Tucked away in the nature-filled village of Michaelston-y-Fedw, just a short drive from Cardiff, The Cefn Mably Arms is a historic Welsh country pub with centuries of stories to tell. Surrounded by green hills, peaceful lanes, and one of the oldest oak trees in Wales, it’s a destination full of charm, character, and community.

Originally built as a farmhouse in 1550, the building later became a public house and has been welcoming guests ever since. With thick stone walls, timber beams, and a warm, rustic feel, it’s easy to imagine the generations who have passed through these doors.

Local legend suggests the building was once a monastery, where monks brewed their own beer; fitting for a pub that’s still pouring pints hundreds of years later.

Standing proudly in the car park is the Cefn Mably Oak, believed to be up to 800 years old, making it the 2nd oldest standing oak trees in Wales. It is predicted to stand proud for at least another 400 years. This ancient tree is a local celebrity and a quiet witness to centuries of life in the village.

In the 19th century, the pub became a meeting place for local societies, where members got together, shared stories, and supported one another. From horse-drawn carriages and village beagle meets to our modern-day Sunday roasts and events, at the centre of village life, you'll find The Cefn Mably Arms.

In 2020, frustrated by poor internet, the villagers of Michaelston y Fedw decided—over drinks at The Cefn Mably Arms—to lay their own superfast broadband cable. With the help of locals including pensioners, farmers, teachers, and our pub landlord, they installed 15 miles of cable, connecting 250 homes just in time for lockdown. Their efforts were recognised with a European innovation award.

Right next to the pub is St Michael’s Church, a charming historic building with its own claim to fame. Its central aisle slopes gently upward—so brides and grooms here quite literally walk up the aisle.

The church once used to be a Roman Fortress, as it is exactly halfway between Cardiff Castle and Caerleon Roman Fortress. It provided a lookout for the Roman army.

In the 20th century, the church made headlines when a forgotten crypt was discovered, revealing centuries-old tombs beneath the main hall.

One of St. Michael’s Church’s most beloved stories is of the vicar who, without fail, would pop into the pub every Sunday for a pint of bitter. Though Sunday laws kept the pub officially closed, this village tradition carried on for years. The vicar now rests in the churchyard, perfectly placed to keep an eye on both the church and the pub.

Rudolf Walter Richard Hess was a German politician, convicted war criminal and a leading member of the Nazi Party in Germany.

Elizabeth Hess (Mackie), who died in 1891, was the first wife of Carl Hess, Rudolph’s father. Her grave is located next door to The Cefn Mably Arms, at St. Michael’s church.

In the 1930s, The Cefn Mably Arms entered a memorable chapter under the Head family. Harry Head, a charismatic host with a love of cigars and fine port, transformed the pub into a well-loved destination for landowners, businessmen, and even circus performers.

Alongside him, Muriel brought elegance and warmth to the place, often seen with her lapdog and a gin and tonic. The taproom, with its open fire, oak settles, and grandfather clock, became a favourite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.

In recent years, The Cefn Mably Arms added another chapter to its legacy, serving as a filming location for the BBC drama “The Pact” (2021). The pub’s timeless atmosphere and charm made it the perfect backdrop for the hit series; further proof that this is no ordinary pub.

The BBC are currently filming yet another drama at the pub named ‘Industry’, so keep an eye on your TV screens in 2026 to catch The Cefn Mably Arms (aka The Norton Arms) in action!

While many changes have come over the years—modern amenities, updated menus, and new faces behind the bar; the core of The Cefn Mably Arms remains unchanged and the history speaks for itself.

And now you know the story behind our wonderful Inn. Whether you’re popping in for Sunday lunch, an event, or just a relaxed pint by the fire, come and help us write the next chapter!