By Sarah-Jane Outten
Just when you think you know all there is to know in our fair city, something comes along that takes you quite by surprise. That’s one of the things that I love about Cardiff; it is ever changing, growing and inspiring. This month my journey to find something a little different took me away from the centre of Cardiff and I found myself on an industrial estate in Tremorfa. It was a Sunday morning so I imagined it would be quiet, if not deserted, so imagine my surprise when I find a buzz of activity and a community of Cardiffians that have created a rather special place.
Cardiff Indoor Flea Market is a real life Aladdin’s cave, jam packed from wall to wall with hidden treasures. When I say treasure I mean a mindboggling array of anything and everything you could possibly imagine. The size of this place is really quite something; it is, in fact, a very large warehouse. I would recommend allowing plenty of time when you visit because not only will it take a while to wind your way around all the independ
ent stalls, but there is so much to see that you may want to walk around more than once. If you are looking for something specific, the chances are that you will find it amongst this gigantic treasure chest. Some of the most popular items are furniture, china, books, records, jewellery, clothing, toys, orname
nts and home décor. You are also more than likely going to be surprised by all the things you find that you never imagined or knew existed!
For many of us a browse around this very special place is a nostalgic trip down memory lane. I found myself reminiscing as I uncovered items that resembled ones my parents or grandparents had owned over the years. My favourite find was a Commodore 64 computer; the model of my very own first computer. Holding it in its original box, I felt 10 years old again. I, like so many others, enjoy restoring or updating furniture and I would thoroughly recommend checking this place out for your
next project; there are bargains galore.
As it was a Sunday morning the bargain hunters were out in force – Sunday is auction day. Cardiff City Auctions start at 9am, so it is worth popping along early to see what’s on offer. If you have something you would like to sell at the auctions, whether it be one item or an entire house clearance, Cardiff City Auctions can help. If you would rather not have your item sold at auction you can also sell directly to them; the choice is yours. However, I don’t think you can beat the excitement of a live auction, and if you haven’t been to one before, I would recommend this one; with its friendly and welcoming atmosphere it’s perfect for a novice. If you have larger items to sell, a pick-up service is available (contact the market for details).
While you’re there, whether browsing or bidding, you can also take some time out to relax at the resident Nostalgia Café. There you can enjoy hot drinks, light lunches and even a cream tea, and the children (old and young) can sample treats from the sweet shop. Fully stocked with favourites, traditional and new, there is something for everyone. There is even a Market Barber available if you feel its time you had a trim – it is so much more than just a flea market here.
The market has a special anniversary fast approaching, marking the 2 years it has been since it firstopened its doors with a celebratory weekend planned on 23rd and 24th of July. On the Saturday there is an open jam session, all musicians welcome to come along and play. There is no charge for entering but raising money for Prostate Cancer Wales is high on the agenda, so a collection will be taken and all donations will be gratefully received. It is a weekend for all, families in particular are welcome. There is plenty of free parking, and disabled access too.
I thoroughly enjoyed my visit, chatting with several of the traders who were absolutely lovely, definitely some of Cardiff’s finest here. I’m looking forward to my next visit – who knows, maybe I will join in the auctions next time!
Visiting or nee
d to know more? You can find Cardiff Indoor Flea Market here:
Unit 2 Clydesmuir Road Industrial Estate,
Tremorfa, Cardiff CF24 2QS.
Open on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday 9am to 5pm. Or visit their website: www.cardiffindoorfleamarket.com
