Bear Crickhowell Hotel, Crickhowell
About the Hotel
The Bear Hotel at Crickhowell has been a welcoming inn since 1432, boasting 600 years of rich history. Set amidst the stunning landscapes of the Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons, it serves as a popular base for both exploration and relaxation. The hotel features original architectural elements and a reputation for high-quality local cuisine, reflecting its long-standing dedication to hospitality.
Location
Located in the vibrant market town of Crickhowell, the hotel is surrounded by picturesque independent shops and local attractions. Transport connections are accessible via the A40 road and nearby train stations, linking to major cities including Cardiff and London. Guests can also explore the scenic River Usk towpath and other outdoor recreational areas.
Rooms
The Bear offers 35 unique rooms, each decorated to reflect local character and history. Amenities include luxurious bedding, tea and coffee facilities, and well-appointed bathrooms featuring powerful showers. Many guests appreciate the warmth and comfort provided by the effective heating systems during colder months.
Eat & Drink
The on-site restaurant serves a range of locally sourced dishes, showcasing ingredients from nearby organic producers and artisan food makers. Breakfast features options such as full Welsh breakfast and smoked haddock, while the dinner menu includes traditional Welsh cuisine. The fully stocked bar provides an extensive drink selection, including local ales and fine wines.
Leisure & Business
The hotel serves as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering easy access to some of the best hill walking routes in Wales. A resident guide can assist guests in navigation and safety while exploring local trails. Business facilities are available for meetings or private events, ensuring a blend of leisure and professional needs.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- VIP check-in/ -out
- Pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- Wheelchair access
- Security
- Baggage storage
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
- Key access
Sports & Fitness
- Hiking
- Golf course
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
Services
- Pet amenities available
- Room service
- Housekeeping
- Laundry
- Welcome drink
Dining
- In-room breakfast
- Restaurant
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Packed lunches
- Special diet menus
Business
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
- Fax/Photocopying
Children
- Cribs
- Children's menu
Spa & Leisure
- Sun terrace
- Garden area
Room features
- Heating
- Terrace
- Garden furniture
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- Flat-screen TV
- AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
- Carpeted floor
Location
Reviews and Ratings
The hotel is conveniently situated at the front of the building, just a staircase away from the entrance. While the room was small and showed signs of wear, it was acceptable. However, being so close to the road made it prone to traffic noise. The service was outstanding, with staff appearing genuinely happy and helpful throughout my stay. The central location in Crickhowell, within the Brecon National Park, made it a prime choice for exploring the area, although some areas felt a bit outdated.
The hotel had a mix of positives and negatives. The rooms were modern and well-appointed despite being a bit poky, and the service was efficient and friendly. The location was ideal for exploring local shops and sights, but noise was an issue in certain areas. The dining experience was enjoyable with a variety of choices, and overall, the hotel offered good value for money.
I couldn't have been more pleased with my stay at this hotel. The rooms were immaculate, and the food was excellent, truly on par with some of the best hotels in the UK. We made the mistake of dining at a higher-rated hotel nearby one evening, but the delicious, fresh, and perfectly cooked dishes here won us over. The accommodation was spotless and incredibly comfortable, just what we needed after spending four nights in a tent.
Staying at this hotel was a mixed experience. The rooms were really comfortable and very clean, but unfortunately, the noise from the through traffic, especially at night, was a significant downside. The service was decent, but there were some lapses in attentiveness. The location in the center of the attractive town was great for exploring on foot, yet it could get too crowded, affecting relaxation. The dining was a blend of high quality and slight disappointments. Overall, a stay with its ups and downs.