Caffi Gisda: Ethical Café with Heart in Caernarfon
Ethical café in Caernarfon serving fresh local fare with a heart for community and kindness in a cozy, welcoming setting.
Caffi Gisda is a welcoming café located at 22 Castle Square in Caernarfon, Wales, known for its ethical approach and community focus. Serving fresh, locally sourced food and excellent coffee at reasonable prices, it provides a relaxed atmosphere with friendly service. The café supports disadvantaged people by offering opportunities and a unique 'pay it forward' drink scheme, making it a meaningful stop for visitors seeking authentic Welsh hospitality and comfort.
A brief summary to Caffi Gisda
- 22 Castle Square, Caernarfon, LL55 2NA, GB
- +441286674566
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Try their homemade cakes and generous breakfast sandwiches for a true taste of local café fare.
- Support the café’s pay-it-forward drink scheme by purchasing an extra drink for someone in need.
- Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter atmosphere and friendly service.
- Bring your appetite as portions are generous and meals are very reasonably priced.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Caffi Gisda location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Caffi Gisda
A Community-Driven Café in the Heart of Caernarfon
Caffi Gisda sits prominently at 22 Castle Square, offering visitors a warm and inclusive environment just steps from Caernarfon Castle. This café is more than a place to eat; it is a social enterprise dedicated to supporting disadvantaged individuals by providing them with work opportunities and a welcoming space. Its ethos of community empowerment is evident in every aspect of its operation, from the friendly staff to the thoughtful initiatives like the scheme allowing customers to purchase additional drinks for those in need.Fresh, Local, and Ethical Dining Experience
The menu at Caffi Gisda features traditional café fare made with locally sourced ingredients, emphasizing freshness and quality. Patrons enjoy generous portions of homemade cakes, hearty sandwiches, and classic breakfast items, all served at very reasonable prices. The café’s commitment to ethical sourcing and affordability makes it accessible to a wide range of customers, including those on calorie-controlled diets, with staff accommodating special requests. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, with large mugs of tea and excellent coffee that surpass typical chain offerings.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Inside, the café is cozy yet modest in size, with a friendly and polite staff who create a welcoming environment for all ages. The relaxed vibe encourages lingering over a meal or a cup of coffee, with free internet available for customers. While some have noted the café can feel a bit chilly, this does not detract from the overall experience. The location offers a perfect spot to rest during a walk around Caernarfon, with views overlooking the historic castle adding to its charm.Social Impact and Ethical Initiatives
Caffi Gisda’s social mission extends beyond food and drink. By operating as a charity café, it reinvests in the community, providing meaningful employment and training opportunities. The innovative 'pay it forward' drink scheme exemplifies its commitment to social good, allowing patrons to extend kindness to others anonymously. This approach fosters a sense of connection and shared responsibility among visitors and locals alike.Accessibility and Practical Details
Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, Caffi Gisda is easily accessible in the town center of Caernarfon. The café’s central location makes it an ideal stop for tourists exploring the castle and surrounding historic sites. While the café is small, it maintains high standards of cleanliness and service, with an emphasis on accommodating dietary needs and providing value for money. Though the restroom facilities have occasionally been reported as temporarily out of order, the overall visitor experience remains positive.A Local Gem with a Big Heart
Caffi Gisda stands out as a shining example of how a café can blend excellent food and drink with meaningful social impact. Its dedication to community support, ethical practices, and quality offerings make it a memorable destination in Caernarfon. Whether you are seeking a hearty lunch, a comforting cup of tea, or a place to connect with local culture and kindness, Caffi Gisda offers all this with a genuine Welsh welcome.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Caernarfon War Memorial
0.1 km
A dignified stone pillar in Castle Square honoring Caernarfon’s fallen heroes from the World Wars and beyond.
CARN / Oriel Pendeitsh
0.2 km
Discover contemporary Welsh art and culture in Caernarfon’s inspiring Oriel Pendeitsh gallery, a vibrant creative hub above the Tourist Information Centre.
Pont Yr Aber
0.4 km
A scenic swing bridge linking Caernarfon Castle with woodland paths, offering iconic views and a touch of maritime theatre as boats pass beneath.
South African War Memorial
0.5 km
A wheel-headed Celtic cross honouring 173 Caernarfonshire soldiers lost in the Boer War, unveiled in 1904.
Caernarfon Tower
0.5 km
Explore Caernarfon Tower, a medieval fortress sentinel offering breathtaking views and rich Welsh history in a UNESCO World Heritage setting.
