Guests Reviews Craig y Nos Castle Dog Friendly B&B 2013
Dog Friendly Wales Craig y Nos Castle B&B Reviews 2013
“Perfect Christmas”
Fascinating & Dog Friendly”
5 of 5 stars
We stayed here Mid December for a few nights, so perhaps was not the best time of year to appreciate everything. The Building was fascinating and full of interest and the grounds lovely. Our room was ideal for dogs having a bay window (with views to the hills on 3 sides) with direct access to the gardens and country park. Most of the ground floor public rooms had a majestic feel to them and the Theatre/Opera room adding a bit of eccentric uniqueness. We also have a B&B in an Ancient building so I appreciate what they are trying to do in terms of renovation and wish them the best of luck with it. Close by there are some good places to eat & drink. I would recommend the Ancient Britain for it's real ale and hospitality and the Penycae for marvellous food. (I pays to drive as the road has no footpaths.)
There were one or two very minor points of customer service that could be improved (Breakfast was serviced by 3 different sets of people all slightly differently, Our room had a very elaborate computer shower that really needed a bit of explanation on check-in, although we did figure it out in the end). In general the staff were friendly and very helpful. Overall though I would recommend it and will definitely go again Next year.
Stayed December 2013, travelled as a couple
“Can't wait to return.”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 28 November 2013
We stayed here back in September and love it. The place was lovely and clean and comfortable. One of the most dog friendly places we have every stayed (and we have stayed in at lot of places). Being a vegetarian the food was lovely and plentiful. The staff were so friendly and made you feel so welcome. So recommend this lovely amazing place. Only down side we didn't stay longer but can't wait to return.
Stayed September 2013, travelled as a couple
“A fairytale setting that markets as dog friendly, and actually is!”
4 of 5 starsReviewed 31 October 2013
Wasn't really sure what to expect, partly as we've never stayed in a castle before, and partly as all other 'dog friendly' accommodation stayed in has been quite poor. When I informed the reception staff on booking I had three dogs, they just said 'ah you'll need a bigger room then', without any qualms and at no extra cost. There are parts of the castle that are a bit tatty round the edges, but our room (No 28) was more than adequate for our needs and the bathroom lovely (though the kettle needs replacing!) Staff were warm, friendly and helpful and the breakfast was lovely! Didn't eat dinner there but other residents said the food was good. The grounds are just stunning and we would like to go back soon and continue exploring! The dogs loved it too!
Stayed October 2013
“Just lovely”
5 of 5 starsReviewed 12 October 2013 via mobile
We first came to the hotel in June of this year, after a week walking in Snowdon we were definitely ready to relax, (and relax we did) we fell in love with the hotel and the surroundings and our white boxer Lilah was so welcomed. As soon as we returned home we booked again. We came for four nights the last week in September and once again the hotel didn't disappoint. We have stayed in a few hotels that accept dogs but never in a hotel that positively embraces them, our dog Lilah is part of our family and we want to be able to take her everywhere and at Craig y Nos this is possible. The atmosphere created by the staff here is warm, friendly and relaxing where nothing is too much trouble. The breakfast is superb including Lilahs morning sausage and the evening menu is so good and varied we ate in the hotel every night I cannot recommend this hotel enough not just to dog owners but anyone who just wants to kick back and chill out for a few days, we certainly did and we will again as soon as we can. Craig y Nos is a rare gem of a hotel in a beautiful part of the country.
Stayed September 2013, travelled as a couple
“The love affair continues”
5 of 5 starsReviewed 1 October 2013
We have just returned from our third visit of the year to the castle through the last week of September. As always, the welcome is warm, the food is great and the surroundings are breathtaking. I have seen some criticisms of the hotel in some recent reviews. I can only say that it is renowned as a dog friendly hotel, which is exactly why we go there. There are dog free areas for eating if you so prefer, but the informal bar area is a perfect place to eat with your pooch curled up at your feet (enjoying a breakfast sausage perhaps!). We have high standards and expectations for our money, and the castle and staff never fail to disappoint. Having already stayed there three times this year, two further bookings for next year have already been made. Surely that says it all really.
Stayed September 2013, travelled as a couple
“Two adults and two lively dogs go to Wales”
5 of 5 starsReviewed 19 September 2013
Searched for 'Dog friendly hotels in Wales' First up came 'Craig-y-nos' castle.
