Right then, Peter here.
If you’ve been following our progress at Rhiw Goch Inn, you’ll know I’ve spent most of today wrestling with 16th-century stone and trying to convince a Grade 2 listed wall that it really does want to be part of a modern tavern again. It’s thirsty work, and by about 6:00 PM, when the light starts hitting the Rhinogydd mountains just right, even I have to put down the chisel.
One of the questions I get asked most by folks staying in The Lodge House or The Hideaway is: "Peter, where can we take the kids for a decent feed where I can also watch the sun go down with a cold one?"
Well, since it’s a cracking Thursday evening this May, I thought I’d share my personal "golden hour" hit list. Whether you’re looking for a quick five-minute hop or a scenic hour-long coastal drive, here are my top 10 spots for sunset pints and family grub within 60 minutes of our front door here in Trawsfynydd (LL41 4UY).
1. Rhiw Goch Inn (Our Own Backyard)
Postcode: LL41 4UY
Distance: 0 minutes
I’m biased, I know. But honestly, look at that view. While we’re still working on the main tavern, guests at our campsite and holiday lets have the best seat in the house. Grab some local bits from the shop, fire up the BBQ on your private deck, and watch the sun dip behind the mountains. It’s peaceful, it’s historic, and the kids can run wild in the fields without you worrying about traffic.
- Best for: Ultimate peace and zero driving.
- Peter’s Tip: The sunsets over the Rhinogydd are legendary in May.
2. The Cross Foxes, Trawsfynydd
Postcode: LL41 4SE
Distance: 5 minutes
Just down the road in the village. It’s a proper, traditional Welsh pub. They do solid, honest pub food, pies, burgers, and the like, that doesn't break the bank. It’s popular with the local walkers and bikers coming off the trails.
- Best for: A quick, friendly local meal.
- Family-friendly: Very. They’re used to muddy boots and hungry kids.
3. The Grapes Hotel, Maentwrog
Postcode: LL41 4HN
Distance: 10 minutes
This is a stunning 17th-century coaching inn. The Vale of Ffestiniog catches the evening light beautifully here. They have a lovely outdoor seating area where you can watch the valley glow orange while the kids tuck into a proper Sunday roast (they do them all week sometimes!) or a big bowl of pasta.
- Best for: Historic atmosphere and great ales.
- Peter’s Tip: Check out their slate floors, almost as old as our Inn!
4. The Oakeley Arms, Maentwrog
Postcode: LL41 3YU
Distance: 12 minutes
Another Maentwrog gem. It’s big, spacious, and perfect for larger families. They have a massive garden which is a godsend if the kids have still got energy to burn after a day at Coed y Brenin.
- Best for: Large groups and garden space.
5. Aberdunant Hall, Prenteg
Postcode: LL49 9SR
Distance: 25 minutes
This is a bit of a "hidden" one. It’s a manor house set in woodland. The terrace looks out over the Glaslyn Valley. In late May, the light hitting the trees is something else. The food is a bit more "gastro-pub" but still very welcoming to families.
- Best for: A slightly "fancier" feeling evening.
6. The Australia, Porthmadog
Postcode: LL49 9BL
Distance: 30 minutes
Known locally as "The Aussie," this is a Purple Moose Brewery pub (my favourite local brew!). It’s right on the high street. While it doesn't have a sea view from the table, it’s a 2-minute walk to the harbour. Grab a burger here, then walk down to the marina to watch the sun set over the Glaslyn estuary.
- Best for: Craft beer lovers and harbour walks.
7. The Victoria Inn, Llanbedr
Postcode: LL45 2LD
Distance: 35 minutes
If you’re heading towards the coast, stop here. It’s got a great riverside garden. It’s the kind of place where you can lose track of time. After dinner, jump in the car for 5 minutes to Shell Island or Llanbedr beach for a spectacular beach sunset.
- Best for: Riverside vibes and proximity to the beach.
8. Min-y-Mor Hotel, Barmouth
Postcode: LL42 1HW
Distance: 50 minutes
This is the big one for sunset hunters. It’s right on the promenade in Barmouth. You can sit outside, literally feet from the sand, and watch the sun drop straight into Cardigan Bay. It’s dog-friendly, kid-friendly, and perfect for that "holiday North Wales" feeling.
- Best for: Direct sea-view sunsets.
- Peter’s Tip: It gets busy on nice evenings, so get there early to snag a terrace table.
9. The Last Inn, Barmouth
Postcode: LL42 1EL
Distance: 50 minutes
One of the oldest pubs in Wales, built into the rock. It’s quirky, it’s got a natural spring inside, and the food is top-notch. It’s right by the harbour bridge. Kids love the "cave" feel of the place.
- Best for: Quirky history and harbour views.
10. Y Bryncynan, Morfa Nefyn
Postcode: LL53 6BT
Distance: 60 minutes
It’s right on the edge of the hour-drive limit, but worth it for a day trip. Huge playground for the kids, great food, and just down the road from Porthdinllaen (home of the famous Ty Coch Inn). You can eat here, then head to the cliffs for a sunset that you’ll remember for years.
- Best for: Keeping the kids entertained while you wait for your food.
Making the Most of Your May Stay
With the days getting longer, we’re seeing some of the best weather of the year right now. If you're staying with us this week, don't forget that the local agricultural shows and small village fairs are starting to pop up. It’s a great way to see the real Wales.
After you've filled your boots at one of these spots, there's nothing better than coming back to the quiet of Rhiw Goch Inn. I'll likely be around, probably still covered in some form of 500-year-old dust, so do say hello!
If you haven't booked your summer getaway yet, head over to www.rhiwgochinn.co.uk and check out our availability. Whether you want the luxury of a cast-iron bath in the Lodge or a spot for your tent with a view of the mountains, we've got you covered.
Cheers,
Peter Dive
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