Royal Arcade, Cardiff facts for kids
The Royal Arcade is a historic shopping area in Cardiff, South Wales. It is like a covered street with many shops.
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What is the Royal Arcade?
The Royal Arcade is the oldest shopping arcade in Cardiff. It was built a long time ago, in 1858. Because it is so old and important, it is a special type of building called a Grade II listed building. This means it is protected and its history must be kept safe.
Early History and Education
In 1861, a free library was started above the St Mary Street entrance. People could read books there without paying. Later, the Cardiff School of Art used rooms above the arcade. Famous artists like J. M. Staniforth and Goscombe John studied there.
Location and Ownership
The Royal Arcade runs from The Hayes to St Mary's Street. It is parallel to another arcade, the Morgan Arcade. It also goes under David Morgan's department store. The David Morgan family bought the Royal Arcade. They created a company called the Cardiff Arcade Company. This company owned both the Royal and Morgan arcades.
Changes in Ownership
David Morgan's department store closed in 2004. After this, the buildings and land owned by the family's companies were sold. A property company called Helical Bar bought them for £25 million. The old companies, including the Cardiff Arcade Company, were then closed down.
Restoring the Royal Arcade
Between 2007 and 2008, Helical Bar spent a lot of money to fix up the Royal Arcade. They spent £30 million to restore both the Morgan and Royal arcades. They worked hard to bring back the original look. Some old features, like Venetian windows on the first floor and wooden shopfronts, are still there today.
Shopping Today
Today, the Royal Arcade still has some of its original shopfronts. You can see them at numbers 29, 30, and 32 on St. Mary Street. The arcade is right across from the new St. David's 2 shopping area. It is also close to Cardiff Central Library.
Many independent shops are still found here. For example, Wally's Delicatessen has been in the arcade for 60 years! You can also find shops selling Welsh textiles, gifts, and items for your home.
