The hidden Gavin & Stacey room in Ikea Cardiff you've probably walked right past
Shoppers at Ikea Cardiff may not realise they're walking past Barry Island royalty
Barry Island might be 14 miles away but Ikea Cardiff is hiding a little slice of the seaside among the flat-packs and meatballs – and fans of Gavin & Stacey are going to love it.
In a store known for its maze-like layout and endless Scandi-chic showrooms it takes a keen eye to spot the occasional Easter egg hidden in plain sight. But thanks to Welsh TikToker Dheanasaur – who boasts nearly 900,000 followers –fans of the cult comedy have now been let in on a secret.
Tucked away in section seven of the display rooms there's a bedroom completely dedicated to Nessa "Shanessa" Jenkins.
IKEA Cardiff Introduces Gavin And Stacey-themed Room
Leopard print walls? Check. A mirror scribbled with "What's occurin'?'" in red lipstick? Obviously. A black leather vest and knee-high boots hanging proudly like a shrine to Wales' most iconic bouncer? Absolutely.
It's the kind of bold and brash setup that screams "Nessa lives here" and according to Dheanasaur, who documented the discovery in a now-viral TikTok, the room is stuffed with subtle (and not-so-subtle) nods to the beloved Barry legend.
Article continues below
The first clue - a black leather vest, hooked on a leopard print wall
(Image: Dheanasaur )
The famous phrase said by the Welsh legend herself
(Image: Dheanasaur )
Perched on top of the wardrobe fans will spot two playfully labelled storage boxes: one reading "Neil the baby old photos" and the other, "Smithy's sleepover stuff" – both references to key moments and relationships in the series.
There's even a pinned photo of Barry Island – presumably a reminder of where Nessa's heart lies, should she ever get lost in Ikea's unforgiving loop of kitchens and bathrooms.
The attention to detail doesn't stop there. Open the drawers and you'll find goalkeeping gloves (cheers Stace), Tic Tacs of every flavour, and Nessa's unmentionables stashed in the second drawer. The wardrobe itself? A masterclass in fierce fashion, from rhinestone-encrusted graphic tees to eclectically-patterned fits.
The hilarious homage to the Gavin & Stacey character can be found in Ikea's Welsh store
(Image: Dheanasaur )
Even the romantic Nessa gets a nod. A quote from the 2019 Christmas Special – the one where she finally bares her soul to Smithy – is printed on the wall, proving this room isn't just a gimmick but a love letter to the show.
A present from Stacey to Nessa was found in the drawers
(Image: Dheanasaur )
It's a totally unexpected homage that many shoppers likely walk straight past on their hunt for a Billy bookcase – but now you know there's no excuse.
Article continues below
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Wales Online
37 minutes ago
- Wales Online
Alex Jones left emotional after guest halts BBC's The One Show
Alex Jones left emotional after guest halts BBC's The One Show The One Show presenter was left shocked to find out there would be a slight twist on the Friday show, which included an emotional tribute to her and her 15 years on the BBC programme by her loved ones The Welsh presenter was clearly moved by the lovely surprise, as she had a tear in her eye (Image: BBC) Welsh presenter Alex Jones was left moved by an emotional tribute marking her 15 years on BBC's The One Show. On Friday night, the presenter was told be her co-host Roman Kemp that the special episode would be scattered with surprises, but little did she know it would entail a twist to her usual presenting duties. Joined by guests singer Olly Murs and presenter and novelist Richard Osman, it only took a few minutes into the BBC programme for Alex to find out exactly what the twist was. As she began introducing the next segment of the show, which would focus on the film adaptation of Richard Osman's The Thursday Murder Club novel, the novelist interrupted the Ammanford-born presenter and said: "Actually Alex, apologies. I'm not actually not going to be talking about The Thursday Murder Club film. "I believe they are coming on quite soon to talk about it. I'm here because everyone here asked me if I would come and help surprise you and celebrate 15 years on The One Show". Slightly stunned, Alex told Richard that she had in fact watched the film, and "loved it", and had spent the whole day rehearsing ahead of tonight's episode alongside Roman Kemp. She joked that she would "never trust you again" to her fellow presenter, who told her: "The rest of the show isn't anything we've rehearsed, just to let you know. The whole thing was a waste of time, completely." Alex was left shocked when she found