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We are the new owners of The Black Lion Hotel, a family concern since 2021, Ken and Christine Chambers and daughter Angela, who is running the business with support from partner Kevin, along with 2 elderly dogs. We are still undertaking extensive refurbishment of the property and grounds, so have just 3 rooms ready at present, we shall update the website accordingly as the works progress and more rooms become available.
The title 'Hotel' was added to the Black Lion in Victorian times due to the arrival of the steam train and a nearby station at Yastrad Meurig; they hoped to attract visitors to the newly exposed Abbey ruins. The Black also became a bit of a Spa Hotel as 2 chalybeate wells were discovered in the grounds and guests were invited to partake in the high iron salts mineral spring waters.
The current Black Lion Hotel (Y Llew Du) is believed to have been the site of a hostelry at the time of the building of the Cistercian Abbey at nearby Strata Florida Abbey in 1164 (Ystrad Fflur, Valley of Flowers) we have been told that stone from the ruined monastery was used within the current structure - it can't be proved, but it's wonderful to think of the ancient connection to the site used by Welsh Princes, which is well worth a visit
We have a great location being just 25 minutes to the coast, plus being so close to Strata Florida Abbey, and also to the numerous attractions we are ideally located nearby (see Location for more information), ideal for those who love to get close and personal to nature by cycling, walking, horse riding as the Teifi Valley and Cambrian Mountains are a mecca for the outdoor enthusiast.
But you don't need to book a stay here to do anything more energetic than picking up a good book (of which we have plenty to borrow!) and gazing at the Red Kites flying over head, or listen to the chattering birds and sheep bleating in the field, just unwind in comfortable surroundings and enjoy our large enclosed gardens with a bubbling brook at the side, we have beautiful views to ensure peace and tranquility (just check its not a mountain race track day....they aren't very often though). We do serve meals to guests but there are also excellent eating facilities a short drive away, the Red Lion Hotel is also in the village for food and yes, it is also painted red and black (we have no idea why 2 pubs just yards apart went for the same paint colour theme, a sale maybe? Rest assured we will be redecorating in more calming ivory and sage colours in due course)
We are really into Permaculture and all things sustainable, so we are working hard to reduce our carbon footprint. We intend to use locally produced food in our menus, plastic alternative products in the bathrooms and with the refreshments, hence you will see jars, not one-use sachets. Milk will come in a small glass milk bottle and will be kept cool in a freezer bag. Some of the bedding we have changed to is responsibly sourced and utlising recycled polyester/cotton mix, we have even invested in a heat source condenser tumble dryer to use less electricity. You will see we provide a sustainable brand of toilet paper with an amusing name!
