The Pengwern is an old drover's inn now owned and run by the community of Llan Ffestiniog. It is situated in the village square next to the church, overlooking the Vale of Ffestiniog, in the centre of Snowdonia National Park. A perfect base for exploring
In February 2009 the Pengwern closed it's doors, some feared for the last time. Therefore, at a public meeting held shortly before it closed, it was decided to establish a community social enterprise, Pengwern Cymunedol, in order to reopen the hotel. A number of individuals from among the villagers of Llan Ffestiniog volunteered to try to achieve this.
This part of the world is made for thinking: the mountains of southern Snowdonia brood, while the slate mines of neighbouring Blaenau Ffestiniog are long silent. But at Y Pengwern (the Pengwern Arms) there is laughter, the clink of glasses full of copper-hued beer brewed in nearby Porthmadog, and the strum of guitars on music night. Seven years ago villagers bought the last pub in the village, which had been closed since 2009, and saved this former drovers’ inn, where Victorian writer George Borrow once had a few ales. The new kitchen uses as much local produce as possible. There are also rumours of a ghost, Martha, who once owned the pub. She can now rest easy.
My recent stay at Y Pengwern for a hiking trip with my Springer Spaniel was ideal. The staff's warm welcome and the hotel's pristine cleanliness immediately set a positive tone for our visit. This pet-friendly establishment is ideally situated for quick access to local hiking trails, making it an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts. What truly stood out during my stay was the accommodating service during breakfast. Due to my four-legged companion, I couldn't dine in the restaurant, but the thoughtful staff member brought all the food to a separate area, ensuring a seamless dining experience. Y Pengwern goes above and beyond to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable, all at a reasonable price. I wholeheartedly recommend it to fellow travellers.
For the price of the room and a light breakfast option included, this was fantastic value for money, in such a great location. The room is basic but the bed was very comfortable and the staff very hospitable. Heating kept the room warm, with an extra electric heater available if needed. Good value for money.
Very disappointed... Very pricey for such an old location. So much of renovation work is needed ... can't ignore the carpets and ceilings. The staff are great and really trying to make the best of it. The location is great too for those who want a place in the middle of national park
I wish I would've stayed there for just one night. I am not a demanding person, I'm very okay when I hire a 3 stars hotel. But this one wouldn't deserve even 1. Our bedroom had a peculiar dog-old-mold smell. One window had the following message: "Do not open". The other window had a 10 cm gap open near the roof. There was a small heating to support the whole bedroom. Which didn't help much. I would say the worst thing ever, was the shower. The tiles were all with those black signs of mold and the water was not proper drained. The plug whole was disgustling blocked. The water would take ages to get drained. The breakfast was very much limited. However, the ladies were very nice to us. I do not have the intention to go back to this hotel anymore. Just in time, Snowdonia, the mountains and beaches are fantastic.
Absolutely loved my birthday weekend stay here. They provided top hospitality and catered to our large group. They provided all of the information before our stay and we booked a big table for dinner in the dining area which was delicious and large portions! There was evening entertainment from a local band and also a games room, equipped with a pool table and darts. The continental breakfast was lovely and the staff were extremely accommodating to the vegans in our group. Would definitely recommend to stay here - the rooms are lovely and it is a non-profit community. Definitely would stay here again!
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Opening Times
| Mon | 18:00 – 23:30 |
| Tue | 18:00 – 23:30 |
| Wed | 18:00 – 23:30 |
| Thur | 18:00 – 23:30 |
| Fri | 17:00 – 00:00 |
| Sat | 12:00 – 00:00 |
| Sun | 12:00 – 23:30 |
Location
Sorry, we don't have any menus listed at the moment.
Gellilydan, Blaenau Ffestiniog, LL41 
