The Bootlegger: Cardiff’s Intimate Prohibition-Era Cocktail Bar
Step into Cardiff’s Prohibition-inspired speakeasy for expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant vintage atmosphere on Womanby Street.
Nestled on Womanby Street in Cardiff, The Bootlegger offers a cozy, speakeasy-style atmosphere with expertly crafted cocktails and a lively vibe. Known for its extensive drink menu and passionate bartenders, it blends vintage US Prohibition aesthetics with modern mixology, making it a standout spot for cocktail lovers seeking a unique night out in the heart of the city.
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: 5 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 2 pm-2:30 am
- Sunday 3 pm-1 am
Local tips
- Visit on weekends for themed music nights featuring northern soul and Motown that enhance the vintage vibe.
- Try the 2-for-£16 mix-and-match cocktail offer to sample a variety of expertly crafted drinks.
- Book a table in advance on busy nights, especially Fridays and Saturdays, to secure seating.
- Ask bartenders for personalized cocktail recommendations or custom creations beyond the menu.
- Enjoy the intimate, cozy atmosphere that makes The Bootlegger ideal for couples and small groups.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The Bootlegger location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Bootlegger
A Speakeasy Experience in the Heart of Cardiff
The Bootlegger is a hidden gem located on Womanby Street, Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife hub. This cocktail bar immerses visitors in a Prohibition-era ambiance, characterized by themed decor and staff attire reminiscent of 1920s America. The intimate setting offers a cozy refuge from the bustling city streets, inviting guests to step back in time while enjoying contemporary craft cocktails. Its location in a lively district adds to the energetic yet welcoming atmosphere.Craftsmanship Behind the Bar
The Bootlegger prides itself on its knowledgeable and passionate bartenders who expertly blend classic and innovative cocktails. The extensive menu caters to a wide range of palates, featuring both well-known favorites and unique concoctions. Bartenders often personalize drinks beyond the menu, demonstrating a commitment to customer experience and mixology artistry. This dedication ensures every visit offers something special, whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a casual drinker.Vibrant Ambience and Entertainment
Weekends at The Bootlegger come alive with themed music nights, often featuring northern soul and Motown tunes that complement the vintage vibe. The atmosphere is lively and fun-filled, making it a popular spot for groups and couples alike. The bar’s layout supports socializing while maintaining an intimate feel, perfect for both celebratory nights and relaxed evenings. Themed events and a curated soundtrack enhance the overall sensory experience.Menu Highlights and Offers
The Bootlegger’s drink menu is notably extensive, with a standout mix-and-match cocktail offer that allows patrons to enjoy two cocktails for £16. This deal encourages exploration of the menu’s variety. While the cocktails are crafted with high-quality ingredients, prices tend toward the moderate to premium range, reflecting the bar’s upscale speakeasy concept. The bar also caters to diverse dietary preferences, including vegan options, ensuring inclusivity.Community and Staff Excellence
The bar’s team is frequently praised for their friendly, attentive service and ability to make guests feel welcome. The bartenders’ communication skills and enthusiasm contribute significantly to the bar’s reputation as a must-visit venue in Cardiff. Personalized service, such as accommodating special requests and providing detailed menu explanations, enhances the guest experience, fostering a loyal customer base.Location and Surroundings
Situated in central Cardiff, The Bootlegger benefits from its proximity to other nightlife venues and cultural attractions, making it an ideal stop for an evening out. The area’s lively street scene and historic character complement the bar’s vintage aesthetic. Despite its central location, the bar maintains a sense of exclusivity and charm, drawing both locals and visitors looking for a distinctive cocktail experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historical Wales
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Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
Cardiff Town Wall
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Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
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.
John Batchelor Statue
0.4 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Nereid Statue
0.4 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
South African War Memorial
0.5 km
A poignant bronze and stone tribute in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who served in the Second Boer War, embodying peace, war, and grief.
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
0.5 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
City Hall
0.6 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
Alexandra Gardens
0.7 km
Discover the beauty and history of Alexandra Gardens in Cardiff, a peaceful retreat filled with stunning landscapes and rich cultural significance.
Wales National War Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn Gothic Revival monument in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who sacrificed their lives in both World Wars.
Capitol Cardiff
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Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.7 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, Cardiff
0.7 km
Experience the warmth of community and spirituality at RCCG Kingdom Of God Parish, a welcoming Church of Christ in the heart of Cardiff.
Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries Cardiff.
0.7 km
A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
0.8 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
Unmissable attractions to see
Blue Bell
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Discover the charm of The Blue Bell, Cardiff's premier pub for traditional food, local ales, and a warm atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Firing Line Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier
0.1 km
Discover the rich military heritage of Wales beneath Cardiff Castle in this immersive museum dedicated to the Welsh soldier.
Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Castle
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff Castle, a majestic blend of Roman roots, Norman strength, and Victorian splendor in the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital.
Animal Wall
0.1 km
A whimsical Victorian stone menagerie along Cardiff’s Bute Park, featuring 15 expressive animals carved into a historic wall near Cardiff Castle.
Cardiff Castle Museum
0.2 km
Wales' capital castle where 2,000 years of Roman, Norman, and Victorian history converge in the heart of Cardiff.
High Street Arcade
0.2 km
A beautifully preserved Victorian shopping arcade in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, filled with independent boutiques, vintage shops, cafés, and historic charm.
Rummer Tavern
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich local culture at Rummer Tavern, a must-visit pub in the heart of Cardiff.
Cardiff Castle
0.2 km
Discover nearly 2,000 years of history and stunning architecture at Cardiff Castle, the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital city.
8 St Mary St
0.2 km
Historic Victorian commercial site in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, blending rich heritage with vibrant city life.
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.
