Business Details
Historic Hotel & Pony Trekking in Mid Wales
Established as a traditional coaching inn since the 17th century, The Lion Royal Hotel has been welcoming visitors to Mid Wales with warmth and hospitality. Run by the Collard family since 1947, our historic properties in Penybont and Rhayader offer comfortable accommodation, award-winning dining, and unique outdoor experiences. We specialise in guided pony trekking through the Elan Valley, a service we have refined over 58 years, approved by the British Horse Society since 1972.Our venues combine period charm with modern comforts, featuring listed interiors, roaring log fires, and scenic beer gardens overlooking the River Ithon. We cater to adventurers, motorcyclists, and event organisers, providing a gateway to Wales' most breathtaking landscapes while maintaining a commitment to quality and local tradition.
Services
Pony Trekking
Accommodation
Afternoon Tea
Carvery Meals
Function Room Hire
Motorcycle Storage
Beer Garden
Bar Services
Event Hosting
Guided Tours
Highlights and features
- Family-run hospitality since 1947 with deep local knowledge
- BHS-approved pony trekking since 1972 with expert guides
- Historic listed interiors preserving 17th-century charm
- Scenic location serving as gateway to Elan Valley
- Seasonal homemade menus using local Welsh produce
Associations and certifications
- British Horse Society
What people say
Brilliant staff
Stunning countryside
Calm horses
Professional guides
Unforgettable experience
Services
Pony Trekking
Guided horseback treks through Elan Valley's scenic landscapes since 1966. Suitable for all abilities, offering 1-hour to full-day excursions with expert guides. Homebred Gypsy Vanner horses ensure safe, memorable journeys through Wales' most breathtaking terrain.
Accommodation
Traditional coaching inn rooms with modern comforts in Rhayader and Penybont. Centrally located for exploring Mid Wales, featuring period features, secure parking, and hearty breakfasts. Ideal for adventurers, motorcyclists, and event attendees seeking authentic Welsh hospitality.
Afternoon Tea
Traditional afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, homemade cakes, and premium teas. Served daily in our welcoming lounges or scenic beer gardens. Perfect for celebrations or relaxing breaks amidst Mid Wales' countryside.
Carvery Meals
Weekly Sunday carvery featuring local meats, seasonal vegetables, and homemade desserts. Served 12:00-14:30 in our spacious dining room. A Welsh dining tradition for families and visitors exploring the region.
Function Room Hire
Versatile event spaces accommodating up to 50 guests in historic settings. Ideal for birthdays, conferences, or weddings. Combines period charm with modern facilities in the heart of Mid Wales' outdoor capital.
People
Alice Collard
Pony Trekking Manager
Third-generation operator of the Lion Royal's pony trekking service since 2012. Qualified equestrian with expertise in Gypsy Vanner horse care and trail guiding. Maintains BHS standards while offering personalised riding experiences in Mid Wales.
Questions
What are your pony trekking age and weight limits?
Minimum age 6 years, maximum weight 14 stone. All riders receive safety briefings and equipment.
Can I bring my own horse?
Yes, with prior arrangement. We provide qualified guides for exploring Elan Valley's trails safely.
Do you offer accommodation for motorcyclists?
Secure parking, dedicated storage, and hearty breakfasts for motorcyclists touring Mid Wales.
What historical features can I expect?
Original 1920s bar panelling, listed interiors, and Midland Bank fixtures preserved from Rhayader's banking history.
Are your venues dog-friendly?
Dogs welcome in designated areas including beer gardens and certain accommodation units.
How do I book a function room?
Contact us directly via phone or email to discuss requirements and availability for events.
Reviews (5)
Vince Shepherd
Oct 25, 2021
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What a lovely place the Host Jane made my stay very welcome indeed the staff are so friendly and very much enjoyed chatting to the locals had a great breakfast and evening meal nice roaring fire stayed they're for some off-road motorcycle riding brilliant trail riding and beautiful countryside the pub has a big car park for vans with a open fronted Barn and a drying room proper old school Hotel definitely be staying there again cool cool place
Anthony Lawton
Jul 16, 2021
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Great place, great staff great breakfast
It is a little dated but very clean
And the welcome you get is great
We will be going back
Thank you
It is a little dated but very clean
And the welcome you get is great
We will be going back
Thank you
John Palmer
Dec 24, 2019
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Amazing owners and staff. Perfectly catered for the biking community. Great breakfast, bar and rooms. Loads of parking for vans, trailers and bikes. In the heart of the town with pubs and restaurants. Even a KTM shop with endless parts which we needed.
Peter Andrews
Oct 27, 2019
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Had a great weekend with dry sunny September weather trail riding in the Rhayader area
The Lion Royal gave us a warm welcome the rooms were clean and comfortable and we all had a very restful sleep, cracking hearty breakfast in the mornings set us up fantastically for the ride ahead
The Lion Royal gave us a warm welcome the rooms were clean and comfortable and we all had a very restful sleep, cracking hearty breakfast in the mornings set us up fantastically for the ride ahead
Susie Bainbridge
Dec 09, 2018
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Lovely welcome when arriving latish on Friday night. Roaring stove, cosy, friendly bar area and lovely wine, well chilled! Lovely people thank you so much for taking the late booking. Hope to be back!