The website was massive and some would say confusing - I say interesting, great fun going off on various links to who knows where. We were not sure what to expect as the website clearly states the whole place is a work in progress. very friendly staff upon arrival, Great room with fantastic power shower, excellent evening meal, great sleep.
Breakfast was also excellent with the full fry-up or Kippers, poached eggs on toast etc or the continental type with fruit, cereal, croissants.
Walking - Wow! Straight out back of the hotel the Brecon country park goes on forever.
Dogs - Not just accepted but almost treated as paying guests. The lady in charge of the breakfasts slipped us two sausages for the dogs on the first morning.
Wi-Fi available in the bar area but the rest of the Castle is no phone signal (you might just get one bar at the gate) Just drive up the road a mile and they work.
Loads of historical information in the room file and of course 'Ghost Tours' If you are into that sort of thing. And not forgetting the theatre....See picture.
We will most definitely be returning with the Mutts!
Room Tip: Our room was in a newer part close to the road which was easier for taking the dogs out first thing.
“Superb Castle stay!”
5 of 5 starsReviewed 15 September 2013
It is funny to see how different people can rate a hotel. For every negative review there will be a raving one as well. Ours is of the latter type. We had a perfect three-night stay from 3-5 Sept. The staff was friendly, the food fantastic and the ambiance great. Dogs being allowed gives the place a nice and relaxed feel and the castle cats (especially the long haired, old lady in the reception area) add to that as well. Yes, not everything is brand new, but for us that is part of the charm. Speaking about brand new ... do your health a favour and spend some time in the gym, it is the nicest gym we have had on our three week holiday, shiny new equipment, of high quality and a fantastic view on top of that!
We can definitely recommend Craig-y-Nos to anyone and may very well return ourselves. There is a lot more walking to do in the area!
Stayed September 2013, travelled as a couple
“Unusual place”
5 of 5 starsReviewed 13 September 2013
You know, when you book a cheap hotel and it turns out to be a half restored neo gothic mansion featured in most haunted with a theatre built by the lady of the house, diva adelina patti in the 1800s. Did I mention being greeted by a hissing black cat? A farm cat, not the resident one which is lovely. Or the use of the building as a sanatorium? It has quite an atmosphere! Like anything so distinct one will either love it or hate it. My cute little room (14) accessed direct from the courtyard was all very portmeirion. The room was basic although the shower room was very posh! A couple of times I had to wait for a shower as there was no hot water. The hot tub is nice too. The food was good and priced reasonably but not cheaply. Importantly this is a pet friendly venue, so if you don't like dogs and cats don't go here! I love that you can take your dog in the bar dining room! There are no pets allowed in the main dining room. I wouldn't say Craig y nos is pristine or sophisticated, it's much more fun than that.
Sneaky tip - the café at the neighbouring country park does real food (homemade pies, actual veg and potato) cheap - two people, two courses £10
Stayed September 2013, travelled as a couple
“What a Fantasic Venue for a Break with the dogs.”
5 of 5 starsReviewed 9 September 2013
Second time that we have stayed at Craig-y-Nos Castle. We were not disappointed by our choice to stay there, the atmosphere, all the Staff, including the Manager, were excellent as per our previous visit. The meal quality was very good with enough choices. The Castle and surrounding area are stunning. It was a great base for touring around the different locations. Very "dog friendly", even to the point that your dog can go into the "Patti" Bar with you at meal times. The guided tour is well worth while as you see places in the Castle not normally open to the public, plus you learn the history of the Castle. The Country Park is only a few minutes walk away, the dogs remembered the walk, tracks etc. from last year and sulked all the way home at the end of our stay. Nothing was too much trouble for the staff to meet our needs. We plan a third visit, with the dogs of course!
Room Tip: Ask for a ground floor room if you have an elderly dog when booking.
“Beautiful, memorable castle stay - already planning next trip!”
