Why Netflix’s House of Guinness Has Everyone Talking
The recent launch of House of Guinness on Netflix has revived global fascination with the famous black stout. The series follows the succession struggles of the Guinness family after the death of Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness in 1868. As viewers immerse themselves in the lavish period drama, many are turning to search engines to uncover the real history behind the pint.
That surge in interest has given rise to an unexpected local twist. Could the origins of Guinness be traced not just to Dublin, but also to a quiet North Wales village?
The Official Story Behind Guinness
Guinness as we know it began in 1759 when Arthur Guinness signed a 9,000-year lease for the St James’s Gate Brewery in Dublin. Originally brewing traditional ales, he soon shifted to the darker porter style that would eventually become synonymous with the Guinness name.
This official version is well-documented and forms the foundation of the Guinness brand’s Irish heritage. However, a lesser-known story has lingered in the hills of North Wales for generations, suggesting a different kind of origin altogether..
The Llanfairfechan Legend: A Pint of Welsh Folklore
Located between the sea and Snowdonia’s peaks lies Llanfairfechan, a picturesque village in Conwy County. Local legend claims that during his travels from London to Holyhead, Arthur Guinness may have stopped at a roadside tavern near Llanfairfechan known as Gwyn Du, meaning “black wine” in Welsh.
The story goes that this inn served a distinctive dark ale, strong and rich in flavour. Some versions suggest Arthur Guinness tasted the ale, took inspiration from it, or even secured the recipe to recreate it in Dublin. Whether the tale is a romanticised myth or rooted in reality remains uncertain, but the story has become part of the village’s cultural lore.
Exploring North Wales: Where History and Scenery Meet
Visitors intrigued by this story can easily explore both filming history and folklore in one trip. Penrhyn Castle, managed by the National Trust, is open to the public and showcases grand architecture, art collections, and views stretching toward Snowdonia.
From there, the coastal path leads west to Llanfairfechan, a serene village framed by sea and mountains. It’s the perfect setting to imagine travellers stopping for a pint of “black wine” on their way across Wales centuries ago.
Where History and Holiday Meet: Stay Nearby
If you’re curious to explore the roots of the Guinness myth or simply want to discover the beauty of North Wales, there are plenty of nearby places to stay. Craiglwyd Hall Holiday Park, located in Penmaenmawr just minutes from Llanfairfechan, offers scenic views of both the mountains and the sea. It’s the perfect spot for couples or families who want to walk in the footsteps of legend while enjoying the modern comforts of a well-appointed holiday home.
Just a short drive away, Maenan Abbey provides a tranquil retreat in the Conwy Valley, surrounded by history and close to popular attractions like Betws-y-Coed and Bodnant Gardens. These parks, part of Thornley Leisure Parks, are ideal for anyone looking to blend local storytelling with an unforgettable break in North Wales.
The Final Pour
Whether the Guinness origin myth from Llanfairfechan is fact or fiction, it serves as a delightful reminder that history is often more complex than it appears. With House of Guinness drawing global eyes to the brand’s Irish roots, it’s a perfect time to celebrate the lesser-known legends that add depth and colour to our local landscape.
So the next time you raise a glass, take a moment to wonder—could the world’s most famous pint have a secret Welsh past?
Plan your own North Wales escape and uncover the places where history and legend meet.
From the coastlines of Llanfairfechan to the dramatic hills of Snowdonia, Thornley Leisure Parks offers the perfect base to explore it all. Stay at Craiglwyd Hall or Maenan Abbey to enjoy the best of Welsh heritage, seaside charm, and timeless scenery — and perhaps find your own story to tell.