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The Rummer Tavern, located at the entrance to Cardiff Castle, holds the distinction of being the oldest surviving pub in Cardiff’s city centre, with its origins dating back to 1713. The Rummer Tavern, believed to have been built in the early 18th century, stands on a medieval burgage plot, characterized by its long, narrow shape at right angles to the street. Its façade, designed to evoke a Tudor appearance, is a pastiche of the style, blending historical charm with later modifications.
In 1888, the interior underwent a significant makeover, transitioning from “old world furnishing” to a “metropolitan bar” adorned with mirrors, reflecting a modernized aesthetic for the time.
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Etymology and Cultural Significance
The name “Rummer Tavern” derives from a “rummer,” a large glass or cup for wine originating in 16th-century Central Europe, associated with toasts and known as a “römer” in Germany, where the verb “rühmen” means to extol or praise, as does the Dutch “roemen.” This etymology underscores the pub’s historical connection to conviviality and celebration, a theme that persists in its role as a social hub.
Role in Cardiff’s Transport History
In 1835, the Bristol and Newport Steam Packets company advertised a coach service from the Rummer Tavern, connecting Cardiff to Merthyr. By 1840, the pub served as the starting point for the “Hero” coach service to Worcester and Birmingham, highlighting its significance as a transport hub in 19th-century Cardiff. Additionally, coaches linked Cardiff to Newport, where steamships from Bristol docked, further cementing the Rummer’s role in regional connectivity.
Notable Incidents and Landlords
In 1877, a labourer named Henry George Bird was sentenced to a month’s imprisonment with hard labour for stealing six shillings from the Rummer Tavern. The landlady, Mrs. Churchman, caught Bird with his fingers in the till after briefly leaving the bar, and her husband, landlord William Churchman, apprehended him after a chase down the street.
William Churchman, a former servant of the Bute family, which owned much of Cardiff, including the castle, had a distinguished background, having arranged Lord Bute’s wedding and founded the Bute Household Cricket Club.
Community and Sporting Connections
The Rummer Tavern was a focal point for local organizations in the late 19th century. The Cardiff 100 Miles Road Cycling Club, established in 1891, was based at the pub. In 1899, landlord Mr. Matthews presented a cup to CE Jenkins for completing the club’s 100-mile course in a record-breaking 5 hours and 58 minutes. Other groups, including the Welsh Kennel Club and the regional Amateur Athletics Association branch, also held meetings at the Rummer, underscoring its role as a community hub.
Paranormal Activity
The Rummer Tavern is reputed to be haunted, with staff and customers reporting ghostly presences, particularly in the toilets and cellar. According to records, the spirit is believed to be that of a sailor who died shortly after discovering his wife’s infidelity. These tales add a layer of mystique to the pub’s storied history.
Cardiff’s Oldest Pubs
While the Rummer Tavern, established in 1713, is the oldest surviving pub in Cardiff’s city centre, when considering the broader modern county borough, older inns exist in ancient villages now part of Cardiff. The Church Inn in Llanishen, dating to the 14th century, claims the title of Cardiff’s oldest pub, followed closely by the Unicorn in Llanedeyrn.
Within the city centre, other historic pubs include Dempseys (1720, originally the Globe), Owain Glyndwr (1731, originally Kemeys-Tynte Arms), and the Model Inn (1770, originally Ship & Launch).
Conclusion
The Rummer Tavern stands as a testament to Cardiff’s rich history, blending architectural heritage, cultural significance, and intriguing anecdotes. From its medieval burgage plot origins and Tudor-style façade to its role in 19th-century transport and community life, the pub has been a cornerstone of Cardiff’s social fabric since 1713.
Its ghostly tales and connections to notable figures like William Churchman and events like the Cardiff 100 Miles Road Cycling Club further enrich its legacy. While the Church Inn in Llanishen predates it as Cardiff’s oldest pub overall, the Rummer Tavern remains the city centre’s most historic watering hole, a living link to Cardiff’s past.
