New café opens at Ysbyty Gwynedd as part of wider foyer transformation
1 April 2026
A brand-new café has officially opened at Ysbyty Gwynedd today (Wednesday, 1 April), marking the completion of a programme of improvements to transform the hospital’s main foyer.
The foyer transformation has been supported by total investment of £225,000, which includes a £175,000 donation from NHS Charities Together, delivered locally through Awyr Las.
The new café, located next to the Phlebotomy waiting area, will offer a range of hot and cold drinks, snacks and cold food for patients, visitors and staff. With seating for up to 20 people, it provides a welcoming space to take a break within the hospital.
The café was officially opened by Mandy Ellis, a valued member of the catering team, who many patients and staff will recognise from her friendly face serving refreshments in the Phlebotomy waiting area over recent months.
The café opening marks the final phase of a wider foyer redesign, which has created a more welcoming, practical and accessible space for patients, visitors and staff.
Completed improvements include:
- Moving the Macmillan Pod to the main entrance, with a refreshed Awyr Las volunteer space to create a supportive hub
- Upgraded flooring and ceilings
- A new wheelchair storage facility to improve accessibility and ease of use
Dawnne Jenkins, Head of Site at Ysbyty Gwynedd, said: “It’s fantastic to see this new café open and completing the transformation of our foyer. It’s already creating a much more welcoming and comfortable environment for everyone who visits the hospital.
“Having a dedicated café space is a real benefit for our staff, patients and visitors, giving people somewhere to relax, have a drink and step away from busy clinical areas.
“It also made the opening extra special to have Mandy do the honours. She’s become such a familiar and friendly face to so many people, and it felt absolutely right that she marked this milestone.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the support from NHS Charities Together through Awyr Las, which has helped us create a foyer that is more accessible, more supportive and a much better experience for everyone who comes through our doors.”
On behalf of Awyr Las Dyfed Jones, Chair of the Charitable Funds Committee, said: "It's great to see the final result of the improvements made possible at Ysbyty Gwynedd thanks to this jointly funded project between the Health Board and NHS Charities Together. This renewed space, with the addition of a small café, will better serve our staff, patients and visitors by providing comfort and refreshment when they are visiting the hospital site."
The café will be open:
- Monday: 8am – 4pm
- Tuesday: 8am – 4pm
- Wednesday: 8am – 4pm
- Thursday: 8.30am – 4pm
- Friday: 8am – 4pm