Brecknockshire

Campaign for Real Ale

Campaign for Real Ale

Pub Guide

Branch area pubs selling real ale

  • Beulah
    • Trout Inn Beulah LD5 4UU Telephone(01591) 620235

      Refurbished pub with a spacious aspect and offering good simple food

  • Brecon
    • Brecon Rugby Club 63 The Watton Brecon LD3 7EL Telephone(01874) 624848

      A founder member of the Welsh RFU, this friendly and welcoming club is open to all. A large main bar, with separate lounge, is towards the front, and there is a large function room with a big screen beyond the bar. Outside is a large patio garden and the Brecon Petanque Club. Beers from local brewers are frequently available plus bottled ciders from Gwynt-y-Ddraig. Often busy during the rugby season, particularly when Wales are playing.

    • Brecon Tap 6 Bulwark Brecon LD3 7LB Telephone(01874) 622888

      In a prime town centre location, a contemporary style bar giving a light and airy feel, with comfortable seating throughout and walls lined with bottle filled shelves. Three or four varying guest ales, often from Welsh breweries, sometimes further afield. There is also an interesting range of international and UK craft ales, plus simple food - good value pies, sandwiches and the like. Bottled beers, wines, craft spirits and local artisan produce are available for off-sales.

    • Castle of Brecon Hotel Castle Square Brecon LD3 9DB Telephone(01874) 624611

      Formerly an 11th Century Norman Castle, then an early coaching inn, the Castle of Brecon retains all the warmth and character of the coaching inn, mixed with the formality of a late Georgian hotel. Usually three ales are available, often National brands, but with occasional local guests. A large garden boasts stunning views over the Beacons, and the large Ballroom hosts numerous events.

    • Clarence 25 The Watton Brecon LD3 7ED Telephone(01874) 622810

      Two-roomed town centre community pub with a contemporary, welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. The newly-extended front bar tends to be frequented by locals, while the larger back bar is more popular with diners, and the large screen draws a crowd for big sporting events. The spacious garden is a major attraction, especially during the Jazz Festival. Guest Beers are generally sourced from local breweries.

    • Drovers Arms Newgate Street Brecon LD3 8DN

      A lively local community pub with a contemporary feel, reopened February 2024 under new management after an extended closure. The central bar faces out into the main room, with a TV showing popular sporting events. A small room to one end of the bar has its own servery. The secluded patio garden is behind the pub, offering alfresco drinking and relief to smokers.

    • George Hotel 1 George Street Brecon LD3 7LD Telephone(01874) 620250

      Former 17th century inn, now a Wetherspoon house, bringing additional choice to the town centre. The interior has been significantly expanded, with a large bar area at the back and numerous rooms leading off. Up to six ales available, the usual national brands being supplemented by others from smaller breweries. Food available throughout the day and the pub has four letting bedrooms.

    • Hop In Beer & Gin House 37 The Watton Brecon LD3 7EG Telephone(01874) 622092

      Established in 2020 in difficult circumstances, the Hop In has quickly built an excellent reputation and following. The beer offering consists of two regularly changing real ales, five craft ales on tap and a wide range of bottled and canned beer. An equally impressive range of around forty gins are available, which the knowledgeable staff are happy to advise on. The premises are compact, but manage both ground floor and first floor drinking areas and a small courtyard outside at the rear. Food is tapas, which is excellent, but booking is essential.

      Hours shown as published on their Facebook March 2023.

    • Markets Tavern Free Street Brecon LD3 7BN Telephone(01874) 611595

      Busy town centre pub with music events and good simple food and accommodation.

    • Wellington Hotel The Bulwark Brecon LD3 7AD Telephone(01874) 625225

      Town centre hotel with pleasant modern bar, owned and operated by SA Brain.

  • Bronllys
    • Cock Hotel Church Street Bronllys LD3 0LE Telephone(01874) 711996

      Village centre pub and restaurant with rooms, reopened under new management in 2023.

