News Leaves

Local Marketing

2011-12-19T05:27:00.000-08:00

In light of annual renewals and recent correspondence, I would like to share some thoughts with you all.

As a long standing Member, former Chair and supporter of the Association, I am disappointed to see the continued dialect between colleagues, some of which are themselves longer standing and have given far more service than I. However, the Association I see today and in recent times, is unrecognisable from that that first got us all working successfully together but I can not say that this remains the case at present.

I have always been a multi-site member not least because we were confident that our membership fees were being used for the common good and aims and for the benefit of the membership as a whole. Whilst recognising that serving Committee members are volunteers, in general, actions were always based on the common good and best intentions. There will always be ups and downs and I have experienced both sides of the coin.

However, Committee members who do choose to serve, are custodians of our money, whether they like it or not and the Association does have rules, again, which they may or may not like but they are there. Adherence to those rules serves to give the members confidence in the management of our money and the Association.

This year, we have seen a very turbulent year for the Committee and the Association, culminating in a General Meeting last month. For those not present, I abstained from the elections because I considered that unconstitutional changes had been made to the election process . My personal opinion was that these changes served as an obstacle to potential new committee members; as it transpired, not one new member put themselves forward for consideration. There are other examples but no need to dwell.

In addition, at that General Meeting, a poll of all those present bar one voted to remove Trip Advisor from the Association's new web site since TA lists "top rated" recommendations for Hotels, B&B's, Attractions etc, whether or not they are Association members or not - I consider it unfair that the Association should promote a third party site which gives preferential coverage to a few. As of today, the listing still appears; visit the link and draw your own conclusions.

Turning to web marketing, I noticed the Association bidding on Betws-y-Coed terms such as Betws-y-Coed, Betws-y-Coed hotel etc on Google Adwords. This struck me as a strange tactic as for all the terms I tried www.betws-y-coed.co.uk came up first as a free listing. This is an unnecessary and expensive way to divert traffic that would have gone to the members pages on www.betws-y-coed.co.uk but may end up going towww.visitbetwsycoed.co.uk instead.
My confusion increased when I searched for "Royal Oak Hotel Betws-y-Coed" and found the www.visitbetwsycoed.co.uk advert came above the normal search engine link to my website. I then tried a number of other local accommodation businesses and found that regardless of what I searched for, if I added "Betws-y-Coed" the www.visitbetwsycoed.co.uk was shown somewhere on the page. This situation means that the Association is spending money competing with its members' own websites with their own potential traffic.

Whilst there are some members who choose to target specific businesses in this way, which they are of course free to do so, for the Association to use funds to target member's themselves is counter productive. Whilst one may point to a successful web launch of the new site and/or an oversight, it is my opinion that it will have been at the detriment of individual members of the Association. Some may say that I should raise this directly with the Committee but I consider it may have broader audience. PLEASE NOTE that I used google as a search and Safari web browser as results may differ - check it for yourselves by entering your business name followed by "Betws-y-coed". Be aware that if you do click the link, the Association will be charged for the "click"; that the ad will disappear once its daily allowance is reached and that the location of the Ad will vary. For those not so familiar with the process (as I have only recently understood this aspect myself), if you enter your own criteria or any establishment followed by "Betws-y-coed", you should see it for yourself.
As a long term supporter of the Association I am concerned about these aspects and others that have taken place recently.

At present, I am left with no other conclusion that I have no personal confidence that my Association membership fees will be applied to the benefit of the membership as a whole and so have no intention to re-join.
I wish you all a Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year.
Yours sincerely,

Glenn Evans,

Congratulations

2011-08-13T10:13:00.000-07:00

A really big THANK YOU to both Steph of the Stables Bar team and Mari of the Hotel waiting on division for wining their respective staff incentives and doing a fantastic job for the business - well done and enjoy!

Who needs Christmas cards....

2011-06-25T06:09:00.000-07:00

At the Royal Oak, we make the decision some time ago that although everyone likes to receive a Christmas Cards, corporate cards were merely a process. Accordingly, we decided to re-allocate this budget and sponsor a number of children from around the world via the charity, Plan UK. It is amazing to think of the material difference this approach has made to these children for the sake of a glossy card, envelope and marketing database.

