Pen & Wig

You're drinking in a proper Victorian courthouse here, complete with the original dock, judge's bench, and witness stand still in place. It's not theatrical nonsense – this genuinely was Cardiff Magistrates' Court until the 1990s, and the Heritage Pubs lot have done a brilliant job preserving its character whilst making it an actual decent boozer. The main courtroom bar feels properly atmospheric without being gimmicky, and the smaller snug areas work perfectly for quieter pints. The food leans Welsh and hearty – think proper cawl, decent Sunday roasts, and fish and chips that don't disappoint. The beer selection takes itself seriously with local Welsh breweries well represented alongside dependable classics. Located just off Park Place near the university, it draws a good mix of academics, legal types (obviously), and locals who appreciate a pub with genuine character rather than corporate blandness.