Ponderosa: Popular Horseshoe Pass café to remain closed, owners confirm

The Ponderosa Café, a well-known landmark on the Horseshoe Pass in Llangollen, will not be reopening, its owners have confirmed.

The announcement brings an end to 42 years of serving bikers, walkers, and travellers, leaving many in the community heartbroken.

Simon and Sam Clemence, who ran the café, shared the news on Facebook, thanking their loyal customers and staff.

“It is with a heavy heart we announce that the Ponderosa shall not be re-opening at this present moment in time,” they wrote. “We would also like to thank our staff, past and present. We could not have accomplished our success without you.”

The café, located on the A542 between Ruthin and Llangollen, has long been a popular stop for motorcyclists and tourists, offering stunning views and a welcoming atmosphere.

Its closure has been met with an outpouring of sadness, with many sharing memories of their visits.

One regular described the café as a place of nostalgia and reflection.

“I often used to visit with my father. Sadly, he’s passed now, but when I feel down or need to remember him, I pop up there, and I’m reminded we live in a beautiful world,” they said. “I feel lucky I was able to share it with my daughter before it closed down.”

For many bikers, the Ponderosa was more than just a café—it was a key part of their journeys. ”

Shocked and saddened—my favourite run at the weekend,” wrote one motorcyclist. “Been going for many years, where am I gonna go now?”

Another added, “A visit to the Ponderosa was my go-to ride when I needed cheering up. I’ll miss it.”

The café also held deep sentimental value for many families.

One visitor shared, “Absolutely devastated. Loved coming up here with my Nanna and Grandad as a little girl and into adulthood. It was the last place she ever wanted to go for a meal at the end, and we got her up there one last time. Thanks for everything, all the happy memories.”

Another recalled a touching moment with a loved one. “Took my mum to the Ponderosa last year. She has dementia, so she doesn’t always enjoy life, but she never stopped smiling and somehow managed to munch down a chip bun. Thank you for providing some good memories.”

Calls to Save the Ponderosa

Following the announcement, some are calling for the site to be revived under new ownership.

“If it ever comes up for sale, I think the community should set up a GoFundMe to buy it, rather than some developer snapping it up,” one person suggested.

Another added, “Would be a lovely gesture to open the main car park so people can still enjoy the area.”

There has also been frustration about changes to the local area.

“The state of some of the roads, average speed cameras and reduced speed limits have ruined driving that area unfortunately,” one customer said.

Another wrote, “I’m sure the enforced speed limits played no small part in crippling a thriving and popular business.”

Despite the closure, many are still hoping for a future reopening.

“So terribly sad to hear this,” one person commented. “I hope things work out so you can find a way to reopen. Much more than a café—for many people, this was a reason to get up and get out on your bike.”