A new bakery at The Cross Keys in Llanfynydd is drawing attention for its sought-after sourdough bread and community spirit
Llanfynydd: A charming 17th-century pub in Flintshire has transformed into a bakery, serving up delicious homemade cakes and fresh bread. The Cross Keys is not just a place to grab a drink anymore; it’s becoming a community hub for walkers and cyclists.
While it’s not the first pub in the UK to have a bakery, it’s definitely a rare find. Traditionally, pubs have served pies, but this new venture, called Smithy Bakery, is all about artisan goodies.
Gareth Kirkham and Clare Bradshaw, the enthusiastic bakers behind this venture, are excited to bring their passion for baking to the village. They previously co-founded Spicy Socials, organizing outdoor activities from the pub.
Gareth has been testing different bread recipes with locals, and guess what? Sourdough is the clear favorite! He plans to offer it in various forms, like white and wholemeal, and maybe even some baguettes and buns later on.
Clare is taking charge of the sweet treats, whipping up cakes, brownies, and cookies. She’s even experimenting with croissants and tarts. Who doesn’t love a good cake, right?
The bakery will kick off its opening on Saturdays at 9 am starting January 18. Initially, they expect locals to pop in, but as word spreads, they hope to attract visitors from further away. Plus, Offa’s Dyke runs right through Llanfynydd, making it a great stop for hikers.
Historically, Llanfynydd had its own cornmill and blacksmiths, and it grew in the 19th century with quarrying and mining. The area is also known for its beautiful wooded valleys, perfect for a stroll.
After a rough patch, including a fire and the loss of the village school, The Cross Keys has reopened, honoring former patron Mark Steene, who was a beloved figure in the community.
His sister Mandy and friends bought the pub in his memory, and during renovations, they incorporated old train tracks into the bar and used a lightning-struck oak tree for window ledges. How cool is that?
The pub is buzzing with community spirit again. Gareth mentioned that one room used to be a blacksmith’s and is now called ‘The Smithy,’ which inspired the bakery’s name, linking it to the pub’s history.
With rising costs, sharing the space makes sense. The pub is open from noon to 11 pm, so Gareth and Clare can bake early in the morning and serve fresh goodies by 9 am.
Trevor Dawson, the new landlord, is also on board, bringing his extensive experience from managing hotels and nightclubs. He’s excited about the community vibe and is working on menu updates and new entertainment options.
Trevor said he was looking for a community-focused pub, and The Cross Keys fits the bill perfectly. It’s a great time for Llanfynydd, and everyone is looking forward to what’s next!
