Ever said yes to camping in Wales but soon wished there was a pub attached? Well, David James has your guide to the best in Wales.
Three Golden Cups, Southerndown
As I arrived at Southerndown, a coastal jewel in the Vale Of Glamorgan’s crown, I took one big inhalation of the salty air and approached the local watering hole, the Three Golden Cups. I’d heard good things, and the welcoming smiles of passersby, en route to the beach, added to the friendly vibe of the area. The journey to the Three Golden Cups is as scenic as the destination itself – roads winding through luscious green trees, and sun-drenched fields populated by grazing horses and sheep – and at its rear is a straightforward, no-frills campsite, alive with the sound of laughter and the clinking of cans. There are communal facilities onsite and the street adjacent to the pub serves as a makeshift (and very busy) car park, while the pub’s menu includes things like cod and chips, burgers, lasagne and chicken salad.
Info: threegoldencups.co.uk
Heritage Coast Campsite, Monknash
“We take it as a great compliment that campers return year after year, forging great friendships along the way,” say this campsite’s owners, and it doubtless helps that the 14th-century Plough & Harrow pub is a stone’s throw away. With its white drip walls, Welsh slate roof, and welcoming beer garden, the pub is a cornerstone of the site. It offers a dog-friendly atmosphere and is renowned for hearty Sunday roasts and an array of craft ales.
Info: heritagecoast.uk
Pencelli Castle, Talybont-On-Usk
Inside the Brecon Beacons National Park, around four miles from Brecon town centre, Pencelli Castle Caravan & Camping Park is an ideal base for venturing up Pen Y Fan or Llyn Y Fan Fawr. The camp is divided into sections for caravans, motorhomes and tents, while the tiny village’s one pub, the Royal Oak, is a short walk away. Its garden backs onto the Brecon and Monmouthshire canal, so boaters can stop in for a jar if they choose.
Info: pencelli-castle.com
Snowdonia Parc, Waunfawr
Snowdonia Parc, a real ale pub with its own microbrewery, also has a picturesque campsite positioned right between the sea and the mountains. The campsite is located between Beddgelert and Caernarfon, four miles from the foot of Eryri (Snowdonia), the Welsh Highland Railway passes by frequently and is a wonderful attraction with the backdrop of the mountain. If you are looking for a base for an adventurous break with walks and climbs, this place is summit else! (Sorry.)
Info: snowdonia-park.co.uk
Cenarth Falls Resort, Newcastle Emlyn
This one furnishes you with an on-site spa – who said camping was slumming it? – as well as a restaurant and the rather high-class-looking Bar Lolfa. Oakwood Theme Park is 45 minutes away, but if waiting in line for rollercoasters isn’t your bag, you can take in waterfall walks, fishing or sample the pubs, restaurants and shops in nearby Carmarthen. Cleanliness is a real strong point about this park – apparently, the toilets are award-winners…
Info: cenarthfalls.co.uk
The Rivers Edge, nr Abergavenny
Situated on the edge of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, near Monmouth and a 10-minute walk to Abergavenny, Offa’s Dyke Path is also just a 20-minute walk away, providing an excellent opportunity to explore the Marches (as the border is now known). The soothing sounds of the River Hondu flowing gently past the site make for a tranquil setting, and The Rivers Edge has its own onsite pub, complete with beer garden and play area.
Info: rivers-edge.co.uk
Tafarn Y Garreg, Pen-Y-Cae
Located in the Brecon Beacons National Park, this pub has a community feel to it and online reviews comment on how friendly the landlord is. The pub does a hearty Sunday lunch and you can marvel at the mountains while tucking in – what’s not to like? The attached campsite field is quite modest in size, with a shower and toilets; you can walk to Lyn Y Fan Fach from the site and location wise, it’s perfect.
Info: tafarnygarreg.co.uk
Hillend Camping Park, Gower
Eddy’s, Hillend Camping Park’s onsite bar, offers views across Llangennith burrows and Rhossili Bay. With surfboards serving as wall décor in this bar/diner, wood panelling adds a Scandinavian feel. All fields have easy access to Rhosilli Bay, 200-300 yards away.
Info: hillendcamping.com
Bank Farm Leisure, Horton
Bank Farm Leisure is located in the Gower Peninsula and has beautiful rolling hills and beaches on its doorstep – and a pub with regular live music. The farm is run by a local family, the Richards; The site is 75 acres and gives sweeping views of Port Eynon from its Horton base.
Info: bankfarmleisure.co.uk
Broadfield Farm Holiday Park, Saundersfoot
A family run park in Pemrokeshire, five minutes’ drive to Tenby and 10 to the popular Folly Farm. The park has a pub onsite; the main attraction for most visitors is the bar and restaurant, set in a charming old stone building with an outdoor courtyard.
Info: broadfield.farm
words DAVID JAMES
