Ruthin punches above its weight for a small Welsh market town. The combination of a prosperous local population, tourists visiting the castle hotel, and the town's general character as a place people actually want to spend time in means the eating options are better than you might expect. Here is an honest guide to what's available.
The Castle Hotel Restaurant
Ruthin Castle Hotel has the most formal dining option in the town — a restaurant serving modern British food in the castle's main building. The setting is exceptional. Prices are hotel-restaurant prices. The medieval banquets (Friday and Saturday evenings, booking essential) are a different proposition entirely — theatrical, fun, not remotely authentically medieval, and popular for a reason. Book well ahead in summer.
Pubs
The Myddelton Arms on the town square is the central pub in every sense — medieval building, "eyes of Ruthin" windows, square-facing terrace, and a good range of drinks. It is where you should start an evening in Ruthin. The Wynnstay Arms on Well Street is a 16th-century half-timbered coaching inn mentioned by George Borrow in Wild Wales (1862) — he called it the Cross Foxes — and is worth visiting for the building alone. Both serve food.
Cafés
Ruthin Craft Centre's café on Park Road is recommended for lunch — straightforward, well-done food with good coffee in a modern space. There are independent cafés on St Peter's Square and along Well Street; the town's working character means these are aimed primarily at locals rather than tourists, which keeps the quality and value honest.
Practical Notes
Ruthin is a small town. On a quiet weekday out of season you may find limited choice. Booking ahead for dinner at the castle and the Myddelton Arms is sensible in summer. Wednesday market day (mornings) is the liveliest time and is when you'll find the most food options in the square.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I eat in Ruthin?
The main options are the Ruthin Castle Hotel restaurant (formal, good), the Myddelton Arms on the town square (pub food, good atmosphere), the Wynnstay Arms on Well Street (16th-century coaching inn), and the Craft Centre cafe for lunch. On Wednesdays the market is the best value.
Does Ruthin Castle do food for non-residents?
Yes, the Ruthin Castle Hotel restaurant is open to non-residents for lunch and dinner. The medieval banquets on Friday and Saturday evenings are also open to non-residents but must be booked in advance.
Is there a good pub in Ruthin?
The Myddelton Arms on the town square is the standout pub in Ruthin — a 16th-century building with its famous seven-dormer facade, real ales, and terrace overlooking the square. The Wynnstay Arms on Well Street (the 'Cross Foxes' mentioned by George Borrow in Wild Wales) is a quieter alternative.