Y Mochyn Du
Sophia Close Cardiff CF11 9HW
Situated in a delightful rural spot just north of the city centre, within a stone’s throw of the cricket ground, Y Mochyn Du is Cardiff’s most staunchly Welsh pub. The name means ‘Black Pig’ in the native tongue – the name derives from an old folk song – and the building was formerly a gatekeeper’s lodge, which forms what is now the main wood-panelled bar, adorned with photos and framed shirts and boots of Welsh sporting heroes. In winter the punters hunker down here, while in summer most of the drinking takes place in the modern conservatory or in a convivial outdoor seating area among the trees. It's naturally popular with spectators attending the cricket, but it's also one of the better places to watch live TV sport, with big screens erected for major international rugby and football matches. There are plenty of excellent ales to choose from, most of which are Welsh brewed, and you can get a pretty decent meal here too.