On the hunt for the perfect boozer in the Welsh Capital? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We’re huge fans of Cardiff, and even bigger fans of their selection of pubs and bars. From unique craft beer to proper pub grub delights, it comes as no surprise that pubs in Cardiff are so popular amongst both locals and students. If you’re living here for uni (BTW if you are, we're SO jealous), you’re in for a treat when it comes to relaxing on a summer's day with your pals and a pint. Keep on reading to discover our all time favourite pubs in Cardiff and see if there’s any that tickle your fancy.

1. Pen And Wig

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Pubs in cardiff with lots of real ales and quality beers on display

@pen_and_wig - Instagram[/caption] Splat bang in the middle of the city, Pen and Wig is your traditional boozer, offering an unbeatable service you’ll struggle to find elsewhere. It’s designed with a rustic feel and has wooden features flowing throughout. There’s lots of comfortable seating as well, with a range of seating options for bigger or smaller groups. When it comes to choosing what to drink, Pen and Wig has a huge variety of options for you to choose from. They regularly change up their selection of Ales to bring you the best in regional, local and seasonal specials. Fancy a Gin and Tonic? They have a delicious offering, including the likes of Gordons, Whitley Neill and Tanqueray brands. Tempted? We don’t blame you!

Customer Reviews

‘Jon is the best. Best pub in Cardiff 10/10. Staff are lovely :) the Gin selection is really good :).’ ‘Pre booked a table prior to Wales rugby international on 6 Nov 2021. We were made to feel very welcome the moment we walked in. Selection of real ales was exceptional and the food was tasty with quick service. Every staff member was friendly, cheerful and chatty. Great atmosphere before a big game even though the pub was full it didn't appear overcrowded. Will be returning soon.’

2. The Cornerhouse

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lots of pub food which can be ordered from the cornerhouse in cardiff

@thecornerhouse_cardiff - Instagram[/caption] For a more premium pub in Cardiff, why not check out the Cornerhouse? With its central location and luxurious interior design, it’s no wonder that this pub has made the top 8 best pubs in Cardiff list. Head here for a delicious Sunday lunch, or treat yourself to one of their quality beers for a midweek social. The team pride themselves on providing the freshest, locally sourced ingredients and daily specials you’ll be dying to get your hands on. Interested? You’ll be able to find this right next to Cardiff’s central library. Did someone say after uni drinks?!

Customer Reviews

‘Excellent food and excellent service .. don't miss out 😀’ ‘Lovely, friendly pub, very clean and the little extras such as cut glass glasses, candles and lovely decor all added to the ambience of the place. Very polite staff. Will return for drinks on my next visit.’

3. Tiny Rebel

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a range of craft beer on for sale in the best pubs in Cardiff

@tinyrebelcardiff - Instagram[/caption] Formally known as the Urban Tap House Cardiff, Tiny Rebel is your haven for all things live music, delicious food and drinks that are bound to quench your thirst. They’re an award winning brewery, offering a wide selection of real ales and craft beers. In fact, did you know that they actually have their own brand of beer that you can buy over the counter? They would make epic Christmas gifts or even birthday presents for a friend or family member!

Customer Reviews

‘Great vibe and a wide variety of craft beers. I can't comment on the food as I haven't had any. Very close to Cardiff castle.’ ‘Lovely welcome and great beers at Tiny Rebel. Nice to have a real ale pub so conveniently located in the centre of Cardiff.’

4. Eli Jenkins

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beer garden in Eli Jenkins for you to relax and have a drink

@elijenkins_cardiff - Instagram[/caption] If you ever fancy an after uni treat, or even a Saturday social with your pals, make sure to head to Eli Jenkins. Offering a mouth-watering range of food and drink options, you’ll never be short of choices if you decide to stop by here. So, prepare to taste the divine Salt and Pepper Prime Chicken Wings, or delve into 8oz Rump Steak...mmmmm! It’s open every single day from midday to 10pm, so make sure your flatmates are free and get it booked in the diary. Even in the summer, they have a fantastic beer garden you won’t want to leave. We promise it’s not one to miss!