out that the show she had rehearsed with her fellow host, Roman Kemp, would not be happening (Image: BBC) He continued: "We were trying to think the best way to surprise you - what have you not done on this show. And you've done everything, bar one thing... you've never actually been a guest on this show". With a cheer from the set, Alex and Richard swapped seats, with The One Show host now in the guest chair. They began her interview with an emotional tribute, which included interviews from her loved ones including her parents, as well as clips of her presenting during the early days. During the special video, which was shown to Alex in the studio, her mum Mary recalled: "Alex was always a quite a shy child, but always quietly confident. She knew from a very young age where she was heading". A pupil at Ysgol Maes-yr-Yrfa, Alex began to grow as an individual. "I began to see her blossoming," her drama teacher, Delyth Nicholas said. "Then, when I see that in a pupil, I push them along. The more she did, the more she developed." Her parents, Mary and Alun Jones, spoke of her childhood and her dream of pursuing a career in the world of TV (Image: BBC) Alex then pursued a career in the world of TV, and got her foot in the door whilst appearing on S4C's magazine show Heno. Huw 'Fash' Rees, a fashion expert and presenter on Heno, shared fond memories of Alex. He said: "As it happens, the S4C appeal week, and we needed a model and Alex ends up in front of camera. Nothing you asked her was ever too much trouble. "She was always one of those people who were great at meeting and greeting everyone who came to talk to us." Alex then went on to study at Aberystwyth University, but during her final exams, Alex was invited to appear on ITV's reality show Prickly Heart, which was presented by Davina McCall. Alex managed to convince her university to let her sit her final exam in Spain while filming the show. During the tribute, Davina said: "Your exam papers were sent to Magaluf and you sat your exams. I think I invigilated for you." Alex with her family growing up (Image: BBC) She then became a familiar face in Wales, presenting various Welsh language shows such as Uned 5 and Hip neu Sgip?. Sandy Smith, a former editor of The One Show, explained they had interviewed 40-50 women to replace Christine Bleakley, but Alex was the one that stood out. "And then we found this Welsh speaking wonder, who amused us," he explained. "Eventually, we got her in and she left behind a really good impression. There were people who were famous, perhaps more polished, but they didn't quite convey that sense of authenticity". According to her mum, Alex travelled back and forth to London in the lead up to her gig with The One Show, and would often call her and tell her: "The sofa feels so right when I sit on it". And in 2010, Alex got the job, making a difference to people's days on the screen, but also leaving a marking legacy in her hometown of Ammanford. "We've got photos of Alex here in school," Cerys Gruffydd, the headteacher of Ysgol Gymraeg Rhydaman and Alex's childhood friend, said. "And that reminds us all that she was once a pupil here and look where she's gone to, she's achieved." Her drama teacher, Delyth, added: "She hasn't forgotten her Welshness, and she hasn't forgotten herself." As she watched the tribute from the studio, Alex was seemingly moved to tears. Sandy also added: "She feels things the way we feel and that is authenticity. There was definitely an element of luck for Al getting the job, but there's no luck in keeping the job for 15 years." Her mother said: "Nobody's allowed to get above their station in Wales, however well you've done. We are very proud of her and always will be." After the compilation came to an end, Alex was clearly moved, with a tear in her eye. When asked how it felt getting the call confirming the job, Alex said: "It changed my life. And honestly, I am still as excited doing this job now." Article continues below
North Wales Chronicle
an hour ago
- North Wales Chronicle
Anglesey venue set for food from Cheshire's Cheeky Chilli