Cardiff Arms Park
0.2 km
Historic rugby stadium in Cardiff, home to Cardiff Rugby and a cornerstone of Welsh sporting heritage since the 1870s.
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.
St John The Baptist City Parish Church
0.2 km
Cardiff’s oldest medieval church, blending historic grandeur with vibrant community spirit in the city centre.
Aneurin Bevan Statue by Robert Thomas (1987)
0.2 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Cardiff to Aneurin Bevan, visionary founder of the NHS, sculpted by Robert Thomas in 1987.
Principality Stadium
0.3 km
Wales’ national stadium with a retractable roof, iconic rugby heritage, and world-class events in the heart of Cardiff.
Essential places to dine
Maison de Bœuf
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An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
Bar 44 Cardiff
0.1 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in Cardiff's vibrant Castle Quarter.
Casanova
0.1 km
A long-standing Cardiff trattoria serving authentic regional Italian food with warm service and an excellent all-Italian wine list.
The Potted Pig
0.1 km
A stylish underground eatery in Cardiff serving seasonal Welsh-inspired modern British cuisine in a unique former bank vault setting.
Asador 44 Spanish Grill & Wine House
0.1 km
Authentic Spanish charcoal grilling and fine wines in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
The Welsh House Cardiff
0.1 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
0.1 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
The Alchemist Cardiff
0.2 km
Experience the magic of mixology at The Alchemist Cardiff, where innovative cocktails meet exquisite dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Turtle Bay Cardiff
0.2 km
Caribbean soul meets Welsh hospitality—bold jerk, tropical cocktails, and island warmth in Cardiff city centre.
Cafe Citta
0.2 km
Cozy Italian eatery in Cardiff city center serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and pasta in an intimate, stylish setting.
The Botanist Cardiff
0.2 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cardiff city centre where botanical décor, creative cocktails, and live music bloom together.
Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
0.2 km
Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
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.
Lezzet Turkish Kitchen
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Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
Tŷ Madeira Restaurant
0.3 km
Award-winning Portuguese dining in Cardiff's city centre, blending authentic tradition with modern culinary excellence.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
0.1 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Great Welsh Gifts
0.1 km
Unearth authentic Welsh crafts, treats, and treasures on Cardiff's High Street—a delightful dive into Cymru's cultural heart at Great Welsh Gifts.
Hobos Vintage
0.2 km
A vibrant Cardiff vintage shop packed with retro fashion, trainers, and accessories from the 1950s to today – perfect for throwback style and bargain finds.
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.
Knight Vintage
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Little Welsh Company
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
The Works
0.3 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Rokit Cardiff
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
Cardiff Creative Shop
0.3 km
Handcrafted Welsh wonders from 45+ local artisans await in Queens Arcade's creative gem—unique gifts that sparkle with personality and heritage.
Morgan Quarter
0.3 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
0.4 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.
elephants and flowres
0.4 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Welcome Things
0.4 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.
Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
0.4 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
Ganesha Handicrafts
0.4 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bootlegger
0.0 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
Revolution Cardiff
0.1 km
A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s vibrant craft beer scene and lively pub culture at Tiny Rebel, a hub for award-winning brews and eclectic events.
The Libertine Cocktail Bar
0.1 km
A stylish Cardiff cocktail bar blending gothic charm with expertly crafted drinks and a lively city center vibe.
Penny
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
Rum & Fizz
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s rum haven with over 200 rums, crafted cocktails, cozy elegance, and live jazz every Friday in Castle Arcade.
Flight Club Cardiff
0.2 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant city nightlife at Flight Club Cardiff’s unique multi-level bar and rooftop terrace.
Main Stage
0.3 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
0.3 km
Lively Cardiff pub pouring Greene King ales, serving pub classics, and screening sports in the heart of the city center—perfect for meals, pints, and pre-event vibes.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
0.3 km
Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
Mary's Cardiff
0.3 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife at Mary’s, a lively bar and nightclub blending modern lounge vibes with energetic party spirit.
Slug & Lettuce - St Mary St Cardiff
0.4 km
Vibrant Cardiff cocktail bar on St Mary Street, famed for bottomless brunches, creative mixes, and lively nights in the city heart.
Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
0.4 km
A lively, multi-level cocktail bar and casual-restaurant on The Friary — made for groups, brunch and evening drinks in central Cardiff.
Boom Battle Bar Cardiff
0.4 km
Cardiff’s ultimate bar for games, street food, cocktails, and late-night fun in a lively, interactive setting.
Brewhouse
0.4 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant live music scene with great food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere at Brewhouse in the Old Brewery Quarter.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fuel Rock Club
0.0 km
Cardiff's unyielding rock fortress on Womanby Street: live metal mayhem, cheap drinks, and a beer garden for the faithful.
Clwb Ifor Bach
0.0 km
Cardiff's gritty Welsh club heart: live music legends, late-night dances, and cultural rebellion on historic Womanby Street since 1983.
For Your Eyes Only
0.2 km
Elegant and vibrant dance club in Cardiff’s city centre offering stylish interiors, live entertainment, and a lively nightlife atmosphere.
Popworld - Cardiff
0.3 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
0.3 km
Cardiff's alternative nightclub haven: cheap drinks, eclectic DJs, and non-stop rock, ska, and indie beats fueling wild weekends till 4am.
The CUBE
0.4 km
Cardiff’s vibrant nightclub hotspot offering dynamic music, dancing, and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Tiger Tiger Cardiff
0.4 km
A dynamic nightclub with themed rooms and diverse bars offering a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of Cardiff.
CIRCUIT Cardiff
0.5 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.
Pulse
0.6 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.
The Globe
1.9 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.
The Vaults
2.0 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
2.2 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.
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
15.7 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
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nightlife
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adults Only
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
