Historic Guest House
Summary of reviews related to the 'Historic' categoryElen's Castle Hotel is a destination that offers guests a charming glimpse into history. Occupying a really old building, it stands as a beautiful historic property with a great old-fashioned atmosphere permeating throughout the place. Despite some guests mentioning that the decor could be seen as rather tatty, the inn's old coaching heritage and character provide a quaint and endearing experience. The property presents a lovely opportunity to step back in time, with its unique charm and historic importance shining through. Situated at a location perfect for great walks right on your doorstep, Elen's Castle Hotel is a picturesque escape reminiscent of a bygone era, capturing the essence of an old-fashioned inn in a delightfully positive way.
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Year erected: 1770
What is the history of the property?
Once the home of Baron Gwydir, Earl of Ancaster, Elen's Castle formed part of his Welsh Estate. Named after the daughter of Llywelyn the Great who was born in the castle here in the village of Dolwyddelan. The holtel was sold to the Baron's gamekeeper when it became a hotel which specialised in hunting parties. We have a roman well on the property purported to have healing properties.
What was the era and/or the architectural style in which the property was built?
We are not sure of the date but we are told it is over 300 years old. It is built of solid slate as are the coach houses. The bar is set in the original kitchen with a large fireplace with a pot bellied log stove
Is the property surrounded by other historic buildings?
The hotel is situated in the historic village of Dolwyddelan, home to Llywelyn the Great who was born in the castle here in the village. It is one of the few remaining castles built by the Welsh and you can still visit it today.
You can also visit the roman well at the rear of the property.
Has restoration work taken place?
In 2010 work started in association with the local historical society and with a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. The roman well was the site of an archaeological dig and is now a visitor site.
Are there any elements of particular historical importance at the building?
The bar is situated in the original kitchen and has a large fireplace with a log burning pot bellied stove. There are historical documents on display in various locations in the hotel.
Are there any important guests or previous owners worth mentioning?
The original owner was Baron Gwydir, Earl of Ancaster.
Would you describe your property as (or has it ever been in the past) a: Is there anything that you would like to highlight, add or clarify?
The village of Dolwyddelan was the setting of Thomas Dylan's famous book 'A Child's Christmas in Wales'