One of our "children" is pictured below and some up to date information. Perhaps by sharing our rewarding experience with you may encourage others to follow suit.

Prem Ratan lives with his brother and family in India and now attends secondary school. A fact sheet of life in his area is also set out for your interest.

Snowdonia Arts Festival

2011-04-18T10:54:00.000-07:00

I have attached the provisional program for the third local arts festival later this year. Visit their Facebook or web site for further details

Mothers'Day - 3rd April 2011

2011-03-22T07:06:00.000-07:00

This is usually a very busy day and so we would encourage early booking - hopefully there is something for everyone on the menu.

Mothers Day Menu April 3^rd 2011

Two Courses £12.95 Three Courses £14.95

Starters

Fanned Wedge of Galia Melon with our own

Champagne and Summer Berry Sorbet

Pantysgawn Organic Goats Cheese, Pear and Basil Pannacotta

Chefs Smooth Chicken Liver, Orange & Brandy Parfait

Handmade Smoked Salmon, Haddock & Asparagus

Layered Terrine with Pickled Leaves

Cream of Leek and Potato Soup with Caerphilly Leek Scone

Mains

Roast Rhug Organic Prime Welsh Beef, mini Yorkshire Pudding

Lightly Steamed Supreme of Salmon on creamy Spring Cabbage, Lemon Dill Sauce

Breast of Local Turkey, Lemon Sausage Stuffing, Game Chips

Slow Cooked Rillette of Welsh Lamb on Leek and Bacon, Redcurrant and Red Wine Sauce

Baked Penmon Sea Bass stuffed with a Crab and White Fish Mousse,

Tomato Cream Sauce

(v) Mushroom & Vegetable Stroganoff with Basmati Rice

Desserts

Tiramisu

Raspberry, Lemon and Vanilla Trifle

Steamed Chocolate Pudding, Chocolate Sauce

Toffee and Pecan Cheesecake

Classic Eton Mess

Bwydlen Sul y Mamau

Ebrill y 3^ydd 2011

Dau Gwrs £12.95 Tri Chwrs £14.95

I Ddechrau

Darn o Felon Galia gyda’n Sorbet Siampen ac Aeron Haf

Basil a Chaws Gafr Organig Pantysgawn, Panacota Gellyg

Parfait Cartref o Iau Cyw Iâr, Brandi ac Oren

Terîn Cartref o Eog Mwg, Corbenfras ac Asbaragws

gyda Dail wedi eu piclo

Cawl Tatws a Chennin gyda Sgon Cennin Caerffili

Prif Gyrsiau

Cig Eidion Cymreig o Fferm Organig Y Rhug gyda Phwdin Cytew Bach

Supreme o eog wedi ei stemio’n ysgafn a’i weini gyda

Bresych Hufennog a Saws Dil Lemwn

Brest o Dwrci Lleol gyda Chreision Main a Stwffin Selsig Lemwn

Rillette o Gig Oen Cymreig wedi ei goginio’n araf a’i weini

ar Gennin a Bacwn gyda Saws Cyrens Coch a Gwin Coch

Draenog y Môr o Benmon wedi ei bobi a’i stwffio

gyda Mŵs Cranc a Physgod Gwyn, Saws Tomato Hufennog

(LL) Stroganoff Madarch a Llysiau gyda Reis Basmati

Pwdin

Tiramisu Eidalaidd

Treiffl Mafon, Lemwn a Fanila

Pwdin Siocled wedi ei Stemio gyda Saws Siocled

Cacen Gaws Taffi a Chnau Pecan

Eton Mess Traddodiadol

Help the Snowdonia Society

2011-03-18T06:20:00.000-07:00

Please see this message below from Sarah Metcalf

As many of you know, the Snowdonia Society has applied for vital funding from the European Outdoor Conservation Association to support our conservation volunteering work in 2011/12.

The results of our funding bid will be decided on by YOU!!

We are one of four projects that can be voted for by the public online - the only project in Wales and the only project with a wider scope than just footpath maintenance.

PLEASE VOTE NOW using this link http://www.livefortheoutdoors.com/News-Landing/Search-Results/Outdoor-headlines/Vote-now-for-a-great-cause/

If we are successful, the money will contribute to important work clearing invasive species in Snowdonia and thus preserving our landscape and biodiversity and footpath maintenance on some of the most popular paths in the National Park, including the Miners Track and Pyg path on Snowdon. Pass this email on to friends and contacts and if you're on Facebook or Twitter please encourage your friends and followers to add their vote!

