Spooner’s, Porthmadog, North Wales
Sit with a beer at Spooner’s overlooking Porthmadog harbour before taking a scenic journey on the heritage Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways.
Spooner’s in Porthmadog is a convenient pit stop. Treat yourself to a hearty breakfast here before your journey or end your day on the railway with a drink at the bar. They also provide a handy takeaway service. With tables overlooking the harbour and station, it’s a good spot.
- Come for breakfast
- Pick up a takeaway for your train journey
- Relax with a local ale
Have A Pint of Purple Moose Beer
Sit outside at Spooners Café at the Harbour Station with a pint of Purple Moose ale and enjoy the wonderful views all around. The town of Porthmadog came into existence in the 18th century after William Madocks built its sea wall (the Cob) to reclaim agricultural land from the sea. As a result of the diversion of the River Glaslyn, a new natural harbour was formed which had a deep enough draught for small ocean going sailing ships. This harbour then became the perfect location for the export of Welsh slate.
Drink In The Breathtaking Views
Today, the Cob is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The steam trains still trundle back and forth in the summer months but now they transport holidaymakers rather than slate. There is a public footpath across the Cob which forms part of the Wales Coast Path. From here you can look out to the east at breathtaking views across to Snowdon or to the west and Cardigan Bay. The harbour itself now plays host to picturesque pleasure yachts rather than sailing ships. The slate workers have long since departed, in their place only day trippers soaking up the sun or children with buckets and lines, fishing for crabs.
Railway Takeaway
For railway foodies, the café provides an excellent takeaway service if you’re taking a scenic trip on the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railway.
Rail Ales
For thirsty travellers, you’ll find a wide choice of real ales on tap 12 months a year at Spooner’s CAMRA award winning bar. After a day out on the railway, it’s a friendly and fun place to stop for a refreshing pint or two. It serves an excellent variety of beers from small independent breweries. Porthmadog’s own Purple Moose Brewery was set up by volunteer railway worker Laurence Washington. Located in the town, it’s open for tours and tastings.
Tips
- Visit in May for the Welsh Highland Railway’s Real Ale Festival
Where to Stay in North Wales
Plas Bodegroes
Lyn Peninsula, North Wales
Country house restaurant with rooms in an Area of Outstanding National Beauty just a mile from the sea.
Rooms from £99 a night.
Dogs
They tell me dogs are not allowed in the bar or café but they are allowed in the outside seating area and dog bowls are provided.
How to Find Spooner’s Cafe
Spooner’s Cafe and Bar, Harbour Station, Porthmadog, Gwynedd, North Wales LL49 9NF
Explore
Find more Foodie Things To Do in North Wales. Discover more Railway Cafés and Train Dining Experiences.
The Foodie Travel Guide
Sally is the founder and editor of The Foodie Travel Guide. She travels around the UK and beyond in search of the best foodie days out, tasting experiences and delicious places to stay. She loves a glass of English sparkling wine, afternoon tea with friends and escaping London for gastronomic adventures.