Live music hub named venue of the year thanks to ‘unique’ experience

An ‘oasis’ on Bargoed’s High Street has been named music venue of the year, despite only being able to hold around 30 customers in its small café-bar.

Husband and wife owners Chris and Jade Bourton opened Bourton’s Live Music Café Bar three years ago, looking to create a “unique” experience for both musicians and the audience.

The “intimate” venue is run a little different to your classic bar or pub in the Valleys, with no swearing allowed, and drunk behaviour not tolerated.

Speaking to Caerphilly Observer about Bourton’s, Chris said: “People appreciate what we offer, both those who play and those who visit.

“Me and Jade are musicians ourselves so we know what people are looking for. We create a listening environment which is great, especially when you have acoustic players or folk music. It’s about fostering the right environment.”

In recognition of their unique space, Bourton’s was nominated for music venue of the year at Newport Radio’s annual award ceremony last night (Thursday June 5), where they beat two larger pubs to the award.

Chris continued: “It’s voted for by the artists, so it’s very humbling to receive praise. We celebrated the win and are only looking to grow going forward, with the plan of having all-day live bands on Saturdays from September.”

Regular customer Philip Robinson described Bourton’s as an “oasis” in Bargoed, with the café-bar also offering food and drink.

He said: “It’s a real hub in our little community. As well as a wide range of music, they also hold poetry nights, quiz nights, and a chess club. Everyone is really friendly and it’s a great place to be.”