How to Find Classic Pubs in Wales

Drinking beer is a British man's favourite pastime, and the Welsh are no exception. Full of classic pubs with open hearths, pokey side rooms and a huge selection of local brews, Wales is well worth a visit for beer connoisseurs. However, many of the oldest and most obscure pubs in Wales are difficult to find, unless of course you take heed of the following advice.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Buy a guide book. Beer is a big draw for many coming to Britain and there are plenty of books giving their opinions of the best pubs. If you can't find one of Wales, buy one covering the whole of Britain.
2. Look on the Internet for classic pubs. Guide books are fine and the information is unbiased and accurate, but for a wider opinion on the best pubs in Wales check on the online forums.
3. Check who the Welsh breweries are. The classic pubs in Wales are likely to be the one owned by local brewers; like S.A Brain who sell such ales as Bread of Heaven and give their pubs names like The Brain Surgery.
4. Take your chances in a Welsh town or village. The most classic pubs in Wales that still hold on to tradition are likely to be in villages such as Pontsticill and Beddgelert.
5. Go on an organised pub crawl, or tour as they are more officially known. These are everywhere, often run by sports clubs and groups that associate themselves with just beer drinking. Check your local newspaper for more information.

Tips & Warnings

• If you focus your tour on one small area at a time you don't have to worry about a car and the problems that could potentially bring. It would also be easier to find accommodation.
• Some tour operators do beer tours and the advantage of this is that they will provide transport.
• If you are new to Britain and want to find real classic pubs who hold onto their traditions they are generally outside the centres of towns and villages. Avoid the plush, refurbished pubs which tend to be part of a chain, and though they rightfully claim a long history, they have long rid themselves of any tradition.