This is a unique and important opportunity to ensure that our fantastic achievements in getting both residents and visitors, young and old, involved in protecting and enhancing the natural heritage of Snowdonia can continue into the future.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Update on voting from Wednesday 16th March:

Here is an update on the voting figures for our EOCA funding bid as they stand this morning with Trail Magazine

Snowdonia Footpath Repair - 6% - this is us :>(((

Lake District Footpath Repair -28%

ReWilding Ennerdale - 11%

Yorkshire 3 Peaks Repair - 56%

In total, they have had 3372 votes, so we have had just 202 votes! - Please send this on to as may of your contacts, family and friends as possible, and let's make a difference over the next few days

--
Sarah Medcalf

Cyfarwyddwr Cynorthwyol - Assistant Director

sarah@snowdonia-society.org.uk

Cymdeithas Eryri - Snowdonia Society
Caban, Yr Hen Ysgol, Brynrefail, LL55 3NR
Ffôn - Tel: 01286 685 498 / 07545026156
www.cymdeithas-eryri.org.uk - www.snowdonia-society.org.uk
Mae Cymdeithas Eryri yn Elusen Gofrestredig rhif 253231
The Snowdonia Society is a Registered Charity number 253231
Follow us on www.twitter.com/Snowdonia_soc

Car park can't park

2011-03-12T06:24:00.000-08:00

Its not everyday you see something like this; thankfully no one was hurt and everything should be repairable despite the destruction of the original victorian railings.

Nearly there

2011-01-29T06:12:00.000-08:00

End of week three and the dining room is nearly finished - the track and spot lights have over run but there is sufficient light for the present needs being a day conference and Sunday lunch. The place has really come together with the arrival of the furniture and LED halo effect lighting which changes colour to suit your needs. Shelly Hocknell's original oil takes pride of place for the time being or to when our mantle mirror is repaired after its falling out with me - at least 70 years bad luck for me judging by the amount and thickness of glass! The chandeliers have really shown - we just now need to resolve what's happening to the one originally supplied being a 2 way mirror effect but as a result, they were simply oversized and intrusive. Next week see the David Cox suite floor sanded, sealed and polished - really looking forward to the rich grain coming out!

Week 2 update

2011-01-17T11:24:00.000-08:00

Week 2 has brought some solutions and some issues - we still await the some of the main light fittings but are confident these will soon arrive; we also need to repair some of the small dining room floor before it is plyed ready for the new oak floor. Having meet with floor contractor last Friday, they appear very confident of the finished product and how it should look. The furniture is progressing as expected and will, barring any weather disasters, be with us on schedule.

So, although we are very much upside down, all elements seem to be coming together....so far

Day 3

2011-01-12T09:49:00.000-08:00

As you can see, Day 3 of the refurbishment has brought some progress and the plastering is well on track to be completed at the of the week. Decorators should be on site from tomorrow starting in the small Dining Room and so soon they will all be tripping over each other. Awaiting the lighting delivery tomorrow.........

Restaurant Refit

2011-01-10T09:11:00.000-08:00

Today with a vengeance, the builders started on the refit of the main restaurant. They soon make a mess but hopefully things will start to come back together next week. It is a big step for us as you always wonder just how it will finish up and whether it will be well received. Also, given the proximity to christmas, you wonder if the fixture and fittings will all turn up in time after the holidays - fingers crossed!

Winter wonderland

2010-12-17T10:54:00.000-08:00

Having spoken with various locals, we have come to the conclusion that it has been nearly 42 years since we have seen snow like this - I appreciate that most of the country is also in the grip of the conditions and that with christmas around the corner, the disruption is not all that welcome - still, we plough on and make the best of it.

