LISVANE.

This pub, not far off junction 30 of the M4, is actually part of the Whitbread chain, but serves a mean pint of Brains SA and two guest ales. On this occasion Fullers London Pride and Blackawton Devon Gold. A very pretty building not too far from the rail station (and about 2 miles outside North Cardiff) this is a busy pub as it serves food lunchtime and evenings at very reasonable prices (£4.50 - £6.95). The fayre is traditional pub, steaks and the like, but they do an option for vegetarians. Inside there is a single long bar facing a narrow serving/drinking area, though tables do spread round the corner by the fire. The wooden bar has a foot rail and glass rack overhang. Chairs and settles are situated round the edges of the small but long room. at one end is a raised eating area and there is a 'children's room' upstairs. There is little on the roughly plastered (to look old) walls or beamed ceiling. While there is little room to manoeuvre inside, a ramp and toilet are provided for the disabled. Outside drinking is relegated to a couple of benches outside the front door on the pavement. There is no accommodation here.

On the edge of Lisvane near the park, this is part of the Ember Inns group. As such it has standard decor and menus. That said it is clean and well presented and they have a range of real ales. For non beer drinkers there is a selection of wine, though some bottles are expensive. The decor is all exposed stone walls with nice comfy bright furniture. This includes some cushioned reclining chairs and some standing tables. The pub is narrow around the bar area, though the length of the pub helps. Access for the disabled is possible, though there are areas where it is impossible, like the upstairs eating area and some of the booths round the rear area. Food is served here both lunch and evening and is good quality and choice. There is something for vegetarians and the prices are not too bad. For the summer there is a nice big beer garden area out front and a big car park at the rear. Not too far from the railway station. Well behaved kids welcome if eating and before 9pm.