The Corn Mill
Cocktail Bar | Llangollen | Wales | United Kingdom
Cocktail bar by River Dee
"The Corn Mill" in Llangollen, Wales, is a cocktail bar that is primarily known as a charming traditional pub, distinguished by its unique location on the banks of the River Dee. The building, a former 18th-century grain mill, has been lovingly restored and is part of the Brunning & Price group, renowned for its high-quality pubs focusing on fresh food and a wide selection of drinks. The mill itself has a long history: it was built in 1786 after a previous mill on the same site had been milling flour for about 700 years and remained in operation until 1974. In 2000, it reopened as a pub and has since become a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike.
Traditional pub with history
The drink selection at "The Corn Mill" is diverse, highlighting its cocktail bar aspect, although the emphasis is more on traditional beverages. The bar takes particular pride in its selection of cask ales, which are hand-pulled and feature a rotating range of local and British beers, such as Phoenix Brunning & Price Original, Facers DHB, or Hawkshead Windermere Pale. The bar also boasts an impressive collection of around 50 malt whiskies and a solid wine list with 20 wines by the glass, ranging from light whites to robust reds. Cocktails play a secondary role but are available, including classic mixes like gin and tonic or seasonal options that complement the offerings. Drinks are served at two bars – one on the ground floor and one on the middle level – which keeps service efficient even during busy times.
Fresh seasonal ingredients in Llangollen
Culinarily, "The Corn Mill" places great emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and offers a menu that is updated daily, presenting a mix of classic British dishes with international influences. Favorites include the Sunday roast with succulent meat, Yorkshire pudding, and plenty of vegetables, as well as deep-fried cod in beer batter, served with chips, pea puree, and tartar sauce. Vegetarian options like a Thai green vegetable curry with tempura broccoli and sticky coconut rice are also popular and showcase the kitchen's versatility. The dishes are described as unpretentious but carefully prepared, with a focus on the quality of ingredients. Meals are served across three floors, with the upper areas designed more like a restaurant and offering table service.
Beautiful terrace with river view
The atmosphere of "The Corn Mill" is unique and shaped by its history. The interior features old wooden beams, exposed stone walls, and the slowly turning waterwheel behind the bar, visible through a glass panel in the floor. The bar spans three levels: the ground floor has a lively pub atmosphere, the middle level includes a second bar area, and the upper floor is quieter and ideal for a relaxed meal. Particularly impressive is the large outdoor terrace, built over the mill stream and the rapids of the River Dee, offering breathtaking views of the river and the historic train station across the way, where steam locomotives arrive and depart. This terrace is a highlight in the summer, inviting patrons to linger with a drink while watching kayakers or the surrounding mountains.
Dog friendly restaurant in Wales
"The Corn Mill" is not just a place for enjoyment but also a social hub. It is dog-friendly – though only on the ground floor – and attracts a diverse mix of guests, from families to hikers to regulars who appreciate the reliable quality. The staff is often praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, though there may be longer wait times during busy periods. The bar has earned accolades for its location and character, including the title of "LocAle Pub of the Season" from CAMRA Trafford and Hulme in 2013 and regular mentions in the Good Pub Guide. It is also an ideal starting point for hikes, such as the route to Pen-y-Coed, a nearby woodland area.
