The Wye Valley, with its stunning Tintern Abbey and the towering Black Mountains, has long inspired poets, artists, and adventurers. Its river nourishes the land, providing the perfect conditions for the wild botanicals we use in our spirits.
We're of the mind that spirits taste best where they're made, and that's especially true for our Wye Valley Gin. Enjoying it at one of the riverside pubs, surrounded by the valley's natural beauty, truly brings out its best flavours.
These are our favourite pubs in the region, offering a great atmosphere, excellent food and drinks and often stunning views of the river (no wonder two of them are called The Boat!)
1. The Boat Inn, Penallt
The Boat Inn, located in the picturesque Monmouthshire village of Penallt, is arguably the most charming riverside pub in the Wye Valley. Located right by the river, the view is enhanced by the old railway bridge looming above. Crossing this bridge (which was once a crossing for steam trains on the Wye Valley Railway) from Redbrook is also the best way to reach the pub. The distance between the pub and the next railway halt at Redbrook was once believed to be the shortest between two stops on the national rail network.
In fine weather, the pub's raised garden area, known as "the grotto", is a popular spot for customers to relax and take in the views of the rock face stream and the river. In times past, the pub served a bustling boat trade, and even today, it's not uncommon to see passing canoeists stop by for refreshments.
2. The Wild Hare, Tintern
The Wild Hare is a historic pub located in the village of Tintern. The pub formerly known as The Royal George has been around since the 18th century and has a rich history. The interior of the pub is full of character, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The pub also has a great reputation for its food, with a menu that features a range of pub classics and local specialties. In Tintern, the Wild Hare is the place to socialise and meet the locals, and is very much the heart and soul of this characterful and welcoming village.
3. Ye Olde Ferrie Inn, Symonds Yat, West
Ye Olde Ferrie Inn sits right in the centre of Symonds Yat, near several nationally significant historical sites such as Goodrich Castle and the renowned Symonds-Yat rock, which offers breathtaking views and is home to Peregrine Falcons. It is a centuries old pub which has been transformed into a modern gastro pub while still keeping all of its original charm. It has one of the best food offerings in the area, and in the summer the big terrace is an incredible place to watch the river while enjoying a Wye Valley Gin and tonic in the sun. You can rent canoes from right outside, and there is a horsebox shop called “Wye Go With The Flow” where you can show your love for the River Wye by buying some good looking hoodies and other merch, and even their own Wye Go With The Flow Gin made in collaboration with us.
4. The Saracens Head, Symonds Yat, East
Across the river from Ye Old Ferrie is The Saracens Head, another centuries-old riverside pub that sits in a prime location surrounded by tranquil rapids, and dramatic cliffs. The area surrounding this pub is a delightful place to explore and attracts hikers, cyclists, canoeists, and fishermen. The interior of the pub is full of character, with exposed wooden beams, open log fires, and a cosy atmosphere. The pub also has a great reputation for its food, with a menu that features a range of traditional pub classics and local specialties. If you peek up at the hill behind the pub, you will see the famous house from the Netflix series Sex Education, which in real life is a holiday house called the Chalet. The ferry to the other side of the river is operated by the staff at Saracens Head and only costs a few pounds. Ask in the bar and they will take you over!
5. The Lion Inn, Trellech
The Lion is our closest pub, and the heart of the community in Trellech. A pub known for its lovely and lively atmosphere as well as a great Sunday roast and different events like Burns night and gin tasting nights. A great place to stop for a pub lunch after a tour and tasting at the distillery!
6. The Boat Inn, Chepstow
Located in the historic town of Chepstow, The Boat Inn is a traditional riverside pub that is steeped in history. It has been around for over 500 years and has undergone several transformations over the years. The pub offers a great atmosphere, with a warm and welcoming interior, outdoor seating overlooking the River Wye, and a menu that features a range of pub classics and local specialties. They have live music every Thursday night, which turns the place into a lively meeting place for all of Chepstow.
7. The Queen’s Head Micropub, Chepstow
The Queen’s Head used to be the smallest pub in Wales, but has now extended with a small room in the back. It still has the same micropub charm. When you walk in the pub you feel like you’re entering someone's living room, and you will always end up having a conversation with someone you don’t know. The friendliest and most lively pub in Chepstow. They also have a great selection of beer, both traditional ales and modern IPA’s from some of the most inventive breweries in the UK. It's currently holding the title of CAMRA best pub in Wales.
8. The Old Court Hotel, Symonds Yat
The Old Court Hotel, set in the picturesque Wye Valley in Symonds Yat West, Herefordshire, is a family-run hotel that exudes historical charm and character. Housed in a Grade 2 Manor House that was once the residence of Lieutenant General John Graves Simoco, the founder of Upper Canada, this hotel offers a unique glimpse into the past coupled with modern comforts. The hotel is renowned for its home-cooked food and commitment to local ingredients.
9. The Rising Sun, Woodcroft
This pub was saved by the community after a 10 year fight and is now run by a combination of volunteers and local staff. The vibe is friendly and community oriented, and there is always someone to chat to. Look out for a memorial of a locally beloved peacock! A perfect place for a full English breakfast before you head out on the Offa's Dyke path.
10. The Miners, Sling
The Miners in Sling has a reputation for being one of the best foodie pubs in the area. The decor is elegant but simple, but the food speaks for itself. It is the favourite Sunday lunch place for anyone in the know in this area. They have a big focus on fresh and locally sourced ingredients and a menu that changes daily. They work closely with local suppliers like us, and this is the place where you see other local producers dine because the food is so amazing.