Business Details
Your Historic Welsh Getaway in Mid Wales
Lion Hotel is a family-run establishment with over a century of heritage in Llanbister, Mid Wales. Our Victorian-era pub and bed-and-breakfast combine period charm with modern comforts, offering guests a unique blend of historical ambiance and contemporary convenience. Strategically located in the heart of Wales, we provide an ideal base for exploring the Elan Valley, Brecon Beacons, and surrounding countryside. Our homemade Welsh cuisine, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, showcases local produce sourced from trusted suppliers.With four en-suite guest rooms named after regional history, private fishing rights on the River Ithon, and exclusive clay pigeon shooting experiences led by our proprietor, we deliver immersive rural hospitality. As active participants in green tourism initiatives, we maintain a vegetable garden, practice recycling, and support local conservation efforts while offering secure parking for motorhomes and bikers.
Services
Accommodation
Restaurant
Clay Pigeon Shooting
Fishing
Cycle Hire
Highlights and features
- Family-run for 30 years with century-old establishment heritage
- Homemade meals using local Welsh ingredients and garden produce
- Strategic location for exploring Mid Wales' countryside and attractions
- Eco-friendly practices including on-site vegetable gardening and recycling
- Unique experiences: private fishing and clay pigeon shooting instruction
What people say
Lovely family feel
Comfortable beds
Wonderful breakfast
Great staff
Excellent food
Services
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation
Our four en-suite guest rooms combine Victorian charm with modern comforts. Each room features TV with free Sky, tea/coffee facilities, hairdryer, toiletries, and free WiFi. Three rooms offer river views while the Maelienydd room overlooks open hills. Dog-friendly and biker-friendly with secure parking available.
Restaurant Dining
Serving homemade Welsh classics daily with vegetarian and gluten-free options. Our menu features locally sourced ingredients and seasonal produce from our garden. Residents dine nightly while non-residents can book Wednesday to Saturday evenings. Private dining available under our Victorian veranda.
Clay Pigeon Shooting
International-standard shooting instruction at Griffin-Lloyd Shooting Ground. All equipment included with expert tuition from former international competitor Ray Thomas. Suitable for all skill levels with group discounts available. Prior booking essential for this exclusive experience.
Private Fishing
Exclusive access to our stretch of the River Ithon with permits included in accommodation rates. Seasonal fishing available for salmon, trout, and carp. Equipment hire and local knowledge provided. Nearby Spring Rock Carp Fishery offers additional coarse fishing opportunities.
Cycle Hire
Mountain bike hire arranged through local providers for exploring Radnor Ring Cycle Route and Elan Valley Trails. Secure storage available under our Victorian veranda. Electric bike options accessible in nearby Rhayader for tackling Mid Wales' challenging terrain.
People
Janet Thomas
Co-proprietor
Third-generation descendant of Welsh King Elystan Glodrydd, Janet has co-managed Lion Hotel for over 30 years. She combines hospitality expertise with local history knowledge, ensuring guests experience authentic Welsh traditions while maintaining Victorian-era decor authenticity.
Ray Thomas
Co-proprietor
Former international clay pigeon shooter and local history expert, Ray has co-owned Lion Hotel for three decades. He leads shooting instruction sessions and historical tours, sharing his encyclopedic knowledge of Mid Wales' heritage while maintaining the property's Victorian character.
Questions
What accommodation packages do you offer?
We provide bed-and-breakfast rates from £75-£97 per night including full Welsh breakfast. Long-stay discounts and single-occupancy rates available. Well-behaved pets welcome for £5 extra per night.
Can non-residents dine at your restaurant?
Our restaurant serves non-residents Wednesday to Saturday evenings from 6pm. Residents may dine nightly. All guests should book tables in advance via 01597 840244.
What outdoor activities are available locally?
We offer clay pigeon shooting instruction, private fishing rights, and cycle hire. Nearby attractions include Elan Valley Trails, Offa's Dyke Path, and Royal Welsh Agricultural Show in Builth Wells.
Is the hotel accessible for disabled guests?
Ground floor accommodation and dining available with ramp access. Three en-suite rooms on upper floor accessible only by stairs. Assistance dogs welcome with garden access provided.
Do you support eco-tourism initiatives?
Yes, we maintain a vegetable garden, use local produce, practice recycling, and participate in green tourism schemes. Motorhomes can stay overnight through our Britstops membership.
How can I reach The Lion Hotel without a car?
We offer station transfers from Llanbister Road (5.5 miles). Local bus T4 passes nearby. Walking/hiking guests can arrange luggage transfers between accommodations along regional trails.
