Some pubs make you work for your pint, and then there’s the Tŷ Coch Inn, which takes that concept to a whole new level. Nestled on the golden sands of Porthdinllaen beach near Morfa Nefyn, this famous pub is a reward for the adventurous. After all, any establishment that requires a twenty-minute walk across a beach just to reach it must be serving something special.
Perched on the Llŷn Peninsula in North Wales, the Tŷ Coch Inn (that’s ‘Red House’ for those whose Welsh is a bit rusty) has been christened one of the world’s best beach bars. Not bad for a place you can’t even drive to! The complete absence of roads leading to its door might seem like a questionable business strategy, but it turns out that making people earn their refreshments only adds to the appeal. Who knew?
Getting there is half the adventure. From Morfa Nefyn, you have two options: take the beach route, across the sand while practicing your “I do this all the time” nonchalance as your shoes fill with sand, or opt for the slightly longer Wales Coast Path route. Either way, by the time you arrive, you’ll have convinced yourself that you deserve at least two pints and possibly a packet of crisps.
But oh, what a reward awaits! As you round the final bend, Tŷ Coch reveals itself like a mirage in a desert – except this oasis actually serves real ale. The view is the kind that makes professional photographers weep with joy: a traditional Welsh pub sitting pretty on a pristine beach, with the Irish Sea stretching out beyond like nature’s own infinity pool. Speaking of photos, the stunning images you see in this article have been kindly provided by @jamesotatham – his insta pics are simply gorgeous.
Inside, you’ll find everything a proper pub should have: a cosy atmosphere that feels like a warm hug, staff who make you feel like a regular even if it’s your first visit, and a selection of real ales that taste even better when contemplating the sea view. The menu might not win any Michelin stars, but that’s entirely the point. This is a place for simple pleasures – fresh sandwiches, hearty pub grub, and the kind of chips that taste better with sand between your toes.
During summer months, the pub becomes something of a pilgrimage site for those in the know. The beach fills with an eclectic mix of locals, tourists, and very happy dogs (yes, your four-legged friends are welcome). The atmosphere is more village fête meets beach party than pretentious bar scene, and that’s exactly how everyone likes it.
But don’t let the crowds put you off. Even on the busiest days, there’s something magical about sitting outside the Ty Coch, pint in hand, watching the waves roll in. Time seems to slow down here, where minutes stretch into hours, and somehow it’s always too soon to leave.
Winter brings its own charms. While fair-weather visitors hibernate, hardy locals and adventurous souls are rewarded with moody skies and dramatic seas.
For those planning a visit (and you should be), here are some pearls of wisdom: While card payments are accepted, it’s worth carrying some cash as backup – technical hitches can happen in such a remote location. There are two main parking options – the Golf Club car park (around £5 via an app) or the National Trust car park at Morfa Nefyn. The Golf Club option offers a shorter walk across the course, while the beach route from the NT car park provides a more scenic journey (just check those tide times unless you fancy an unexpected paddling session).
Speaking of food, while the menu might be simple, recent visitors rave about the nachos – apparently they’re worth the wait during busy periods. The pub often hosts special events too, from DJs to local food trucks serving wood-fired pizzas, adding an extra buzz to the already lively atmosphere. An outside bar appears in peak season, making it easier to keep your glass full while soaking up those spectacular views.
For the adventurous, take a walk out to the headland after your visit – you might spot some seals lounging on the rocks. Just wear sensible shoes as the path can be a bit rocky in places. And while summer brings the crowds and a festival-like atmosphere, autumn visitors often find their own slice of paradise with smaller crowds and equally stunning views.
The Tŷ Coch Inn is a reminder that sometimes the best things in life require a bit of effort to reach. Every visit feels like you’re in on a wonderful secret (even if it’s one that everyone seems to know about).
So pack your walking shoes, bring some cash, leave your expectations of modern conveniences behind, and prepare for a pub experience unlike any other. Just remember – that first pint will taste even better if you’ve timed your visit to catch the sunset. And if you find yourself planning your return visit before you’ve even left, don’t worry – that’s just the Tŷ Coch effect. It happens to everyone.
This article was suggested by Arosfan Nefyn Holiday Cottage – a great place to stay if you want to visit the Tŷ Coch Inn!
