Yr Eagles in Llanuwchllyn, Gwynedd, is much more than a pub.
It is a social hub that supports the activities of community groups as part of its proactive approach to try and help tackle social isolation and support the wellbeing of local people.
Llanuwchllyn is an isolated, rural community with a strong agricultural background and few public services.
Yr Eagles has always been at the centre of the community and when the owners, who had run the pub for over 20 years decided to retire, the community joined together to purchase the premises in 2023 to ensure it remained as a vital asset for people in the local area.
The 18th century traditional stone-built building is the true focal point of Llanuwchllyn and a hub where a warm welcome is always on offer to local residents and visitors alike.
Hub for local people
As well as being a well frequented, popular pub and restaurant Yr Eagles also runs a small but well stocked village shop.
Fresh milk, bread, many everyday essentials including morning papers, fresh meat from the local butcher as well as beer and wine are on offer at the store.
When the committee of locals took over the ownership of the pub it was important that the venue focused on being a hub for people that live locally and provide a space for a range of local community groups that cater for all ages and backgrounds.
It is already the base for two choirs, two local football teams and various agricultural support groups.
A grant from Pub is The Hub was provided to purchase a new PA system to support both the pub’s busy calendar of social events and the needs of local groups.
Community events
It has allowed the pub to extend its support to local groups and host more community events to help tackle the significant issues in the area of loneliness and social isolation.
A new quiz night has been launched with plans for bingo nights, information evenings on welfare and social issues, fashion shows, wine tasting evenings and talks for community groups.
Huw Antur, secretary to the community benefit society, said:“Working with ‘Pub is the Hub’ has enabled us to invest in much needed audio and video equipment which has been invaluable in supporting the work of our youth group. This has encouraged regular participation by youngsters who have been able to develop their digital skills and have fun at the same time – all helping to ensure that our community pub and hub is used by the widest possible range of people.”
Wales regional advisor for Pub is The Hub Malcolm Harrison said: “This pub is already having a real social impact on people in the local area. These community events will be crucial in helping local people to overcome social isolation, especially in such a rural area, and will be a central hub for the region.”