Neston-based luxury caterers, Cheeky Chilli, have announced an exciting new partnership with The Anglesey Barn, on the Welsh island. From this month, Cheeky Chilli will be exclusively delivering their award-winning, catering and event services at the stunning Anglesey Barn, which overlooks Lligwy Bay. Cheeky Chilli founder and director Kim Maher said the team was delighted with the news. 'We are absolutely thrilled to be working with the team at The Anglesey Barn,' they said. 'Not only is it a totally unique and stunning space, but the whole team also really share our ethos in terms of offering couples something truly individual. 'We are not a 'one size fits all' caterer, Chef Phil and his team love to explore new dishes, and we update our menus with the seasons. 'We are looking forward to getting to know the local producers on Anglesey and creating some unique, island inspired dishes over the coming months.' These brand-new, purpose-built events space which oozes 'coastal chic', sits in acres of rolling countryside, with spectacular, unbroken views of the Irish Sea. The Dutch Barn style structure, which comes complete with floor to ceiling windows, making the most of the epic views and its very own roof terrace with fully retractable roof, can accommodate up to 150 seated guests and more than 200 reception guests. OTHER NEWS: With expansive outdoor terraces, and beautifully converted onsite accommodation for up to 28 guests plus nearby lodging for a further 20, it must be one of the most unique and awe-inspiring locations for a wedding or private event. The Anglesey Barn founders George and Nicki Boston have a long association with the island. George's family go back over two hundred years and it's here, on family farmland, overlooking the majestic Lligwy Bay, that the couple have brought their vision to life. 'Our whole family have been in love with this spot for most of our lives,' he said. 'We always wanted more people to experience the beautiful surroundings and unrivalled location, so creating a beautiful wedding and events venue seemed to be a logical step. 'We are delighted to be working with Kim, Phil and the whole team from Cheeky Chilli. 'Their reputation goes before them and they have been so invaluable to us during the build and planning phase, they really have become an extension of our own team. 'We are looking forward to delivering some exceptional events with them and introducing more guests to our little corner of this very special island.' Cheeky Chilli was founded in 2012 by Kim and Chef Phil Williams Senior. A spokesman added: 'Now, with Chef Phil's son, Phil Williams Junior driving the award-winning culinary offering, and a reputation for outstanding creativity, superb customer service and minimal environmental impact, team Cheeky look set to maintain their reputation as one of the region's most sought-after caterers.' For more head to or to
North Wales Chronicle
an hour ago
- North Wales Chronicle
Stars share memories of Alex Jones as she marks 15 years on The One Show
The Welsh TV star, 48, had mainly worked on children's TV before she joined the BBC weekday chat show in August 2010, which has seen her cover major events including Sport Relief and Eurovision. She has also interviewed a number of Hollywood stars including Robert De Niro, Julianne Moore, Jackie Chan and Sydney Sweeney. There was a surprise for Jones during Friday night's show when she was asked to move to the other side of the sofa to be interviewed by her co-host Roman Kemp and their guest, author and gameshow host Richard Osman. Jones, who usually asks the questions, was put in the hot seat and asked about her 15 years on the BBC One show. The 30-minute special, which included a chat with pop star Olly Murs, included some heartfelt montages looking at some of the celebrities Jones has interviewed over the years, from Dolly Parton to Whoopi Goldberg. A number of famous people including baking star Dame Mary Berry and Welsh actor Michael Sheen shared their memories of Jones. The BBC's director-general, Tim Davie, also made an appearance at the studio to congratulate the TV presenter. Other highlights included a film looking back at Jones's early days in Cardiff and a talk with her old drama tutor and parents. Co-presenter Kemp, 32, said: 'Alex is a national treasure in my opinion and someone I'm so grateful to call my co-host. 'I've learned so much from her since being at The One Show and every day I see first-hand just how much the show and its viewers mean to her. A true great of the BBC and a wonderful human being.' The One Show editor, Joanne Vaughan-Jones, said: 'It's an absolute privilege to celebrate this special milestone with Alex. 'Being live on the sofa night after night, she brings a rare gift – the ability to make everyone feel completely at ease, whether it's the guests on the sofa or the viewers watching from home. 'Her warmth, empathy, quick wit and natural connection with people are what make her such a cherished part of the show.' Jones has worked alongside broadcasters including Vernon Kay, Clara Amfo and Lauren Laverne. She also co-hosted alongside former footballer Jermaine Jenas before he was removed from the presenting team after alleged issues relating to workplace conduct.
