New Game trailer arrives

In preparation for this season's game season, the hotel has purchased its own refrigerated trailer to allow us to go the the local shoots and hand select our own game for processing in house. Coupled with the recent addition of our own smoking machine, the team is looking forward to the autumn and winter with fresh interest - smoked breast of woodcock and wild mallard should feature. The addition of trailer will allow us to enhance our menus with quality local fresh game. The in-shore duck and partridge season starts on Tuesday and we are hopeful that some wild Mallard will be served up later next week on our popular specials board.

August Holidays

~The last few weeks, despite the rather typical British weather, has still seen plenty of activity and visitors to the village. The team have worked very hard at a time when it remains very difficult to cater for with continued uncertainty of economic times. Everyone has played their part and got on with the task at hand which has been great to see - not always plane sailing but then that's the same in any industry. Just over a week now before the school holidays finish - they seem to flown by. By the laws of averages, we are due some sunshine in September - an Indian Summer after an Australian roasting - one can only wait and see.

BATS visit the Oak

We've been visited by BATS........

West Bromwich foursome Peter Hill and friends John Drew,Karl Bradley and Joe Hill, known as the Black Country Ale Tairsters have spent thousands since 1984 travelling across the UK, enjoying a pint in every county in England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland.

They came up with the idea after getting bored of drinking in the same pub, the Old Crown pub in Whitehall Road and made it their mission to visit every pub in Herefordshire and Worcestershire - over 250.

After travelling all of the pubs in the Midlands in their trademark beer mat waistcoats in 1986 they were presented with tankards from the brewery. In 1988 they visited 71 different pubs in 12 counties covering 1,016 miles from Kent to South Wales. On that occasion they raised cash for Sandwell Hospital, Moxley Hospital and the Wolverhampton Royal Hospital.

Flushed with their success they then made it their mission to visit every pub in every county in England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland, an achievement marked in the Guinness Book of World Records. In the last three years alone, the Tairsters have raised over £5,000.

They have now set their sights on all the pubs in north Wales to raise money for Wrexham Children’s Hospital.

The Royal Oak became their 14,401 visit and their drink of choice was the famous Revered James cask ale-

"Iechyd da" boys and carry on the good work!

Dulwich Reunion - Tanks away

Last weekend saw the old prep school boys who were evacuated during the second world war, return to the hotel for their annual reunion. It was an excellent attendance and included 2 headmasters amongst the ranks. Judging by the chatter, the Saturday luncheon was an interesting affair and the weather held well for all those staying over the weekend (some also stayed the Sunday night as well). Of specific interest was the small note book produced by Mr R Viccari depicting when the allied American tanks came through the village. The story goes that the noise of the rumbling tanks drowned out the boys shouts for sweets, so a large banner was to catch the eyes instead. I asked the author as to why the tanks where there in the first place and whether some artistic license had been employed. His reply was most honest in that the tanks were trying to ensure they were as far away from the nazi bombing threat whilst they regathered their forces after Dunkirk. There was even one stationed on the Waterloo Bridge; something I had not heard before. His drawings are reproduced with his kind permission and serve as a fascinating incite to a young boys perspective of the WW2 viewed from the Welsh foothills.

Clean get-away

Yesterday saw the installation of our latest guest facility - a jet wash for mountain and road bikes. The high pressure cold water jet should remove the welsh dirt after a day's trekking allowing guests to return with a clean and fresh cycle ready for packing away until the next time. I have also included details of this weeks' local meat suppliers in readiness for Father's Day.
The Bull Huss shark bites have been selling well and being enjoyed by a number of diners - best as a light meal or starter in breadcrumbs with lemon garlic mayonnaise - delicious.

Chefs' Catch of the Day

What a fantastic day out - the Hotel has just spent two days fishing off Amlwch point under the very jovial and cheery captains Pat and Elfyn. Our sincere thanks to you both and your first mates, Taff and Daz. We were very well looked after, coached and encouraged. Congratulations to Mike who landed a Bull Huss weighing in at over 15 lbs!! I can recommend this experience to anyone who would like a value for money, relaxing day out that literally gives you a birds' eye view of the stunning welsh coastline. An added bonus has been the ability of the kitchen team to plate up food they have individually sourced/caught. Visit www.julie-anne.co.uk for further details - but remember the sun cream!!

