Christmas in the Arcades: Magical lights in the Castle and Morgan Quarter

For many people, Christmas means presents, turkeys, Father Christmas and maybe even Jesus. For me, my favourite part has always been the lights. And maybe Mariah Carey’s all-time best song (no, not Dream Lover).

This year, the Arcades are looking as gorgeous as ever, with an array of lights to really heighten the festive cheer of the shoppers inside. I think the Morgan and Royal Arcades have really gone all out this year, and a visit to Cardiff this December wouldn’t be complete without a wander through the arcades to check them out.

Christmas in the Arcades: Vintage festivity in Hubbard’s Cupboard

In this second installment of Christmas specials, I take a look at Hubbard’s Cupboard.

I photographed the shop a few weeks ago, but at Christmas they’ve decided to go all out and the store is looking beautifully vintagely (is that a word?) festive.

You can pick up all kinds of treats and goodies in the shop, including lots of handmade decorations (I think my favourite are the birds and owls) and beautiful Christmas cards from local designers.

Christmas in the Arcades: Royal Christmas Emporium pop-up shop

In the first of a series of Christmas in the Arcades specials that I’ve decided to publish this year, I bring you some pictures from a new pop-up shop in the Royal Arcade.

It’s run by the lovely folk at the wonderful Pen and Paper shop which is more or less opposite the Royal Christmas Emporium.

Inside you’ll find a real grotto (see what I did there), of Christmas delights that wouldn’t look out-of-place in Santa’s very own abode.