Children In Need

2010-11-19T06:24:00.000-08:00

Congratulations

2010-11-08T11:00:00.000-08:00

A big congratulations to our local egg supplier in receiving their National Trust Produce Award, details of which were announced in this North Wales Weekly News - hopefully we will soon have them for sale for our customers! Well done to trefor and Marian Roberts and daughters, Elin and Mari or Ochr Cefn Isa Farm, Ysbyty Ifan

menu details

2010-11-04T12:45:00.000-07:00

Autumn/Winter 2010

Starters

Pan Fried Menai Strait Mussels Marinier

with Llanrwst smoked bacon

Japanese Crumb Smoked Haddock and Spring Onion Fish Cakes

tartar sauce and frisse

Slow Cooked Confit Leg of Local Wild Rabbit

vanilla pod risotto & port wine syrup

Crispy Welsh Belly Pork & Seared King Scallops

apple & blackpudding

Fanned Galia Melon & Sliced Figs

air dried Carmarthenshire ham

Pressed Local Feathered Seasonal Game Terrine

beetroot & orange chutney

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

with an apple & walnut scone

Main Courses

Chefs Celebration of Local Game

please ask your server for today’s selection

Noisette of Famous Conwy Valley Lamb

carrot & caraway gateaux, pea puree & fondant potato

Lightly Grilled Fillet of Wild Llandudno Sea Bass

confit fennel, mussel & lemon broth

Baked Fillet of Codling wrapped in Pancetta

fine cut ratatouille , goats cheese & basil croquettes

Chargrilled 10oz Sirloin of Welsh Beef

chunky chips, mushroom, onion rings & vine tomatoes

Roast Rhug Farm Organic Welsh Chicken Breast

apricot & cranberry stuffing, sage & onion pudding

Roasted Wild Ruabon Moor Partridge

pear tartan & butternut squash puree

(v) Vegetarian Assiette

ask your server for todays selection

All our game dishes may contain shot

Desserts

(Compliment your dessert with Brown Brothers Late Harvest Orange Dessert Wine

125ml Glass £6.00 375ml Bottle £15.95)

Terrine of Bread & Bara Brith Pudding

made with gold award winning Llanrwst bara brith

Cinnamon Poached Pear

chocolate, brandy sauce & Fortes vanilla ice cream

Vanilla Pod Pannacotta

honey glazed figs

Hot Chocolate Fondant Pudding with Caramel Centre

clotted cream ice cream

(please allow 20 minutes cooking time)

Welsh Cream Liqueur Cheesecake

on a crunchy ginger nut biscuit base

Selection of Specialty Welsh Farmhouse Cheese

with Ty Hwnt ir Bont bara brith & savoury biscuits

2 Course £25.00

3 Course £32.50

New Seasonal Dining Room Menu

2010-11-04T12:34:00.001-07:00

As the season changes, so does the availability of produce and so must our change menu. This year, we have sourced quality Venison from the Cefyn Estate in Denbighshire as well as Rhug Farm Organic Chicken, reportedly in common with "Le Manoir" but without the journey! These new additions accompany last years newcomers of local wild Mallard, rabbit, Partridge and Pheasant.

BBC News Article - our history

2010-10-27T06:58:00.000-07:00

Please follow the attached link which I would hope you would find interesting about our artistic past.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/northwestwales/hi/people_and_places/arts_and_culture/newsid_9131000/9131480.stm

Today's Sunday seasonal lunch

2010-10-24T07:25:00.000-07:00

Sunday Lunch Menu

2 Course – £11.95 3 Course £13.95

Served from noon onwards

Starters

Fanned Wedge of Galia Melon with Parma Ham & Fig

Fricassee of Button Mushrooms in a Garlic Cream Sauce

Chicken & Game Liver Parfait. Mixed Leaves & Crostini

Grilled Breast of Bodnant Pigeon on Pine nut & Orange Salad

Cream of Fresh Vegetable Soup

Mains

Prime Roast Welsh Beef, Yorkshire Pudding

Roast Loin of Glouceshire Old Spot Pork, Bramley Apple Sauce, Sausage Stuffing

Breast of Grilled Caer Rhun Pheasant wrapped in Bacon

on Caramelised Red Cabbage, Red Wine Mushroom Sauce

Pair of Handmade Venison & Redcurrant Sausages, Creamy Mash Potatoes, Onion Gravy

Lightly Grilled Salmon, Cherry Tomato, Red Onion & Basil Compote

Huntsman Pot Pie, Hand Cut Fat Chips

(v) Mushroom & Vegetable Stroganoff with Basmati Rice

(Our Game dishes may contain shot)

