As a new mum who has chosen to breastfeed, venturing too far from home feels daunting. The thought that my baby could wake up hungry at any moment has made me hesitant to get back out and about. I’ve never been the most confident person, and the idea of having to feed in public—on top of not knowing where the nearest baby-changing facilities are—fills me with anxiety.
St David’s 2 lifts are infamous for being packed, and the prospect of waiting 10–15 minutes with a crying baby is far from appealing. Thankfully, there’s a great alternative just a few minutes away—John Lewis.
Nestled on the top floor of John Lewis Cardiff, is a nursing space, a peaceful retreat designed with parents in mind. Whether you’re in the middle of a busy shopping trip, meeting friends for a coffee, or just need a quiet moment with your little one, this dedicated area provides a comfortable and welcoming environment for breastfeeding mums and parents caring for young children.
A Thoughtfully Designed Space
Breastfeeding in public is a personal choice, and while many mums feel comfortable doing so, others such as myself appreciate a quieter space to feed their baby. The John Lewis nursing area offers a discreet and cosy setting, allowing parents to relax and feed in peace without feeling rushed or exposed.
The space features three individual cubbies, each furnished with a comfortable chair, providing privacy and a calm atmosphere for nursing. These cubbies are ideal for mums who prefer a more secluded environment, there is also a cafe close by for those who wish to feed while chatting with friends or family as well.
Recognising that breastfeeding is thirsty work, the space includes a small water dispenser, so mums can stay hydrated while feeding their little ones. It’s a thoughtful touch that acknowledges the needs of breastfeeding parents and makes the experience that little bit easier.
Practical Facilities for Parents
Beyond just a place to nurse, the nursing space is also equipped with practical facilities to make parenting on the go easier. There are changing stations available, providing a clean and convenient place to change nappies without the stress of finding a suitable spot elsewhere in the store.
One of the standout features is the spacious parent toilet, which is large enough to accommodate a pram. Any parent who has struggled to fit into a cramped public toilet while juggling a baby and a buggy will appreciate this small but significant detail. It allows for a hassle-free experience, making outings with young children much more manageable especially if going solo.
A Welcome Escape from the Hustle and Bustle
Located in the heart of Cardiff city centre, John Lewis is often a go-to destination for shopping trips and meet-ups. However, the busy nature of the city can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially for parents with young children.
The nursing space provides a quiet escape, offering a moment of respite from the crowds and noise of the store and the bustling streets outside. Whether you need a few minutes to nurse in peace, change your baby’s nappy, or simply take a break with your child, this space provides a calm and relaxing environment to do so.
Supporting Breastfeeding Without Hiding It Away
It would be fantastic to see more spaces like this being created—not to keep breastfeeding mums out of sight, but to offer them a choice. Every parent deserves to feel comfortable feeding their child, whether in a café, on a park bench, or in a designated feeding space like this one.
While some mums are happy to breastfeed anywhere, others prefer a quieter, more private setting. Spaces like the one in John Lewis Cardiff ensure that no mum has to feel uncomfortable or unsupported while feeding their baby. It would be wonderful to see more businesses and public spaces follow this example, providing well-thought-out, inclusive facilities that cater to the needs of parents and babies alike.
If you’re ever in Cardiff city centre and need a comfortable, welcoming place to nurse or care for your little one, the nursing space at John Lewis Cardiff is well worth a visit. It’s a small but important step in making public spaces more parent-friendly, and a perfect example of how businesses can better support families in their daily lives.
Know a baby-friendly place with great facilities and comfy breastfeeding areas? Send me a message alice@wales247.co.uk with your recommendations below—where should I visit next?
