The Royal Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

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About the Hotel

88 St Mary Street, Cardiff, United Kingdom, CF10 5DW

Close to Cardiff Castle

Great

8.1

8.5

/10

4.1

Loved by The Royal Hotel Cardiff guests

Central location
Cute staff
Clean bathroom
Good air conditioning
Enjoyable breakfast

"Our room on the 7th floor was warm, quiet and soundproof."

ElaineandH from United Kingdom

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"Breakfast is served in the wood panelled Scott room, where Captain Scott and his crew apparently enjoyed their last meal."

SmithFamily2015 from United Kingdom

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"The Royal is a beautiful boutique hotel just a five minute walk from the train station."

Dawn from United Kingdom

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Location

The Royal Hotel Cardiff occupies a prime location just 200 meters from the Principality Stadium and 250 meters from Cardiff Central Train Station. Visitors can explore major attractions such as Cardiff Castle and Bute Park, located only 400 meters away. This hotel is situated within walking distance of a wide array of shops, cafes, and restaurants along St Mary Street.

Dining

Breakfast is served daily in the Captain Scott Room, offering a continental buffet and a full Welsh breakfast, both included in room rates for direct bookings. Guests can enjoy the history of this dining area, where Captain Robert Falcon Scott dined before his Antarctic expedition in 1910. The hotel is also conveniently close to various dining options, with 393 restaurants within a 500-meter radius.

Rooms

The Royal Hotel Cardiff offers 60 distinctive bedrooms, many equipped with UK Kingsize and Super Kingsize beds. Superior rooms include added luxuries such as complimentary bottles of wine and spacious layouts ideal for relaxation. Unique Cinema Rooms are also available, featuring a 75-inch HD Smart TV and gaming consoles for entertainment.

Amenities

Guests enjoy complimentary toiletries and can make use of air-conditioned rooms that include flat-screen TVs and in-room safes. The hotel promotes sustainability through eco-friendly 'BeeKind' toiletries, sourced from local honeybee initiatives. Baggage storage services are available before check-in and after check-out at no charge, along with early check-in options for a fee.

Rewards Program

The Royal Hotel Cardiff offers a unique rewards program, allowing guests to collect vouchers with each paid night of stay. Accumulated vouchers can be redeemed for various perks, including complimentary bottles of wine and upgrades to deluxe rooms. This program provides an incentive for returning visitors to enjoy additional services.

Highlights

Location: 200m from Principality Stadium

Rooms: 60 distinctive bedrooms

Dining: Full Welsh Breakfast

Amenities: eco-friendly 'BeeKind' toiletries

Rewards: free upgrade to a deluxe room

Special: unique Cinema Rooms with gaming

“This historical hotel, a brief walk from the train station and right in the heart of the city, impresses with its unique cinema rooms and high floor quiet rooms. I especially appreciate the building's commitment to comfort; breakfast is both complimentary and generous. It's a restful, convenient base for exploring Cardiff.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.4/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

Guest ParkingParking Perks

The hotel gives a generous discount for the nearby NCP car park. This secure car park is a quick, five-minute walk away.

Oliver from England

Review on

DiningDelicious Start

Breakfast was amazing! Everything you could want was available. The bacon was thick and tasty, plus the coffee was good.

Mei Lin from China

Review on

BedroomQuiet Retreat

The room was surprisingly quiet, even though it's in the city center. I slept soundly and wasn't disturbed at all.

Hans from Netherlands

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Media & EntertainmentTech Savvy

Rooms have TVs with Netflix. I could easily relax and watch my favourite shows after a busy day.

Priya from India

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Select your room type

The Royal Hotel Cardiff offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Superior King Room

2 persons

250 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Budget Double Room

2 persons

140 sq. feet

1 Double bed

Shower

Heating

room details

Standard Twin Room

2 persons

165 sq. feet

2 Single beds

Shower

Heating

room details

Standard Double Room

2 persons

165 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

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Facilities

The Royal Hotel Cardiff offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.2/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Lift
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Housekeeping
Welcome drink

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area

Business

Meeting/ Banquet facilities

Children

Cots
Video games

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Sitting area
Dressing area
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Parquet floor

