The Cottage Loaf
Cocktail Bar | Llandudno | Wales | United Kingdom
Traditional cocktail bar in Llandudno
"The Cottage Loaf" is a traditional cocktail bar and a popular pub in Llandudno, Wales, United Kingdom, known for its rustic charm and historical significance. Tucked away in a side street of the charming Victorian seaside town, the building resembles a classic Welsh country pub, despite being located in the heart of the town. This unusual location adds to its unique appeal, making it a hidden gem for both locals and visitors alike. The pub is affectionately known as "The Loaf" and has established itself as a place that combines history, coziness, and high-quality hospitality.
Rustic charm and history
The history of "Cottage Loaf" dates back to 1981 when the building was converted into a pub by Stange & Co. Originally, it served as the bakery and warehouse of "Dunphy & Sons," a family business founded in the 19th century by Mrs. Dunphy and later successfully expanded by her son Stephen Dunphy. The company operated several grocery stores, bakeries, and liquor shops in the region before closing in 1972. The three-story building stood empty for several years before being partially demolished and transformed into the pub we know today. The name "Cottage Loaf" is a nod to this past, referencing the traditional shape of a British loaf of bread.
Homemade food in the pub
A fascinating detail of the building's history is the use of recycled materials. Many of the wooden beams reportedly come from the "Catharina," a Dutch brigantine that shipwrecked in 1869 off the coast of Llandudno while carrying a cargo of salt from Runcorn to Riga. These beams were initially used in the construction of the warehouse and were later repurposed during the conversion to the pub. Particularly striking is the mast of the "Catharina," which is visible in the entrance area, complete with its original copper cladding and a pulley at the bar. Additionally, the cast-iron doors and manufacturer plaques from the old ovens are scattered throughout the interior, bearing witness to the building's past.
Local craft beers and wines
The interior of "Cottage Loaf" is characterized by traditional charm: open fireplaces, dark wooden beams, creaky floorboards, and rustic furniture create an inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a countryside inn. The pub extends over several areas, including a garden space that leads to a sheltered courtyard—ideal for windy days on the coast. In summer, the popular sun terrace in front of the pub attracts guests who can watch the world go by while enjoying a drink. This combination of indoor and outdoor spaces makes the venue appealing year-round, whether for a cozy evening by the fire or a sunny afternoon outdoors.
Cozy pub with sun terrace
The drink selection at "Cottage Loaf" is diverse and stands out for its quality. The bar offers a wide range of local cask ales and craft beers, including regularly changing guest ales from the Conwy area. In addition to premium lagers and a growing collection of non-alcoholic beers, there is also an excellent selection of fine wines from around the world, as well as an impressive array of spirits, including Scotch whiskies and other high-quality distillates. Cocktails are also part of the offering, with bartenders combining classic recipes with creative variations that appeal to modern tastes.
Culinarily, "Cottage Loaf" places great importance on fresh, homemade food. The menu includes British pub classics such as fish and chips or pie, complemented by seasonal specialties inspired by local cuisine and the changing seasons. Ingredients are sourced locally wherever possible—an example being the meat, which is partly supplied by the nearby butcher "R. Evans & S. Smith," a traditional family business. The kitchen is led by a talented team that regularly develops new dishes to provide variety. Particularly popular are the hearty Sunday roasts, often celebrated as the highlight of the week.
The pub is not only a place for enjoyment but also a social hub. It attracts a diverse clientele—from walkers stopping by after a hike on the nearby Great Orme to regulars who appreciate the relaxed atmosphere. The staff is known for their friendliness and helpfulness, contributing to guests feeling immediately welcomed. "Cottage Loaf" has also received several accolades, including a placement among the top 10% of global travel destinations according to TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice and multiple mentions in the "Good Beer Guide" and the "AA Pub Guide."
