Red Cow Inn: Traditional Welsh Pub Charm in Pontsticill
A charming traditional Welsh pub in Pontsticill offering hearty home-cooked meals, award-winning ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Nestled in the village of Pontsticill near Merthyr Tydfil, the Red Cow Inn is a welcoming traditional Welsh country pub known for its hearty home-cooked meals, award-winning ales, and friendly atmosphere. Popular with locals, walkers, and visitors to the nearby Brecon Beacons, it offers a cozy setting with a dog-friendly policy and a menu that includes vegan and gluten-free options.
A brief summary to Red Cow Inn
- Main Road, Merthyr Tydfil, Pontsticill, CF48 2UN, GB
- +441685387775
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
- Tuesday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
- Wednesday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
- Thursday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
- Friday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
- Saturday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
- Sunday 11:30 am-11:30 pm
Local tips
- Try the steak and ale pie or the vegan chili for a taste of hearty, home-cooked pub fare.
- Visit during off-peak hours to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and attentive service.
- Bring your dog along as the pub is dog-friendly and welcomes four-legged guests.
- Check the bus route 25 schedule from Merthyr Tydfil for convenient public transport access.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Red Cow Inn location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Red Cow Inn
A Quintessential Welsh Country Pub Experience
The Red Cow Inn stands as a beloved traditional pub in Pontsticill, a village on the southern edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park. This pub embodies the warmth and charm of Welsh countryside hospitality, drawing in locals and visitors alike. Its rustic interior, complemented by a roaring log fire in colder months, creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxing after exploring the surrounding natural beauty.Hearty Home-Cooked Fare with Local Flair
The culinary offerings at the Red Cow Inn focus on classic pub dishes made with care. The menu features generous portions of traditional favorites such as steak and ale pie, hunters chicken, and fish and chips, all praised for their authentic flavors and quality. The pub also caters to diverse dietary needs, offering vegetarian and vegan dishes like vegan chili, shepherd’s pie, and loaded naan, alongside gluten-free options with knowledgeable staff support. The food is well-regarded for value and taste, making it a satisfying stop for walkers and families.Welcoming Atmosphere and Friendly Service
Visitors consistently note the warm and friendly service, with staff and the landlady often going the extra mile to accommodate guests, even during busy periods. The pub’s dog-friendly policy adds to its relaxed and inclusive vibe, making it a favored meeting spot for locals and tourists. Despite occasional critiques of management, the overall ambiance remains inviting and authentic, with a lively yet comfortable environment.Location and Surroundings
Situated on Main Road in Pontsticill, the Red Cow Inn benefits from its proximity to popular outdoor attractions like the Pontsticill Reservoir and the Brecon Mountain Railway. This makes it an ideal base for walkers and nature lovers seeking hearty meals and a welcoming rest stop. The pub’s location within the scenic Brecon Beacons National Park enhances its appeal, offering picturesque views and a tranquil setting.Accessibility and Amenities
The Red Cow Inn operates daily from 11:30 AM to 11:30 PM, providing consistent availability for meals and drinks. It is accessible by bus route 25 from Merthyr Tydfil, with reasonable travel times. The pub offers amenities such as free Wi-Fi, accepts credit cards, and provides outdoor seating. Its traditional charm is complemented by practical conveniences that cater to a broad range of visitors.A Hub for Community and Visitors Alike
More than just a pub, the Red Cow Inn serves as a social hub in Pontsticill, hosting gatherings and celebrations. Its reputation for hearty food, good ales, and a welcoming atmosphere ensures it remains a cherished destination for both locals and travelers exploring South Wales.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
YHA Brecon Beacons
13.9 km
Rustic farmhouse hostel offering clean, cozy accommodation and a warm communal atmosphere in the heart of Brecon Beacons National Park.
Brecon Barracks
16.8 km
Historic military hub in Brecon, home to the Royal Welsh Regiment and its museum, set within the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park.
Mountain Centre
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Theatr Brycheiniog
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Brecon Canal Basin
16.8 km
Breathe in the beauty of Brecon Canal Basin, a serene escape in Wales perfect for leisurely walks, local cuisine, and outdoor adventures amidst stunning landscapes.
The Royal Welsh Regimental Museum
16.9 km
Explore the Royal Welsh Regimental Museum in Brecon, where Wales' military history comes alive through captivating exhibits and rich heritage.
