No-nonsense pub plots its own course as it maintains old traditions

Lois McCarthy visits The Pilot in Mumbles. She finds out they don't do food, they don't have Sky, but what they do have is quality drink and a penchant for conversation

- 

MORE than 12 years ago a couple from Swansea stepped in to save what is widely regarded as the oldest pub in the Mumbles.

One of the staples of the so-called 'Mumbles Mile' The Pilot Inn has a long and at times rocky history that is reminiscent of the beachfront it overlooks.

First established in 1849, the pub has been part of the local landscape for generations. Its original licensee, pilot and mariner Sam Ace, named the seafront pub after the small but heroic vessels that once guided larger ships safely though the treacherous sea banks of Swansea Bay. Over time it became a well-loved gathering place for mariners, fishermen, oyster dredgers, and locals alike.

Today the inn sits in good company. It’s neighbours include none other than Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas, who own a home nearby in Limeslade, and singer Bonnie Tyler, who lives along Mumbles Road.

However, like many old institutions, The Pilot has worn many faces over the years and at times struggled to keep pace with the growing number of trendy bars and restaurants along the seafront.

That changed when Richard and Jo Bennett took over. Under their stewardship The Pilot has firmly reestablished itself as a beloved local fixture known for its straightforward charm, strong sense of community and quirky rules.

Before taking the helm Richard and Jo had spent more than two decades away from Swansea, moving between the south of England, Scotland, and even Milan. After years of relocating they finally felt the pull to return home and with that decision came a desire to “reinvent” themselves. It was then that Richard chose to follow a long-held dream to brew his own beer.

Jo was fully behind the idea. With some experience from a part-time job in a pub she saw the potential in running one of their own - a venture that could be both a fresh start and a shared opportunity.

“She wanted the pub. I wanted the brewery,” Richard says.