One of Powys' best stargazing pubs the Star Inn reopening

Powys County Times

30-06-2025

One of the most remote pubs in Wales that is renowned for being the best for stargazing has revealed that it will be reopening to visitors for the first time in years.
Tucked away in the Cambrian Mountains above the Clywedog reservoir between Llanidloes and Machynlleth, the aptly named Star Inn in Dylife will be welcoming back customers for a well-earned pint later next month.
Its owners have said the pub will reopen its doors from Friday, July 25,and will also be serving food.
In an announcement made on social media, the pub said it aims to be a "focal point for the community and to reach far and wide".
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"After what seems like a lifetime, The Star Inn will once again rise, high above the surrounding area, this famous old drovers hostelry will be opening its doors once again!" the pub said.
"We will be serving food, and the bar will be open.
"Understandably with a few tweaks to ensure everything we do is viable.
"A fresh lick of paint, deep cleaned, and décor to reflect our unique setting.
"It really is an exciting time!"
Customers have been told that there are "so many plans in the pipelines, some very unique" to keep an eye out for.
The pub also announced that it will be taking bookings for private parties, birthdays, tours, small weddings, meetings and more.
The Star Inn will be open from 12pm to 9.30pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, with food served from midday until 8pm. The pub will serve food on Sunday from 12pm to 3pm, before closing at 5pm.
The Star Inn dates back to the 17th Century, and was popular with walkers, cyclists and celebrities like Cerys Matthews and the late Terry Jones before it was put up for sale in 2021.
Surrounded by stunning scenery of the Cambrian Mountains, and only a stone's throw away from Llyn Clywedog, the was awarded Dark Sky Discovery Site status in 2019.
After the pub was sold, Powys County Council granted the new owners permission last year to site a caravan and three glamping domes.
To get to The Star Inn, visitors need to take the B4518 road and turn-off onto the 'mountain road' which eventually leads to Machynlleth.
Dylife was once a thriving mining community of more than 1,000 people. At the height of the lead mining industry in the 19th Century, there were four inns, several chapels, a church and a school - which have now nearly all disappeared.