Customer Reviews

‘Beautiful pub, clean and well presented with fantastic staff who were warm and friendly. Good selection of drinks available and the food was quick and well presented. Glad we stopped here over some other places in the area. Highly recommended.’ ‘Best pub in Cardiff Bay, been visiting this pub for 7 years now great selection of beers and really friendly staff , brill beer garden with gazebos and tv,s .I would recommend this pub for a great pint and food in a great atmosphere.’

5. The Lansdowne Pub

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cocktails which you can get from The Lansdowne Pub

@thelansdownecardiff - Instagram[/caption] If you’re asked to picture a traditional pub, we wouldn't be surprised if you rustle up something that looks like the spitting image of The Lansdowne Pub. Nestled in an old, red-brick grand building and featuring a statement wooden bar with stools, this pub is a must visit whilst staying here for uni. It was actually named as CAMRA’s pub of the year (2014), so expect big things from this firm local favourite. Serving real ales, craft beers and gastro pub food, you’re guaranteed a fantastic night if you decide to stop off here.

Customer Reviews

`Consistently good, tonight the staff were really accommodating. Highly recommended’ ‘Great food and a selection of drinks, including guest beers and ales on tap. Chicken katsu curry is recommended!’

6. The Owain Glyndwr

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the outside of this 18th century pub and alehouse

@owainglyndwrcardiff - Instagram[/caption] The Owain Glyndwr is one of those Cardiff pubs you won’t ever want to leave. And it’s only a four minute walk from Cardiff Castle...a dream! Situated within an 18th century alehouse, this popular pub has a great range of quality ales, Welsh beer and wines. When it comes to food, treat yourself to a selection of small plates including Scampi, Chicken Wings and Breaded Mushrooms. Or, if you just fancy a traditional pub lunch, make sure to opt for the Hand Battered Cod and Chips or a Beef Yorkie wrap - you won’t regret it!

7. The Philharmonic

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Pubs in cardiff which show the main sporting events every day

@thephilharmoniccdf - Instagram[/caption] Neighbouring Cardiff’s Principality Stadium, The Philharmonic is a vibrant eatery and the perfect dancing spot. It’s great for visiting if you love watching live sports, as they host a variety of popular events every single day. It even has its own bottomless brunch which you can get involved with! For just £30 per person, you’re treated to 90 minutes of selected bottomless drinks. These include Prosecco Glass, Coors Light, Gordons Gin & Any Mixer, Mojito, Pornstar Martini, Mimosa, Tom Collins and a Raspberry Cosmo. How crazy is that selection? We’re itching to book a seat!

Customer Reviews

‘Lovely Warm Welcome, Help available after difficulty with App. Good covid guidance in place - Polite & Friendly staff - clean venue, nice decor & good quality drinks, Staff were courteous , nice atmosphere’ ‘Never been here before but great music and some really good deals on drinks. Will definitely going back there.’

8. Rummer Tavern

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@therummertavern - Instagram[/caption] Last but certainly not least, Rummer Tavern is your cheery local city centre pub offering all the live sports you can dream of and a menu to complement it. It’s nestled within a Tudor style building and is designed inside to replicate your typical British pub. On a sunny day, why not head to the Rummer Tavern and experience their lush beer garden? It's the perfect spot for basking in the summer weather whilst downing a pint.

Customer Reviews

‘I enjoyed a quick nightcap with my son here after the rugby. Two pints of Brains SA excellent. Good simple drinking pub and excellent prices’ ‘Typical city pub. Good crowd for footie. Plenty of tv's. Two pints £4.90.Good price for city centre. Good service at bar.’ And finally - that’s it! Our selection of the best pubs in Cardiff is finally finished. We hope this has given you a whirlwind of ideas for your next trip out. Pubs are also a great job to have whilst at uni! If you’re looking for one, make sure to ask the bar assistant and they’ll be sure to help you out.

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