  • Builth Wells
    • Barley Mow 1 West Street Builth Wells LD2 3AH Telephone(01982) 553198

      Town centre community pub, reopened in 2023. Usually one real ale from regional sources. Food in the evening, enquire about other times.

    • Fountain Inn 7-9 Broad Street Builth Wells LD2 3DT Telephone(01982) 553888

      Decorated in a modern style, the Fountain retains a traditional feel with plenty of stonework, wood and floorboards and a welcoming wood burner in the main part of the pub. Sports TVs show major events and there is pool and darts in the bar. Next door is a cafe section and upstairs terrace with a view of the River Wye. The pub is popular with locals and serves up to three reals ales, which change regularly, plus a real cider.

    • Greyhound Hotel 3 Garth Road Builth Wells LD2 3AR Telephone(01982) 553255

      Pleasant modern hotel with open-plan bars, a restaurant and a large function room. Excellent food, including a Sunday carvery, is served, with the menu featuring local produce. A glass panel above the door harks back to when there was a brewery at the hotel. A beer festival is held every year.

    • Lamb Inn 12 Broad Street Builth Wells LD2 3DT Telephone(01982) 551119

      Town centre pub, reopened August 2022.

  • Bwlch
    • New Inn Brecon Road Bwlch LD3 7RQ Telephone(01874) 730215

      Lively and cosy village pub, very popular with both locals and visitors. A comfortable dining area sits to the side of the bar, with armchairs around a huge fireplace. An excellent base for exploring the surrounding Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains, with bunkhouse accommodation available. Two always interesting guests supplement the regular ale and excellent, good-value, home-cooked food is available evenings and lunchtime at weekends - the pies are deservedly popular. Brecknock CAMRA Pub of the Year for 2017-2020 and a former South Wales Regional winner.

  • Cilmery
  • Crickhowell
    • Bear Hotel High Street Crickhowell NP8 1BW Telephone(01873) 810408

      Originally a 15th Century coaching inn, now an award winning hotel and Guide regular. The multi-roomed bar enjoys grand surroundings with exposed beams, wood panelling, fine settles and an eclectic selection of furnishings and decorations. The two bar rooms have exposed fireplaces, as does one of the side rooms. Usually four ales to choose from, with guests often from independent Welsh breweries. Food is excellent and the varied menu features much local produce. The Bear is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons National Park.

    • Britannia Inn 20 High Street Crickhowell NP8 1BD Telephone(01873) 598022

      Comfortable pub in the centre of town. The two regular ales may be supplemented by a third guest at busier times.

    • Dragon Inn 47 High Street Crickhowell NP8 1BE Telephone(01873) 810362

      Old and traditional hostelry in the centre of Crickhowell. Usually two ales available.

    • Swan Inn 10 Llanbedr Road Crickhowell NP8 1BT Telephone(01873) 810858

      Lively sports-orientated bar in a residential street off the A40, a short walk from the village centre. Has a pleasant patio area out back for sunny days.

    • Treebeards Bar 54 High Street Crickhowell NP8 1BH Telephone(01873) 268668

      Micro pub in the heart of town which occupies part of what was once the Corn Exchange pub, now converted into award winning smaller units. The comfortable bar has a friendly, cosy atmosphere and offers up to three real ales served straight from the cask, together with a selection of craft ales, mainly from Welsh independent breweries. Established during the lockdowns of 2020/21, Treebeards has nevertheless built a good reputation and has brought variety to the local drinking scene.

  • Cwmdu
    • Farmers Arms Cwmdu NP8 1RU Telephone(01874) 202132

      Community owned village pub boasting exposed beams and a large fireplace, complete with a cast iron wood-burning range and a hop-bedecked bar that separates the drinking and dining areas. Superb home-cooked food is served, with a carvery as the speciality. Guest beers are usually sourced from local breweries.

