I’VE been writing hotel reviews for some years and have stayed at all kinds of hostelries up and down the land but my latest excursion turned out to be that rarest of finds – a real gem.
The Byrntirion Inn, just four miles out of Bala in North Wales, serves up some seriously good food and if, like me, you are a bit of a petrol head then the surroundings will also tick all the right boxes.
Dating back to 1695 the historic inn on the B4401 was beautifully refurbished earlier this year… but with a bit of a twist.
As you walk up to the immaculate property two vintage petrol pumps are a clue to what lies within – a homage to cars and motor racing history with everything from parts off Le Mans winning Porsches and Bentleys to half a classic mini sticking out of the pub wall plus an amazing array of motoring memorabilia from dozens of rare original signs to rows of historic petrol pump globes.
The Bryntirion is a distinctive new destination for road-trippers, car clubs and motoring enthusiasts exploring the scenic routes of the Eryri National Park.
Part of the Palé Hall Estate, this gastropub-with-rooms is owned by hotelier and car collector Anthony Cooper-Barney who has curated an impressive collection of motorsport memorabilia displayed throughout the inn.
Among highlights are parts from the 1973 Martini Racing Porsche RSR – including the bonnet, doors and wheels off a car that competed at Le Mans and secured the best-ever finish for an RSR.
Guests will find six individually-styled bedrooms a private car park and elevated pub dining from Head Chef Tristan Fitt – who’s CV includes time at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Wheeler’s Oyster Bar and Alyn Williams at The Westbury.
With menus featuring local produce and the bar pouring Welsh craft beers and spirits, the Bryntirion is as much a food destination as a driver’s retreat and is at the gates of the impressive five-star Palé Hall Hotel.
Brought to life through a £1 million refurbishment the Bryntirion combines the character of a classic village pub with top class dining welcoming locals, travellers and road-trippers to linger, dine and explore.
The inn is divided between a relaxed dining room with 60 covers and a characterful bar area framed by original stone walls, exposed beams and cosy fireplaces.
The bedrooms are all named after a Welsh mountains and display striking landscape photography of its namesake in each. Designed for comfort and character, all rooms have a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities and luxurious Penhaligon’s toiletries.
Double rooms are from £140 per night including breakfast served as a generous continental-style hamper delivered to the room each morning. Family-friendly options include a dedicated children’s menu and a spacious family bedroom.
Dogs are warmly welcomed in the restaurant and bar areas as well as in the bedrooms making the inn a relaxed and inviting retreat for couples, families and four-legged companions alike.
The bar is also a popular spot for locals while the dining space sets the tone for a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a menu shaped by seasonality and local produce.
Kitchen staff work closely with local producers to create high quality interpretations of pub classics featuring the finest Welsh ingredients.
We sampled both the evening à la carte menu and a superb lunch and I cannot recommend the food highly enough, from a traditional burger and fries to a perfectly cooked steak everything is top class and delicious.
It can all be washed down with that selection of local craft beers, ciders and spirits while the wine list balances familiar favourites with lesser-known discoveries including some Welsh wines, all chosen to complement the menus.
And for even more of a wow factor you can visit the estate’s nearby Palé Hall Hotel for a truly Downton Abbey-style experience.
For more information or to book see www.thebryntirion.co.uk
By Motoring Editor Steve Howarth