Welsh Crannog Centre
17.1 km
Discover the ancient wonders of Wales at the Welsh Crannog Centre, a historical landmark blending culture and nature by Llangorse Lake.
Y Gaer Museum, Art Gallery & Library
17.1 km
Explore Y Gaer Museum, Art Gallery & Library in Brecon for an enriching experience of local history, art, and literature in a cultural landmark.
Duke of Wellington Monument
17.2 km
Historic bronze statue honoring the Duke of Wellington, a commanding presence in Brecon’s town centre and a testament to local artistry and British heritage.
Brecon Town Tours - guided history walks
17.2 km
Experience the rich history of Brecon with guided tours that unveil the town's hidden gems and captivating stories in the heart of the Brecon Beacons.
Visit Brecon
17.3 km
Explore the beauty of Brecon, a quaint Welsh town that serves as the gateway to the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park.
Gate Gallery & Glassworks
17.3 km
Discover the artistic beauty of handmade glassware at Gate Gallery & Glassworks in Brecon, where craftsmanship meets creativity.
The Promenade
17.3 km
Discover tranquility and natural beauty at The Promenade in Brecon, a perfect park to unwind and enjoy the stunning Welsh landscape.
Brecon Beacons
17.4 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of the Brecon Beacons, Wales' premier destination for hiking and outdoor adventures.
The Brecon Castle Hotel
17.4 km
Historic Wales’ oldest hotel blending timeless charm with modern comforts near Brecon Beacons National Park.
Unmissable attractions to see
Castell Morlais 'Morlais Castle'
2.0 km
Explore the evocative ruins of 13th-century Castell Morlais, perched above Merthyr Tydfil with panoramic views and rich medieval history.
Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery
4.3 km
Explore the grand industrial heritage and art treasures of Cyfarthfa Castle, a majestic 19th-century ironmaster’s mansion set in expansive parkland.
Llwyn-on Reservoir
5.1 km
Discover serene waters, scenic walks, and rich wildlife at Llwyn-on Reservoir, the largest reservoir in the Taf Fawr valley nestled in the Brecon Beacons.
St Tydfil Shopping Centre
5.3 km
Merthyr Tydfil’s premier shopping centre offering a modern, accessible retail experience with over 50 shops and ample parking in the town heart.
Parc Bryn Bach
6.9 km
Explore 340 acres of woodland, lake, and adventure activities at Parc Bryn Bach, Tredegar’s premier nature reserve and outdoor hub.
Twyn Mwyalchod
7.2 km
A steep yet rewarding trig point summit offering panoramic ridge views and poignant memorials in the heart of the Brecon Beacons.
Cadair Fawr
8.0 km
Accessible mountain views across South Wales' rolling landscape, perfect for all abilities.
Gwaun Cerrig Llwydion
8.2 km
Explore the rugged sandstone plateau of Gwaun Cerrig Llwydion, a scenic hiking gem with panoramic views in Wales’ Brecon Beacons.
Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)
8.8 km
Explore Wales’ breathtaking Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, where majestic peaks, cascading waterfalls, and rich heritage await every adventurer.
Bedwellty House and Park
9.0 km
Explore Bedwellty House and Park, a beautifully restored Regency villa and Victorian garden steeped in Welsh industrial heritage and community spirit.
Fan y Big
9.5 km
Discover Fan y Big’s sharp peak and iconic 'Diving Board' rock, offering breathtaking panoramic views in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park.
National Trust - Brecon Beacons
11.0 km
Explore Pen y Fan and the Brecon Beacons from Pont ar Daf, where nature, adventure, and modern facilities meet in Wales’ iconic mountain park.
Penderyn Brecon Beacons Distillery - Visitor Centre and Shop
11.0 km
Discover the home of Welsh whisky in the Brecon Beacons – tour the original Penderyn Distillery, see the Faraday still, and taste award-winning single malts.
Corn Du
11.1 km
Second highest peak in South Wales with ancient cairn, panoramic views, and wild Brecon Beacons landscapes.
Brecon Beacons
11.1 km
Explore the breathtaking peaks, rich heritage, and star-studded skies of Wales’ iconic Brecon Beacons National Park.