Snowdon cafe Opening - Hafod Eryri

It was opening day today on the top of Snowdon for the new cafe and railway station - Dylan, our catering manager, attended on our behalf and a selection of pictures are attached. The Hotel sponsored the construction and were recognized by the inclusion of a plague which can be seen. The challenges of constructing such a building in one of the harshest environments in Britain have resulted in a unique legacy - further details can be found on the SNP's web site and is well worth the time. It also means that the railway is now open, again, a unique experaince and service for those not normally expected to reach the top of the second highest mountain in Britain.
http://www.eryri-npa.co.uk/page/index.php?nav1=lookingafter&nav2=4&nav3=1〈=eng&contrast=1&view=graphic

Film and landscapes - video to

It has been quite a busy week, all in all, not least as we played host to two film crews. The first and larger of the pair spent a week filming the landscapes and scenery as part of a new feature film called "Patagonia" further details can be found at http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1020559/ . There is one small change to the cast list we believe since there was a North Wales female singer with the group starring in her first acting role!! Locations included Nant Gwynant camp site and Penmachno Valley. They were all very appreciative and its was a pleasure to cater for them as there are always challenges with groups of this nature.
The second crew brought with them a new model Aston Martin V12 which was drop-jawingly delicious - the only one in the country we believe - they were filing for a certain well known BBC entertainment show in and around Bala and the village - they commented on the dramatic scenery although the car's turning circle (or lack off) proved a little problematic when turing round due to the dry stone walls. We suspected they were "speed" merchants from the start since we had a record quick lock-out (that's where a guest locks themselves out of their room by leaving the key inside it and allowing the door to close).

Finally, we have included a short, very much home made "holiday snap" collection for your interest from around the local area.

steamy windows

A small extract from a recent letter following their performance last Friday....."Firstly we would like to thank all the staff who were most accommodating when we arrived by helping to ensure that we had sufficient room and access for our equipment, and that the stage area was clear....this was great....and to see ALL the posters that I delivered being used was fantastic..(makes all the effort and expense worthwhile)

The night was a big success for us...we seemed to play enough variation of material for all the people there...and the feedback was tremendous
We REALLY seemed to capture the audience and they were singing, dancing and really enjoying it....we enjoyed appearing there tremendously...

I would really hope that a repeat booking..

We had an interview with the Pioneer who gave us a great article with colour photo the week prior to us visiting you...and your venue was mention in our spread..."

An excellent result all round.

May 1/2 term

The schools have broken and the sun has broken the clouds, at least for the time being. The weather is glorious at the moment and is due to continue tomorrow; short are on and everyone is keen to get their tan going. The Stables kicked off the "new" season feeling by introducing a couple of new numbers to their well established set. This was then followed by the very popular blues band, Steamy Windows.
New season lamb is now in plentiful supply and should be at its very best over the next month. Rhyd-y-Creau, Cefn Hir Tynydd and and Hendre Llwyn y Mean provide the livestock this week. Lobster salad, Fillet steak and white asparagus also grace the specials- the Fish mixed Grill with scent lemon cream and the Chef's Beef and Ale Pie are also popular with the Roast Beetroot and orange soup to start.

Customer Feedback

It was reassuring, as it is always, to read the guest comment cards upon my return to work yesterday; our new receptionist has already been mentioned which is great as was our young waitress in the Dining Room over the previous weekend. Our thanks to the parties Mr Peel of Hertfordshire and Ms J Palmer. It was also noticeable that nearly all questionnaires received commented positively on our staff which is most reassuring that we are delivering and/or exceeding our guests expectations.
A fine day in the village today and plenty of visitors enjoying the fresh air.