  • Defynnog
    • Tanners Arms Defynnog LD3 8SF Telephone(01874) 638032

      Family run Country Pub famous for its warm welcome to both locals and tourists, set in the delightful village of Defynnog in the Brecon Beacons National Park. The Pub has traded continuously since 1870 but the original buildings (cottages for the workers at the nearby Tannery) date to circa 1806. A selection of real ciders are usually on offer, as is home cooked food. Opens all day Tuesday to Sunday in Summer and on bank holidays. Multiple local branch award winner.

  • Erwood
    • Wheelwrights Arms Erwood LD2 3EQ Telephone(01982) 560740

      Multi- alcoved pub, lots of exposed stonework, pictures. The single hand pump was offering a seasonal ale from Brains at the time of visit.

  • Felinfach
    • Griffin Felinfach LD3 0UB Telephone(01874) 620111

      The pub's ethos - the simple things in life done well - says it all. A welcoming country pub, restaurant and rooms, the emphasis here is on good beer and excellent food. The multi-roomed layout allows for discrete areas for drinking and dining. The huge fireplace between the bar and the main dining area dominates during winter, while an Aga lurks in a side room, providing warmth throughout the building. The large garden affords superb views of the surrounding Mountains. Beers are sourced mainly from local breweries.

    • Plough & Harrow Felinfach LD3 0UB Telephone(01874) 622709

      Since 2005 this has been summer only pub. The pub closes for the winter and reopens at Easter.

  • Glangrwyney
    • Blue Bell Country Inn Main Road Glangrwyney NP8 1EH Telephone(01873) 740238

      Spacious main road inn, formerly the Bell, refurbished, renamed and reopened in September 2022 under new management after a lengthy closure. The emphasis is very much on food and B&B accommodation is also available.

  • Glanusk
    • Nantyffin Cider Mill Inn Brecon Road Glanusk NP8 1SG Telephone(01873) 810775

      Literally translated as the brook by the border, The Nantyffin was originally a drovers Inn dating back to the 16th century. Now it is an award winning family run inn, with the emphasis on food. Usually one guest ale from a Welsh brewery.

  • Glasbury on Wye
    • Harp Inn Glasbury on Wye HR3 5NR Telephone(01497) 847373

      Traditional country inn dating from around 1720 with low ceilings, wood beams and a large horseshoe-shaped servery. It offers a range of cask ales from local brewers and guests from further afield. A welcoming community pub, quoits, darts and poker are played on a regular basis and a quiz is hosted on Thursday. The rear garden area and veranda boast river views.

  • Groesffordd
    • Three Horseshoes Groesffordd LD3 7SN Telephone(01874) 665672

      Busy village centre pub, in the heart of the Brecon Beacons, boasting superb views from both the front and rear outdoor seating areas. The pub is only a 10 minute walk from the Brynich lock on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal and is a popular stop for boaters and other visitors. The pub's emphasis is very much on food, which is excellent, but the ales are always varied and interesting. Brynich Caravan Site and the Brecon YHA are also nearby.

  • Hay on Wye
    • Blue Boar Castle Street Hay on Wye HR3 5DF Telephone(01497) 820884

      Comfortable and friendly pub in the centre of the town famed for books. The pub has been owned and run by the same family for many years. A large central bar dominates, around which are two separate seating areas, each with it's own log fire. The regular beer is usually supplemented by two or three guests and food is available all day in the bar or the separate dining area.

    • Hay Conservative Club 35 Lion Street Hay on Wye HR3 5AB Telephone(01497) 820402
    • Kilverts The Bull Ring Hay on Wye HR3 5AG Telephone(01497) 821333

      A popular Inn all year round with locals and visitors alike. The hotel has 12 en-suite rooms (renovated 2018), and a large beer garden. Restaurant and bar food served daily, with a focus on local produce and home made pies.

