Posted on 26/09/2018 by David
Daylight is dwindling, there’s a bit of a chill in the air, and shop shelves are slowly filling up with pumpkins and selection boxes. With autumn almost here and winter well and truly on its way, there are few prospects more enticing than an afternoon spent with good food and a comforting drink in front of a roaring fire.
With that in mind, we’ve put together ten of North Wales’ best venues for cosy afternoons and evenings, each equipped with a roaring fire.
1. Vaynol Arms, Nant Peris, Snowdonia
Claiming to be the closest pub to the summit of Snowdon, the warming fire and stone fireplace here make for the ultimate cosy hideaway. Although the walls of the pub are strewn with outdoor equipment, you’re certainly better inside than out. The Vaynol Arms is best-known as a refuelling spot for walkers and climbers, and its location at Snowdon’s base is the perfect mix of scenery and convenience.
2. The Groes Inn, Conwy
The oldest licensed pub in Wales, at The Groes Inn you’ll be able to combine picture-perfect views with a friendly welcome. What’s more, this is a dog-friendly pub, so you and your four-legged friend can relax together. Discover daily specials on the quirky chalkboard; if there’s Welsh lamb on the menu, it’s not to be missed.
3. The Cottage Loaf, Llandudno
A Llandudno institution, The Cottage Loaf is hidden away from the bustling streets of the seaside resort, providing the perfect rest-stop after a day of shopping or exploring. This place has everything you expect a traditional, old-fashioned pub to be: cosy atmosphere, crackling fires, wooden beams, whitewashed exterior and a warm welcome.
4. The Tal-y-Cafn, Tal-y-Cafn, Conwy Valley
This 200-year-old coaching inn has been beautifully renovated and transformed into a contemporary bistro. The Tal-y-Cafn occupies a prime position in the Conwy Valley, perfectly located for visits to many of North Wales’ best sites and attractions. The produce on the enticing menu is sourced from within 30 miles of the pub, and you’ll be able to sample a range of local spirits and micro-brewed ales as you cosy up near the crackling fire here.
5. White Lion, Llanelian, Colwyn Bay
Another historic gem, some part of the White Lion are said to be over 1,200 years old! Step inside onto an original Welsh slate floor and soak up the welcoming atmosphere here. Adding to the characterful property’s quirk, you might notice a 19th century church pew acting as a chair! Having been a fixture in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide for almost 30 years, you’re guaranteed a wonderful time here.
6. The Bull, Beaumaris, Anglesey
The Bull may be over 400 years old, but with a contemporary menu and beautiful interior design it offers an enticing blend of the old and the new. Try fancy fare in Loft restaurant, or head to Coach for a cosy and informal ambience; a varied lunch and dinner menu is perfectly complemented by beautiful décor and an impressive grand fireplace.
7. The Gladstone, Penmaenmawr
Conveniently located in Dwygyfylchi just off the A55, The Gladstone offers a cosy place to sit nestled by the fire, and also boasts fantastic coastal views from the restaurant and bar area. If you’re visiting on a Thursday don’t miss Steak Night, while there’s also a great Sunday roast served between 12 and 5pm.
8. Brondanw Arms, Portmeirion
The Brondanw Arms is housed in what was once the home of Clough Williams Ellis, the architect who designed breathtaking Portmeirion. The pub is often locally called ‘The Ring’, owing to its past as a waterside pub where boats were moored. Inside you’ll find roaring fires, a beautiful slate floor and a menu featuring pub classics and daily specials.
9. Black Boy Inn, Caernarfon
A famous site in historic Caernarfon, the Black Boy Inn has a history going back over 500 years. This was actually named the ‘Welshest Pub in the World’ in 2016, so you know you’re in for an authentic local experience here! A warm Welsh welcome is complemented by a tempting menu and cosy interior.
10. Glyn-y-Weddw Arms, Pwllheli
Family-friendly, dog-friendly and superbly located for visitors to the Llyn Peninsula, the Glyn-y-Weddw Arms is the perfect place to get warm after a day of exploring. The carvery here (Sundays and Thursdays during spring and summer) is locally-renowned, and the regular menu offers a wide variety of pub classics and other gastronomic treats.