5 of 5 starsReviewed 14 August 2013
Just arrived back from a 2 night stay at this castle with my other half and dog. Ive never written a hotel review before but this castle stay deserves to be rated as excellent! I'm over the moon with my stay here I cant find anything to complain about at all. The room was lovely our boxer dog had plenty of room and her own entrance right out to the castle grounds! Excellent when she needed to pop out to the loo at night time! There are so many beautiful walks right outside the Castle through to the Brecon Beacons and nearby rivers for our dog to plunge into she was in doggy heaven! The staff were wonderful, genuinely so helpful. Our dog was spoilt with sausage at breaky and meat at dinner! It was great to dine in the bar of a beautiful castle with our dog lying next to us. The staff even gave her a memory form bed so she could snuggle up! The evening meal was great value, so much choice and generous portions. Although the hotel allows dogs you would never know its very clean and tidy and dogs stay in the bar area away from the main dining room. Ive stayed in many big chain hotels previously when picking accommodation for a short break and although they maybe nice in terms of décor, they are all the same. Nothing memorable about the stay, staff are robotic, food is average. This castle was different, quirky, beautiful and very memorable. It exceeded my expectations! Already planning our next stay :)
Room Tip: We stayed in Theatre Room Right which was perfect as ground floor and separate opening door (to garden).
“Dog Dreams!”
5 of 5 starsReviewed 10 August 2013
Just come back from a 3 night dinner, bed & breakfast break at the castle, and we're already checking availability for next month! Our 2 dogs had the time of their lives...we've visited a few places that were "dog friendly" but none like this! They had their own bed by the dining table, sausages for breakfast and best of all, acres and acres of parkland to run around on! (the castle cat did take an instant dislike to our overly exuberant German Shepherd tho!!) The staff were all very friendly and helpful and the food.....well the food, particularly the evening meal, was exceptional! The room was very clean and ideal for what we wanted. The castle isnt immaculate, but if you want a quirky, truly dog friendly break, id recommend Craig y nos castle to anyone! Stayed August 2013, travelled as a couple
“quirky - but cool!”
4 of 5 starsReviewed 9 August 2013
This place is very much a "one off"! Don't stay here if you like your hotels perfectly decorated, bland and modern - but do come here if you like unusual and grand rooms, friendly staff and good food.
The castle has had a fortune poured into renovation, but there's still a fortune needing to be spent to finish it off. It's in a lovely spot, with the craig y nos country park literally on the doorstep, and great views from the rooms. The castle is a huge neogothic pile, partly restored. It looks impressive, and has immense potential. The staff were friendly, helpful, and seemed to love dogs - great as we brought our cheeky 5 month old puppy to stay with us. You probably wouldn't want to stay here if you don't like dogs, as most guests seemed to have at least one.
The food was decent quality, and good value - in fact the whole thing was good value, as we stayed half board as a family of 4, for less than £50 per person per night.
Our apartment was the gatehouse - perfect for us as it had it's own entrance, 3 bedrooms (one had low ceilings and was only suitable for kids) a bathroom and a living room with sky TV. No wifi in the rooms, but available for free in the living areas of the castle itself. The bar was reasonably well stocked, the lounge areas comfortable, and the grounds well maintained. To give you an idea of the "quirkiness", our bathroom had a door straight into a hotel corridor, the shower head was held together with gaffer tape, and the door frames were obviously made of 2 separate parts. Oh, and the bathroom window wasn't frosted and looked out onto the main road - but there were curtains so it didn't matter. Personally we loved this place and will definitely return - but as previously mentioned, be prepared for the unexpected and don't don't come expecting bland sleek modern furnishings! Room Tip: the gatehouse is perfect for families - like having a holiday cottage to yourself
“Doggie Holiday”
5 of 5 starsReviewed 5 August 2013
Easily the most welcoming place for dogs we've ever stayed at. Fantastic value for a 4 night dinner bed and breakfast deal. We've stayed in "dog friendly" hotels before which were more "dogs tolerated" but this was the real thing. It's not everywhere that brings your dog a cooked breakfast along with yours. Nice large fenced in grounds for morning and evening walks and 40 acres of secure country park right outside the gates where your dog can run off the lead and play in the river. Great days out in the Brecon Beacons or nearby. The castle is a work in progress and was a little rough around the edges but everything that is being done is to a high standard. The rooms were clean and a good size, the food was good and the menu changed every day. It felt more like staying in some huge old family estate that belongs to a friend of a friend, than a hotel, and that's the charm of this place. We will be back (with insect repellant!)
Room Tip: Trust the hotel staff to look after you when you book.
“Rustic Retreat from the City!”
