Old Arcade, Cardiff

The Old Arcade is one of the most famous rugby pubs in the world - it is well worth a visit to see a contrast of fittings with early 20th century ones in the front bar and some genuine late-Victorian fittings in the back bar. It is very busy when there is an event at the nearby Millennium Stadium, particularly rugby matches. It was built in 1844 as the Birdcage Inn; and later called the Arcade Vaults. In the front bar the counter looks like inter-war work, as does the wall panelling and there is a 1920s style fireplace. There are several doors into the front bar indicating it was probably sub-divided in the past. The remaining bar back is in a Neo-Jacobean style - note the little upright barrels in the decoration - it has been altered to incorporate a genuine Victorian mirror that was formerly on the wall of the lounge. Note the original 'Brains Beer' etched window.

Later refurbishments give the pub a modern feel but it is good to see a city centre pub retaining many old fittings. The back bar retains this splendid late Victorian bar back fitting still with five of the six original mirrored panels; also a mahogany counter and an early 20th century fireplace. In order to fit in more rugby fans changes were made to the front bar in 1995. The counter was shortened, it was removed from the front of the room and now you are only served from the side. This change enabled a disabled toilet to be added but part of the old bar back fitting still remains.