Business Details
Lion Hotel - Historic Accommodation in Mid Wales
Lion Hotel is a family-run establishment with over 30 years of hospitality experience, offering guests a unique blend of Victorian charm and modern comforts. Situated in the heart of Mid Wales, our hotel provides cosy, well-appointed accommodation with stunning views of the Welsh countryside and the River Ithon. We pride ourselves on serving homemade meals using locally sourced ingredients, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Our strategic location makes us an ideal base for exploring the Elan Valley, Brecon Beacons, and Royal Welsh Agricultural Show.With four en-suite guest rooms, a traditional pub restaurant, and exclusive access to countryside activities like clay pigeon shooting and private fishing, we combine historical character with contemporary convenience. Our owners, Janet and Ray Thomas, bring decades of local knowledge and a passion for hospitality, ensuring every guest experiences the warmth and authenticity of rural Wales.
Services
Accommodation
Restaurant
Clay Pigeon Shooting
Private Fishing
Cycle Hire
Highlights and features
- Family-run for over 30 years with deep local knowledge
- Homemade meals using local Welsh ingredients
- Strategic location for exploring Mid Wales attractions
- Retained Victorian features with modern comforts
- Exclusive access to clay pigeon shooting and private fishing
What people say
Lovely family feel
Comfortable beds
Wonderful breakfast
Friendly welcome
Great location
Services
Accommodation
Lion Hotel offers four uniquely named rooms blending Victorian charm with modern comforts. Each room features en-suite facilities, free WiFi, and scenic views of the Welsh countryside. Guests enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, dog-friendly policies, and secure parking. The hotel's historical character is preserved through period decor and family heritage ties to medieval Welsh royalty.
Restaurant
Our restaurant serves traditional Welsh pub fare with homemade soups, main meals, and desserts. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available. The menu showcases local produce, including eggs from our own hens. Residents dine nightly while non-residents can book Wednesday to Saturday evenings, experiencing the warmth of our Victorian-era dining space.
Clay Pigeon Shooting
Available at Griffin-Lloyd Shooting Ground, our clay pigeon shooting experience includes expert tuition and equipment hire. Led by former international shooter Ray Thomas, sessions cater to all skill levels with safety training and varied sporting targets. This exclusive activity combines adrenaline with the tranquility of Mid Wales' countryside.
Private Fishing
Guests gain exclusive access to the River Ithon's prime fishing spots directly below the hotel. The stretch offers excellent trout and coarse fishing opportunities amidst scenic surroundings. Equipment storage and local knowledge from experienced staff enhance this tranquil countryside pursuit, perfect for relaxing holidays.
Cycle Hire
We partner with local providers for mountain bike rentals near Rhayader and electric bike options. The hotel's location on the Radnor Ring Cycle Route No 25 makes it ideal for exploring Mid Wales' trails. Secure parking and route advice help cyclists maximise their adventure through the Elan Valley and beyond.
People
Janet Thomas
Co-Proprietor
Janet Thomas has co-owned Lion Hotel with her husband Ray for over 30 years. A descendant of Welsh medieval ruler Elystan Glodrydd, she combines family heritage with hospitality expertise. Janet ensures guests experience authentic Welsh warmth while maintaining the hotel's Victorian character.
Ray Thomas
Co-Proprietor
Ray Thomas, co-owner for three decades, brings local history expertise and shooting sports experience to Lion Hotel. A former international shot, he personally guides guests through clay pigeon shooting sessions and shares historical knowledge about Mid Wales' landmarks and traditions.
Questions
What are your check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is from 3pm, with rooms ready by 4pm. Check-out time is 11am, though luggage storage can be arranged if needed.
Do you allow pets in the hotel?
Yes, we're dog-friendly with a £5 charge per pet. Secure parking and walking areas are available, and we can suggest local pet-friendly trails.
Can I book shooting lessons at the hotel?
Clay pigeon shooting lessons are available at Griffin-Lloyd Shooting Ground. Ray Thomas, our co-owner and former international shooter, provides expert tuition for all skill levels.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept Visa, MasterCard, debit cards, cash, and cheques. Credit/debit card details are required to secure bookings, with full payment on arrival.
Is the hotel accessible for wheelchair users?
The ground floor has ramp access and accessible toilets. While en-suite rooms are upstairs, we provide assistance and recommend ground-floor accommodation for wheelchair users.
What breakfast options are available?
Our full Welsh breakfast includes locally sourced ingredients. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and lighter options are available, with quail eggs from our aviary during summer months.
Reviews (6)
Jamie L. Thompson
Dec 03, 2021
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Lovely quaint hotel in the middle of nowhere with views over the river and countryside. Really friendly hospitality.
Jason Cookson
Nov 03, 2021
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Janette and Ray are fantastic hosts,
food is fresh and filling. Warm and welcoming rustic
atmosphere.
Been staying there for
r 20 years and keep on returning
SUPERB!
food is fresh and filling. Warm and welcoming rustic
atmosphere.
Been staying there for
r 20 years and keep on returning
SUPERB!
Ian Bollans
Oct 23, 2021
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Ray was fantastic host. Comfortable room with all amenities. Lovely setting. Must try home made curry. One of the best..ever. Huge proper breakfast
Plenty of parking. Next time in the area will stay. You don't get better than this!!
Plenty of parking. Next time in the area will stay. You don't get better than this!!
W. Smith
Oct 04, 2021
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Stayed here twice and would stay here again excellent breakfasts good view and location and 5 star owners
Bart
Sep 20, 2021
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Friendly and relaxed proper pub/B&B. We had a homely room overlooking the beautiful countryside. Food was excellent and reasonably priced. Would definitely stay again and highly recommended.
Georgie Gibbons
Sep 05, 2021
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I very much enjoyed my stay, beds were comfortable, dogs made themselves at home, the views were to die for and the food was incredible! One thing that was exceptional was the curry!! They definitely lived up to all the amazing reviews, and safe to say after travelling to India myself (as do they every year) their love for Indian food was definitely what made the place so special! Best curry Ive ever eaten! Will definitely return for another visit, as there is a lot more exploring to be done!