Welsh Mountaineer

For the steam train enthusiast, it will of interest that two steam locomotives will run the Conwy Valley railway line on 2nd May, leaving Llandudno at 1202 to arrive in Bleanau Ffestiniog at 1317 - another service runs on Monday 4th. Given the Victorian Heritage of the area, it is quite forceful to see these scenes replayed as they would have over 150 years ago. Hopefully some images to follow after the week.
The forecast is generally good, especially for the next two days and the grass/greenery has exploded with the recent rain and sun.
This weeks local produce has a very local feel to it with Rhyd-y-creau farm just over the river from us. Mr. Hughes is a regular supplier and has farmed their for many years, producing top quality lamb and beef.

Arts Update

A fabulous weekend of weather and art - the village was very busy with both incidental and purposeful visitors, all of which seemed to enjoy the bright sunshine and cheery atmosphere that it brings. Attendances were excellent for the Jazz Rag and local Male voice choir who performed at Y Stablau Thursday and Friday. Mr Algieri also seemed pleased with the interest shown and would like to return later in the year - it was a privilege to host his work - see http://www.algieri-images.co.uk/. John Lees and his freinds also joined us in the Stables for an impromptu Blue Grass jam session which caught fellow diners by surprise but the atmosphere was as rich as you would probably find in Appalachia. More good weather is forecast which should bring on the trees and flowers, adding to the Spring revival.

Arts Festival

Tonight saw the launch of the inaugural Betws-y-coed & District Arts Festival with the Alison Bradley Gallery hosting and the Honorable Elfyn LLwyd MP officially opening the program. A well attended event with work displayed from the local primary and secondary schools which were very impressive - it looks like the local children really got something interesting from the event already. Full details of what's to come and historical background can be found at www.betwsycoedartsfestival.org.uk. Tomorrow sees a number of exhibitions and openings to include Pierino Algeri at the Royal Oak, a highlight of the program, as well as mixed media and charcoal master-classes. More details to follow.

Easter Break

The traditional Easter Break has arrived with its usual urgency for which we are grateful. Even in 2001 with foot and mouth, the uk public graced us with their patronage and so, with the financial institutions of the world falling around us, it is still of great comfort to see the streets alive once again. Two of the kitchen deserve a special mention this week - one for the special chocolate brownie creation and the other, who is only part time, for winning a competition in Manchester for which they will be interviewed (further details to follow). on one cautionary note, local auction prices for lamb and beef has risen rapidly on the back of significant reduction in breeding stock. This will inevitably result in higher plate prices and present an on-going challenge in the future.

Spring start

It is really nice to see a good bit of weather at the start of the spring break for the holiday makers; although cold later on, the sun has some strength and gives a pleasant warmth - it is also ideal for the spring lambs in the fields whose mums are able to enjoy some early grass growth - last year, the weather was a different story and they all had their little blue jackets on!! The locals have also been out enjoying the produce from near - details can be seen on the photo.

Early Bird

The early spring sunshine brought an unexpected bonus and visitor to the village this morning as two enthusiastic and eagle-eyed birds spotters found today as perched up high on the forest skyline was a Sparrowhawk as it proudly displayed its chest to the rising sun. The pair had just dropped off for a spot of breakfast as they looked forward to day of spotting along the Conwy Valley - it just goes to show some of the unexpected uprises nature has in store for us - what I would like to know is how many other times the bird had perched in the same spot, quietly eyeing what must appear to it, as the tiny images of village visitors and traffic, scurrying around below ?

Perfect Preparation

The fine weather over the weekend prompted local members of the Betws-y-coed Anglers Club to undertake tree trimming and surgery along our stretch of the river Llygwy. They enthusiastically set about their work and the aspect looks all the better for it. I am reliably informed that the Llygwy is the fastest recovering salmon river in the country which is fantastic news for keen followers of the sport and the environment in general -keep up the good works lads. Local fishing day tickets are available at the local news-agents and rod licenses from the post office - the club has access to over 30 pools along the river as well as well stoked lakes providing excellent value and sport.