    • Old Black Lion Inn Lion Street Hay on Wye HR3 5AD Telephone(01497) 820841

      Historic inn to the east of the town, near to the site of one of the original gates, known as the Lion Gate, when Hay was protected by walls in medieval times. It remains a popular place to stay, providing a cosy base from which to explore Hay and the surrounding area. The interior is charming, with low beams and scrubbed tables in the Lion’s Den, which serves as bar and dining room. The balanced and appetising menu attracts diners and whilst it has built a reputation as a gastro pub, there is certainly a welcome for those requiring just liquid refreshment. On the bar three hand pumps serve the house ale, Old Black Lion (aka Wye Valley's Butty Bach), plus guest ales that change occasionally.

    • Swan Hotel Church Street Hay on Wye HR3 5DQ Telephone(01497) 821188

      Former coaching inn, now a family run hotel. Two regular ales usually available.

    • Three Tuns 4 Broad Street Hay on Wye HR3 5DB Telephone(01497) 821855

      Comfortable 16th Century inn just off the town centre, sensitively restored following a major fire in 2005.

  • Libanus
    • Tai'r Bull Inn Libanus LD3 8EL Telephone(01874) 622600

      Roadside Inn with a traditional bar and additional eating area. Great view of Pen-y-Fan from the outside seating area.

  • Llanbedr
    • Red Lion Llanbedr NP8 1SR Telephone(01873) 810754

      A warm welcome is guaranteed from the friendly and helpful owners in this traditional rural pub. Two real ales served in an L-shaped single room bar with roaring log burner always lit in the colder months (the resident dog won’t be moved from it!). Light snacks may be served to drop-in visitors, fuller menu available only by booking (contact pub for more information). Some outside seating for the warmer months to watch life passing slowly in this lovely village, which is ideal for walkers due to its location and plentiful walker friendly accommodation.

  • Llanfihangel Talyllyn
  • Llangattock
    • Horse Shoe Inn Hillside Road Llangattock NP8 1PA Telephone(01873) 268773

      Under new ownership and management since 2017 following a lengthy period of closure, the "Shoe" has made a welcome and popular return to the village. The interior has been completely transformed in an interesting conversion which combines both modern and traditional styles, giving a light and spacious feel to the main bar and back lounge.

    • Old Rectory Hotel Llangattock NP8 1PH Telephone(01873) 810373

      Elegant country house hotel in a pretty village location. Full hotel facilities include a bar which usually has two or three real ales on tap, sometimes a house beer brewed by Coors, Sharpe's Doom Bar and/or beers from Welsh breweries.

  • Llangenny
    • Dragons Head Inn Llangenny NP8 1HD Telephone(01873) 810350

      Traditional unspoilt pub tucked away on the edge of the Black Mountains. Friendly owners serving two ales and a simple traditional menu.

  • Llangors
    • Castle Inn Llangors LD3 7UB Telephone(01874) 658819

      Hospitable traditional village local with stone walls, wood bar, large fireplace and great service. Popular with locals and visitors, the pub provides a hub for ramblers, boaters, horse riders and explorers. Excellent beers are brought in from near and far and local food is served in the evenings and at weekends. Occasional beers festivals are held.

    • Red Lion Llangors LD3 7TY Telephone(01874) 202235

      Refurbished and reopened under new management in Spring 2023 after a lengthy closure, the Red Lion is a casual yet elegant Gastropub, serving authentic cuisine from Wales and celebrating food from all around the world.

  • Llangynidr
    • Coach & Horses Cwmcrawnon Road Llangynidr NP8 1LS Telephone(01874) 730245

      Large yet cosy canalaside pub, close to the Llangynidr Locks. Excellent food. Various events throughout the year, including a popular beer festival.

    • Red Lion Duffryn Road Llangynidr NP8 1NT Telephone(01874) 730223

      Popular village local, away from the main road, which offers a warm welcome to walkers, boaters, families and dogs - the Monmouth and Brecon canal is a short walk away. The beer range changes regularly and good value home-cooked food is served in the bar. A separate games area, outside seating and children's play area make this a pub for all. Regular quiz nights and live music also feature.

      Update March 2024:

      The current owners (for the last 16 years) are selling the pub and will finish on 17th March 2024. It is understood there will be a new owner and management team, although details and the timescale for that remain to be announced officially. Worth checking if a visit is planned in the immediate future.

