When it comes to shopping, Cardiff has it all, from stylish complexes to unique boutiques. The Capitol Shopping Centre (Queen Street) is one of the largest and most recently completed indoor shopping centres. From Oasis to the Gadget Shop, Virgin Music to Coast and Karen Millen, it has something for everyone. The main shopping precinct, Queen Street, is fully pedestrianised and has many high street stores (River Island, Next and GAP) as well as Envy and the brand new USC, which are both great for younger designer wear.

St David’s and Queens Arcades have two large department stores: Debenhams and Marks & Spencer. In St David’s you’ll find shoe shop Ravel, Ernest Jones jewellers, Burton Menswear and the British ‘Past Times’ gift store. In Queens Arcade houses Faith shoes, the Disney Store and home interiors shop The Pier among others.

Towards Cardiff Castle, the main shopping streets are St Mary, Duke and the Hayes, and are connected by several small and winding Victorian arcades including High Street, Castle, Royal and Morgan, great for spending an afternoon window shopping. Castle Arcade has Chessmen men’s clothing store; in High Street arcade Hobb’s Vintage clothing and small fashion boutiques such as ‘A Fab’ are good for one-of-a-kind outfits, and gift shops such as ‘Nice’ are a real treasure to discover. Off St Mary Street you’ll find the Central Market. Dating back to 1891 this is a great place to pick up some local delicacies. On St Mary Street you’ll also find Howells, part of the House of Fraser chain, which sells a wide selection of jewellery, home interiors, shoes, clothing and lingerie. Howells of Cardiff (14 St Mary Street) has an upmarket food hall selling speciality confectionary, teas, coffees, wines and spirits, as well as a delicious cheese and delicatessen counter. Their extensive perfume and designer wear selection also make great presents