Pub of the Week: The Dragonfly, Coedkernew, Newport

The Dragonfly Country Pub in Coedkernew, Newport, is celebrating a major milestone this year, marking 20 years of being part of the Newport community, having first opened in 2004. 

Under the new management of general manager Mark Rayner, who has only been at the helm for around a month, the Dragonfly is looking to start up more entertainment as a pub including live music and potentially a pub quiz after the festive season. 

New general manager Mark Rayner has a passion for food and has worked in the industry for more than a decade (Image: The Dragonfly) Despite manager Mark being relatively new, the Dragonfly has a highly experienced team, most of whom have been at the pub for at least two years, who provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere to anyone and everyone who pops in for a pint or a meal, ranging from short stay visitors at the nearby hotel to local regulars who often visit three or four times a week. 

Mark said: "I've only been in the job for a month or so after moving to Wales but I have been lucky enough to be joining an experienced and caring team who love to chat with our guests!"

Mark, who has been in the hospitality industry for 12 years after looking to earn some money during his university days, says it is the satisfaction that keeps him going. 

He added: "I realised I enjoyed being on my feet, the satisfaction of making the perfect cocktail or perfect meal for someone, and looking back at a busy day and thinking ‘we smashed it’.

"After being a general manager for a few years, I also enjoy that I get to run a business but also still get the service part of the role, so I not stuck doing endless paperwork!"

The Sunday roasts are super popular at the Dragonfly (Image: The Dragonfly) The Dragonfly's Sunday roasts are by far the most popular dish, described by Mark as "super popular", with booking highly recommended, as well as a variety of changing weekend specials, served every day from 12-9pm.

The team also pride themselves on supporting local businesses, with the most popular drink on sale being a pint of Cali Pale Ale from the nearby Tiny Rebel brewery, which Mark says has been described as "local, light and refreshing". 

A crackling fire awaits visitors in the winter months (Image: The Dragonfly) The Dragonfly is proudly child and dog friendly, with a crackling fire waiting for any four legged friends in the bar area during the winter months, and two large gardens to enjoy in the summer, although they must be kept on leads.

The team welcome reviews left and encourage people to follow them on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date, including the launch of the Christmas menu on December 2. 

The Dragonfly is open from 12-11pm Monday to Saturday and 12pm-10.30pm on Sundays. You can book by visiting the website or calling  01633 810611.