My partner and I stayed here for one night on a Groupon deal which included DBB and a glass of wine, plus a guided tour which was rather interesting. The ‘castle’ was the much-loved home of Madame Patti, a famous 19th century opera singer, after whom the Patti Pavilion in Swansea is named. I chose the place because my great grandfather's brother was an opera singer and Madame Patti invited him to her home, along with my great grandfather who was just a boy. The family story is that he wondered off exploring and found himself in Mdme Patti's private chambers! The theatre in which he and Madame Patti performed is still there, complete with a rise and fall stage. The tour took us below the stage and through a room where seances are held – Craig Y Nos is supposedly one of the most haunted houses in the UK and they have 24 hour cameras constantly watching for activity. During the tour we also went up on to the roof, where there are wonderful views over the surrounding countryside. We also explored some of the upper floors, which are still derelict, and there I stepped into Mdme Patti’s private rooms, just as my great grandfather had done before me!
On to the hotel itself. The staff here, without exception, were lovely. Mostly young women at front of house, and all very professional and friendly. Food was good. I found the bottles of wine quite expensive at £18 but knowing that this 'castle' needs so much expensive renovation to bring it back to its former glory, I actually didn't mind the expense. We have family near Neath whom we visit once or twice a year and I think we will probably stay here again. It's not perfect by any means (the dining room, for instance, is quite cold) but we found it absolutely charming and we wish the present owner good luck in his restoration endeavours.
