The Royal Hotel Cardiff

The Royal Hotel Cardiff has stood at the heart of the city since 1866, evolving from its original 70 bedrooms into a landmark known for both history and hospitality. Early expansions added 50 more rooms and staff quarters, while the ground floor gradually transformed into public bars, setting the stage for the hotel’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.

In 1910, the hotel hosted a farewell dinner for Captain Robert Falcon Scott and his Antarctic expedition team in what was then the Alexandra Room. That space, now the Captain Scott Room, continues to serve as a breakfast venue and private event space, preserving a link to the hotel’s past. The hotel’s story is also marked by human moments, including the discovery of a three-month-old baby girl on its doorstep in 1939. Named Pat Fitzgerald, she never learned her origins, but her memory lives on in “Fitz’s Bar,” a quiet tribute within the hotel.

Over the decades, the Royal Hotel has continued to evolve. A major renovation in 2006 refreshed its 60 rooms and modernized facilities. In 2013, the hotel embraced sustainability with a rooftop beehive producing honey for guests and supporting local artisans, alongside eco-friendly ‘BeeKind’ toiletries. From grand celebrations to thoughtful innovations, the Royal Hotel Cardiff reflects a rich history while continuously adapting to the needs of its guests, making it a living landmark in the city.

The Royal Hotel Cardiff makes a striking impression on St Mary Street with its Victorian Italianate architecture, a style popular in the mid‑19th century that blends classical elegance with decorative flourishes. Built between 1864 and 1866 and designed by C E Bernard with later additions by J P Jones, the hotel is recognised as a Grade II‑listed landmark. From the outside, the façade features classical proportions and ornate detailing, with a four‑storey frontage beneath a steep slate roof and attic, and sash and segment‑headed windows arranged rhythmically along its elevation.

A taller corner block introduces subtle French Renaissance influences, with stone pilasters, pink granite columns, and a balustraded parapet that add depth and visual interest to the exterior. Inside, the hotel pairs its historic bones with contemporary comfort. Many original design elements are still visible in public areas and event spaces, while guest rooms showcase a more modern, neutral aesthetic that feels relaxed yet stylish. The Royal Hotel offers 60 well‑appointed bedrooms and a unique Cinema Room for an unforgettable stay.

Captain Scott Room

In the historic Captain Scott Room, mornings begin with a range of breakfast options, in the same room where the explorer dined ahead of his 1910 expedition. Guests can enjoy a wide range of options, from a continental buffet featuring fresh pastries, fruit, yogurts, cereals, cheeses, cold cuts, juices, and jams, to a full Welsh breakfast with smoked back bacon, sausages, mushrooms, tomatoes, hash browns, beans, toast, and free-range eggs.

Made-to-order items such as omelettes and pancakes are also available, with some items carrying a small charge. The hotel is happy to accommodate dietary requirements if informed in advance.

Opening hours:
7.30 am – 10.00 am (Monday to Friday); 7.30am – 10.30 am (Saturday – Sunday & Bank Holidays); 9.00am – 11.30 am (New Year’s Day)

Fitz Bar

Fitz Bar is located within The Royal Hotel, offering a stylish and relaxed setting for drinks and light bar snacks. Guests can enjoy premium spirits and liqueurs, fine wines and champagne, local and international beers, or refreshing soft drinks. The lounge bar features plush seating, making it a perfect spot to relax or enjoy a prime view of St. Mary’s Street for people-watching. Food service is currently paused during refurbishment, so it’s best to check before visiting.

Slug & Lettuce

Slug & Lettuce is located just beneath the hotel, providing a lively spot for both guests and locals to unwind. The venue buzzes with energy, offering happy hour all day, from weekday specials to Saturday night dancing. Guests can enjoy tempting bites, refreshing cocktails, and great deals in a fun, social setting. A welcoming beer garden adds an outdoor option, perfect for sipping drinks while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of St. Mary’s Street.

Opening hours: 12.00 pm – 9.00 pm (daily)

The Royal Hotel Cardiff is a charming city-centre venue for couples looking to celebrate their big day. The Captain Scott Room, with its elegant décor and historic character, is perfect for wedding breakfasts, private dining, and evening celebrations. It can host around 130 guests seated, and the space comes with a private bar, dance floor, and cloakroom, making it easy to enjoy.

The hotel’s central location makes it convenient for family and friends to join the celebration. The events team works closely with couples to bring their vision to life, whether it’s a traditional wedding, a modern celebration, or a more intimate gathering. With flexible options and attentive service, the Royal Hotel Cardiff offers a wedding experience that’s both memorable and stress-free.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Inside the Royal Hotel Cardiff, guests can enjoy unique amenities designed for fun and relaxation. The Cinema Room features a 75-inch HD Smart TV, a PS4 console, streaming services, and a micro surround sound system, perfect for movie nights, gaming, or a cozy evening with family and friends.

Just outside, sports fans can enjoy the nearby Principality Stadium, home to rugby matches and major concerts. History and culture lovers can explore Cardiff Castle, Castell Coch, and Caerphilly Castle, or visit the National Museum Cardiff, St Fagans, and Big Pit National Coal Museum. For hands-on fun, Techniquest Science and Discovery Centre offers interactive exhibits for all ages.

For shopping and leisure, St David’s Shopping Centre, Capitol and Queens Arcade, and the Royal Arcade are just minutes away, with Cardiff Market and seasonal street markets adding local charm. Cardiff Bay provides waterfront walks, the Barrage for outdoor adventures like white water rafting, and arts venues including the Wales Millennium Centre, Norwegian Church Arts Centre, and BayArt Gallery. Music and comedy lovers can catch world-class performances at the Utilita Arena, all within easy reach of the hotel.

The Royal Hotel Cardiff isn’t just for weddings, it’s ideal for a wide range of celebrations. From family milestones and birthday parties to corporate gatherings and festive events, the hotel’s versatile spaces can be tailored to your needs. The historic Captain Scott Room hosts up to 130 guests, perfect for anniversary dinners, private lunches, proms, or bespoke occasions, while the Wilson Suite offers a cozier setting for smaller groups. The hotel’s events team takes care of layout, catering, and special touches, so you can focus on celebrating with your guests. Reach out to the events team to plan and personalise your celebration with ease.

The Royal Hotel Cardiff integrates sustainability into its operations with initiatives that support both the environment and guest experiences. A highlight is the rooftop beekeeping project, “6B”, established in 2013 with a second hive added in 2015. These urban honeybees travel up to three miles across Cardiff’s parks, gardens, and woodlands, promoting local biodiversity and pollination. Honey harvested from the hives is offered to guests, while beeswax is used in eco-friendly products such as candles, balms, and soaps. The hotel also works with the International Bee Research Association to raise awareness of bee conservation and the wider importance of pollinators. Guests can request guided beehive viewings to learn about this ongoing sustainability initiative.