5 of 5 starsReviewed 2 August 2013
This is a rustic retreat from city bustle. Great staff, and a great place to stay. Fascinating building with character and truly a "spirit" you can feel during your stay ;) Great value for your dollar. I am a gardener, and for me the grounds were a highlight. Rustic and OLD. Some of the trees there must have been imported from their native lands during the time it was built. We walked the extensive trails on the grounds a number of times. Look for the Magnolia walkway. Some of the oldest I've seen, and a unique tunnel training. Also some of the largest evergreens in the area along a beautiful trout stream. Sheep in the hills and horses in the pastures in the valley. "Briton-Zen" I would call it :) Lots to do near by - but it is the country side, so some driving may be required. Hiking everywhere, country pubs, small towns nearby to explore, an absolutely unique cave park, and an easy day's drive to and back from the Gower Peninsula. You may even find yourself having a conversation with a sheep at some point in the highlands.... Having the dogs around is great. At one point two dogs walked into the pub room as though they were looking for a drink. Probably a good joke there somewhere. You inevitably end up chatting with the other guests over a drink or a dog pet.
If you are going to this area stay here for a unique, rustic, eccentric, and fun experience
“A perfect break”
5 of 5 starsReviewed 29 July 2013
Myself my wife & three dogs spent a most enjoyable time at the castle where we stayed for four days. Our room was in the courtyard & had double door disabled access at ground floor level & easy access to the main building, The room was really comfortable with flat screen tv, tea & coffee making facilities a fantastic disabled shower room & even a bed cover for the dogs to sleep on.
Our first nights evening meal was superb, in fact it was so good we ate there for the next three nights & the breakfasts we of a really high standard as well. The staff we really nice & helpful & nothing was to much trouble for them. I would make a return visit in the future to explore this nice part of south wales, Many thanks to all the staff for making our holiday perfect in this quirky hotel.
Room Tip: room number 11
“Lovely dog friendly break”
5 of 5 starsReviewed 26 July 2013
Just had a lovely 3 night break with our st Bernard cross. Staff were very friendly. Food was good.
Walks from the castle are stunning with a clean stream for the dog to play in close by. Will definitely be back in the spring.
Room Tip: We had room 16 which opened onto a courtyard
“Ignore the negative wingers”
5 of 5 starsReviewed 26 July 2013
I felt compelled to take the time to post a review after returning from a wonderful 3 night B&B stay at the castle. I have read a few of the negative reviews and it makes my blood boil. For those wanting a 5 star luxury experience then spend the extra and find a bland hotel chain. For those wanting a fantastic break with some wonderful touches and amazing staff then come to the Craig Y Nos Castle. The hotel is clearly a labour of love for Michael the owner who has clearly invested not only a lot of money but a whole lot of time into making this place unique. I have stayed in many different hotels in my time and found the quality of staff at the Castle to be up there with the best of them. We stayed in a lovely on-suite wwith our 2 dogs. I note that some reviewers have quiestioned the decor but i liked the wardrobes and beds. The bed was comfy and the bathroom was lovely. It was spacious enough for us and our dogs. I certainly did not find the castle to be dirty and the bar area and restuarant was fantastic. The cooked breakfast was also very nice and the evening meals we had were amazing. The scenery was out of this world and the castle grounds were lovely. Everyone we spoke to also thought the hotel was fab. All the guests were very friendly and our dogs felt very welcome throughout the hotel.
Stayed July 2013, travelled as a couple
“Barkleys first holiday”
5 of 5 starsReviewed 20 July 2013
From the moment we arrived we were all made to feel very welcome by the staff, and the feel and atmosphere of the castle made us certain we had made the right choice. The room was very nice, small but perfect for us and our small dog and has an amazing shower. The staff obviously love their jobs and they love the dogs just as much. Everything we needed for a relaxing holiday with our dog was right there, great scenery and walks, nice and cool in the woodland which is just as well as the temperature was in the 30's. in future we will take insect repellant though as there were midges and horse flies by the river (there's always a downside to the hot weather lol). We stayed for 3 nights b&b and had dinner at the castle too and the food was excellent, Barkley even had his own sausages!
Room Tip: We had AB 14 which opens onto a courtyard, no stairs, plenty big enough for us and our small dog.
