If there’s one thing I’ve learned from years of living in the heart of Snowdonia, it’s that a North Wales sunset isn’t just an event: it’s a spiritual experience. Especially when you’ve got a cold drink in one hand and a plate of something delicious in front of you.
I’m Peter Dive, and if you’ve been following our journey here at Rhiw Goch Inn, you know we’re currently knee-deep in sawdust and history as we restore our 16th-century Grade 2 listed inn. While the main tavern is a "work in progress" (stay tuned for the games room and apartments!), the views from our campsite and luxury lets are already world-class.
But I know what it’s like when you’re on a holiday in North Wales with the family. The kids are starving after a day of mountain biking at Coed y Brenin or hiking up Snowdon, and you just want a decent meal where you don’t have to worry about the little ones being too loud, all while catching that "golden hour" glow.
So, I’ve pulled together my personal top 10 list of pubs and eateries within an hour of us here at LL41 4UY. These are the spots I take my own friends to, and they’re guaranteed to make your Snowdonia getaway unforgettable.
1. Rhiw Goch Inn (Our Very Own Backyard)
Address: Trawsfynydd, Blaenau Ffestiniog LL41 4UY
Best for: The ultimate "on-your-doorstep" sunset.
I might be biased, but you won't find a better sunset than the one right here. While the main inn is being lovingly restored to its former glory, guests staying in The Lodge House or The Hideaway get a front-row seat every night.
Grab a picnic, fire up the BBQ, and watch the sun dip behind the Rhinogydd mountains. It’s quiet, it’s safe for the kids to run around the grounds, and the light hitting the 12th-century ruins is something else. If you're camping with us, this is why you booked that electric pitch.
2. The Grapes Hotel, Maentwrog
Address: Maentwrog, Blaenau Ffestiniog LL41 4HY (Approx. 8 mins drive)
Best for: Historic vibes and massive portions.
Just down the road from us is The Grapes. It’s one of the oldest coaching inns in Wales. The outdoor seating area is fantastic for families, and the food is proper, honest pub grub. It’s nestled in the Vale of Ffestiniog, so while you aren't seeing the sea, the way the light catches the valley walls in the evening is stunning. It’s a great "Plan B" if you’ve had a long day and don’t want to drive far.
3. The Brondanw Arms (The Ring), Garreg
Address: Llanfrothen, Garreg, Penrhyndeudraeth LL48 6ER (Approx. 15 mins drive)
Best for: Local character and incredible food.
Known locally as "The Ring," this is a proper hidden gem. It’s part of the Brondanw Estate and has a quirky, artistic feel. The beer garden is lovely, and the food is a step above your standard pub fare. It’s very family-friendly, and because it’s tucked away, it feels like a real "insider" tip.
4. The Golden Fleece Inn, Tremadog
Address: Market Square, Tremadog, Porthmadog LL49 9RB (Approx. 25 mins drive)
Best for: Family atmosphere and variety.
This place is a powerhouse. They’ve won awards for their food, and for good reason. It’s right on the square in Tremadog. After a big meal here, I recommend driving five minutes down the road to Black Rock Sands (LL49 9YH). You can drive your car right onto the beach, set up some chairs, and watch the sunset over the water while the kids burn off their final energy reserves on the dunes.
5. Dylan’s, Criccieth
Address: Maes-Y-Mor, Criccieth LL52 0HL (Approx. 35 mins drive)
Best for: Modern dining and sea views.
If you want something a bit more contemporary, Dylan’s in Criccieth is a must. It’s an iconic Art Deco building right on the seafront. The floor-to-ceiling windows mean you don’t even have to be outside to see the sky turn pink and orange. They are brilliantly set up for families: the kids' menu is actually good, and the seafood is fresh as it gets. Plus, you can walk off dinner with a stroll toward Criccieth Castle.
6. The Last Inn, Barmouth
Address: Church St, Barmouth LL42 1EL (Approx. 40 mins drive)
Best for: Harbour views and live music.
Barmouth is famous for its sunsets. The sun sets directly over the Mawddach Estuary and the sea, creating a reflection that’ll blow your mind. The Last Inn is a 15th-century pub with a natural spring inside! It’s full of character, very welcoming to children, and just a short walk from the harbour wall where the best views are.
7. Cwellyn Arms, Rhyd Ddu
Address: Rhyd Ddu, Caernarfon LL54 6TN (Approx. 30 mins drive)
Best for: Hikers and mountain sunsets.
Sitting right at the foot of Snowdon, this is the place to go if you’ve spent the day on the trails. It’s a traditional Welsh longhouse with a cracking selection of real ales. The beer garden looks out over the mountains, and as the sun goes down, the peaks of Eryri take on a purple hue. It’s dog-friendly, too, so the whole family can come along.
8. Garddfon Inn, Y Felinheli
Address: 10-11 Bangor Rd, Y Felinheli LL56 4RQ (Approx. 50 mins drive)
Best for: Menai Strait views.
This one is a bit further afield, but if you’re heading back from a day on Anglesey or in Bangor, stop here. It’s right on the water of the Menai Strait. Watching the sun set over the water with the suspension bridge in the distance is iconic. It’s got a very relaxed vibe, perfect for a slow family dinner.
9. The Oakeley Arms, Maentwrog
Address: Tan-y-Bwlch, Maentwrog LL41 4HY (Approx. 8 mins drive)
Best for: Space to play.
Located just across from the Ffestiniog Railway station, this pub has a massive garden. If your kids are the type that can't sit still (like mine used to be!), this is your savior. You can enjoy a drink in the evening sun while they have plenty of grass to run around on. It’s right on the A470, making it incredibly easy to get to from Rhiw Goch Inn.
10. Ty Coch Inn, Porthdinllaen
Address: Porthdinllaen, Morfa Nefyn, Pwllheli LL53 6DB (Approx. 60 mins drive)
Best for: The "World's Best" beach bar experience.
I saved this for last because it’s a bit of a trek, but it’s consistently voted one of the best beach bars in the world. You have to walk across a golf course or along the beach to get there (no cars allowed!), which is an adventure in itself for the kids. Sitting on the wall with a pint as the sun sets over the Irish Sea is a bucket-list item for any holiday in North Wales.
Peter’s Insider Tips for the Best Evening
- Check the Tide: If you’re heading to Barmouth or Criccieth, check the tide times. A sunset over a full tide is twice as beautiful.
- Book Ahead: Especially in the summer months, these places get packed. Most are family-run and appreciate a heads-up if you're bringing a crowd.
- Bring a Jumper: Even on the hottest days, once that sun dips behind the mountains in Snowdonia, the temperature drops fast.
Why stay at Rhiw Goch Inn?
We’re perfectly positioned on the A470, which means all these spots are an easy drive away. But honestly? Most nights, our guests find that they don’t want to leave. When you’ve got a luxury bath waiting in The Lodge House or a cozy bed in The Hideaway, and the sky is putting on a show like the one in the photo below… why go anywhere else?
We’re currently taking bookings for the summer and autumn seasons. Whether you’re a mountain biker looking for the best trails (we’re minutes from Coed y Brenin!) or a family wanting to explore the history of Snowdonia, we’ve got the perfect base for you.
Ready to see these sunsets for yourself?
Check our availability and book your stay at www.rhiwgochinn.co.uk.
Don't forget to tag us in your sunset photos using #RhiwGochInn and #SnowdoniaSunsets: I love seeing what our guests capture!
See you at the Inn,
Peter Dive
Rhiw Goch Inn