The Royal Hotel Cardiff Location

88 St Mary Street, Cardiff, United Kingdom, CF10 5DW

Map view

88 St Mary Street, Cardiff, United Kingdom, CF10 5DW

City landmarks

Museum

National Museum Cardiff

1.3 mi

Park

Bute Park

1.4 mi

Landmark

Cardiff Bay

1.5 mi

Church

St David's Metropolitan Cathedral

2100 ft

Museum

Techniquest

1.4 mi

Landmark

Tramshed Cardiff

2400 ft

Public Building

City Hall

2600 ft

Gallery

Martin Tinney Gallery

3900 ft

Gallery

Kooywood Gallery

4200 ft

University

Cardiff University

4300 ft

Nearby

Cardiff Castle Grounds

Cardiff Castle

1700 ft

Westgate Street

Principality Stadium

1500 ft

Stadium

Motorpoint Arena Cardiff

1700 ft

Mall

St David's Dewi Sant

900 ft

Golden Cross Hayes Bridge Road

Wales National Ice Rink

1400 ft

Market

Cardiff Market

1000 ft

Church

The City Parish of St John the Baptist

1000 ft

Museum

Museum of Cardiff

800 ft

Shopping Area

Capitol Shopping Centre

1700 ft

Art object

Animal Wall

1800 ft

Mall

High Street Arcade

1100 ft

Shopping Area

Castle Quarter Arcade

1300 ft

Mall

Duke Street Arcade

1300 ft

11 St David's Way St David's - Dewi Sant

Statue of Sir Gareth Edwards

1500 ft

Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. Cardiff

900 ft

Museum

Firing Line Museum of The Queen's Dragoon Guards and The Royal Welsh at Cardiff Castle

1500 ft

Cardiff Arms Park Westgate Street

BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park

1500 ft

Womanby Street

Castle Emporium

1400 ft

Shopping Area

Royal Arcade

300 ft

btwn St Mary St & Mill Lane

Wyndham Arcade-Nos 1-39 & Nos 4-32

500 ft

Restaurants

O'Neill's

100 ft

85-87 St. Mary Street

Pieminister

400 ft

35 St. Mary Street

The Yard Bar & Kitchen

300 ft

42-43 St. Mary Street South Glamorgan

Viva Brazil

1800 ft

Ground floor

Mia Porto Due

400 ft

The Old Brewery Quarter Caroline Street

Brewhouse

400 ft

49 St. Mary Street Old Brewery Quarter

Uncommon Ground Coffee Roastery

400 ft

10-12 Royal Arcade

Charlston's Steakhouse

400 ft

52 - 54 St Mary's Street

Coyote Ugly Saloon

1300 ft

78 St. Mary Street

Wally's

400 ft

38-46 Royal Arcade

Explore Cardiff

Local Highlights

Cardiff Castle

6 minutes' walk

Historic Cardiff Castle features stunning architecture and engaging exhibitions. Join guided tours for insights into its rich history.

Principality Stadium

6 minutes' walk

Iconic stadium hosts major sporting events and tours, offering a behind-the-scenes look. Check for match schedules during your visit.

St David's Metropolitan Cathedral

8 minutes' walk

This stunning cathedral boasts beautiful stained glass and a peaceful ambiance. Entry is free, making it a perfect serene stop.

National Museum Cardiff

25 minutes' walk

Housing an impressive collection of art and natural history, this museum offers free admission, with special exhibitions throughout the year.

Glyderau Park Trail

5 minutes' walk

This picturesque park offers scenic trails perfect for leisurely walks. Ideal for families and solo visitors seeking relaxation in nature.

Cardiff Bay Watersports

8 minutes' drive

Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are available at Cardiff Bay. Rentals and lessons ensure a thrilling experience for adventure seekers.

Techniquest

25 minutes' walk

This interactive science center features hands-on exhibits, appealing to families and educators. A great destination for curious minds of all ages.

O'Neill's

1 minute' walk

Irish pub atmosphere with hearty comfort food. Renowned for its lively vibe, try the signature lamb stew and enjoy live music on weekends.

Viva Brazil

7 minutes' walk

This Brazilian steakhouse offers endless grilled meats and a vibrant atmosphere. Reservations are recommended for prime dinner times.

Pieminister

2 minutes' walk

Famed for its delicious pies, this casual spot provides a variety of flavours, including vegetarian options. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal.

Motorpoint Arena Cardiff

7 minutes' walk

A premier venue for concerts and events, featuring big names and entertainment. Check the schedule for exciting upcoming performances.

Tramshed Cardiff

10 minutes' walk

A vibrant arts venue offering live music in a trendy setting. Family-friendly events and concerts provide entertainment for all ages.

Getting around

City Centre

Cardiff6 min · 1700 ft

Airports

Cardiff (CWL)33 min · 13.6 mi

Bristol (BRS)114 min · 47.2 mi

Train

Cardiff Central Railway Station3 min · 700 ft

Bus

Bus stop3 min · 700 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:30

Check-out

from 03:00-11:00

Guest Parking

Public parking is possible at a location nearby at GBP 14.95 per day.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP14 per person per day.

