Prince of Wales, Kenfig

Originally the Kenfig Corporation Guildhall built on pillars in the early 17th century, the Prince of Wales was largely rebuilt in 1808. It was used as a court for many years and retains the judges’ wooden benches, some 17th-century wall panelling; part was used as a Sunday school room from 1864 to 2000. You can discover more about the pub’s rich historic past by visiting www.kenfig.org.uk/history/prince-kenfig.html. The pub is still owned by the Kenfig Corporation Trust, which meets twice a year to distribute some £60,000 (the rents from this and other properties) to local groups and organisations who apply for grants.

Downstairs the pub still retains three rooms. To the left of the passage with an old Worthington mirror on the wall there is a small room with panelling and a fireplace from the 1970s. Beyond this is the small 'Singing Room' with old seating and a hatch to the side of the bar. In the middle of the pub lies the servery and beyond that you can see the casks on stillage in the cellar, which was extended back in recent years. The counter was replaced in the 1970s when they removed a tiny area to the right known as the 'Royal Box' (floor markings indicate its position) used by select customers who would serve themselves. The large room in front of the servery was formerly three small rooms and a passageway, but has been like this for at least 40 years.

The Prince of Wales is run on traditional lines with no jukebox, no fruit machines, no pool table and the TV is only switched on for rugby.