      Update April 2024

      The pub is now scheduled to reopen on 19th April. A further update will be provided after this date.

  • Llanhamlach
    • Old Ford Inn A40 Llanhamlach LD3 7YB Telephone(01874) 665391

      This 12th-century coaching inn has been much extended but retains its original character. The central bar features some unusual copper work and a collection of nip bottles. A larger room beyond the bar, used mainly by diners, has panoramic views of the Brecon Beacons. The excellent food includes regional dishes. Beers are usually sourced from local breweries.

  • Llanwrtyd Wells
    • Belle Vue Hotel Belle Vue Terrace Llanwrtyd Wells LD5 4RE Telephone(01591) 610237

      Large yet friendly hotel with a traditional multi-area'd bar. Real Ales are usually sourced locally, and good value food is on offer. Popular with groups touring the area by foot or bike. Takes part in the town's many activities and festivals, with a good selection on offer during the November Mid Wales festivities.

    • Neuadd Arms Hotel The Square Llanwrtyd Wells LD5 4RB Telephone(01591) 610236

      This large Victorian hotel serves as the tap for the Heart of Wales Brewery. The Bells Bar features a large fireplace and an eclectic mix of furniture. The bells, formerly used to summon servants, remain on one wall, along with the winners' boards from some of the town's unusual competitions. The lounge bar is a little more formal. The hotel takes part in the town's annual events, including a major beer festival over two weekends in November. Good range of Real Ciders.

      A September 2022 report says that brewing at Heart of Wales Brewery is suspended, but guest ales are still available.

    • Stonecroft Inn Dolecoed Road Llanwrtyd Wells LD5 4RA Telephone(01591) 610332

      This warm and friendly community pub acts as a hub for the town's many and varied festivities - bog-snorkelling, beer and food festivals, real ale rambles and much more. The hostelry has three main areas for drinking, dining and games, plus a large riverside garden with an aviary. Excellent food complements the fine range of beers. Lodge accommodation is popular with walkers and mountain bikers.

  • Llyswen
    • Bridge End Inn Llyswen LD3 0YB Telephone(01874) 754225

      Roadside pub between Brecon and Builth Wells at the North end of the village. An L-shaped bar with separate eating area. Good home cooked pub food is available, but suggest check service times. Guest ales usually from Wye Valley Brewery and at time of survey Thatcher's Heritage cider was available on draught, plus Weston's in polypack on the bar. Hours may vary dependent on trade.

    • Griffin Inn Llyswen LD3 0UR Telephone(01874) 754542

      Formerly a Brains outlet, refurbished and reopened under new ownership in the summer of 2019.

  • Pencelli
    • Royal Oak Pencelli LD3 7LX Telephone(01874) 665396

      Comfortable and friendly family run pub in a quiet village alongside the Brecon and Monmouth canal. Extended opening hours are welcome in this part of the Brecon Beacons. The regular ale is supplemented with up to three others, usually from independent Welsh breweries and the pretty garden right next to the canal is a delight on a sunny day. Popular with walkers, cyclists and boaters, for whom mooring is available adjacent to the garden. Comfortable and friendly family run pub in a quiet village alongside the Brecon and Monmouth canal. Extended opening hours are welcome in this part of the Brecon Beacons. The regular ale is supplemented with up to three others, usually from independent Welsh breweries and the pretty garden right next to the canal is a delight on a sunny day. Popular with walkers, cyclists and boaters, for whom mooring is available adjacent to the garden. Local CAMRA branch Pub of the Year for 2022 and 2023.

  • Pengenffordd
    • Dinas Castle Inn Pengenffordd LD3 0EP Telephone(01874) 711353

      Formerly the Dragon's Back, renamed after a change of ownership in March 2022. A pub with bunkhouse, B&B, camping and direct access to the hills for walking/cycling. Limited opening times at present, check Facebook or contact direct to confirm.