Essential places to dine
Red Cow Inn
0.0 km
A charming traditional Welsh pub in Pontsticill offering hearty home-cooked meals, award-winning ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Aberglais Inn
2.1 km
Cozy pub and restaurant in Merthyr Tydfil offering hearty British classics, vegan and gluten-free options, with a warm, friendly atmosphere.
The Pantyscallog Inn
2.5 km
A beloved steakhouse in Pant, Merthyr Tydfil, known for hearty portions, friendly service, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Mango House Restaurant
4.3 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of Merthyr Tydfil’s Cefn-coed-y-cymmer.
Rhydycar Harvester
6.0 km
Casual family dining with classic British flavors and welcoming amenities in Merthyr Tydfil’s Rhydycar Leisure Park.
The Farmers Arms
6.1 km
Historic farmhouse pub in Rhymney offering scratch-cooked Welsh cuisine, a full bar, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Pentrebach House Table Table
7.5 km
Classic British pub dining with family-friendly charm and hearty meals in the heart of Merthyr Tydfil.
The Red Lion Inn, Penderyn
11.5 km
A cozy Welsh gastropub blending traditional charm, local flavors, and legendary roasts in the scenic village of Penderyn.
The White Hart
12.5 km
Traditional Welsh inn in Talybont-on-Usk offering hearty British fare, local ales, and warm hospitality near the Brecon Beacons.
Travellers Rest Inn
12.5 km
Cozy countryside inn with hearty meals and warm hospitality near the scenic Brecon Beacons.
The Red Lion
12.7 km
A historic Welsh village pub blending centuries-old charm with warm hospitality and local brews in the heart of Llangynidr.
The Tai’r Bull Inn
15.9 km
A cosy Welsh country pub and B&B offering hearty fare, real ales, and warm hospitality in the heart of Brecon Beacons National Park.
Nantyffin Cider Mill Inn
16.4 km
A cozy country pub in Crickhowell offering hearty local fare, warm hospitality, and a family-friendly atmosphere in the heart of the Brecon Beacons.
Three Horseshoes Inn
16.7 km
Award-winning gastropub in the Brecon Beacons serving refined seasonal British cuisine in a historic, welcoming setting.
Bo Country
16.8 km
Authentic Chinese takeaway in the heart of Brecon, offering quick, flavorful meals for locals and visitors alike.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Izzy Roo's
8.6 km
Explore Izzy Roo's in Tredegar for unique gifts and local crafts, capturing the essence of the region's charm and creativity.
Gwent Shopping Centre
8.7 km
A vibrant retail hub in Tredegar offering diverse shops, convenient hours, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
KM Gifts & Accessories
11.1 km
Discover quality gifts, stylish accessories, and friendly service at KM Gifts & Accessories in the heart of Ebbw Vale.
West View Stores
15.6 km
Experience the warmth of Trelewis at West View Stores - your local supermarket for fresh produce and unique Welsh delicacies.
The Den
16.0 km
Discover unique second-hand treasures at The Den, Abertillery’s charity shop championing sustainability and community support.
The UK Loose Leaf Tea Company Ltd
16.6 km
Discover ethically sourced, premium loose leaf teas and sustainable brewing essentials at The UK Loose Leaf Tea Company Ltd in Brecon.
Mind
16.8 km
Explore unique finds and support mental health initiatives at Mind Charity Shop in Brecon, where every purchase makes a difference.
Hay & Brecon Farmers Brecon
16.9 km
Experience the best of local Welsh produce at Hay & Brecon Farmers Brecon, where freshness and quality meet a warm community spirit.
DIXIES CORNER
17.0 km
Brecon's trusted specialist in authentic military surplus and outdoor gear since establishment.
CERTAS - BRECON
17.1 km
Discover convenience in Brecon with CERTAS, your one-stop shop for essentials, local treats, and friendly service.
B&M Home Store with Garden Centre
17.1 km
Affordable shopping meets gardening passion at Brecon’s versatile B&M Home Store with Garden Centre.
Beacons Antiques
17.1 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and unique collectibles at Beacons Antiques, a charming hub of history in the heart of Brecon.
Tŷ Cariad
17.2 km
Discover authentic Welsh crafts and unique gifts at Tŷ Cariad, Brecon’s cozy hub for local artistry and culture.
Get Connected
17.2 km
Explore Brecon with confidence, staying connected at Get Connected—the mobile shop for all your tech needs in the heart of the town.
