The Prince of Wales, Cardiff
The Prince of Wales on St Mary Street is a Wetherspoon pub with an unusually grand setting: the Grade II listed former Prince of Wales Theatre, opened in 1878. The auditorium-scale interior makes it worth a look even if you only stop for a coffee, and prices are in line with the chain.
Photos
The Prince of Wales
From stage to bar
The theatre was built in 1878, facing Wood Street, to replace the Royal Theatre, which had burned down. It was later rebuilt with a new entrance on St Mary Street. Richard Burton, Noël Coward and Laurence Olivier all performed here. The building went on to serve as a cinema and then a nightclub before it was converted into a pub in 1999.
What to expect
Inside, the scale of the old theatre is still obvious, with drinking areas spread across the former auditorium. It runs as a standard Wetherspoon, so expect a long drinks list and an all-day menu at chain prices. There is step-free access, Wi-Fi, a licensed outdoor area, TV screens and baby changing. A projector and screen are also available, and the building's former role as a theatre and cinema is part of the pub's own history display.
Location and timing
It sits on St Mary Street, between Cardiff Central station and the castle end of town, so it is easy to drop in before a train or a match. Under-18s are allowed in only from 8am to 9.30pm. Cardiff Market is a short walk north for lunch, and Uncommon Ground Coffee Roastery is close by.
Highlights
- Grade II listed former theatre, opened in 1878
- Burton, Coward and Olivier performed here
- Converted to a pub in 1999
- Step-free access
Good to know
- Children are admitted between 8am and 9.30pm only.
- Step-free access and baby changing facilities.
- Licensed outdoor area.
Frequently asked questions
Nearby
Sources: jdwetherspoon.com