The History Of The Talbot Hotel Tregaron
The old saying 'Where is Tregaron? - Well in front of The Talbot of course.' is often repeated and indeed the two are synonymous with each other.
The Talbot is almost as old as Tregaron, both dating back to the late 13th century. Tregaron's economy was based on the wool trade with Doldre (off Llanddewi Rd and affectionately known as 'The Docks') being the hub of the town and the original wool factory still stands on the banks of the river Brenig.
The Talbot was originally a drovers inn but was extended in the late 19th century with the arrival of the railway to Tregaron. It has always played an important part in the community with the famous 'Long Room' (now accommodation) above the stables being the venue for many auspicious occasions!
Town walks can be arranged with a guide from Tregaron Historical Society.
(George Borrow, Wild Wales)
"And what kind of place is Tregaron? O, very good place; not quite as big as London, but very good place".
"What is it famed for?" said I.
"O, famed for very good ham; best ham at Tregaron in all Shire Cardigan."
"Famed for anything else?"
"O yes! famed for great man, clever thief, Twm Shone Catti, who was born there."....
"Where is the inn?" said I to my companion.
‘Yonder it be’ said he, pointing to a large house at the farther end of the market-place. ‘Very good inn that - Talbot Arms - where they are always glad to see English gentlemans."... I experienced very good entertainment at the Tregaron inn, had an excellent supper and a very comfortable bed.”
Extract from The History of Tregaron by D C Rees :
“Talbot Hotel. No one can look at the strong walls and solid, unpretentious 18th century building of the old house which bears the name of Talbot Hotel without picturing the bye-gone coaching days. The open fireplace provided a warm welcome with its well piled turf fire."
The Elephant
The Talbot is almost as well known for its elephant as it is for its hospitality.
Extract from The History of Tregaron D C Rees :
“An Elephant. On the 10th July 1848, 'Batty’s Menagerie' visited Tregaron. One of the elephants quenched its thirst at Bronmwyn, which proved fatal owing to lead poisoning. It died in the Ivy Bush stable. Its burying place was in the field at the rear of the Talbot Hotel.”