PGI - Local, welsh and proud

This weekend brings local welsh beef from Mr Hughes, Melin-y-coed, Llanwrst via the abattoir at Llanrwst giving a total of about 6 miles for the entire journey for field to plate. Our lamb is sourced from both Mr G Jones, Llanrswt and Mrs G Roberts, Ysbyty Ifan, the latter being a little over 4 miles away giving a total journey of between 8 to 10 miles. We still await the first new season spring lamb which should be of the best quality given the current recent weather conditions. The weather is fine and blustery but at least dry - an excellent forecast for tomorrow should see some locals about enjoying their produce.

Jazz Rag in the Land of Fire

Thursday night always has a swing about - for nigh on 15 years, Jazz Rag has led the call at Y Stablau and with no lesser enthusiasm. I can count on my hands the number of slots they have missed over the years due to heavy snow usually. There was an appreciative crowd and more than a scattering of regular attenders. The weekend also sees the launch of our new wine list - one bottle is already making a name for itself, particuarliy apat for our celtic nation - The sangoivese from Teirra del Fuego ("Land of Fire"), Mendoza, Argentina. Mixed weather forecast over the weekend but some fresh blue skies are always a welcome sight.

Walking Away

Inspired by the fantastic early spring weather, we thought that we should encourage those wishing to take advantage of the fresh air to blow away the winter cob-webs. The team has put together a specialist walking break to discover the new paths and lands at the snowdonia foothills and Gwydyr Forrest that surrounds us. The waterfalls are still racing filled by some overnight rain and complimentary use of the Leisure Center at the nearby Waterloo Hotel is included. See www.royaloakhotel.net for details.

Mothers'Day

Mothering Sunday is in full swing and our harpist is really adding to the whole warm family atmosphere. The roast loin of Glouscester Old Spot is also proving especially popular and thought I'd share the picture with you; its so delicious and tender because of the extra fat on it; welsh sirloin of beef is also flying out with the indulgence of the house made yorkshire pudding but balanced by the light melon starter.

Arts & Business

Last week saw the hotel surprisingly awarded an Excellance in Partnership from Arts and Business for working with The Betws-y-coed inaugural arts festival to be held 16th to 18th April 2009. Our sponsorship has led to the creation of at least 200 school children enjoying visual workshops which will result in festival exhibitions for involving staff, friends and family. See www.betwsycoedartsfestival.org.uk for further details.

Comic Relief

We finally brought ourselves to break into the Comic Relief - the sum raised rather reflected the quality of the entertainment that we supplied, being a D Bailey, singer and comedian - £70.13 was the sum - still every little helps. Tonight we have the ever popular male voice choir from Llanwrst performing from 8.00 pm in the Stables - should be a lovely atmosphere as the tenors and basses drift across the remaining part of this fabulous early spring evening. Forecast is excellent for the weekend - we have some fantastic menu items for Mothers' Day - Guinea fowl terrine, roast welsh sirloin of beef and loin of rare breed gloucestershire old spot pork; will they have room for the tangy lemon trifle?

What a day..

The fantastic spring sunshine bathed the whole village today and you could literally see from our regulars' faces that the spring air had brought a little extra cheer to everyone.  The river Llygwy is low for spring time, almost summer like as it slowly eases by us.  Lunch included a tasty baked Duck and orange tartlet whilst many continued to enjoy the Welsh beef from Mr Rowlands' farm, Bala and the leg of lamb from Mr Thomas of Padog, less than 4 miles away up the A5.

Spring "Forward"

Welcome to this first post.  Spring is almost here and with it, the optimism of a new season.  Like the changing weather, our hotel has its natural rhythyms.  Now is the time that we shake off our winter hibernation and look forward to the new season.  The heather outside our beer garden is in full bloom and the mini daffodils are giving chase.  Delicious and juicy new season spring welsh mountain lamb will soon be on the menu although not quiet in time for the traditional Mothers' Day lunch.  "Mad" march has brought some challenges as we tread water until the Easter break.  I think the team are looking forward to their cheese and wine tasting day later this month!