Alfresco Eating and Drinking
Now that summer has well and truly arrived, our thoughts turn to long, lazy lunches in the sun and relaxed evenings chilling out with a glass of something cool and refreshing.
If you’re planning to visit us here in North Wales this summer and you love to eat outdoors, you’re in for a treat! We have a treasure trove of delightful pubs and restaurants, offering great food and idyllic outdoor settings. From charming country pubs to cool coastal hangouts, there’s something to suit every taste and preference. And, better still, some of the best eateries are just a walk or public transport accessible from Castleview Cottage.
Don’t forget to check the timetable with Traveline Cymru before you go, just to make sure you’ve got a ride home!
The Cottage Loaf – Llandudno
One of the oldest public houses in the seaside resort of Llandudno, the Cottage Loaf is a cosy pub that offers a warm and inviting atmosphere all year round. But it’s during the summer, this hidden town centre gem really comes into its own. With a walled courtyard to the rear and an expansive, flower-filled terrace to the front, you’ll be spoilt for choice when choosing where to sit to catch some rays. If it gets a bit nippy, you can always retreat to the indoor dining area; the bifolding doors open out into the courtyard so you can have the best of both worlds!
We love the Cottage Loaf because it’s the perfect pub for all occasions. Being family-friendly and dog friendly, you’re certain of a warm welcome with lots of people to chat to – both locals and tourists. However, if you just fancy a quiet drink with your loved one, there are plenty of nooks to cosy up in and enjoy the ambience too.
Y Stablau, Royal Oak Hotel – Betws-y-Coed
An iconic landmark in the heart of Betws-y-Coed, the Royal Oak Hotel started out as a coaching inn on the main route from London to Holyhead. It was a popular stopping point for Victorians eager to experience the dramatic alpine surroundings and its popularity has endured. Today you too can enjoy the bracing mountain air at Y Stablau, the thriving bar bistro that adjoins the hotel. Less than five minutes walk from the station, Y Stabalu has a large, fully-covered terrace complete with twinkling lights, chunky wood furniture and patio heaters, you can enjoy alfresco dining all year round without worrying about our unpredictable weather!
Despite the strong ski lodge vibe, it’s a traditional Welsh pub which prides itself on delivering warm Welsh hospitality; expect big portions and an extensive drinks menu. It’s a lively spot from morning until nightfall but, with an unpretentious and casual feel, it’s a great choice for families and couples alike. Oh, yeah, they love dogs too!
The Mulberry – Conwy
The medieval town of Conwy is a destination best experienced on foot and the walk along the beautiful river to our next pub is definitely worth the effort. Located just outside the town walls overlooking Conwy Marina, the Mulberry offers the ultimate coastal dining experience. The pub’s expansive sundeck oozes Ibiza chic and delivers jaw-dropping coastal views of the Conwy Estuary and the Great Orme – it’s absolutely stunning, especially as the sun goes down.
But this is a firmly family-friendly eatery, as evidenced by the quirky pirate-themed outdoor play area and extensive kids menu. Naturally, dogs are welcome on the sundeck but, if the weather turns, there’s a small section dedicated to our canine friends indoors too.
The Gazelle Hotel – Menai Bridge
Located right on the shoreline of the Menai Strait, the Gazelle Hotel offers a variety of outdoor dining options, you’ll be spoilt for choice here when the sun’s shining and wow, what a view! From the charming terraced gardens to the waterside deck, drinkers and diners can follow the sun all day long. Kids will love the opportunity to explore the shoreline while the rest of the family relax with a refreshing drink close by.
The menu is small but perfectly formed and boasts all the pub favourites including light bites and the ubiquitous Sunday roast. With live music, BBQs and events during weekends throughout the summer, the pub is popular with locals and visitors alike – something which only adds to the atmosphere! If you love the location too much to board the train, the Gazelle has several coastal-themed guest rooms (three of which are dog-friendly).
The Oyster Catcher – Rhosneigr
For locations with a wow factor, look no further than the Oyster Catcher in Rhosneigr. This small seaside village on the west coast of Anglesey has a big personality and is popular with watersports enthusiasts, golfers and families. Two beautiful beaches, several boutique shops and Anglesey’s premier golf course ensures this resort is busy all year round.
Nestled among rolling dunes a stone’s throw from the beach, the Oyster Catcher boasts ample outdoor seating options. From the quirky Wave Table & Garden to the panoramic wrap-around sundeck, families and friends can relax and enjoy a leisurely meal with a view – and what a view. There’s even an outdoor bar dedicated to welcoming your four-legged friends, Will’s Bar, serving a range of doggy and human snacks and beverages!