The Glengower, Aberystwyth

Initially looks little different to most of the seafront hotels, but is an excellent food-led pub. The narrow front terrace is popular with those just looking for a drink, with many of the tables inside occupied by (but not restricted to) those dining. There is also a more basic bar with further seating and a couple of pool tables down a few stairs at the back. Good food (although not exactly cheap). Decent selection of mostly local real ales - including the Bragdy Mantle Cwrw Teifi - from five handpumps on the front counter, plus another five ciders and perries from a second bank on the other side. Definitely worth a stop if in the area.

Having only done a limited amount of research before my visit to Aber, I was surprised to find a proper pub here among the very smart hotels and guest houses on Victoria Terrace. Before our walk up Constitution Hill the doors had not been open, but I was looking forward to a pint on our return. The main bar in the front has five hand pumps, with four beers on and another on the way at the time of our visit. Purple Moose's Dark Side of the Moose was on, a favourite of mine and in fine shape. There's another bar around the corner in this multi-room hotel, this one with five ciders on hand pumps. Beside the other set in the front was displayed a Camra Pub of the Year award, which seems to have been well-deserved. We observed others enjoying their food and even passing their compliments to the kitchen, which brought a friendly response from the waiter - whether these were regulars or once-a-years, they'll remember this place with a smile. Date of visit: 20th December 2016