City of Arcades Walking Tours
Explore Cardiff's rich history and vibrant food scene on a City of Arcades walking tour.
Cardiff is known as the City of Arcades because of the seven Victorian and Edwardian arcades that house an eclectic community of independent businesses and big name brands.
Whether you're a visitor or a resident, a City of Arcades walking tour is a novel way to explore the Welsh capital.
City of Arcades Food Experience with Loving Welsh Food
Get a true taste of Cardiff on the Loving Welsh Food City of Arcades Food Experience. Join fellow foodies on a leisurely stroll around Cardiff city centre passing through the historic arcades and by iconic landmarks such as Cardiff Castle and the Principality Stadium. Your friendly guide will introduce you to local and international cuisine at Cardiff cafes, bars, and restaurants including:
A specialist tea house
An Austrian delicatessen and kaffeehaus
Spanish and Venetian tapas bars
An artisan gelato parlour
Contemporary wine bars
A Victorian indoor market
With an eclectic mix of cuisine and culture, you'll learn about the people behind the food while savouring the sights and flavors of the Welsh capital. The City of Arcades Food Experience lasts approximately 4.5 hours and must be booked in advance. Dietary requirements and non-alcoholic tastings can be accommodated. This tour is delivered in English, however, Loving Welsh Food may be able to facilitate private tours in Welsh, German, French and Italian. Please click here to book a private tour. Click the button below to find out more and book.
City of Arcades Historical Walking Tour with Fogo's Free Tours
Did you know that Cardiff has more arcades than any other city in the whole of the United Kingdom? Dating back to the 19th century, Cardiff's arcades have seen many changes - from Victoria-era shopping districts to a hub for independent business. In this 2-hour historical walking tour, Fogo's Free Tours will guide you around Cardiff passing through Cardiff Market and the seven historic arcades. Your experienced tour guide will share facts and stories including:
When and why the arcades were built?
Stories of local businesses from the world's oldest record store to a 200-year-old Russian bear
Cardiff’s lost arcades
The dark history of Cardiff Market
And much more...
There will also be a short break where you will be able to purchase a snack or drink of your choice. This tour is tip-based or 'pay as you feel' and is currently only delivered in English. Tickets are available to book at www.fogosfreetours.com
Cardiff Through the Decades: Free Self-Guided Trail
Explore Cardiff’s rich history on this self-guided photography trail. View pictures of Cardiff from the 1800s – 2000s and see how the city centre has changed across the decades. Photography has been sourced from library archives and businesses so many photographs are not widely available. There are seven window displays:
Capitol Centre
Queens Arcade
Dominions Arcade
High Street Arcade
Castle Arcade
Royal Arcade
Wyndham Arcade
Booking is not required and this trail can be completed at any time during the shopping centres’ opening hours.
Explore more…
Want to find out more about where to shop, eat and enjoy in Cardiff? Check the explore page for a handy list of independent shops, cafes and restaurants in Cardiff city centre. We also have a list of local attractions so you can plan your visit.