Christmas is a gorgeous time in Cardiff – the twinkly lights, Late Night Shopping, Winter Wonderland, the Christmas Markets…every element of the city coming together in a beautifully choreographed festive village. Our very own highlight has to be the Arcades – nothing quite sparks joy like seeing the shoppers dash around the city amidst the twinkly lights, finding shelter from the cold with a hot chocolate or taking a second to admire their festive beauty. After all, we’ve all been guilty of taking a quick snap for Instagram featuring the Christmas lights in the Arcades, a tangible sign of the festivities to come and another year gone by. This year, we thought we would share our favourite Christmas spots in our beautiful Arcades. Inspired by a mindful spirit, at a time where we are all feeling the pinch, we have shared activities which will not cost more than £20 as a reminder that Christmas Joy doesn’t have to come with a ridiculous price tag. So, put your cosiest coat on, grab a hot drink and join us for a festive day in Cardiff’s Arcades.
Start your day with a coffee at Coaltown Coffee’s Newest Espresso Bar Pop Up
You may miss Coaltown’s new espresso bar, neatly tucked away as it is in Castle Arcade, but if you do, make sure to turn back, walk in and order yourself a delicious coffee. Settle down in the cosy chairs, take in the atmosphere and, why not, order yourself a slice of cake too. Bringing new industry to post-industrial towns, one coffee cup at a time, make sure to visit Coaltown Coffee’s Espresso Bar and, if you need to stock up on gifts for the coffee lovers in your life, check out their Christmas collection here.
Stock up on Christmas Gifts in Wally’s
Popping into Wally’s Delicatessen – both the Royal Arcade or Castle Arcade stores – is an experience in itself. Last minute crackers for a festive cheese board? They will surely have around 30 varieties to choose from. Need a show-stopper dessert for a Christmas get-together? You are bound to find something delicious and a little different to surprise your guests. Forgotten a Secret Santa gift? A quirky bottle of wine, some chocolates and you’re sorted. Our favourite festive tradition? Grabbing a Pandoro and re-creating an effortless festive dessert like this one. Impressive, affordable and delicious – an all-round winner.
Grab a bottle of wine and watch the world go by at Nighthawk’s
There is nothing better than cosying up with a glass of wine after a day of shopping, walking and taking in the Christmas atmosphere. Newly opened indie-bar Nighthawk’s offers a delicious wine list (including natural wines), cocktails and all the ‘picky bits’ your heart desires (charcuterie boards, olives, crisps – you know, the good stuff). Stop by, take off your Christmas layers and treat yourself to a glass of Falanghina by the window – you won’t regret it.
Wishing you a gorgeous festive season,
The Squiggles Team X
