The Cwellyn Arms, Caernarfon

Official site of The Cwellyn Arms - www.snowdoninn.co.uk

Official site of The Cwellyn Arms - www.snowdoninn.co.uk

I've been to Snowdonia a few times but arrived at this pub not even realising it was located at the foot of the mountain. It was such a beautiful and clear day that you had a perfect unobstructed view of the summit and the whole mountain. I'm used to seeing it shrouded in mist or cloud. It is a delightful sight to have from the front door of the pub, which actually adjoins the local mountain rescue agency. Whatpub says that the pub has 6 real ales. In fact, on my mid-Thursday afternoon visit, there were just 2 beers from Conwy - Clogwyn Gold & Welsh Pride. The bar staff were enthusiastic about beers and recommended I visit the Black Boy in Caernarfon for a wide real ale selection. Whilst I was heading that way, I did visit there in 2018 and was only looking to try new pubs on this visit. The two young guys behind the bar and the girls in the kitchen were trying to make themselves busy, with me being the only customer. But on such a lovely day, presumably most of their potential customers were on the mountain or on the Welsh Highland Railway, which is also nearby. The pub comprises a bar area, with rooms either side that appear more suited for dining. The perspex Covid screens on the bar have yet to be removed and spoil the ambience somewhat.

A rather basic but friendly pub that lies in the shadow of Snowdon. Excellently kept beers and good food makes the Cwellyn a good place to stop for refreshment. I just felt it was in need of a little TLC.