Children & extra beds

There are no extra beds provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Languages

English, German, Spanish, Italian, Czech, Hungarian, Polish, Russian, Bulgarian, Latvian

Year renovated:

2011

Number of floors:

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Royal Hotel Cardiff from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Royal Hotel Cardiff is appreciated for its superb location, placing guests within a five-minute walk of Cardiff Castle and close to shopping areas like the Hays precinct. Many rooms are well-sized and offer comfortable beds, with some even providing castle views upon request. Breakfast is a highlight, featuring a great selection and variety; though, a few guests have noted that some rooms could benefit from updates. Its central position makes it a great base for exploring Cardiff's attractions and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

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Review score

Based on 1653 verified reviews

8.2/10

Great

85%

Recommend

Location

9.4/10

Staff

8.9/10

Paid Wi-Fi

7.5/10

Breakfast

7.7/10

Pros

Central location

Clean room

Helpful staff

Cons

Lack of ventilation

Accessibility issues

Liz from United Kingdom

Couple

Standard Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:December 20, 2025

9.4/10

Charming Stay in the Heart of the City

helpful stafftea selectionfixed shower

I found the staff helpful upon arrival. They quickly assisted with taxi bookings, a service I really valued. The room had a selection of teas, a thoughtful touch. I also appreciated the sound insulation, especially given how central the location is.

The absence of a shower head that I could move around made it a little difficult to wash effectively, as it was fixed to the wall.

Dining

9/10

Breakfast offered a wide variety of options, catering to different tastes. The staff was attentive, replenishing food promptly. Jars of marmalade and honey were available on each table (I found this a good touch).

Service

10/10

The staff provided friendly greetings. They were willing to offer advice on local places to visit. The bar staff were especially lovely, pouring drinks in a peaceful setting. Staff ensured I felt welcome.

Facilities

9/10

The hotel provided luggage storage at no extra cost. This was convenient when I arrived before check-in time. The building is beautiful and well looked after. It created a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Location

10/10

The hotel has a perfect central location, within walking distance of many attractions. Its proximity to the train station is convenient. Numerous restaurants are also nearby. It is very close to everything.

Rooms

9/10

My bedroom was a good size, with plenty of room. There was ample storage space for my belongings. The bathroom was very clean. The bed gave me a very comfortable night's sleep.

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Norman from United Kingdom

Single

standard double room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:December 06, 2025

8.5/10

fantastic central location

convenient locationtourist areavarious shopsfair value

the hotel was conveniently located just a few blocks from the train station. it is on the main tourist area and shops and restaurants are right outside. there are also many shops and restaurants nearby. the value was good, considering how central the hotel is.

the floors were laminated. my feet stuck to the floor, especially with shoes on.

Dining

9/10

breakfast had a great variety of cereal, hot food, and fruit. i was pleased with the options available and thought the food was AMAZING!!! i really enjoyed the selection.

Facilities

8/10

the hotel is steeped in history. it is a beautiful old building with a lot of character. there are beehives on the roof and honey products for sale. that is so cool!!!

0 Helpful

Questions of the users

About The Royal Hotel Cardiff

Is it possible to arrange for champagne and decorations in the room for a special occasion?

12 November 2024

Rose petals and flowers are not available, but guests can add a champagne bucket to their room. Options include Moet for £48.50 and Veuve Clicquot Rose Brut for £59.50.

What identification is required when checking in at the hotel?

10 April 2024

Photographic ID is required at check-in. It is advisable to have a credit or debit card (excluding AMEX) for security purposes.

Is there a parking facility available at the hotel?

22 May 2024

There is no on-site parking; however, a local NCP parking facility is nearby, offering discounted rates of £14.95 per 24 hours for hotel guests.

How close is the hotel to the Principality Stadium?

3 January 2025

The hotel is conveniently located approximately a 5-minute walk from the Principality Stadium.

Can I store my luggage at the hotel before check-in or after I check out?

7 August 2024

Luggage can be stored free of charge from midday on the day of arrival. A charge of £4 per bag applies if stored before 12:00, as this goes to a local charity.

What time can I check in to the hotel?

15 December 2024

Check-in time starts from 3:00 PM. Guests are welcome to leave luggage with the hotel from midday if needed.

How far is Cardiff Castle from The Royal Hotel?

19 February 2025

Cardiff Castle is around 400 meters from the hotel, making it an easy walk to visit.

What is included in the breakfast offered at the hotel?

25 March 2024

Breakfast is available at £14 per person and includes a buffet with continental options, as well as a full English breakfast featuring a variety of delicious dishes.

Are there any options for early check-in at the hotel?

2 September 2024

Yes, early check-in is available on request for a fee of £20 per hour, provided arrangements are made prior to arrival.

What transportation options are available to reach Cardiff Bay?

30 June 2024

The most convenient ways to get to Cardiff Bay are by taxi, bus, or simply enjoying a pleasant 30-minute walk from the hotel.