Cardiff, Wales is a city rich in Celtic culture. Here, we’d like to introduce some of the most popular souvenirs from Cardiff.
1. Lovespoon
Lovespoon is a decorative wooden spoon intricately carved with various patterns. In Wales, these spoons are given as a way to express feelings on occasions such as birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, childbirths, engagements, christenings, and Valentine’s Day. The various symbols intricately combined in the design each carry meaning—hearts represent “love,” horseshoes represent “luck,” and so on.
The tradition of giving lovespoons has spread not only throughout Wales but also across Europe, especially in Celtic countries. The more intricate the pattern, the greater the affection it is said to represent. In Cardiff, shops that sell lovespoons can be found near Cardiff Castle in the city center. Though a bit pricey as souvenirs, they are recommended as gifts for someone special.
2. Welsh cake
Welsh cakes are a signature treat from Wales, made by baking cut-out dough on a griddle. You can buy them from bakeries inside Cardiff Market. Though often displayed unpackaged, some stores offer souvenir boxes—be sure to ask.
Welsh cakes have a texture somewhere between a scone and a biscuit, with raisins kneaded into the dough. They’re moderately sweet and pair wonderfully with English milk tea. If you're traveling for a long time, they may not be the best souvenir, but for a shorter stay, they’re a perfect taste of Cardiff.
3. Red Dragon Goods
The Welsh flag features a dragon at its center, and merchandise with this motif is very popular. The red dragon is even considered a guardian spirit of Wales. You’ll find all sorts of items in souvenir shops—T-shirts, postcards, mascots, keychains, flags, tea towels, and more. Some chocolates and sweets also come in packaging designed with the red dragon. There are even plush toys as cute as teddy bears, making them great souvenirs for young children.
4. Brains
Brains is a Welsh brown beer that can be bought in Cardiff supermarkets. The photo shows the bottled version, but canned versions are also available. It makes a great gift for beer lovers!
Brains SA Smooth features a beautiful amber color and a very fine foam. Its alcohol content is a modest 4%, but it offers a refined flavor with a lingering roasted malt taste. It’s appreciated as a delicately flavored beer that embodies the essence of Wales. Rather than chugging it down, it’s best enjoyed slowly and savored.
5. Cheese from Snowdonia Cheese Company
The premium cheeses made in Snowdonia, North Wales, have won gold at the Global Cheese Awards, the most historic cheese competition in the UK. Though the company was founded recently in 2001 by Welsh dairy farmers, it has received high praise across the UK. What makes Snowdonia Cheese Company’s products stand out are their unique flavors: medium-aged cheddar with candied ginger, garlic and garden herb blends, and Red Leicester with chili and sesame are just a few of the delicious options.
They’re available at airports and high-end food stores in Cardiff. You might also find vendors at sporting events or Christmas markets. If you spot them in Cardiff, they make for an excellent souvenir.
◎ Summary
How did you like our roundup of Cardiff souvenirs? Cardiff is home to many unique gift shops, making shopping a fun experience. We hope you find the perfect souvenir!