‘SHOCKING’ REVAMP OF OLDEST PUB IN CAPITAL
T HIS is the new look for the oldest pub in Wales’ capital – and many people are not happy. Cardiff’s Rummer Tavern reopened yesterday with new flatscreen TVs after a three-week revamp by owners the Craft Union Beer Company.
The 18th century boozer, reputed to date from 1713, if not earlier, is famous for its oak beams, wood panelling and brickwork.
It may have kept much of its iconic part-timbered exterior and leaded windows, but it also has a new sign advertising the “Tafarn Rummer” and boasting of Sky Sports and BT Sport.
Some critics on social media compared it to a “cheap sports bar”.
Posting on Twitter, James Munroe said: “Shocked to hear that one of my favourite pubs in Cardiff, the 18th century Rummer Tavern, has been stripped out and turned into a cheap sports pub.”
Twitter user PJ Montgomery added: “I have now seen the new Rummer Tavern with my own eyes. It’s upsetting. It is now a modern, trendy sports bar.”
Former Cardiff councillor Cerys Furlong said: “Vandals. Absolutely shocking.”
Images from inside the building show a pool table and large TV screen.
Pub manager Lee Hazell said the renovations had “not detracted” from the building’s character.
He said: “It needed refreshing and rejuvenating and bringing in line with a few health and safety measures.
“Most people have said change that was needed.
“The Rummer had been the same for the last 30-odd years.”
Mr Hazell, who took over the management of the pub in November, added: “People who have criticised it have not seen the building.
“It’s the oldest pub in Cardiff and it’s a there have been a few changes through the years. In the 1980s there was a shop in the front window.
“Some people don’t like it but change is necessary and this is s a very positive change e that we are looking g forward to.”
The pub’s name e comes from a rummer, , or large glass or cup of f wine, that originated in 16th century y Europe.
Responding to the criticism, Mr Hazell said the Rummer Tavern remained a “local pub” and not a sports bar.
He said: “It’s a pub with screens and shows sports but it is not a sports bar.”