Bryn Gwyn Standing Stones
4.6 km
Discover the towering Neolithic Bryn Gwyn Standing Stones, ancient sentinels of Anglesey’s prehistoric past and ritual heritage.
Caer Leb (Prehistoric Castle Enclosure)
4.8 km
Explore Caer Leb, a prehistoric fortified enclosure with water-filled ditches that reveal ancient defensive ingenuity on scenic Anglesey.
Tafarn Snowdonia Parc
6.0 km
Discover the heart of Welsh culture at Tafarn Snowdonia Parc, where delicious food meets stunning natural beauty in Snowdonia National Park.
Cadair y Cythraul
8.9 km
Discover the mysterious 'Chair of the Devil' in Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, a historic landmark steeped in Welsh myth and ancient landscape charm.
Porth y Clochydd
9.1 km
Explore the historical landmark of Porth y Clochydd in Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, a captivating site steeped in rich Welsh heritage and scenic beauty.
Celtic cross
9.2 km
A serene Celtic Cross memorial honoring Welsh poet Syr John Morris-Jones, set beside historic St. Mary's Church with stunning Menai Strait views.
Hen Eglwys Llanfihangel Ysgeifiog
10.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Hen Eglwys Llanfihangel Ysgeifiog, a medieval Welsh church steeped in history and nestled in tranquil Anglesey countryside.
Ynys yr Eglwys
11.6 km
Discover the serene charm and rich heritage of Ynys yr Eglwys, a peaceful island gem beside the iconic Menai Suspension Bridge.
Tŷ-Gwyn Menhir
13.4 km
Discover the ancient Tŷ-Gwyn Menhir near Menai Bridge, a prehistoric standing stone steeped in druidic mystery and Welsh heritage.
Zip World Penrhyn Quarry
14.4 km
Experience the thrill of Zip World Penrhyn Quarry – the ultimate adventure park in Snowdonia with breathtaking views and exhilarating activities.
Unmissable attractions to see
Caernarfon Walks - Guided Tours
0.1 km
Discover Caernarfon’s rich history and hidden stories on expert-led walking tours through its medieval streets and iconic castle walls.
Welsh Highland Railway - Caernarfon
0.2 km
Historic steam journeys begin beneath Caernarfon Castle, winding through Snowdonia’s breathtaking landscapes on the UK’s longest heritage railway.
Historic Tours Wales
0.2 km
Explore Caernarfon’s rich history with passionate local guides on immersive walking tours that reveal hidden stories beyond the castle walls.
Caernarfon Castle Walls
0.2 km
Walk the nearly complete medieval walls of Caernarfon, a fortress town’s historic shield with panoramic views and rich Welsh heritage.
Town walls in caenarfon
0.2 km
Discover the historical significance and stunning views of the Caernarfon Town Walls, a must-visit landmark in Wales.
Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum
0.2 km
Explore centuries of Welsh military history within the majestic towers of Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Caernarfon Castle
0.2 km
Discover the grandeur of Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in history and stunning medieval architecture, perfect for your Welsh getaway.
Hanging Tower
0.3 km
A haunting medieval tower in Caernarfon where justice was once served by execution, steeped in history and ghostly legend.
Caernarfon Waterfront
0.4 km
Historic Caernarfon Waterfront: Where medieval heritage meets vibrant maritime charm on the Menai Strait.
Big Wheel, Caernarfon Castle
0.4 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views from the Big Wheel beside historic Caernarfon Castle, blending medieval heritage with modern leisure.
Bath Tower
0.4 km
Sleep in a 13th-century tower within Caernarfon's castle walls—where medieval history meets modern comfort.
The Fun Centre
0.5 km
North Wales's largest indoor adventure play centre, blending historic charm with thrilling slides, mazes, and safe toddler zones for family fun all year round.
Caer Rufeinig Segontium / Segontium Roman Fort
0.6 km
Explore the ancient Roman military outpost of Segontium, where history and legend meet amidst scenic Welsh landscapes.
Aber Foreshore
0.8 km
A scenic coastal walk with iconic views of Caernarfon Castle and the Menai Strait, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a quiet moment by the water.
Foel Farm Park
2.2 km
Discover a charming working farm with animal encounters, scenic views, and family fun on the beautiful Isle of Anglesey.
Essential places to dine
Caffi Gisda
0.0 km
Ethical café in Caernarfon serving fresh local fare with a heart for community and kindness in a cozy, welcoming setting.
Y Gegin Fach
0.1 km
Family-run cafe in Caernarfon serving hearty Welsh classics and homemade British dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Caernarfon Tandoori Restaurants
0.1 km
Authentic Indian flavors and tandoori specialties served in a spacious, friendly setting in the heart of Caernarfon.
