John Fielding, Cwmbran

The former Moonraker Inn, that in its last days hit on lean times, has been successfully remodelled by JD Wetherspoon (JDW) to bring to the town centre a welcome choice of real ales in a town where choice is scarce. It takes its name from a local hero of the Battle of Rorke's Drift (22-23 January 1879), who signed up as an under age army recruit as John Williams and who returned to live in the town for many years. The standard nationally listed ales sit alongside interesting guest ales, with usually at least one from a local Welsh brewery as well as others from further afield. A choice of Weston's cider is also available. The extensive food menu and weekly special days apply. The popular JDW format of a spacious interior with several seating areas is evident here although the lack of natural light in the central area gives a constant subdued lighting effect. One feature to the right hand side of the bar is a display of casks and a chalk outline map of Wales indicating where some of the Welsh guest ales come from. Tucked around the side at the far end of the bar is a "What's On" information board. Handily placed, it is just a couple of minutes from the bus station and leisure block, five minutes from the railway station, and adjacent to the shopping mall. Free parking is nearby, but often full.