Behind a seemingly ordinary door in Cardiff lies a hidden street that many pass by without a second glance. Cardiff’s Royal Arcade is bustling with shops, cafes and restaurants, offering a variety of options for visitors. However, unbeknownst to many, there is a secret waiting to be discovered behind the door marked “David Morgan Works Dept.” This department store, which closed its doors in 2005 after 125 years of operation, was a beloved part of Cardiff’s history. What started as a small drapers shop in 1879 eventually expanded into a six-storey department store, becoming Wales’ largest independent department store at the time of its closure.
The Morgan Quarter, comprising the historic Morgan and Royal Arcades along with the former department store site, now attracts visitors with its array of shops and establishments. WalesOnline’s John Jones ventured behind the unassuming door with Morgan Quarter manager Rory Fleming in 2021, uncovering a hidden gem steeped in history. Walking through the door, visitors are greeted by a small room leading to stairs and an outdoor passage towards Tabernacle Lane. Remnants of the past, such as a printout of the Factories Act 1961 and a communication system of colourful lights, harken back to the store’s operational days.
Stepping into what was once a private courtyard, now obscured by shops in the Royal Arcade, reveals a street lined with echoes of the past. The original doorsteps and outlines of former houses hint at a bygone era when Kingston Court housed residents from various backgrounds. Descending further into the workshop, visitors are met with a surreal sight of preserved tools and equipment dating back to the store’s operational days. The workshop’s eerie ambiance, illuminated only by flashlights, adds to the intrigue of this hidden space.
Exploring the upper floors unveils storerooms with original features and a view of Kingston Court, offering a glimpse into the area’s historical significance. From the storerooms to the lift shaft that once facilitated movement within the store, the space encapsulates a time long gone yet preserved behind closed doors. The legacy of David Morgan lives on through these remnants, providing a unique insight into Cardiff’s past.
The discovery behind this Cardiff door serves as a reminder of the rich history embedded in the city’s streets. As visitors wander through the Royal Arcade, they may now view the familiar surroundings with renewed wonder, knowing that hidden treasures lie just beyond an unsuspecting entrance.