Caffi Maes
0.1 km
A friendly, three-storey café on Caernarfon’s Castle Square, serving hearty breakfasts, local dishes, and excellent coffee in a relaxed, pet-friendly setting.
Osteria
0.2 km
Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine in a cozy, welcoming Italian restaurant nestled in the heart of Caernarfon.
Ouzo & Olive
0.2 km
Discover authentic Greek tapas and warm hospitality in the historic heart of Caernarfon at Ouzo & Olive.
Lizzy's Caernarfon
0.2 km
A cozy, woman-owned café near Caernarfon Castle serving fresh, home-cooked British dishes with warm Welsh hospitality.
Sheeps and Leeks
0.2 km
Experience exquisite Welsh fine dining in Caernarfon with locally sourced ingredients and expertly paired wines at Sheeps and Leeks.
The Market Hall Brew Pub
0.2 km
Discover the essence of Welsh hospitality at The Market Hall Brew Pub in Caernarfon – where local brews meet delicious bites.
Tafarn Y Porth - JD Wetherspoon
0.2 km
A lively, historic pub in central Caernarfon offering great value meals, local ales, and a welcoming atmosphere near the town’s ancient East Gate.
Four Alls
0.2 km
Historic charm meets delicious fare at The Four Alls, Caernarfon’s beloved pub and restaurant for great food, drinks, and community spirit.
Tân Woodfired Pizza
0.2 km
Savor authentic wood-fired pizzas in a cozy Caernarfon setting, blending traditional flavors with local charm every evening.
Wal Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience the warm hospitality and diverse flavors of Welsh, British, and Italian cuisine at Wal Restaurant in the heart of Caernarfon.
Black Boy Inn Four & Six Restaurant & Bar
0.3 km
Discover authentic Welsh cuisine at Black Boy Inn Four & Six Restaurant & Bar in Caernarfon, where tradition meets modern dining.
The Old Courthouse, Caernarfon
0.3 km
Historic neo-classical courthouse turned elegant bistro with stunning views of Caernarfon Castle and a modern British menu.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Na Nôg
0.0 km
Discover authentic Welsh culture through music, crafts, and unique gifts at Na Nôg, Caernarfon’s beloved boutique in Castle Square.
Peacocks
0.1 km
Affordable fashion for men, women, and children in Caernarfon’s Caolfan shopping center.
The Original Factory Shop (Caernarfon)
0.1 km
Discover unbeatable bargains on fashion, beauty, and homeware at The Original Factory Shop in Caernarfon’s vibrant Pool Street.
Orchid Fashion Store
0.1 km
Discover stylish, locally inspired fashion at Orchid Fashion Store in Caernarfon’s vibrant shopping heart.
Miss Sophie
0.1 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts and local treasures at Miss Sophie, a charming boutique in the heart of Caernarfon.
Castle Gift Shop
0.1 km
Explore the charm of Wales at Castle Gift Shop, your destination for unique souvenirs and local crafts in Caernarfon.
Cei Llechi: Artisan Shopping Village
0.1 km
A vibrant artisan village in Caernarfon blending heritage slate quay buildings with local crafts, food, and culture by the harbour.
West Coast Gifts
0.1 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and souvenirs in the heart of historic Caernarfon at West Coast Gifts.
Siop iard Caernarfon
0.2 km
Discover handcrafted Welsh jewellery and crafts at Siop Iard Caernarfon, a unique boutique celebrating local artistry and heritage.
Siop Siafins
0.2 km
A charming gift shop in Caernarfon offering authentic Welsh crafts, souvenirs, and locally made treasures in the heart of historic North Wales.
Tin of Sea
0.2 km
Discover unique home décor, gifts, and furnishings blending historic charm with modern style in Caernarfon’s Tin of Sea.
YLP Fabric & Wool Shop
0.2 km
Discover Caernarfon’s premier fabric and wool shop, a creative hub for knitters, quilters, and embroidery lovers alike.
Lotti & Wren
0.2 km
Discover unique independent design treasures and handcrafted gifts in the heart of historic Caernarfon at Lotti & Wren.
Lwsi
0.2 km
Discover unique sustainable fashion treasures in Caernarfon’s charming secondhand boutique nestled within medieval town walls.
Siop Y Ddraig
0.2 km
Discover authentic Welsh gifts and souvenirs in a charming shop steeped in local culture at Caernarfon’s Siop Y Ddraig.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Albert Inn
0.1 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub in Caernarfon serving homemade British classics with warm local hospitality.
