Tafarn yr Iorwerth is a true community pub in every sense. Saved from demolition in 2015, this Anglesey village inn has become a cornerstone of local life. Owned and operated by a group of unpaid directors, it now serves not only as a pub and live music venue but as a hub for services, social events and support in Bryngwran – a village that had lost all its shops and post office.
Since becoming a community-owned pub, Tafarn yr Iorwerth has achieved remarkable milestones:
- Saved from Demolition: Rescued from plans to build housing, the pub was brought back to life through a dedicated community campaign.
- Multi-Service Hub: Secured over £100,000 in National Lottery funding to convert outbuildings into three business units now hosting a café, a hairdresser, and a nail/beauty salon.
- Music and the Arts: Established as a respected live music venue for both Welsh and English performers and home to a community choir.
- On-Site Music School: Partnered with Anglesey Music to deliver piano, guitar and singing lessons for all ages.
- Tackling Loneliness and Fuel Poverty: Hosts a warm hub and monthly afternoon teas for the elderly, alongside weekly exercise classes for over 60s.
- Festive and Family Events: Organises annual Easter and Halloween parties, and a popular Christmas parade ending at the pub with carol singing and karaoke.
- Good Turn Scheme: Launched during the Covid pandemic, this now permanent initiative provides shopping, doctor transport, and social support.
- Electric Minibus: A 6-seater community vehicle assists with local transport needs.
Tafarn yr Iorwerth is cherished by its community. The initiative to bring services back to a village that had lost them has created jobs, provided essential amenities, and given people a place to gather and connect. Its activities have reduced isolation, promoted wellbeing and enriched cultural life on Anglesey.
This not-for-profit pub has made a lasting difference to Bryngwran. It provides everything from music and meals to mentoring and mobility. Through volunteer leadership and collaborative energy, the team has restored a lost local landmark and turned it into a thriving, sustainable community resource.
Tafarn yr Iorwerth stands as a testament to what a united community can achieve. It’s a pub, a hub and a home for all – run by the people, for the people. Its model of regeneration and rural resilience is one that other communities across the UK can be inspired by.