Desserts

Double Chocolate Trifle

Italian Style Tiramisu

Chefs Ruthin Apple Pie with Custard

Vanilla Panacotta with Banana & Toffee Sauce

Traditional Steamed Jam Sponge & Custard

Orchard Fruit Crumble with Creamy Custard

Fortes Llandudno Ice Cream

CHildren In Need

2010-10-15T07:58:00.000-07:00

This year for children in need, we are planning a very exciting way of raising money. We are looking for 40 staff members to take part in the first ever Yr Styg Challenge at Cerygydriddion. We will be taking the names of staff who are willing to pay the minimal starting donation of £10, and if there are over forty people who are interested, who ever is willing to donate more to Children in Need, will be taken along.

What is Yr Styg challenge?

The most charitable people will have a place in the Cerygydriddion go kart circuit, where, they will have a 10 lap warm up, to get used to the track, after that, the action starts. Yr Styg ™ will be given the head start and everyone will be let loose shortly after him. And if he laps you, or should I say WHEN he laps you, you’re out! Or if you can survive 10 laps with him on your tail and you are in the top 5 racers, you go through to the next round. The fastest racers from across the day will compete to be the last racer standing! The day will be split into 20 racers in the morning, of which 5 will go through after 3 heats and 5 from the afternoon group of 20, of which another 5 will go into the Grande Finale!

The event is intended as a staff “thank you” and are first choice for this charity shindig, so put your names forward to your line manager as soon as you can. Transport will have to be arranged off your own backs, and be sure to bring your cameras for this fun day out. We are also looking for one budding video camera operator – volunteers please – free place, lunch and tea and coffee provided. All names to your line manager by 24^th October 2010.

Remember everyone, this is a charity event so please be generous in your donations and lets raise all the money we can.

Arts Festival

2010-10-08T15:01:00.000-07:00

Well, its off to a fantastic start, even if I say so myself. Everyone who attended really seemed to enjoy the sparkly, canapes, the art work and performances. Rachel Hall was fantastic and as for Coastal voices, they were a revelation - what an unexpected event - the acoustics really seemed to work as well. Many thanks to Jon and Rosemary, our Chair, for her hard work and patience over the year; really hope she can sit back and enjoy the weekend.

Congratulations

2010-08-12T12:32:00.000-07:00

The Hotels are delighted to congratulate members of the kitchen teams in passing recent food safety courses, namely level 3 in Supervising Food Safety in Catering. WELL DONE to all. We are very lucky of the experience we already have but it is fantastic to see this formally recognised by these awards. The kitchens have really applied themselves in coming to task with recent changes in food safety legislation and what is now expected in terms of paperwork and structured management. With the "Scores on the Doors" system implementation, it is essential that the hard work undertaken on a day to day basis is recognised, something that is completely different to the quality and local produce we source and present everyday.

2010-04-11T14:01:00.000-07:00

The complete picture

2010-02-12T07:59:00.001-08:00

Some more additional images !

Time For a Change

2010-02-12T05:27:00.001-08:00

Not the most title given the Valentine's week ahead but as they say, with change comes opportunity as well as chaos!

I thought that you would like to see how the recent redecoration of the Reception and Cocktail bar evolved last month, finishing precisely on time on Friday 28th January - as the builders walked off site, the first customers walked in to be seated - a seamless handover! My thanks to Harry Roberts, Dave Bradley, Mike Pearson, Neville and all of their colleagues and sun-contractors for thier application over the 4 weeks.

I should also mention Richard Williams of Snowdonia Slate and Stone for supplying the fantastic slate top - measuring 50mm (that's about 2 inches in old money) and sourced from the quarries in Blaenau Ffestiniog in traditional blue/grey stone, it is a lovely piece. Visit http://www.snowdoniaslate.co.uk for further details.

