The Wardrobe: Leicester’s Premier Vintage Clothing Boutique
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.
Located in Leicester’s historic Royal Arcade, The Wardrobe is the city’s longest-running vintage clothing shop, offering a curated mix of vintage, retro, and new fashion pieces. From classic Levi denim and Fred Perry polos to 60s dresses and vintage-inspired prints, it’s a treasure trove for fashion enthusiasts seeking unique, sustainable style.
A brief summary to The Wardrobe
- 6, Royal Arcade, Leicester, LE1 5YW, GB
- +441162538983
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 11:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays for a quieter shopping experience and more personalized attention.
- Check the shop’s website or contact them for special events or sales to find unique vintage deals.
- Ask the knowledgeable staff for styling advice to help you create authentic vintage looks.
- Combine your visit with exploring nearby cafes and independent shops in Leicester’s lanes for a full day out.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Wardrobe location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Wardrobe
A Legacy of Vintage Fashion in Leicester
The Wardrobe has been a cornerstone of Leicester’s vintage scene since its inception in 1988. Originally established in The Silver Arcade, the shop relocated in 2001 to its current home in the Royal Arcade, nestled within Leicester’s vibrant lanes area known for its independent shops, bars, and eateries. This long-standing presence has cemented The Wardrobe’s reputation as a go-to destination for vintage lovers and fashion aficionados alike.Diverse and Seasonal Collections
The Wardrobe offers an eclectic range of clothing that evolves with the seasons, blending authentic vintage pieces with retro and contemporary styles. Shoppers can discover classic Levi denim jackets and shorts, iconic Fred Perry polos, 60s dresses, 80s and 90s shirts, flannel shirts, and USA college sweatshirts. The store caters to both men and women, with prices starting around £10, making vintage fashion accessible without compromising on quality or style.Curated Shopping Experience in a Historic Setting
Set within the charming Royal Arcade, The Wardrobe benefits from an atmospheric and historic shopping environment. The arcade itself is a hub for independent retailers and offers a unique backdrop that enhances the vintage shopping experience. The shop’s knowledgeable staff provide styling advice and recommendations, ensuring visitors find pieces that suit their personal tastes and fashion goals.Commitment to Sustainable Fashion
The Wardrobe plays an important role in promoting sustainable fashion in Leicester. By offering vintage and retro clothing, it encourages shoppers to embrace pre-loved garments, reducing the environmental impact associated with fast fashion. The store’s selection includes vintage-inspired prints and on-trend brands that combine style with eco-consciousness, appealing to those who value both aesthetics and sustainability.Community and Local Culture
Located in Leicester’s lanes, an area celebrated for its independent spirit, The Wardrobe is part of a broader community of unique shops, cafes, and cultural venues. This setting invites visitors to enjoy a full day out exploring local fashion, food, and culture. The shop’s second location in Northampton, opened in 2005, reflects its successful model of supporting independent retail in vibrant urban neighborhoods.Notable Products and Brands
Beyond clothing, The Wardrobe stocks a variety of vintage-inspired accessories and lifestyle items, including classic Eastpak, Adidas, and Nike vintage trainers, as well as quirky items like Moomin toys, purses, and flasks. This diverse range makes it a versatile shopping destination for those seeking distinctive fashion and gifts that stand out from the mainstream.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
23 St.Nicholas Pl
0.3 km
Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.
Welford Place
0.4 km
Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.
Leicester Roman West Gate site
0.5 km
Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.
Museum Development East Midlands
4.2 km
Supporting East Midlands museums with expert guidance, grants, and training from County Hall, Leicester.
King Lear
5.2 km
Explore Leicester’s legendary ties to King Lear, where Roman ruins and medieval myths converge in a captivating historical landmark.
Earl Shilton Castle
13.2 km
Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Memorial Clock Tower
19.0 km
A towering Gothic-revival memorial in Coalville honoring 354 fallen WWI soldiers with a commanding clock and rich community history.
Westmorland Drive
27.5 km
Experience seamless travel in Nuneaton at the Westmorland Drive bus stop, your gateway to local attractions and vibrant community life.
Bedworth Water Tower
29.2 km
A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Rushton Triangular Lodge
32.5 km
Explore the architectural wonder of Rushton Triangular Lodge, a unique heritage building steeped in history and stunning design.
Old Trent Bridge
33.6 km
A historic river crossing in Nottingham blending medieval origins with Victorian engineering and enduring local heritage.
Wollaton Park Lake
34.6 km
Discover the tranquility of Wollaton Park Lake in Nottingham, an ideal retreat for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Lamport Hall
34.6 km
Explore Lamport Hall, a stunning historical landmark in Northamptonshire, where rich heritage and breathtaking gardens await every traveler.
Public Art - The Sneinton Dragon
34.9 km
Discover the enchanting Sneinton Dragon, a striking public art sculpture in Nottingham, embodying local heritage and artistic expression.
Mortimer’s hole
34.9 km
Explore Mortimer's Hole in Nottingham - a captivating historical landmark steeped in legend and medieval intrigue.
