets. The brand’s growth from a kitchen-table project to a multi-location business reflects a wider story of independent Welsh creativity thriving in modern times. Visiting the Cardiff shop is a chance to connect with that story, to support local makers, and to leave with something that carries a little piece of Wales with it.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
John Batchelor Statue
0.1 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
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.
Historical Wales
0.4 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
0.4 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
0.4 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
Cardiff Town Wall
0.4 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
0.4 km
Historic bronze statue in Cardiff honoring the visionary who transformed the city through the development of its docks and industrial growth.
Nereid Statue
0.6 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
Capitol Cardiff
0.6 km
Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
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.
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.7 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
HMP Cardiff
0.7 km
Discover the rich history and architectural significance of HMP Cardiff, a landmark prison reflecting the evolution of the UK's justice system.
South African War Memorial
0.7 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
0.8 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
Bute Park
0.9 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Bute Park, Cardiff's premier urban park and a hub of culture and nature in the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cardiff Antique Centre
0.0 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at the Cardiff Antique Centre.
Royal Arcade
0.0 km
Step into Cardiff’s oldest shopping arcade, where Victorian charm meets unique independent shops in a beautifully preserved historic setting.
Alcotraz Cardiff: Cell Block Nine-One
0.0 km
Step into a 1920s prison experience at Alcotraz Cardiff, where cocktails are crafted behind bars in a captivating immersive environment.
Morgan Arcade
0.1 km
Step into Morgan Arcade, Cardiff’s enchanting Victorian shopping arcade where historic charm meets modern boutiques and cozy cafes.
Wally's Delicatessen
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s premier gourmet deli and café, where global flavors meet local charm in the historic Royal Arcade.
Cardiff Central Library
0.2 km
A sustainable cultural hub in Cardiff’s heart, blending modern design with rich community resources and vibrant public spaces.
Walkabout - Cardiff
0.2 km
Cardiff’s vibrant sports bar and nightclub with massive screens, live entertainment, and a lively party atmosphere on St Mary Street.
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.
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 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.
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.
St John The Baptist City Parish Church
0.3 km
Cardiff’s oldest medieval church, blending historic grandeur with vibrant community spirit in the city centre.
St David’s Dewi Sant
0.3 km
Cardiff’s largest shopping centre with over 160 shops, dining, and entertainment all under one roof in the city centre.
Lightning Bolt
0.3 km
A towering modern art beacon energizing Cardiff’s vibrant St David’s Centre with bold design and urban flair.
Essential places to dine
Tŷ Madeira Restaurant
0.0 km
Award-winning Portuguese dining in Cardiff's city centre, blending authentic tradition with modern culinary excellence.
Giovanni's Restaurant
0.1 km
Authentic Italian cuisine in Cardiff's heart, where tradition meets warm hospitality.
Cornerhouse Cardiff
0.1 km
Elevated British gastropub cuisine in Cardiff's city centre, where gourmet sensibility meets welcoming warmth.
Bill's Cardiff Central Restaurant
0.1 km
All-day British dining in Cardiff's vibrant arcade—fresh, seasonal, and genuinely welcoming to families and their four-legged friends.
Côte Cardiff Central
0.1 km
Experience modern French cuisine with free-flow frites in a stylish brasserie setting at the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Mill Lane.
The Ivy Cardiff
0.1 km
Experience elegant British dining in a stunning 1920s-inspired botanical setting at The Ivy Cardiff, a vibrant city-centre brasserie and cocktail bar.
Gaucho Cardiff
0.1 km
Savor premium Argentine steaks and vibrant South American flavors in Cardiff’s sleek, modern steakhouse at St Davids Centre.
Lezzet Turkish Kitchen
0.1 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
The Ivy Asia Cardiff
0.1 km
Experience exquisite Asian flavours and glamorous dining in the heart of Cardiff at The Ivy Asia, where culinary artistry meets stunning design.
Las Iguanas - Cardiff
0.1 km
Experience bold Latin American flavours and vibrant cocktails in the heart of Cardiff’s lively Mill Lane.
Le Monde Restaurant Cardiff
0.2 km
Experience authentic Galician brasserie dining in Cardiff’s city centre, with fresh seafood, premium meats, and an award-winning wine cellar.
