It was opened in 1977 by Richard Gale. The venue is housed in a remarkable building with a history dating back to the 13th century, and was rebuilt in 1775.
Canal Pub on the Llangollen Canal
Guide To Gales
Gales of Llangollen, located at 18 Bridge Street in the heart of the Welsh town, is a beloved historic establishment recognised as Wales' first wine bar.
This former Lion Inn once served travellers journeying from London to Dublin before being transformed into the charming multi-faceted business it is today.
Gales features a characterful wood-panelled wine bar with 20 tables, a hotel offering 15 en-suite rooms, a wine and gift shop, and four self-contained cottages throughout the village.
The wine bar’s motto, “simple food done well,” reflects its dedication to quality local ingredients and expertly selected wines. Perfectly positioned just minutes from the River Dee and the 16th-century Llangollen Bridge, Gales offers visitors a wonderful blend of historical charm, culinary excellence, and warm Welsh hospitality, which has allowed it to thrive for over four decades.
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Gales Reviews
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Review from Google Places
29 May 2025
Lovely hotel. Breakfast was the best loved it, except for 6.20 for 2 cups of tea bit steep but hey oh. Jacuzzi bath brilliant, will definitely go back
Review from Google Places
21 January 2025
My ma & pa stayed at Gayle’s for one night last November.
I arranged the booking though a lady called Hester as this was a surprise for my “oldies” joint 80th birthday present. They were traveling on the next day to Rhyl to see Elvis (he was very good apparently).
There was a bit of confusion when they first arrived with the change of ownership of the accommodation where they were staying. I wasn’t made aware and it did cause a bit of confusion as the name had changed (without a paddle).
The accomodation was nice, a bit dated but fine
Ma & Pa loved their evening meal and two bottles of red. The restaurant was busy which is always a good sign.
The Welsh breakfast the next morning I am told was extremely good too.
The chef was going to show my ma a way of preparing some dish but then the restaurant became busy once more.
All in all a wonderful experience for them with some class food and nice and friendly staff. A shout must go out to Hester for helping with this and letting me pay after the event. Very trusting.
There was just a bit of confusion with the bill due to new members of staff and change of ownership but all sorted now. I do think the £6 per person breakfast voucher is a bit tight judging what £6 actually buys.
I can’t wait to visit myself for a few nights when we do a spot of travelling on my motorbike. Just hope they can cater for the funny one!
Review from Google Places
15 December 2024
We visited yesterday and had some of the best food we have ever eaten, the French Toast was superb.
Delicious food and drink, in a lovely location, amazing, helpful, friendly staff and dog friendly too.
Our Border Terrier loved the attention.
What a brilliant start to Christmas.
Thank you and see you again soon, hopefully.
Review from Google Places
4 November 2024
I recently brought friends here for breakfast and it was delicious! Scrambled egg and bacon done just right and my friend said the creamy mushrooms on toast were the best he’d ever had. Thanks, I’ll be back soon!
Review from Google Places
12 October 2024
We have come out for a meal apparently on one of the busiest weekends of the year! With the new management It is clear that they have been run off their feet and maybe didn’t expect how busy this night was going to be. We had no wait to get our table. The young lady serving us was so polite and the food was amazing! We would definitely come again ❤️
