The Bear, Cowbridge

Originally a private house belonging to the Thomas family of Llanmihangel.  By 1736 the Bear was an inn with reference to the establishment hosting the town’s Book Society annual dinner.  Fresh food was grown in the Bear’s gardens and tended by their own gardeners.

The Bear grew in importance with the coming of the Swansea to London mail coach service.  Quarter sessions were also held there in the 1770s & 1780s. 

In 1739 and 1769 the inn was licensed for the Quakers’ annual meetings for Wales.