Bear Crickhowell

Set in the historic surroundings of a 14th century coaching inn ,this hotel provides all the modern facilities we are now used It has successfully combined its traditional heritage with the needs of todays travellers. Its rooms are charming set inside the main building and in a courtyard extension built by the current owners. The hotel has a fine reputation for its food and every occasion we have dined there it has lived up to its reputation. The bar area is large and extensive and is a regular for the residents of Crickhowell and its surrounding areas. The service in all areas of this wonderful hotel is impeccable

We love everything about this hotel and would change nothing

The hotel and restaurant had a charming ambience and the food menu was excellent and they accommodated our needs for room service. The bedroom was lovely and a really special touch was a dog, bed, treats and ball for the dog.

The staff were quite rude when we were 4 minutes late for 9.30am cut off for breakfast. We admit we made the mistake as we thought breakfast ended at 10am but we’re made to feel very uncomfortable that breakfast service should finish. Although the dining room was still quite busy. There was no literature in the room explaining meal times etc. The bedroom was lovely but the bed was really lumpy and the mattress was very uncomfortable.

The rooms are a little dated, but that's OK, because they are generous in size, and have all the facilities you could need in the room. The hotel itself is much bigger than it looks, it's amazing how the management keep it clean and well-maintained. What was lovely was seeing how many locals were eating and drinking there, we were told this was normal. Dinner menu was interesting and tasty, try the slow-braised beef cheek on mac and cheese, incredibly rich, but oh my goodness, what flavour! Breakfast was as hearty or as simple as you could wish for.

Not a lot - we have no complaints!

Town Centre location in a wonderful town where by day 2, people are engaging, chatting and bantering with you as if they'd known you all their lives. Very nice furnishings in the room all spotlessly clean and a great Restaurant that's full of locals for good reason. If you eat the full breakfast, you won't need lunch! Room super quiet and plenty of parking.

I'm 80 and in the well appointed and finished bathroom in my room no 9, I found the shower over bath/Jacuzzi is challenging to clamber into and out of plus there is nothing to hold onto once in. The high lip on the bath/Jacuzzi and the awkwardly sited very large bath taps are the main issues. It's a pity because it all looks new and the shower is one of the best. Some judiciously sited hand rails/grabs would help a lot for not much money. As I say, I'm 80 and even 20 years ago, I probably wouldn't have noticed but I'm sure I'm not the only elderly person to use Room 9.

The friendly receptionist was very helpful. My partner has mobility issues and we were able to park the car outside our room (although that was probably ldue to good luck- we checked in at 17:40 - an hour later the car park was full) we were in Crickowell to see Limehouse Lizzy at Clarence Hall and the Bear hotel is a few doors down from there so that was fab, it's a 2 mn walk. We had a lovely meal in the restaurant at 18:00 hrs before the show. The lovely room was en-suite, a hair-dryer was provided and the shower was excellent. I needed to iron an item of clothing and the friendly receptionist took me to the laundry room. When we checked out, i asked if it would be ok to leave the car in the hotel car park whilst we went for a walk to explore Crickhowell for a couple of hours and we were told "no problem at all. We will definitely stay at the Bear again if we come back to Crickhowell.

Everything was great. the bed was a little firm for us but that's a matter of preference so it is not a criticism.

We liked everything about the Bear. On our arrival we were greeted by a man who was very helpful as to where to park our motorbike and was very friendly in a relaxed manner which we liked. We were early for our room and was told to just park and enjoy the town and bar. Pub is very central in a lovely small, busy town with some lovely shop to look round. We then enjoyed a light lunch and wine in the bar. Every staff member was friendly and the atmosphere was great, as was the food. The pub is like a maze and is old and full of character, beautiful fresh growing plants were in every room which I thought was lovely and everywhere was very clean, loo facilities particularly. There are some lovely outdoor eating spaces too which are very pretty and quite secluded. Our room was in the courtyard and was so comfy but elegant too. I loved the cushions and bed throw which were very good quality. Shower was great, as much power as you could need and temperature to suit everyone's preference. We had excellent food in the bar on the evening but choice of restaurant too if you prefer formal dining, service was excellent. Good but relaxed too. Bed was comfy so no complaints there and next morning we had an excellent breakfast. Good choice from the menu but also plenty of fruit, yoghurt and cereal choices. Couldn't fault it, in fact it was one of the best, if not the best breakfast we have had and we stop in many pubs, inns and hotels so that is praise indeed.

My husband did mention the TV didn't have a news channel which wasn't the BBC but as it was only on for half an hour it wasn't really an issue.

Comfortable room - great hot water. Parked right near room and left care for 3 days. Dog welcome in bar area and staff was great to her. Excellent supper - very good food and presentation. Came fast. Not crazy about order at bar and set own table but understandable given staff, etc. And it does work.

Only complaint was Sunday night "specials" offer on menu. Two kinds of lamb. We both got it as I had had the rack of lamb the night before which was perfectly prepared. This night the lamb was not rear or tasty - overcooked and - I suspect - from the night before. Otherwise great meals!

Excellent location. Well run hotel. Well equipped room was comfortable with a pleasant sitting area outside. Well equipped bathroom was functional. The classic coaching inn had great bars and outside space. Dinner was excellent as was breakfast.

Despite checking twice in advance for our dinner reservation, we were tabled in the bar until we complained. Staff then moved us to a good table in the restaurant. The hotel did not make it clear there is a choice of dining areas when either booking or checking.

This inn is full of character, staff are very welcoming and the food is excellent . Crickhowell is a beautiful setting and the Bear is in the centre . Ideal for walking , visiting the lovely independent shops, or visiting nearby villages . The lounge of the bear is welcoming with a log fire - children are allowed in one of the lounges and dogs in all areas . Breakfast was delicious with locally sourced food and dinner was very good value for money. Residents can eat in the restaurant or in the cosy bar along with locals. A beautiful pub with excellent staff and food and with very comfortable rooms. .

The Bear is an old coaching inn that is true to its past - comfortable, well equipped rooms, welcoming staff, cosy bars and an excellent kitchen. The building itself is fascinating as you feel the public areas haven't really changed a lot since the old days (but the bedrooms are modern and well equipped). There's plenty of enthusiasm from the people running The Bear who have the knack of retaining all that's best from the building's past while staying abreast of modern amenities and comfort. Oh, and there's plenty of parking - a real bonus!

Truly, couldn't fault The Bear. It's everything you want for an overnight stay.