Coffee and cake in the middle of famous North Wales strait

A slice of avocado and courgette cake at the cafe on Bangor's Garth Pier
-Credit:David Powell


It was after 3.30pm and I fancied a coffee on Bangor's Garth Pier. It was 50p to go through the gate then I headed for the cafe at the far end.

It's a surprisingly long way. Slightly out of breath, I reached the pinnacle-topped building and ordered a latte.

I also surveyed the cabinet of pasties, millionaire shortbread and homemade cakes. "What flavour is that sponge cake, please"? I asked the lady. "Avocado and courgette", was her unlikely reply. Get all the latest Gwynedd news by signing up to our newsletter - sent every Tuesday

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The cafe on Bangor's Garth Pier
The cafe on Bangor's Garth Pier -Credit:David Powell

Never having had one of those I chose a slice of that. The sponge - with tiny pieces of said ingredients on the sugary topping - was moist, sweet and delicious.

As I sipped my coffee I looked out the windows and the view of the Great Orme and Menai Strait was glorious as the sun set. Apparently, this cafe is busy all year round, with customers from Liverpool, Newcastle, Ireland and Scotland as well as locals.

The Pier Pavillion cafe on Bangor's Garth Pier
The Pier Pavillion cafe on Bangor's Garth Pier -Credit:David Powell

The temporary closure of the Port of Holyhead due to damage from Storm Darragh last month - and redirecting of ferries - has led to some lost trade, as it has for many businesses. But they have still come throughout the winter and will be back in numbers as the weather improves.

If you didn't know already, this is a "destination" cafe in an outstanding setting.

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The facts

Location: Pier Pavillion tearoom, Garth Pier, Bangor LL57 2SW

Food: Avocado and courgette cake and latte coffee

Service: Friendly and efficient

Atmosphere: Lovely in a unique setting

Total bill: £7.00

Verdict: Worth the trek to the far end.