Last updated: 13 July 2023
Previously: 7 July 2021
How many of us when we visit somewhere new usually ask, ‘Where can we find good food?’. We’re fortunate at Hafannedd, in that we have a wonderful organic farm incredibly close to us. Rhug Estate Organic Farm is just over 5 miles from us (a 9 minute drive down the A494) and has so many goodies on offer.
About Rhug Estate
The organic farm itself covers 6,700 acres and sits within the 12,500 acre Rhug Estate which hosts many outdoor activities such as shooting and fishing, rallying, gorge walking, mountain biking and more.
After taking over the estate on the death of his father in 1998, the organic farm’s founder Lord Newborough forged ahead with his belief in sustainable organic farming:
“I firmly believe in sustainable farming and employing the highest standard of animal welfare. By not using sprays, artificial fertiliser and routine medication you end up with a more healthy, tender, and tasty meat. All of the livestock enjoy a 100% organic diet and live free-range on clover rich pasture."
On going wholesale in 2004, the farm has grown considerably and not only supplies produce to a national market but exports too. Indeed, 20% of its sales is down to export business - selling to the likes of Hong Kong, Dubai (the 7 star Burj Al Arab to be exact), Singapore and more recently the Maldives. In terms of the UK, Rhug Estate Organic Farm also sells its produce to the London markets three times a week, Clarence House, the Dorchester and the Ritz.
Over the past few years, Rhug Estate has transformed into an award-winning diverse business which is recognised not only for sustainable organic farming but also green energy, retail, wholesale and skincare. Back in 2016, the Rhug Estate was awarded a Footprint Award for the ‘Sustainable Use of Natural Resources’ due to renewable heat and power generation.
Visitors to the estate can enjoy the farm shop and eateries as well as take advantage of the electric vehicle charging ports. Packaging for the On the Hoof Takeaway and Drive Thru’ is recyclable and compostable and the estate is keen to reduce its carbon footprint.
The Rhug Estate Farm Shop
If you’re interested in visiting the farm shop, you’ll be amazed at the variety of choice on offer with over 3,000 products. With the main emphasis being on local and organic Welsh produce there is so much to get your teeth into (no pun intended).
Every day, the meat counter has a selection of Rhug Organic meat from which to choose whilst the deli counter has a range of Welsh, British and continental cheeses plus charcuterie, roasted meats, pies and quiches. If you’re after a little tipple to go with your meat and cheese, check out the shop’s wine, beer and spirits. Plus treat yourself to some pampering (and why not, you’re on holiday) with the Rhug Estate’s organic skincare range.
Opening Hours
Monday 09:00 – 17:00
Tuesday 09:00 – 17:00
Wednesday 09:00 – 17:00
Thursday 09:00 – 17:00
Friday 08:30 – 17:00
Saturday 08:30 – 17:00
Sunday 09:00 – 17:00
Café Rhug
Soon to open, Café Rhug will offer the award-winning Rhug Organic meat and concentrate on home-style favourites starting in the morning with a full English breakfast, eggs benedict and granola followed by a lunch menu that includes hotpots, Welsh rarebit, ploughman’s and quiches and of course, wonderful homemade cakes. On a Sunday, the café will be serving traditional roasts and it goes without saying that all ingredients will come from many local suppliers.
Opening Hours (once open)
Monday - Sunday 09:00 - 17:00
Last hot food orders in Café Rhug are 30 minutes before closing time.
On the Hoof Takeaway
Serving the award-winning Rhug Organic meat, the takeaway has a wide selection of hot and cold drinks and food such as burgers, bacon rolls, sandwiches and jacket potatoes, homemade curry and more. If you want to hang around and enjoy your take-out in situ, there is a terrace and heated outdoor seating area. Note that it’s accessible to wheelchairs.
Opening Hours
Monday 09:00 – 17:00
Tuesday 09:00 – 17:00
Wednesday 09:00 – 17:00
Thursday 09:00 – 17:00
Friday 08:30 – 17:00
Saturday 08:30 – 17:00
Sunday 09:00 – 17:00
The Drive Thru’
Located at the main entrance to Rhug Estate, the Drive Thru’ has a variety of hot and cold drinks and serves sandwiches, pastries and cakes, paninis and toasties, sandwiches, homemade hot food and breakfast rolls.
Opening Hours
Monday – 07:30 -18:30
Tuesday – 07:30 -18:30
Wednesday – 07:30 -18:30
Thursday – 07:30 -18:30
Friday – 07:30 -19:30
Saturday – 07:30 -18:30
Sunday – 08:30 -17:30
Hearty Hampers and meat boxes
The Rhug Estate Welsh wine and cheese hamper and meat gift boxes are absolute winners in our eyes and many of our guests have enjoyed the delicious contents. There are a selection of meat boxes available so if you fancy a night or a weekend’s supply you’re spoilt for choice. Order before or during your visit a chicken, beef or lamb or mixed box which not only contains a superb cut of meat but also some assorted goodies such as Welsh baked cheese similar to Camembert, Cartmel sticky chocolate pudding and separate sauce, and Adobe organic wine.
Please go to the Rhug Estate Organic Farm online shop for more details of each box.