BIB GOURMAND
Cowbridge, United Kingdom
Discover the charm of the hare & hounds in aberthin, cowbridge, uk.
Nestled in the picturesque village of Aberthin near Cowbridge, the Hare & Hounds is a beloved British pub that masterfully blends rustic charm with a contemporary touch. Known for its commitment to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, this establishment offers an inviting atmosphere where food lovers and casual visitors alike can enjoy a memorable dining experience.
an exceptional menu with seasonal flair
Guests rave about the Hare & Hounds’ expertly prepared dishes, such as their standout Sunday roast featuring perfectly cooked lamb and top rump beef, accompanied by goose fat potatoes, honey roast parsnips, and cauliflower cheese. The desserts are equally impressive, with the light raspberry soufflé and brown butter cakes melting in your mouth, making every meal a celebration of British culinary tradition.
a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all occasions
Whether you’re joining a lively birthday celebration with friends or settling in for a quiet afternoon of traditional ales, the Hare & Hounds prides itself on attentive, friendly service and a relaxed ambiance. The pub is dog-friendly and has outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying the serene Vale of Glamorgan countryside. Free parking and easy accessibility make it a convenient destination for locals and visitors alike.
why locals love the hare & hounds
- Seasonal british cuisine crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, emphasizing quality and flavor.
- Inviting ambiance with rustic charm and modern comforts, perfect for dining or social gatherings.
- Top-notch service with attentive staff who go above and beyond to ensure a special visit.
- Community favorite hosting Ale Trail events and delivering the best burgers in the region.
frequently asked questions about the hare & hounds
- What are the opening hours of the Hare & Hounds? The Hare & Hounds operates from Wednesday to Saturday, 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, and on Sunday from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
- Is the Hare & Hounds dog-friendly? Yes, the Hare & Hounds is dog-friendly, allowing patrons to bring their dogs along while enjoying their meal or drink.
- Do they offer gluten-free options? Yes, the Hare & Hounds provides gluten-free options on their menu to cater to dietary needs.
- Is there parking available at the Hare & Hounds? Yes, there is parking available, including street parking and free off-street parking.
- Do I need to make a reservation? While reservations are accepted, it's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak times, to ensure availability.
community sentiment at a glance
The Hare & Hounds enjoys a highly positive reputation within the Vale of Glamorgan community. Guests consistently praise the high-quality, seasonal British cuisine and the warm, rustic ambiance. Signature dishes like the crispy pig cheek and the apple crumble soufflé are local favorites. Though occasional service delays and pricing concerns have been noted, the overall sentiment highlights the pub’s dedication to excellent food, friendly service, and a welcoming environment that keeps visitors coming back.
The Hare & Hounds: A historic gem in Aberthin, Cowbridge, Wales.
Nestled in the charming village of Aberthin near Cowbridge in Wales, the Hare & Hounds stands as a testament to centuries of local tradition and community spirit. Founded in 1725, this beloved pub has welcomed guests for nearly three centuries, serving as a vibrant social hub where generations have gathered to enjoy quality ales, wines, and handcrafted seasonal drinks.
A journey through time: key moments of the Hare & Hounds
From its establishment in 1725, the Hare & Hounds has continually evolved while maintaining its authentic character. A major milestone arrived in 2015 when Chef Tom Watts-Jones assumed the kitchen helm, revolutionizing the menu with a focus on seasonality and locally sourced ingredients. This culinary shift elevated the pub's offerings, blending rustic charm with contemporary flair.
- 1725: Established as a local pub in Aberthin, Cowbridge.
- 2015: Chef Tom Watts-Jones took over the kitchen, introducing a seasonal menu emphasizing fresh, local produce.
- 2018: Awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand, a prestigious acknowledgment for excellent quality and value.
- 2020: Launched the Hare & Hounds Bakery in Cowbridge, offering freshly baked breads and pastries made with local ingredients.
An inviting blend of rustic charm and modern dining
Following extensive renovations, the Hare & Hounds today boasts a cozy yet contemporary atmosphere. Guests can enjoy an open kitchen concept that reveals the culinary craftsmanship behind a menu that changes twice daily. This approach ensures a fresh, seasonal experience highlighting the best of Wales’ local produce. The pub’s dedication to quality and authenticity has earned it a cherished place among both locals and discerning visitors.
Why the Hare & Hounds remains a must-visit
With a rich heritage spanning over 300 years, the Hare & Hounds is more than just a pub—it's a culinary institution in the heart of the Vale of Glamorgan. Its commitment to seasonal menus, local ingredients, and warm hospitality makes it a favorite among food enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. Whether you’re seeking a traditional Welsh ale, a thoughtfully prepared meal, or a welcoming environment to unwind, the Hare & Hounds offers an exceptional experience that fuses history with modern taste.
Hare & Hounds Cowbridge Review and Experience Overview
Nestled in the charming village of Aberthin near Cowbridge in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales, the Hare & Hounds is a standout spot for food lovers seeking a memorable dining experience. This rustic and cozy pub offers a seasonal menu crafted from locally sourced ingredients, delivering both an authentic taste of Welsh countryside fare and a commitment to quality. Recognized by the Michelin Guide with a Bib Gourmand, the establishment is known for its careful attention to culinary detail and warm hospitality.
Delicious Food and Welcoming Atmosphere
The menu features seasonal dishes that emphasize local flavors, including specialties such as lamb cooked to perfection, top rump beef, and expertly prepared seafood like sole in laverbread sauce. Guests frequently praise signature dishes like the Sunday roast dinner, which pairs succulent meats with delights such as goose fat potatoes, honey roast parsnips, cauliflower cheese, and braised cabbage. Desserts like raspberry soufflé and brown butter cakes add a memorable sweet finish. The Hare & Hounds also caters to diverse dietary needs with gluten-free options and offers both a la carte and tasting menus, ensuring a tailored dining experience for all.
Amenities and Guest Experience
Beyond the exquisite food, visitors appreciate the attentive and friendly staff who create a welcoming and accommodating environment, ideal for celebrations or casual gatherings. The pub is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners, and provides free Wi-Fi and wheelchair accessibility, catering to modern needs. Outdoor seating complements the venue’s rustic charm, while ample free parking options add convenience for visitors arriving by car. The Hare & Hounds also serves a selection of beer, wine, and cocktails, enhancing the dining experience.
Considerations Before You Visit
While the Hare & Hounds offers a rich and satisfying experience, potential guests should note that the pub has limited opening hours, which might require some planning ahead. Some diners have reported occasional service delays, possibly due to the busy and popular nature of the venue. Additionally, pricing is on the higher side, reflecting the quality of ingredients and preparation, which may not suit all budgets. Therefore, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak times and weekends.
- Pros: Seasonal, locally sourced menu featuring high-quality ingredients.
- Attentive and friendly staff who enhance the dining experience with excellent service.
- Rustic and cozy ambiance perfect for intimate meals and group celebrations.
- Dog-friendly environment with outdoor seating and free Wi-Fi available.
- Wheelchair accessible with convenient free parking options.
- Offers both a la carte and tasting menus for diverse dining preferences.
- Cons: Limited opening hours that require advanced planning for visits.
- Some patrons have experienced occasional service delays during busy periods.
- Pricing may be considered high by some diners, reflecting ingredient quality and preparation.
Welsh, British
££
Open Now - Closing 12:00 AM
Monday
16:00–23:00
Tuesday
16:00–23:00
Wednesday
16:00–23:00
Thursday
12:00–00:00
Friday
12:00–00:00
Saturday
12:00–00:00
Sunday
12:00–22:00
Aggregated Ratings 4.3
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