If you’re going to Saundersfoot this year then you need to treat yourself to a cocktail
There’s a lot to love about the seaside Pembrokeshire village of Saundersfoot. The long, sandy beach, plentiful pubs, fish and chip shops, cafes, and shops are all draws.
But did you know there is also a speakeasy tucked away on the main street making fresh gold-sprinkled cocktails? Hourglass’s stylish small bar is within the Hourglass boutique so there’s an opportunity for some vintage shopping at the same time.
Hourglass, found in The Strand, was previously an antique shop but when owner Holly Thompson decided on a change of scene for the shop Hourglass became somewhere to to relax with an espresso martini or coffee as well as pick up a stylish piece of jewellery or outfit.
Owning the shop with her mother Kim the pair, as well as Holly’s dad Colin and partner Harrison, redesigned and refurbished the shop themselves. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What’s On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here
Holly said: “When we had the antiques shop the plan was always to move it more towards a boutique and focus on the fine jewellery, designer bags, and accessories we were already selling. Just before starting the refurbishment we had the idea to add a cocktail bar.
“I’ve always loved the idea of a speakeasy-style bar but I didn’t want to leave the jewellery and pre-loved designer industry, so we thought: ‘Why not combine the two?’ We wanted to create somewhere people could shop beautiful pieces, enjoy a cocktail, and have an experience they wouldn’t expect to find in a small seaside village.
“We’ve always focused on excellent customer service and creating a unique client-focused experience and the cocktail bar really adds to that.”
With a menu changing seasonally those wanting to escape from the hubbub of Saundersfoot at peak time can enjoy Old Fashioneds, Cherry 75s, and Martinis or cool down with an iced matcha.
“Our cocktails change seasonally with around 20 on the menu at any one time,” said Holly. “As we’re a small space we like to focus on offering a good variety while keeping things special. We use fresh quality ingredients and try to support local suppliers wherever possible.
“We’re really proud of the cocktails and the feedback we’ve received. It’s another way for us to be creative, especially with the presentation – and there’s always a touch of gold. We also serve great coffees, matcha, and loose-leaf teas.”
Holly added customers coming in and seeing the bar for the first time are surprised but she hopes it makes an impact all the same.
“Some people aren’t quite sure what to expect at first when they see the bar. We love that moment of surprise – it creates a memory and makes someone’s day or holiday a little more special and we love being part of that.”
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