Unmissable attractions to see
Veeno
0.1 km
Experience authentic Sicilian wines and Italian small plates in Leicester’s vibrant St Martins Square at Veeno.
Leicester Cathedral
0.1 km
Discover the historic Leicester Cathedral, home to King Richard III’s tomb and centuries of Gothic splendor in the heart of Leicester.
King Richard III Visitor Centre
0.1 km
Discover the incredible story of King Richard III’s life, death, and rediscovery at the site where history was unearthed beneath a Leicester car park.
The Guildhall Museum
0.2 km
Explore 600 years of Leicester’s history in a beautifully preserved medieval timber-framed Guildhall, from Shakespearean theatre to Victorian police cells.
The Clock Tower
0.2 km
Discover the historic Clock Tower in Leicester, a stunning landmark that encapsulates the city's rich heritage and vibrant local culture.
Leicester Market
0.2 km
Europe’s largest outdoor covered market, blending 700 years of history with vibrant multicultural produce and lively community spirit.
Town Hall Square Fountain
0.3 km
Historic Victorian fountain in Leicester’s Town Hall Square, a symbol of civic pride and architectural elegance.
Jewry Wall & Roman Baths
0.4 km
Explore one of Britain’s largest Roman masonry structures and immerse yourself in Leicester’s ancient Roman baths and heritage museum.
The Newarke Houses Museum
0.5 km
Explore Leicester’s Tudor heritage, immersive WWI trench, and vibrant Victorian shops amid tranquil historic gardens.
Leicester Castle
0.5 km
Explore Leicester Castle’s medieval heritage and royal connections in the heart of the city, where history and architecture intertwine.
Leicester Museum and Art Gallery
0.9 km
Discover Leicester’s rich heritage through captivating art, natural history, and interactive family galleries on historic New Walk.
Abbey Park
1.2 km
Discover Abbey Park, Leicester’s historic riverside haven blending tranquil gardens, medieval ruins, and family-friendly fun just north of the city centre.
Leicester Abbey
1.5 km
Explore the evocative 12th-century Leicester Abbey ruins amid tranquil riverside gardens and family-friendly attractions in historic Abbey Park.
The Blackbird
1.5 km
A welcoming Leicester grill pub serving hearty sizzling dishes and classic pub fare in a lively community atmosphere.
National Space Centre
2.0 km
Explore the UK’s largest planetarium and iconic rocket tower at Leicester’s National Space Centre, a hub of space discovery and interactive science fun.
Essential places to dine
The Frame
0.1 km
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.
Merchant of Venice
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and Renaissance-inspired charm in Leicester’s Merchant of Venice, a unique dining destination blending culture and cuisine.
Varanasi Boutique Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.
Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
Historic 15th-century timber-framed house in Leicester’s Old Town serving classic English pub fare and real ales in a vibrant, heritage-rich setting.
Cosy Club
0.2 km
Stylish British dining and vibrant bar in Leicester’s heart, blending timeless glamour with all-day menus and festive event spaces.
Bistrot Pierre - Leicester
0.3 km
Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.
Restaurant263
0.3 km
Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.
Casa Romana Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.
The White Peacock
0.5 km
Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.
Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant
0.7 km
Savor fresh seafood and American-inspired dishes in a lively, casual setting at Leicester’s vibrant Sapphire Seafood Kitchen.
Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto
1.0 km
Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
OGGI Italian Restaurant
1.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.
Black Iron
3.1 km
Modern British steakhouse in a historic Georgian mansion, offering charcoal-roasted meats and a refined dining experience in leafy Leicester parkland.
Sapori Restaurant & Bar
5.5 km
Family-run Italian dining in a stylish Victorian setting, blending Neapolitan tradition with modern elegance and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Dom restaurant and bar
10.0 km
A celebrated small plates restaurant in Thurlaston offering refined flavors and a warm, intimate dining experience in a charming village setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Wardrobe
0.0 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.
Just Fair Trade
0.0 km
Discover Leicester’s ethical gem offering fair trade gifts and sustainable clothing with a heart for global artisans.
Very Bazaar Leicester
0.0 km
Discover Leicester’s vibrant Very Bazaar, a colourful haven of crystals, unique gifts, and mystical charm in the city centre.
Set
0.0 km
Award-winning gifts, jewellery, and cards in a historic High Street gem with royal connections.
Arciide
0.1 km
Leicester's premier vintage and Y2K streetwear destination for curated pre-loved fashion and authentic brand collections.
Niche Store
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts and thoughtful treasures in Leicester’s charming Niche Store, where quality meets personal service.
Menkind
0.1 km
Discover unique gadgets, quirky gifts, and exclusive toys at Menkind Leicester in the vibrant Highcross shopping district.
Urban Outfitters
0.1 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.
The Source
0.3 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts with expert service at The Source, Leicester’s cherished family-owned gift shop on Church Gate.
Haymarket Shopping Centre
0.3 km
Leicester's pioneering indoor shopping centre with 60+ stores, dining, and award-winning facilities.