  • Pentre-Bach
    • Tafarn y Crydd (Shoemakers Arms) Pentre-Bach LD3 8UB Telephone(01874) 636508

      Community-owned country pub situated on the edge of the Epynt firing ranges. A warm welcome, excellent food and well-kept ales await you at this previous local CAMRA Pub of the Year. The garden offers superb views of the Brecon Beacons and Mynydd Epynt in an area abundant with wildlife - look out for the red kites. Well worth seeking out, but opening times may vary with the seasons, (longer hours when the rugby is on, and in the Summer), so it is a good idea to phone ahead.

  • Pwllgloyw
    • Pwllgloyw Arms Gerhonddu Pwllgloyw LD3 9PY Telephone(01874) 690679

      Village pub on the mountain road between Brecon and Builth Wells, with Superb food and a great atmosphere. Huge iron fire warms the pub over the winter months, whilst large garden is popular in Summer. Real Ale appears occasionally, otherwise there is a large and varied selction of bottled beers from near and far,

  • Sennybridge
    • Abercamlais Arms High Street Sennybridge LD3 8PH Telephone(01874) 638978
    • Red Lion High Street Sennybridge LD3 8PH Telephone(01874) 638265
    • Usk & Railway Inn High Street Sennybridge LD3 8RS Telephone(01874) 636101

      Small but comfortable inn on the main road in the centre of the village. The unpretentious bar has a separate dining area and usually offers a choice of three real ales, including some not found elsewhere in the area. Food features local produce and ranges from pub favourites to lighter snacks. There are also six refurbished bedrooms for weary travellers along the A40

    • White House Inn Sennybridge LD3 8RP Telephone(01874) 636396
  • Talgarth
    • Bridge End Inn Bell Street Talgarth LD3 0BP Telephone(01874) 711936

      Recently renovated under new management (Jan 2014), with jukebox and TV taken out and more of an emphasis on food. At present, one varying guest ale on offer, hoping to increase to a second as trade permits.

    • Castle Hotel Bronllys Road Talgarth LD3 0AA Telephone07789 682335

      Popular pub with young families, with a large beer garden around the back of the premises. Food is available from the adjoining Fish and Chip Shop.

    • New Gurkha Inn Bronllys Road Talgarth LD3 0HH Telephone(01874) 711581

      Village centre pub & restaurant opened under new management 2nd September 2017. Opening hours quoted are their November to March hours. April to October hours have slight variations. Closed first week of September & first two weeks of January.

  • Talybont-on-Usk
    • Star Inn Talybont-on-Usk LD3 7YX Telephone(01874) 676635

      Traditional village pub alongside the Brecon and Monmouth canal, popular with visitors. Two separate rooms with stone floors and log fires link to the small central bar which offers a varied range of ales, mainly from independent breweries. The sunny garden is a popular spot when the weather is good and the pub's location makes it an ideal destination for boaters, walkers and cyclists. Opening times for bar and food do change, so worth checking before visiting.

    • White Hart Talybont-on-Usk LD3 7JD Telephone(01874) 676227

      Large, spacious multi-levelled wood beamed pub, located beside the Monmouth & Brecon canal, with bunkhouse accommodation. Five cask beers, four from Wales and one from Sharp's.

  • Three Cocks
    • Old Barn Main Road Three Cocks LD3 0SL Telephone(01497) 847861

      Nicely renovated Barn, with lots of features, levels and areas. Main emphasis on food, but beer quality good.

  • Trecastle
  • Ystradfellte
    • New Inn Ystradfellte CF44 9JE Telephone(01639) 721014

      16th century village pub in the middle of Waterfall Country, a popular Brecon Beacons walking area. Dogs and muddy boots welcome. With two log fires, a covered outdoor terrace and beer garden at the front, there's a welcome whatever the weather. Two local ales kept on tap, usually Grey Trees and others from Welsh independents. Strong focus on local product across the board, including spirits from nearby Penderyn Distillery. Real home-cooked food is served and the Boozy Cow Pie, is very popular. Booking recommended.