Pitch Bar & Eatery
0.2 km
Experience the best of Cardiff at Pitch Bar & Eatery – where delicious breakfasts meet exquisite cocktails in a lively setting.
Cosy Club
0.2 km
Chic British dining and all-day drinks in Cardiff’s St David’s Dewi Sant, blending timeless glamour with a welcoming atmosphere.
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.
Viva Brazil Cardiff
0.2 km
Experience authentic Brazilian rodizio and vibrant flavors in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre, perfect for groups and special occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
0.0 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.
Ganesha Handicrafts
0.0 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
0.0 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
elephants and flowres
0.0 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Welcome Things
0.0 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
0.0 km
Discover unique reworked vintage fashion in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at Sobeys Vintage Clothing, where creativity meets sustainability.
Morgan Quarter
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Great Welsh Gifts
0.1 km
Discover authentic Welsh crafts, artisanal foods, and unique souvenirs in the heart of Cardiff at Great Welsh Gifts.
Beyond Retro Cardiff
0.1 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Beyond Retro Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Centre.
Urban Outfitters
0.1 km
Curated lifestyle retail celebrating creativity, fashion, and cultural expression in Cardiff's city centre.
Menkind
0.2 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts for men at Menkind Cardiff, nestled in the vibrant St David's Shopping Centre.
Knight Vintage
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
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.
Flying Tiger
0.3 km
Discover quirky Scandinavian gifts and creative everyday essentials at Flying Tiger in Cardiff’s St David's Centre.
Little Welsh Company
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Boom Battle Bar Cardiff
0.0 km
Cardiff’s ultimate bar for games, street food, cocktails, and late-night fun in a lively, interactive setting.
Slug & Lettuce - St Mary St Cardiff
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Vibrant Cardiff cocktail bar on St Mary Street, famed for bottomless brunches, creative mixes, and lively nights in the city heart.
Brewhouse
0.1 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant live music scene with great food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere at Brewhouse in the Old Brewery Quarter.
Kapu
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Experience Cardiff’s vibrant tiki cocktail bar and nightclub with expertly crafted drinks and a lively tropical atmosphere.
Mary's Cardiff
0.1 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife at Mary’s, a lively bar and nightclub blending modern lounge vibes with energetic party spirit.
Tonight Josephine - Cardiff
0.1 km
A vibrant, pink-hued cocktail bar in Cardiff known for creative drinks, themed brunches, and a lively party atmosphere.
Lab 22
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s award-winning Lab 22, where science meets cocktail artistry in a stylish, innovative, and immersive bar experience.
Coyote Ugly Saloon Cardiff
0.1 km
Neon-lit, party-first American saloon on St Mary Street — loud music, bar-top dancing and grill fare for groups and celebrations.
Main Stage
0.1 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.
Glassworks
0.1 km
Lively Cardiff pub offering classic British fare, a vibrant atmosphere, and a welcoming spot for locals and visitors alike.
The Philharmonic
0.1 km
A bustling multilevel pub and nightclub in Cardiff city centre, offering cocktails, brunches, rooftop vibes, and lively entertainment.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Cardiff
0.1 km
A dynamic three-floor cocktail bar in Cardiff offering inventive drinks, lively music, and unforgettable nights out.
Retro
0.1 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
0.2 km
Sophisticated cocktails and vibrant nightlife meet in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre at Dirty Martini.
Heidis Bier Bar Cardiff
0.2 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
Metros
0.1 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
0.1 km
Dive into cheesy pop heaven at Popworld Cardiff—karaoke, half-price drinks, and dance floor anthems until 3am on vibrant St Mary Street.
For Your Eyes Only
0.3 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Clwb Ifor Bach
0.4 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
0.4 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
The CUBE
0.5 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
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.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
0.5 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
0.6 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.
The Vaults
1.6 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
1.9 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.
The Globe
2.0 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
11.4 km
Experience the vibrant weekend nightlife and energetic dance scene at Coco Cubanas, Barry’s premier late-night club on Broad Street.
Bar Cocoa
11.4 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
16.0 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
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Colorful Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- 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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
