Hobos Vintage – Cardiff’s Retro Fashion Hub
A vibrant Cardiff vintage shop packed with retro fashion, trainers, and accessories from the 1950s to today – perfect for throwback style and bargain finds.
Tucked inside Cardiff’s High Street Arcade, Hobos Vintage is a long-standing independent shop brimming with retro clothing and accessories from the 1950s to the present. Known for its vibrant, eclectic mix of 70s, 80s, and 90s styles, the store offers everything from flared jeans and floral dresses to classic trainers and quirky accessories. With a lively, student-friendly atmosphere, bargain buckets, and a strong focus on individuality, it’s a go-to destination for anyone chasing timeless, throwback fashion in the heart of the city.
A brief summary to Hobos Vintage
- 26 High Street Arcade, Cardiff, CF10 1BB, GB
- +442920341188
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 11 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 11 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 11 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday mornings or early afternoons to avoid the busiest crowds, especially on weekends when students are out shopping.
- Don’t miss the £5 bargain bucket in the basement – it’s a great spot to find hidden gems and last-minute accessories.
- Students should bring ID to claim the 10% discount on all items, which can add up on bigger purchases.
- Leave room in your bag for impulse buys – the mix of trainers, jackets, and accessories often leads to unexpected but stylish finds.
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
Hobos Vintage location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Hobos Vintage
A Cardiff Institution for Retro Style
Hobos Vintage has been a fixture in Cardiff’s fashion scene for over two decades, carving out a niche as a go-to destination for retro and vintage clothing. Located in the charming High Street Arcade, the shop has built a loyal following among students, locals, and visitors drawn to its carefully curated selection of secondhand and retro pieces. The store’s identity is rooted in fun, nostalgia, and self-expression, with a particular emphasis on 70s, 80s, and 90s styles that keep cycling back into fashion. Whether you’re hunting for a statement jacket, a pair of classic trainers, or a quirky accessory, Hobos offers a treasure trove of options that celebrate individuality over fast fashion.What You’ll Find Inside
The shop’s inventory spans decades, with garments and accessories ranging from the 1950s to the present day. Expect to see everything from flared jeans, denim jackets, and floral dresses to retro sportswear, band tees, and vintage footwear. Accessories are a highlight, with sunglasses, hats, bags, and jewellery adding the perfect finishing touch to any outfit. The store is especially known for its strong selection of secondhand trainers, making it a favourite among sneaker enthusiasts. A well-known feature is the £5 bargain bucket in the basement, where you can dig through a mix of clothing and accessories for incredible deals. Friendly, knowledgeable staff are on hand to help you navigate the racks and put together standout looks.Shopping Experience and Vibe
Stepping into Hobos Vintage feels like entering a time capsule of fashion history, with racks packed with colour, texture, and personality. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with a distinctly student-friendly and creative energy that makes it easy to spend a good chunk of time browsing. The shop’s layout encourages exploration, with different sections dedicated to various eras and styles. It’s common to see customers trying on bold combinations, snapping selfies, or simply enjoying the fun, slightly chaotic charm of the place. The store also runs occasional events and collaborations, including photography competitions and social media campaigns, reinforcing its role as a hub for Cardiff’s fashion-conscious community.Practicalities and Local Context
Hobos Vintage is conveniently located in the covered High Street Arcade, making it easy to visit regardless of the weather. The shop is open Monday to Saturday from 11:00 to 17:30, with shorter hours on Sundays, fitting well into a day of city centre shopping. It’s particularly popular with students, who benefit from a 10% discount on all items, and the bargain bucket adds extra appeal for budget-conscious shoppers. Payment is accepted by both cash and card, and the shop’s compact size means it’s easy to explore in a single visit. While it doesn’t offer online shopping, the in-store experience is very much part of its charm, encouraging hands-on browsing and spontaneous discoveries.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
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
- 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