The Morgan Lloyd
0.1 km
A traditional Welsh pub in Caernarfon offering good beer, friendly service, and a lively local atmosphere near the historic castle.
Bar Bach
0.1 km
Discover Bar Bach, Wales’ tiniest bar in Caernarfon, where local brews and cozy charm create an unforgettable intimate pub experience.
La Marina Cei
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant social heart of Caernarfon at La Marina Cei, where lively bar vibes and welcoming atmosphere meet.
The hole in the wall
0.2 km
Authentic Welsh pub with historic charm, lively events, and welcoming locals in the heart of Caernarfon.
Palace Vaults
0.2 km
A cosy, historic pub opposite Caernarfon Castle offering hearty fare, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Gwynedd.
Market Hall
0.2 km
Historic Market Hall in Caernarfon offering excellent pints, authentic kebabs and curries, plus lively open mic nights in a vibrant local setting.
Ship & Castle
0.2 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Caernarfon, where friendly locals and traditional charm create the perfect spot to relax and socialize.
The Eagles
0.2 km
A cozy and friendly Caernarfon pub offering local brews, hearty meals, live music, and a warm Welsh welcome.
Tŷ Glyndŵr Bunkhouse & Su's Cocktail Bar
0.3 km
Cozy Georgian hostel with a lively cocktail bar, local flavors, and live music just steps from Caernarfon Castle in the heart of North Wales.
The Crown Y Goron
0.3 km
A cozy, family-friendly Welsh pub in Caernarfon offering local ales, home-cooked meals, and a warm, inviting atmosphere seven days a week.
Twthill Vaults
0.3 km
A cozy, traditional Welsh pub in Caernarfon offering local ales, hearty food, and a welcoming community atmosphere every day from noon till late.
Anglesey Arms
0.3 km
Historic harbourfront pub and inn in Caernarfon offering cozy rooms, hearty Welsh fare, and stunning views of Menai Strait and Caernarfon Castle.
Yr Alex
0.5 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality and local brews in the cozy, welcoming atmosphere of Yr Alex, Caernarfon’s beloved traditional pub.
The Newborough Arms
2.8 km
A warm, family-friendly pub in Bontnewydd offering hearty Welsh fare, a lively bar, and a spacious beer garden with play area.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Wellman's Sports & Social Club
12.6 km
Llangefni’s vibrant social hub with lively entertainment, spacious dance floor, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Academi
13.5 km
Bangor’s beloved student nightclub, offering vibrant music, a welcoming atmosphere, and a central role in university social life.
Trilogy Nightclub
14.1 km
Experience Bangor’s vibrant nightlife at Trilogy Nightclub, where diverse music rooms and lively weekend parties create unforgettable nights.
Clwb Llyn Bach
25.5 km
Discover the lively spirit of Clwb Llyn Bach, a top pub in Porthmadog offering great drinks, vibrant events, and a friendly atmosphere.
The Cove
26.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Cove in Hafan Y Mor, North Wales, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await.
Black Rock Beach Club
26.5 km
Experience the ultimate beachside retreat at Black Rock Beach Club with delicious grilled dishes and breathtaking coastal views.
Vics Boogie-Nights
27.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Vic's Boogie-Nights, Abererch's premier bar for music, dancing, and unforgettable memories.
The Queens Head
30.4 km
Experience the heart of Amlwch at The Queens Head, a welcoming pub with local ales and hearty meals in a cozy atmosphere.
Albert Vaults
30.7 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality at Albert Vaults, a charming pub in Anglesey with a vibrant atmosphere and exceptional drinks.
The Buffs
30.7 km
A welcoming social club in Holyhead offering lively nights, friendly faces, and a true taste of local nightlife on Cambria Street.
Stag Inn
32.6 km
Experience the charm of Anglesey at The Stag Inn, where delicious meals and a cozy atmosphere await you.
Club 147
36.0 km
Llandudno’s energetic nightclub and sports bar offering electronic beats, pool, and a lively social scene in the town centre.
Broadway Boulevard
36.5 km
Llandudno’s largest nightclub, Broadway Boulevard pulses with vibrant music, themed events, and a lively party atmosphere in the heart of town.
New Horizons
43.7 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at New Horizons, Dyffryn Ardudwy’s welcoming nightclub with spaces for all ages.
The Club Barmouth
48.6 km
Experience vibrant Saturday nights at The Club Barmouth, where stylish vibes meet lively music by the scenic Welsh coast.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Casual
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
