Nestled in the picturesque village of Penmark, in the heart of the Vale of Glamorgan, The Six Bells has long been a beloved institution.
With its origins dating back to 1622, this 16th-century gem holds a timeless charm that speaks to its rich history. The pub’s name derives from the Church of St Mary the Blessed, situated opposite, whose original six bells once echoed through the village. But while its roots are firmly planted in history, The Six Bells is moving with the times under its new stewardship.
On April 1st, 2024, Matthew Rankmore, a seasoned chef with a deep personal connection to the pub, took over The Six Bells. It was a homecoming of sorts, as Matthew first cut his culinary teeth in the kitchen here at the tender age of 15, under the guidance of his uncle, the previous owner. After honing his craft in some of London’s finest establishments, including The Grosvenor, The Savoy, and The Gavroche, Matthew returned with a wealth of experience and a vision to breathe new life into this historic pub.
Craftsmanship in the kitchen
Matthew’s passion for cooking shines through every dish served at The Six Bells. A trained French-style chef, his meticulous approach to food is rooted in the traditions of French cuisine, known for its precision and use of the freshest ingredients. Matthew is a one-man powerhouse in the kitchen, cooking solo with the help of his trusted kitchen porter. His fiancé, Kym, manages the front-of-house operations with a warm, welcoming touch, making the pub feel like a home away from home for locals and visitors alike.
Culinary legend Anthony Bourdain once said: “Cooking is a craft, I like to think, and a good cook is a craftsman – not an artist,” Anthony was certainly one of our heroes and he’s clearly one of Matthew’s as a large photograph of him is, proudly displayed on the pub’s wall. It perfectly captures Matthew’s ethos – he’s a grafter who believes in doing things right. His menu, which changes frequently to keep things exciting, is a testament to his dedication to quality. Everything is cooked in beef tallow or butter, with vegetable oil reserved only for the fryer, giving the food a rich and indulgent flavour. We’d also add, Matthew’s food is very easy on the eye. There is a bit of an artist in there, as well as the craftsman.
Fresh and local
At the heart of Matthew’s philosophy is a commitment to sourcing the best local ingredients. All of the meat is sourced from Barratts Butchers in nearby Rhoose, the fruit and vegetables come from The Village Stores, and the fish is supplied by Ashtons and Swansea Fish. This dedication to freshness ensures that every plate that leaves the kitchen is a reflection of the very best the Vale has to offer.
The Six Bells is no ordinary village pub – it’s a gastro pub where Matthew’s skills elevate simple dishes into something extraordinary. His most requested dish? The burger. “It’s hard to beat,” he says, and judging by the rave reviews, it’s clear why. Whether it’s a Steak Night on Saturdays or the ever-popular Sunday lunch, Matthew’s food is always in high demand.
The Six Bells is more than just a place to eat; it’s a gathering spot for the community. Matthew and Kym have created a neighbourly atmosphere where everyone, from couples to families, can relax and enjoy a good meal. The pub is dog-friendly, too, making it the perfect spot to bring your furry friends after a walk in the countryside.
Matthew’s connection to The Six Bells runs deep, not just because of the family history, but because he genuinely cares about creating a space where people feel welcome. He’s often seen chatting with customers, adding a personal touch that you don’t often find in today’s bustling restaurant scene. It’s this warm, inviting environment that keeps customers coming back.
The pub also offers live music and comedy acts, adding a lively twist to its already vibrant atmosphere. And for those looking to celebrate a special occasion, the events room is available for hire at no extra charge when food is booked – a perfect venue for any gathering.
A Sunday lunch to remember
Speaking of Sunday lunch, we recently had the pleasure of experiencing one ourselves, and it’s safe to say, it lived up to the hype. From the moment we walked in, the ambiance was set with lovely background music, creating a relaxed, welcoming vibe.
The lunch itself was exceptional. The Yorkshire puddings were nothing short of magnificent – towering, crisp, and golden brown. The vegetables, from perfectly cooked carrots and broccoli to the creamy, indulgent cauliflower cheese, were spot on. The honey roast parsnips were, quite simply, the best we’ve ever tasted. And the beef? Cooked to perfection. The gravy was a standout, too – rich, flavourful, and, perhaps best of all, bottomless.
Pairing it all with a lovely Merlot was the perfect touch, and it’s clear that care goes into every aspect of the dining experience here, from the food to the wine.
A stylish setting
The Six Bells has retained its traditional charm, but Matthew and Kym have added their contemporary flair. The interior is a stylish blend of old and new, with high beams and an open layout that creates a spacious, airy feel. Warm browns, wooden floors, and cosy fabric touches ensure that it’s a place where you can settle in for the afternoon or evening, feeling right at home.
There’s plenty of parking at the rear of the pub, making it an easy destination for visitors to the area. And with its location opposite the beautiful Church of St Mary the Blessed, it’s hard to imagine a more idyllic spot to while away a few hours.
A hidden gem
The Six Bells has already made a name for itself, ranked highly on TripAdvisor and featured on the website Top 100 Attractions. Recent reviews from diners have praised everything from the “fantastic flavours” of the dishes to the “inviting and cosy” atmosphere. One guest raved about the wagyu burger, calling it “INCREDIBLE!!!” and another described the Sunday lunch as “blown away by the quality of the food.”
For Matthew, the goal is simple: to provide top-quality food at affordable prices in a welcoming, family-oriented environment. Whether you’re popping in for a quick bite, enjoying a leisurely meal, or booking a special event, The Six Bells is a place that leaves a lasting impression.
Book early!
The Six Bells is open Wednesday to Sunday, from 12 pm to 10 pm. It’s closed on Mondays, but with Sunday lunches selling out most weekends, you’ll want to book early to avoid disappointment. And for those who can’t stay, takeaway options are available, so you can enjoy Matthew’s culinary creations from the comfort of your own home.
With its winning combination of history, hospitality, and top-notch food, The Six Bells in Penmark is well worth a visit. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this hidden gem is sure to become a favourite.
The Six Bells
Penmark CF62 3BP
01446 710229
The Six Bells currently (October 2024) offers 10% off for veterans, pensioners and students
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