The Inn Collection Group has embarked on a multi-million-pound refurbishment of The Swallow Falls Hotel to bring its pub with rooms business into Eryri National Park.
Acquired by the group in November 2021 and renamed The Swallow Falls Inn last year, the programme of works planned will transform the site with a completely new pub and restaurant being created.
The former Youth Hostel Association building will be integrated into the inn’s offerings as part of a rationalisation of its accommodation options to guarantee that all 38 beds “are of the same quality and standards that The Inn Collection Group is recognised for”.
In a first for the company, The Swallow Falls Inn, originally built in the 19th Century, will retain its camping provision, with a total of 38 pitches covering both guests’ own tents and a number of pod structures for those who “prefer more than canvas between themselves and the elements”.
To support the development, the former on-site Tavern will be converted into a facility boasting showers and drying rooms for wet gear, with the new-look pub taking over the provision of food and drink.
Although closed to the public since being purchased, works have been taking place behind the scenes such as the strip out of the old bar and rooms. Work has also been carried out around water and electrical supplies and water treatment solutions, with The Inn Collection Group working closely with the Welsh Water Authority to ensure the installation is appropriate for the increased capacity of the site and suitable to its surroundings.
Manchester-based Bridgewater Group have been appointed as the main contractor for the scheme of work, following “successful renovations” carried out on behalf of The Inn Collection Group at its Bowness-on-Windermere property, The Angel Inn.
During The Swallow Falls Inn’s refurbishment, which is anticipated to be completed in late 2024, 150 jobs will be supported directly and in the wider supply chain, whilst the site is anticipated to create 38 full-time jobs.
Speaking ahead of the start of work, Dan Wallace, project manager, said: “It’s very exciting to get this project started to bring The Swallow Falls Inn back to life. The site has been patiently waiting whilst we completed other refurbishments in the estate but we are delighted to be underway and creating something that both visitors to the falls and Betws-y-Coed can enjoy along with our neighbours who live in this beautiful place.
“It is a very interesting project which is going to look stunning once complete. It is a significant investment for the company with some substantial works such as the boreholes and other utility works already carried out. We’re now into the main programme of works which will create brand new bedroom spaces, a traditional cosy pub and a campsite with excellent amenities and we are looking forward to re-opening in late 2024.”