Today's lunch menu

2010-02-08T05:23:00.001-08:00

Daily Lunch Menu
Two Courses £10.95 Three Courses £13.50
served from 12- 2.30pm
Starters

Melon & Fresh Fruit Cocktail

Chefs Smooth Game Liver, Redcurrant & Orange Parfait

Fricassee of Garlic Butter Mushrooms in White Wine Cream Sauce

Tartlet of Llandudno Smoked Salmon with Lemon Zest & Parsley

Pressed Terrine of Chicken & Parma Ham

Cream of Vegetable Soup

Main Course

Roast Welsh Beef with Yorkshire Pudding

Local Leg of Traditional Roast Pork, Sage Stuffing
Royal Oak Speciality; Creamy Game Pie
with Mustard Glazed Short Crust Pastry

Supreme of Salmon on Creamy Winter Cabbage, Lemon Cream Sauce

Pot-Roasted ½ Pentrefoelas Pheasant in Smokey Bacon Vegetable Gravy

(V) Mushroom & Vegetable Stroganoff on Basmati Rice

Sweets

Traditional Rhubarb and Apple Crumble with Custard

Lemon Meringue Pie

Cinnamon Panacotta with Honeyed Figs

Tiramisu Cheesecake

Rich Chocolate Fudge Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream

8th February

2010-02-08T05:18:00.000-08:00

We all busy catching up after a busy weekend and our first wedding of the year - there was a fantastic atmosphere with plenty of high spirits, laughter and happiness without any over indulgence!!

The weather seems set fair albeit cold and fresh - perfect winter weather - let's hope its a precursor to a perfect summer.

Welcome Back

2010-02-06T08:01:00.000-08:00

A happy new year to you all - a distant memory for some, I'm sure. So much has taken place since we last wrote, we will try and break it down. Our staff have all preformed really well and the feedback we have had through our monitoring, both internal and external, has been fantastic - a thank you to all.

The game season is drawing to a close but it has far exceeded our expectations - we are already planning next seasons'! Especially successful dishes have included our own smoked pheasant, delicious creamy and tender mustard glazed game pie as well as a very fine game liver parfait. We have also served a stunning pan fried loin of Pentrefoelas Hare with mushroom risotto.

We are just attending to our first wedding of the year in our newly refurbished reception and lounge area and are looking forward to the half term and valentine's next week.

New Game trailer arrives

2009-08-30T13:04:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-24T11:42:00.001-07:00

~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

2009-07-29T13:15:00.001-07:00

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

2009-07-06T11:12:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-20T09:57:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-17T13:36:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-12T09:42:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-10T10:36:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-26T11:06:00.001-07:00

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

2009-05-24T07:23:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-02T06:08:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-01T12:29:00.000-07:00

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

2009-04-20T10:26:00.000-07:00

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

2009-04-16T13:42:00.000-07:00

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

2009-04-11T05:30:00.000-07:00

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

2009-04-07T05:02:00.000-07:00

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

2009-04-01T06:29:00.000-07:00

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

2009-03-30T11:39:00.000-07:00

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

2009-03-28T08:19:00.000-07:00

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

2009-03-27T14:57:00.000-07:00

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

2009-03-25T14:39:00.000-07:00

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

2009-03-22T06:02:00.000-07:00

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

2009-03-21T09:27:00.001-07:00

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

2009-03-20T11:03:00.000-07:00

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..

2009-03-18T12:17:00.001-07:00

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"

2009-03-17T11:25:00.000-07:00

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!

News Leaves

Local Marketing

Congratulations

Who needs Christmas cards....

Snowdonia Arts Festival

Mothers'Day - 3rd April 2011

Help the Snowdonia Society

Car park can't park

Nearly there

Week 2 update

Day 3

Restaurant Refit

Winter wonderland

Children In Need

Congratulations

menu details

New Seasonal Dining Room Menu

BBC News Article - our history

Today's Sunday seasonal lunch

CHildren In Need

Arts Festival

Top Article

Congratulations

The complete picture

Time For a Change

Today's lunch menu

8th February

Welcome Back

New Game trailer arrives

August Holidays

BATS visit the Oak

Dulwich Reunion - Tanks away

Clean get-away

Chefs' Catch of the Day

Snowdon cafe Opening - Hafod Eryri

Film and landscapes - video to

steamy windows

May 1/2 term

Customer Feedback

Welsh Mountaineer

Arts Update

Arts Festival

Easter Break

Spring start

Early Bird

Perfect Preparation

PGI - Local, welsh and proud

Jazz Rag in the Land of Fire

Walking Away

Mothers'Day

Arts & Business

Comic Relief

What a day..

Spring "Forward"