The Rummer Tavern: Cardiff’s Oldest Pub Steeped in History and Mystery
Cardiff’s oldest pub since 1713, blending rich history, ghostly legends, and a cozy atmosphere opposite Cardiff Castle.
The Rummer Tavern, located at 14 Duke Street in Cardiff, is the city’s oldest pub, dating back to the early 18th century. Known for its distinctive narrow Tudor-style façade, it has served as a coach service hub, cycling club base, and a haunt for ghost stories, particularly the legend of a jealous sailor’s spirit. Today, it offers a cozy atmosphere with a rich historical backdrop, making it a must-visit for those interested in Welsh heritage and paranormal tales.
A brief summary to Rummer Tavern
- 14 Duke St, Cardiff, CF10 1AY, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 1 pm-10 pm
- Tuesday 1 pm-10 pm
- Wednesday 1 pm-10 pm
- Thursday 1 pm-10 pm
- Friday 12 pm-12 am
- Saturday 12 pm-12 am
- Sunday 12 pm-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit during quieter weekday afternoons to enjoy the historic ambiance without the weekend crowds.
- Try local ales and craft beers to experience the authentic Welsh pub culture.
- Ask the staff about the ghost stories, especially the tale of the jealous sailor haunting the cellar.
- Combine your visit with a walk around nearby Cardiff Castle to immerse yourself in the area’s history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Rummer Tavern location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Rummer Tavern
A Historic Landmark Rooted in Cardiff’s Past
The Rummer Tavern stands proudly on Duke Street, opposite the imposing Cardiff Castle, as a testament to the city’s rich history. Believed to have been established around 1713, the building’s long, narrow shape reveals its origins on a medieval burgage plot, a typical urban land division from centuries ago. Although its Tudor-style façade is a later architectural pastiche, the pub’s bones date back to the early 18th century, making it one of Cardiff’s oldest surviving public houses.A Hub of Social and Transport Activity
Throughout its history, the Rummer Tavern played a pivotal role in local transport and social life. In the mid-19th century, it was the starting point for the “Hero” coach service to Worcester and Birmingham, and earlier served as a base for coaches connecting Cardiff to Newport and Merthyr. The pub also became a meeting place for various clubs and associations, including the Cardiff 100 Miles Road Cycling Club, the Welsh Kennel Club, and the Amateur Athletics Association branch, highlighting its importance as a community hub.Legends and Ghostly Encounters
The Rummer Tavern is renowned not only for its history but also for its eerie supernatural tales. The most famous legend involves a jealous sailor who, after returning from sea, discovered his wife in the arms of another man and died shortly thereafter. His restless spirit is said to haunt the pub’s cellar and toilets, where staff and patrons have reported cold spots, flickering lights, and ghostly footsteps. These stories have woven the Rummer into Cardiff’s rich tapestry of haunted locations, attracting ghost hunters and curious visitors alike.A Cozy Atmosphere with Rustic Charm
Inside, the Rummer Tavern retains much of its old-world charm with dark wooden beams and flagstone floors that echo centuries of conviviality. Despite its ghostly reputation, the pub is a lively and welcoming spot, popular for its well-stocked bar featuring local ales and craft beers. The atmosphere balances historic character with a warm, inviting vibe, making it a favored destination for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic Cardiff pub experience.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The building’s architecture, while featuring a Tudor-style façade, reflects the layered history of Cardiff’s urban development. Its location near Cardiff Castle situates it within a historically significant precinct, linking it to the city’s medieval and Victorian heritage. The Rummer Tavern’s continuous operation since the early 1700s offers a unique window into Cardiff’s social evolution, from coach travel to modern nightlife.Continuing Legacy and Visitor Experience
Today, the Rummer Tavern remains a cherished landmark, blending centuries-old stories with contemporary hospitality. Visitors can enjoy a pint steeped in history while soaking up the ambiance of a place that has witnessed the city’s transformations. Whether drawn by its ghost stories, historic significance, or convivial atmosphere, the Rummer Tavern offers a memorable experience at the heart of Cardiff’s cultural landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cardiff Town Wall
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Historical Wales
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John Batchelor Statue
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City Hall
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Alexandra Gardens
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Wales National War Memorial
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Cardiff International Film Festival
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Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
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Parc Mackenzie
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Unmissable attractions to see
Aneurin Bevan Statue by Robert Thomas (1987)
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Firing Line Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier
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Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Castle
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Discover Cardiff Castle, a majestic blend of Roman roots, Norman strength, and Victorian splendor in the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital.
Castle Quarter Arcades
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Explore Cardiff’s historic Castle Quarter Arcades—Victorian charm, independent shops, and vibrant dining in the city’s heart.
The Cardiff Market
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Cardiff Market
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Cardiff Castle
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8 St Mary St
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Museum of Cardiff
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St David's Hall
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Cardiff Castle Museum
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St David’s Dewi Sant
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Cardiff’s largest shopping centre with over 160 shops, dining, and entertainment all under one roof in the city centre.
Essential places to dine
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The Welsh House Cardiff
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The Botanist Cardiff
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Cafe Citta
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The Potted Pig
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Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
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Maison de Bœuf
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The Alchemist Cardiff
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Experience the magic of mixology at The Alchemist Cardiff, where innovative cocktails meet exquisite dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Asador 44 Spanish Grill & Wine House
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Turtle Bay Cardiff
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Casanova
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Revolución de Cuba Cardiff
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Bar 44 Cardiff
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Lezzet Turkish Kitchen
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The Sorting Room Restaurant
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Elegant modern European dining in Cardiff’s city centre, celebrated for Welsh beef specialties and refined brasserie ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hobos Vintage
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Little Welsh Company
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The Works
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Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
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Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Rokit Cardiff
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Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Rokit Cardiff, where retro charm meets eco-conscious shopping in the heart of the city.
Great Welsh Gifts
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Cardiff Creative Shop
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Knight Vintage
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Mojo King
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Flying Tiger
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Urban Outfitters
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Morgan Quarter
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Beyond Retro Cardiff
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Sobeys Vintage Clothing
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Welcome Things
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Penny
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Flight Club Cardiff
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The Live Lounge Cardiff
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Revolution Cardiff
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Slug & Lettuce - The Friary Cardiff
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Glassworks
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Main Stage
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Yates - Cardiff
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Mary's Cardiff
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Henry's Cafe Bar Cardiff
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Slug & Lettuce - St Mary St Cardiff
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Clwb Ifor Bach
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Fuel Rock Club
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The CUBE
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Tiger Tiger Cardiff
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Metros
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Popworld - Cardiff
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CIRCUIT Cardiff
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Pulse
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The Globe
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The Vaults
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Cabaret at Wales Millennium Centre
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Coco Cubanas
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Bar Cocoa
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Eclipse Nightclub
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Lively
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
