Licensees of The Pilot of Mumbles, Richard and Jo Bennett.

One of the Mumbles’ most historic pubs, The Pilot, is enjoying a revival as a haven for real ale fans. The pub, which was built in 1849, changed hands frequently and saw declining trade for around a decade, but that all altered when current licensees Jo and Richard Bennett took over a year ago.

With six hand pumps for cask beers on the bar from day one, the pub has attracted real ale fans from near and far, as well as a crowd of regular pub-goers who enjoy the friendly service and cosy, welcoming ambience.

“I guess I expected half a dozen people in on an evening, but we had a packed pub almost from day one, and the weekends took off straightaway,” said Jo. “We were helped by the good summer and the support from locals has been amazing.”

Richard and his business partner Rob Turner also saw their dream of a micro-brewery came true when the Mumbles Brewery opened on the premises in March.

Their regular ales include Mumbles Gold (4.3), Mumbles Mile (3.8), Lifesaver (5.1), Oystermouth Stout (4.4) and Lug Juice (4.1) and seasonal beers are also in the pipeline.

Real cider fans are catered for too with a good selection of bottled ciders.

The pub has also enjoyed a makeover with new windows that make the most of its sea views and a new sign. It was also runner-up in Swansea Life magazine’s best local pub award of 2013.