With its low beams, roaring fires and centuries-old character, this historic coaching inn offers the perfect base for exploring one of North Wales’ most atmospheric towns.

Dating back to 1522 and tucked away within the medieval walls of Caernarfon, the Black Boy Inn’s building itself is steeped in history. Its thick stone walls, timber panelling and winding staircases reflect more than 500 years of life in Caernarfon, once a bustling port and market town.

Today, the inn doubles as a hotel and pub, where visitors are just as likely to come for the ale and food as they are for the chance to stay somewhere that blends modern comfort with “olde worlde” charm.

On Tripadvisor, the Black Boy Inn is described as “full of character” and “the best place to stay” in Caernarfon. Guests consistently point to the warm welcome and outstanding staff as its greatest strength.

One reviewer, who stayed after a disappointing night elsewhere, recalled: “As soon as we walked through the door we breathed a huge sigh of relief. We had a wonderful welcome and immediately felt at home.”

Food and drink are another highlight. The pub serves hearty portions of locally inspired dishes, and its two bars stock an impressive range of Welsh ales. Plus, the atmosphere has been praised as “friendly” and “welcoming.” 

Of course, location is another reason the Black Boy Inn remains so popular. Nestled inside Caernarfon’s old town walls, the inn is just a few minutes’ walk from the imposing 13th-century Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Edward I. Visitors can explore its mighty towers, battlements and museums, then stroll to the harbour or enjoy the shops and restaurants clustered within the historic streets.

Caernarfon itself is one of Wales’ hidden gems. With a population of just under 10,000, it lies on the Menai Strait opposite Anglesey, with Eryri (Snowdonia) rising to the east. The town is known for its high proportion of Welsh speakers – around 87% -and its rich royal heritage, being the site of the 1969 investiture of the Prince of Wales.

As a base for exploring, it’s hard to beat. The Welsh Highland Railway departs from Caernarfon, offering steam train journeys deep into the mountains. The Menai Strait provides opportunities for boat cruises, while walkers and cyclists can follow the Lon Eifion trail for sweeping views across the landscape. Dinas Dinlle beach, with its golden sands, lies just a short drive away.

For those who prefer to stay local, Caernarfon has its own delights. Afternoon tea at The Old Courthouse, artisan shopping at Cei Llechi, and seafood suppers by the harbour at the Anglesey Arms all make for memorable days out.

Back at the Black Boy Inn, evenings are best spent by the fire with a pint in hand, soaking up the kind of atmosphere that only centuries-old pubs can offer. 

As one guest put it after a three-day stay: “It is a beautiful historic building which has been most sympathetically updated… The pub is also a very popular eating place. We thoroughly enjoyed our time here and highly recommend.”