Nim's Boutique ltd
0.4 km
Discover timeless Indian and Asian women's fashion with inclusive sizing and exquisite bridal wear at Nim's Boutique Ltd in Leicester.
The Pot Pourri Shop Leicester
0.4 km
Discover Leicester’s hidden gem for natural aromatherapy and handcrafted gifts on Free Lane, blending quality, charm, and personalized service.
St George's Shopping Park
1.0 km
A vibrant open-air retail park in Leicester offering diverse shops, extended hours, and convenient amenities for a comprehensive shopping experience.
The Range, Leicester
1.4 km
Inspiring homes and creative lives—where furniture, décor, and imagination meet under one expansive roof.
Prettiez
2.3 km
Discover unique gifts and boutique treasures in the heart of Leicester’s vibrant Clarendon Park at Prettiez.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Globe - Pub & Kitchen
0.0 km
A traditional Leicester pub blending classic Everards ales, hearty local fare, and warm community spirit in a cozy historic setting.
The Bottle Garden Leicester
0.1 km
An urban garden oasis in Leicester serving creative cocktails and live jazz in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Tønne Bar
0.1 km
A stylish craft beer and cocktail bar in Leicester’s heart, perfect for late nights and diverse drink lovers.
The Gadabout
0.1 km
A stylish, quirky cocktail bar in Leicester offering a vast selection of drinks in an intimate, character-filled setting.
Queen of Bradgate
0.2 km
A lively Leicester gastro pub blending artisan British fare, craft drinks, and vintage charm on the historic High Street.
Tree, Leicester
0.2 km
A vibrant craft beer pub in Leicester city centre with a glorious beer garden, fresh food, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Inside No 9
0.2 km
A stylish Leicester cocktail bar blending expert gin craft, live music, and intimate private events in a historic city centre setting.
Knight & Garter
0.2 km
A stylish Italian-inspired steakhouse and vibrant bar in Leicester, offering expertly cooked local beef, boutique drinks, and a lively weekend atmosphere.
The Blue Boar
0.3 km
A historic Leicester micropub blending traditional real ales with a fresh, sociable atmosphere and classic British pub fare.
Firebug
0.3 km
Leicester’s energetic pub and live music venue blending cocktails, comedy, and culture in a vibrant city centre setting.
The Rutland & Derby Arms
0.3 km
A lively Leicester pub with top-notch wings, a stunning beer garden, and friendly service in the heart of the city.
Duffy's Bar
0.3 km
A vibrant, affordable city-centre pub in Leicester known for its welcoming atmosphere and lively social scene.
The Distillery
0.4 km
Lively city-centre pub offering craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, stacked burgers, and a vibrant atmosphere for dining and socializing in Leicester.
Fat Cat Cocktail Bar & Lounge
0.4 km
A vibrant Leicester hotspot blending creative cocktails, lively entertainment, and a stylish atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Exchange Bar
0.5 km
Historic charm meets vibrant culture in Leicester’s iconic Exchange Bar, a lively hub for drinks, music, and community spirit.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Waikiki Nightclub
0.3 km
Experience Leicester’s electric nightlife with futuristic vibes, trendy cocktails, and top RnB beats at Waikiki Nightclub every weekend.
Mosh
0.3 km
Leicester’s vibrant three-floor alternative nightclub, buzzing with indie, emo, and metal beats and budget-friendly drinks.
TRUTH Leicester
0.4 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at TRUTH, a dynamic nightclub pulsing with music and energy in the city centre’s entertainment heart.
Club Republic
0.4 km
Experience Leicester’s ultimate clubbing hotspot with immersive audiovisuals, live gigs, and a vibrant student-friendly atmosphere.
The Basement
0.5 km
Leicester’s underground hotspot for late-night dancing, eclectic music, and unforgettable private events in a vintage-inspired setting.
The Fan Club
0.5 km
Leicester’s vibrant weekend nightclub with four rooms, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Motto Nightclub
0.5 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at Motto Nightclub, a dynamic venue where music, dancing, and late-night energy come alive.
Helsinki
0.6 km
Leicester’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub with electrifying drag shows, diverse music, and late-night celebrations in the heart of the city.
Corah Works
0.6 km
Experience Leicester’s rich textile heritage transformed into a vibrant nightlife hotspot at Corah Works on St John Street.
The 2Funky Lounge
0.7 km
Leicester’s energetic two-floor nightclub with live music, private parties, and a rooftop terrace for unforgettable nights out.
Echo's Night Club
16.0 km
Loughborough’s energetic nightclub with dual rooms, affordable drinks, and a lively student-friendly atmosphere on Biggin Street.
The Emporium
18.8 km
Experience Coalville’s vibrant nightlife at The Emporium, where legendary DJs and electric atmospheres create unforgettable weekends.
Tubes
22.2 km
Energetic nightlife and affordable drinks come alive at Tubes, Melton Mowbray’s go-to nightclub and bar for fun and dancing.
Ciros Nightclub
25.7 km
Energetic nightlife hotspot in Ashby-de-la-Zouch offering music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in a central market town setting.
Ocean Nightclub
34.9 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Casual
- Relaxing
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
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