Latest news with #OldCrossInn
South Wales Guardian
15-07-2025
- Business
- South Wales Guardian
Old Cross Inn thriving but Ammanford not better, says owner
Tim Phillips and his partner Charlotte Hussell took over the Old Cross Inn on Quay Street over a year ago. Despite a quiet start to the year, the pub has become busier in the last few months. Tim and Charlotte have run the pub for a year and two months. (Image: File photo) Tim said: 'Things are going really well now, even though there is nothing to bring people to Ammanford after six o'clock. 'We've been working hard, and it's been an unbelievable couple of months. But the town itself hasn't got better. Things have improved because of better weather and longer nights. 'But the town still needs more investment. It's all well and good putting new chairs and fences in to make it look more attractive but there's nothing for business. 'Sunday can sometimes be quiet though as a lot of people travel to our pub from outside the town. But when there are no buses running it's made things more difficult.' Tim has reiterated the need for investment in Ammanford. (Image: File photo) In April, it was one year since Tim and Charlotte first took over Old Cross Inn and they had a party to celebrate their milestone. The couple previously ran a pub when they lived in Northampton. Tim continued: 'When we were in Northampton it was a different experience. It was a community pub with more families, and we were able to host more events due to not being based in the centre of town. 'I have run hotels so running a pub is a small operation for me. But there is more of a personal touch required with customers and both me and Charlotte are very hands on. 'We have a fantastic group of locals who support us here, and we got a lot of new business during the day. 'There are some new businesses and we've been having a chat with them about what can be done to increase footfall and things that are going to bring people in.' Tim also revealed steak has been added to the pub's menu and street food is served every other Saturday, with a recent Mexican edition proving to be popular with locals. 'We are also planning to start hosting a regular darts tournament every Sunday. Things have definitely picked up. 'We can now rent the pub out for parties. For £75 you can hire the whole pub, and this comes with a basic buffet.' Old Cross Inn has 22 reviews on Facebook and a recommendation ratio of 92%.
South Wales Guardian
28-06-2025
- Business
- South Wales Guardian
The Old Cross Inn in Ammanford is our pub of the week
This community hub is praised for its welcoming atmosphere and "spectacular" service. Located at the main crossroads in the town centre, the pub is easily accessible with nearby car parking. It is a popular spot for a quick drink or a meal, with a menu that boasts Welsh favourites and seasonal ingredients. (Image: Supplied) Visitors often mention the "homely atmosphere" as a key part of its charm, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day. The pub, which is dog-friendly, aims to attract families, particularly those with canine companions. The owners, Tim and Charlotte Phillips, who took over the establishment in April 2024, have previously said: "We're dog-friendly, which not many places are. "So it's a great place for people to come have food and relax without having to sit outside and worry about the weather." The couple, who have a history of transforming pubs, have plans in place to continue the success of the Old Cross Inn. Having previously turned a quiet pub in Northampton into a bustling social spot, they are keen to replicate their success in Ammanford. (Image: Supplied) With summer now upon us, they are hoping to have a range of events planned to bring the community together. Charlotte Phillips said of last year's events: "We're hoping to do some theme nights for the pub and we're also going to do in a few months a BBQ outside of the front of the pub for the summer." It is hoped that similar events are likely for this summer. The Old Cross Inn has received positive reviews from guests, with many highlighting the courteous staff, great choice of dishes at reasonable prices, and fine décor. The pub has a Google rating of 4, according to guests' opinions. The Old Cross Inn is the place to be for a friendly, welcoming pub experience in the heart of Ammanford, whether you're after a quick drink, a hearty meal, or an evening of entertainment. And if you have a furry friend, they are more than welcome to join in the fun.