“Doggie Heaven”
4 of 5 starsReviewed 19 July 2013
If you are looking for a truly dog friendly hotel in a stunning setting, then Craig y Nos Castle is the place to stay. The accommodation is wonderfully quirky, the staff are friendly and welcoming and the grounds and adjacent Country Park are heaven. We had some glorious walks and swims and enjoyed the beautiful scenery. Ellie, our slightly bonkers young labrador, was in heaven. The food was of a good standard and the service was lovely. Wines and other drinks were very reasonably priced. We thought the Dinner, B&B rate was very good value for money. We'll certainly be staying again!
Stayed July 2013, travelled as a couple
“Recommended for dogs and their owners”
5 of 5 starsReviewed 19 July 2013
On a bit of a whim, we booked 2 nights Dinner Bed & Breakfast at Craig y Nos at short notice and did not regret our decision to stay here with our lively collie Meg. We were allocated room 34 which, although it was upstairs, was down a private corridor accessible from the rear courtyard. This made it easy for us to go in and out with Meg, fortunately the weather was already beginning to get dry and warm which helped as well.
We could not fully open the windows in the room because Meg tried to jump out (!) but our request for a fan was dealt with quickly and efficiently. The room was clean, comfortable and in a peaceful location with a beautiful view of the mountains - the roof of the conservatory below did not detract from this in any way in our opinion.
All the staff were friendly and helpful and the food was excellent. Meg particularly enjoyed the sausage for breakfast. Dinners were a real treat, beautifully cooked and generous portions. It was good to be able to have the dog in the bar with us without worrying about how other guests or staff would react. The location of Craig-y-Nos is perfect, with woody, shaded areas, open spaces and of course the river. Meg had a great time - freaked out at the white stag statues at the rear of the house (just the once) - but overall really enjoyed all the new experiences and slept soundly in her basket all night. We also took her to the Gower (Oxwich Bay) which she loved. We could have done with another day to explore more of the local hill walking but unfortunately we had to go home!
In summary, we had an excellent short break in this charismatic castle. Our needs and those of our dog were cared for calmly and efficiently by friendly, helpful staff. We would love to return soon and fully recommend Craig y Nos for dog owners looking to keep their furry friends happy. Could not fault it.
Room Tip: AB34 has a nice outlook and a quiet location. Fine if your dog doesn't jump out of windows!
“A great time was had by all!!!”
5 of 5 starsReviewed 19 July 2013
My partner and I were delighted to find The Castle in the internet. We have 2 Springer Spaniels that we love dearly but not all hotels feel the same about dogs.
The first view of The Castle is breathtaking, a wonderful view as your drive into the car park. Reception was efficient and friendly, the staff on duty showed us to our room, number 14 I believe, the room was maybe a little smaller than we had hoped for but it was completely adequate for our needs. The room and bathroom were clean and well presented, no complaint so far. We had booked a B&B stay but decided to have dinner at The Castle, a good decision, we found the food was of a good standard and very tasty! Breakfast again was just what was needed to prepare for a day of busy sightseeing. The dogs enjoyed their breakfast of complimentary sausages.
The countrypark was a mega delight for both my partner and myself and the dogs, the dog friendly Castle and the countrypark was ideal for us, we hope to return in the near future.
I would like to comment on several of the reviews for The Castle and indeed some of the other hotels reviewed, the Castle offers quality accommodation, you get what you pay for, why do some people think the opportunity to leave a review is an invitation to be unpleasant and mega critical.
“wonderful dog friendly accomodation”
5 of 5 starsReviewed 16 July 2013
my husband and I and our 2 springer spaniels have had a fantastic time, the hospitality , the accommodation and food were excellent. The location was outstanding, the dogs really enjoyed their walks and swimming in the river, especially as it was so hot. I would recommend Craig y Nos and hope to return
Room Tip: We stayed in room 11, it was a disabled room and had plenty of space for us and our 2 dogs
Stayed June 2013, travelled as a couple
“Wonderful retreat for dogs & owners”
5 of 5 starsReviewed 12 July 2013 via mobile
Enjoyed our 2 night stay with two very naughty terriers staff were great setting was perfect for walks castle is historical quirky and an obvious labour of love for the owners room was traditionally furnished very comfy which we loved the whole atmosphere is enchanting we will be coming back again - we thought the full English was superb but should be 'full welsh'!
Stayed July 2013