Kitty Keane's Vintage
17.2 km
Discover authentic Welsh vintage and handcrafted treasures at Kitty Keane's Vintage, a charming craft shop in the heart of Brecon.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Coach & Horses
12.3 km
Historic canal-side pub and inn in Llangynidr offering hearty Welsh fare, cozy rooms, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The New Inn
14.0 km
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Royal Oak
14.1 km
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Jolly Colliers
16.6 km
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hop in beer and gin
17.1 km
Discover Brecon’s quirky bar with top-quality craft beers, artisanal gins, and delicious tapas in a cozy, historic setting.
Drovers Arms
17.1 km
A welcoming Welsh village pub blending historic charm with hearty fare and friendly hospitality in the heart of Llanfaes, Brecon.
The Three Horseshoes Inn
17.1 km
A cosy Welsh village pub blending traditional charm with refined British cuisine and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Markets Tavern
17.1 km
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The Rorkes Drift
17.2 km
Historic Welsh pub in Brecon offering local ales, lively music, and a warm atmosphere inspired by the legendary Rorke’s Drift battle.
The Sarah Siddons
17.2 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality with local ales and lively atmosphere at The Sarah Siddons, Brecon’s beloved town centre pub.
The Lounge Bar & Cafe
17.3 km
Brecon’s pioneering bar with a modern twist, offering signature cocktails, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere in the town centre.
Lakeside Bar
17.5 km
Relax lakeside at this friendly pub within Brecon’s scenic caravan park, perfect for unwinding after exploring the Brecon Beacons.
The Red Lion Llangorse
18.0 km
A welcoming Welsh gastropub in Llangorse offering seasonal local dishes, real fires, and a cozy atmosphere near the Brecon Beacons.
Bumble Bee
19.1 km
A welcoming modern pub in Gwent with classic pub fare, outdoor seating, and a secret beer garden for families and friends.
The Beaufort
19.2 km
A cozy village pub in Gilwern offering hearty food, friendly locals, and comfortable rooms near the Brecon Beacons.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Pure Bar & Nightclub Ltd
5.2 km
A lively nightclub and cocktail bar in Merthyr Tydfil offering vibrant music, crafted drinks, and late-night entertainment in South Wales.
The Kirkhouse Nightclub (Koolers)
5.2 km
Experience the vibrant and friendly nightlife of Merthyr Tydfil at The Kirkhouse Nightclub, known locally as Koolers.
Northcote Conservative Club
17.2 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Northcote Conservative Club, Brecon's premier destination for nightlife, music, and local culture.
Brecon Jazz Club (Muse Arts Centre)
17.2 km
Discover the heart of jazz in Brecon at the Brecon Jazz Club, where live music and a vibrant atmosphere collide for an unforgettable night.
BRECON JAZZ
17.3 km
Experience the soulful sounds of Brecon Jazz, an intimate venue celebrating the rich heritage of jazz music in the heart of Wales.
Brecon Working Mens Club
17.3 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality at Brecon Working Mens Club, where locals gather for drinks and camaraderie in a charming setting.
Squares Night club
20.3 km
Experience Porth’s vibrant nightlife at Squares Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable evenings come alive every weekend.
Eclipse Nightclub
23.0 km
Experience Pontypridd’s vibrant midweek nightlife at Eclipse Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community come alive every Wednesday night.
The Top Club
24.0 km
Experience Blaengarw’s vibrant nightlife at The Top Club, where electrifying entertainment meets community spirit in the heart of South Wales.
The Arch Bar & Nightclub
33.6 km
A lively Neath hotspot blending nightclub energy, live music, pub charm, and Thai cuisine in one vibrant venue.
Vibez
34.2 km
Experience Newport’s vibrant nightlife at Vibez Superclub, where pounding bass and late-night energy create unforgettable weekend parties.
Hush Newport
34.2 km
Experience the vibrant Saturday nightlife at Hush Newport, Baneswell’s hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night fun in the heart of Newport.
Stow Hill Rooms
34.3 km
A stylish Art Deco nightclub and function venue in the heart of Newport, blending vibrant nightlife with versatile event spaces.
The Globe
36.1 km
A compact Grade II-listed former cinema turned lively live-music venue and nightclub, famed for intimate gigs and energetic club nights on Albany Road.
Jimmy's Bar
36.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and live music scene at Jimmy's Bar, Port Talbot’s lively local hotspot with a welcoming atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly