The Black Lion - Historic Coastal Pub and Hotel in New Quay
Historic clifftop pub and hotel in New Quay blending Welsh heritage, Dylan Thomas lore, and stunning coastal views.
The Black Lion in New Quay, West Wales, is a charming historic pub and hotel perched on a clifftop overlooking Cardigan Bay. Dating back to the early 19th century, it blends traditional Welsh hospitality with modern comforts, featuring nine sea-view rooms, a welcoming bar, and a restaurant known for quality local cuisine. The pub’s rich literary connection to Dylan Thomas adds cultural depth to its stunning coastal setting.
A brief summary to The Black Lion - New Quay, West Wales
- Glanmor Terrace, New Quay, SA45 9PT, GB
- +441545560122
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book a sea-view room in advance to enjoy stunning panoramic vistas of Cardigan Bay.
- Try local Welsh dishes in the restaurant, which offers vegetarian and vegan options.
- Visit the beer garden on a sunny day to enjoy live music and views of the bay.
- Explore the Dylan Thomas memorabilia inside to connect with the poet’s time in New Quay.
- Parking is reserved for hotel guests only; public parking nearby requires a fee and a short walk.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus service from Cardigan or Aberystwyth to New Quay town center; the journey typically takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on the route. Buses run several times daily but check schedules as frequency varies seasonally. From the town center, The Black Lion is a 10-minute walk uphill. Bus fares range from £3 to £6.
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Car
Driving from nearby towns like Cardigan or Aberystwyth takes approximately 25 to 40 minutes. Note that parking at The Black Lion is reserved for hotel guests only, so public parking is available nearby with a fee of around £3 per day. The final approach involves a steep walk uphill to the pub.
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Taxi
Local taxi services operate from Cardigan and Aberystwyth with journey times of 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Taxi fares typically range from £20 to £40. This option offers door-to-door convenience, especially after evening visits.
The Black Lion - New Quay, West Wales location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about The Black Lion - New Quay, West Wales
A Storied Landmark on the Welsh Coast
The Black Lion stands as one of New Quay's oldest buildings, originally a coaching inn from the early 1800s. It played a pivotal role in local history, hosting meetings such as the 1835 New Quay Harbour Company gathering to plan the town’s breakwater. The inn also served the community in practical ways, with a stone-lined cistern known as Pistyll y Black Lion providing some of the purest local water to residents. Over time, the building expanded alongside the growth of tourism, preserving its historic charm while adapting to modern needs.Literary Heritage and Dylan Thomas
The Black Lion is famously linked to the celebrated Welsh poet Dylan Thomas, who lived in New Quay during 1944 and 1945. He was a regular visitor here, and locals believe the town inspired his iconic radio play Under Milk Wood. The pub honors this legacy with portraits, photographs, and references to LLAREGGUB, the fictional village in his work. This literary connection enriches the atmosphere, making it a cultural as well as a social hub.Atmosphere and Hospitality
Visitors to The Black Lion find a warm blend of old and new: a traditional pub setting with modern twists. The bar room once displayed hanging pieces of stale bread, a centuries-old symbol of hospitality ensuring no guest went hungry. Today, the pub offers a cozy yet vibrant environment with a full bar, free Wi-Fi, and live music events. The beer garden and gazebo provide relaxing outdoor spaces with spectacular views of Cardigan Bay, perfect for enjoying local ales and ciders.Accommodation and Dining Experience
The Black Lion offers nine simple yet comfortable rooms, many with stunning sea views, making it an ideal base for exploring the Welsh coast. The on-site restaurant serves British and Welsh cuisine with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available. The kitchen is known for quality, locally sourced ingredients and an elevated wine list. Guests can enjoy breakfast included with their stay and dine in a setting that balances charm with contemporary style.Community and Cultural Significance
Beyond its hospitality, The Black Lion remains a cornerstone of New Quay’s community life. It has hosted important local meetings since the 19th century and continues to be a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. The pub’s commitment to preserving Welsh culture and history is evident in its decor, events, and storytelling, making it a living museum of sorts that celebrates both past and present.Scenic Location and Natural Beauty
Perched on a clifftop, The Black Lion offers breathtaking panoramic views over Cardigan Bay and the town below. Its setting invites guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of West Wales, with opportunities for coastal walks, wildlife spotting, and enjoying stunning sunsets. This scenic backdrop enhances the overall experience, blending cultural richness with the tranquility of the sea.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Traeth Graig y Don
9.8 km
Discover Traeth Graig y Don, where Welsh history meets breathtaking coastal landscapes in a serene and timeless setting.
Sloeberry Farm
18.4 km
Eco-friendly lodges and canvas tents near Aberporth beach offering peaceful countryside escapes with private hot tubs and stunning starry skies.
Cardigan Walks
25.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Cardigan with Cardigan Walks, your ultimate tour guide to nature and history.
Cardigan Guildhall Market
25.1 km
Discover Cardigan Guildhall Market, a historic indoor market blending heritage charm with vibrant local trade in the heart of Cardigan.
Castle Hotel
28.9 km
Historic charm and cozy comfort converge at Aberystwyth’s Castle Hotel, a welcoming coastal retreat with unique drinks and friendly hospitality.
Nwy Prydain Beacon
30.2 km
Historic beacon atop Constitution Hill offering panoramic coastal views and a glimpse into Aberystwyth’s industrial heritage.
Dyfed Chimneys
38.8 km
Discover expert chimney sweeping and stove building at Dyfed Chimneys in Carmarthen, where safety meets craftsmanship in the heart of Wales.
Carmarthen Work House
39.2 km
Explore the historic Carmarthen Work House, a powerful testament to Wales’ social welfare past and resilience through times of hardship.
Dyfed Powys Police Federation
39.5 km
Discover the Dyfed Powys Police Federation in Carmarthen for a unique perspective on local law enforcement and community safety initiatives.
South African War Memorial
39.8 km
A dignified tribute in Carmarthen’s Guildhall Square commemorating local heroes of the Anglo-Boer War with a striking marble soldier statue.
Brynellen
39.8 km
Explore Bryn Celli Ddu, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic passage tomb on Anglesey, famed for its ancient burial chamber and summer solstice alignment.
Gwal y Filiast
40.5 km
Explore Gwal y Filiast, a mysterious Neolithic burial chamber steeped in Welsh legend and ancient history near Whitland.
Ynyslas National Nature Reserve
40.8 km
Explore the untouched beauty of Ynyslas National Nature Reserve, where stunning coastal views and diverse wildlife await every nature lover.
Cerig y Penrhyn
41.7 km
Explore the enchanting Cerig y Penrhyn, a historical landmark in Wales that showcases the region's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.
Llyn Brianne Dam & Reservoir
41.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Llyn Brianne Dam & Reservoir, a stunning Welsh retreat perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dolphin Survey Boat Trips
0.2 km
Experience intimate dolphin encounters and marine wildlife discovery on small, ethical boat trips from New Quay’s scenic Cardigan Bay.
Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant marine life of Cardigan Bay through interactive exhibits, dolphin-spotting, and conservation at New Quay’s marine wildlife centre.
New Quay Harbour
0.4 km
Discover New Quay Harbour, a scenic Welsh fishing village famed for its dolphins, sandy beaches, and rich maritime heritage on the stunning Cardigan Bay coast.
The Red Lion Inn
6.0 km
A beautifully restored 200-year-old Welsh pub offering hearty food, warm hospitality, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Ffos-y-ffin.
Llanerchaeron
9.2 km
A Georgian estate frozen in time—three centuries of Welsh rural heritage preserved in one remarkable place.
Carreg Slic
9.7 km
Discover Carreg Slic, the legendary sea stack of Llangrannog, where natural beauty meets Welsh folklore on a stunning Blue Flag beach.
Penbryn Beach
12.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Penbryn Beach, a nearly mile-long sandy cove framed by woodland and cliffs on Wales’ stunning Cardigan Bay coast.
Tresaith Waterfall
13.6 km
Discover the rare coastal waterfall cascading onto sandy shores at Tresaith Beach, a serene gem along Wales’ Cardigan Bay coast.
Internal Fire Museum of Power
13.7 km
Discover the vibrant history of steam and internal combustion engines brought to life in the scenic Welsh countryside at the Internal Fire Museum of Power.
Tresaith
13.8 km
Discover Tresaith Beach’s rare waterfall, Blue Flag sands, and vibrant marine life on Wales’ scenic Ceredigion coast.
In the Welsh Wind Distillery
15.1 km
Discover Wales’ smallest distillery crafting bespoke gins and spirits in a charming rural setting at the Gogerddan Arms, Tanygroes.
Traeth Penloin
15.7 km
A wild, windswept Welsh beach where solitude and natural beauty reign supreme.
Newcastle Emlyn Castle
20.5 km
Explore the evocative ruins of a rare Welsh-built stone castle overlooking the scenic River Teifi, rich in history and legend.
National Wool Museum
20.9 km
Explore Wales’s wool heritage at the National Wool Museum, where historic mills and working machinery bring textile traditions to life.
Mwnt Beach
21.0 km
Discover Mwnt Beach, a secluded sandy bay with stunning cliffs, abundant wildlife, and medieval charm on the scenic Cardigan coast.
Essential places to dine
The Pepper Pot Bar and Grill
0.3 km
Cozy bistro and grill in New Quay offering fresh seafood, vegan options, and scenic harbor views with friendly service.
The Old Watch House
0.3 km
Fresh seafood and stunning sea views combine in a welcoming coastal restaurant with vegan options and dog-friendly outdoor seating.
Penrhiwllan Inn
0.6 km
Traditional Welsh pub with cozy fires, hearty homecooked meals, and local ales in the charming seaside town of New Quay.
Y Seler
7.5 km
Boutique harbour-side hotel with vibrant rooms, fresh seafood dining, and stunning views in the heart of Aberaeron.
The Stubborn Duckling Ltd
7.6 km
A cozy, modern restaurant in Aberaeron’s historic square, renowned for quality food and warm Welsh hospitality.
New Inn Ceredigion
9.2 km
Charming country pub in Rhydlewis offering hearty English cuisine, warm hospitality, and a cozy rural atmosphere in scenic Ceredigion.
Emlyn Cafe
14.5 km
Discover Emlyn Cafe in Tan-y-groes – your perfect breakfast spot for delicious food and warm hospitality amidst scenic Welsh landscapes.
The Boy Ashore
15.4 km
Rustic beachside dining with fresh seafood and stunning ocean views on Dyffryn Beach, Aberporth’s coastal gem.
Caffi Sgadan
15.4 km
Savor fresh local seafood and classic fish & chips in a friendly, casual café nestled in Aberporth’s charming coastal village.
Gwarcefel Arms
16.0 km
A charming Welsh pub in Pren-gwyn offering superb fish and chips, lively music nights, and warm local hospitality in a cozy countryside setting.
The Barn at Pengarreg
17.2 km
Coastal dining and drinks with stunning views near Pengarreg Caravan Park in Llanrhystud, perfect for relaxed Welsh seaside hospitality.
Daffodil at Penrhiwllan
17.9 km
A vibrant, food-led country pub in scenic Penrhiwllan offering fresh local dishes, craft beers, and a colorful, welcoming atmosphere.
Caemorgan Mansion
23.0 km
Elegant Georgian guest house offering historic charm and tranquil comfort near Cardigan Bay's scenic coast.
The Nags Head
24.1 km
A cozy Welsh gastropub in Abercych blending traditional charm with inclusive, locally inspired cuisine and warm hospitality.
Flat Rock Bistro
24.7 km
Relax and dine with panoramic views of Cardigan Bay and Pembrokeshire National Park at Flat Rock Bistro, a cozy spot for classic British cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Box of Delights
0.3 km
Discover unique Welsh gifts and local crafts in a warm, charming boutique nestled in the heart of New Quay’s scenic Glyn Square.
The Shell Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique seashell treasures and coastal gifts in the heart of New Quay at The Shell Shop, open daily with friendly service and seaside charm.
London House Stores
15.3 km
Your friendly local convenience store in Aberporth, offering fresh local produce, essentials, and seaside goods daily until late evening.
Fair & Fabulous
20.7 km
Discover ethically crafted gifts and sustainable treasures at Fair & Fabulous, Newcastle Emlyn’s premier Fair Trade boutique.
B&M Store with Garden Centre
23.8 km
Budget-friendly shopping meets garden centre expertise in Cardigan's largest discount store.
Y R Hen Emporiwm
24.9 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Y R Hen Emporiwm, Cardigan’s welcoming gift shop open daily.
Mundos
25.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Mundos, Cardigan’s welcoming gift shop with a curated selection of treasures.
Cardi Ent Party Store
25.0 km
Your go-to party shop in Cardigan for balloons, greeting cards, karaoke rentals, and mobile disco fun, open Monday to Saturday.
ADERYN
25.0 km
Charming boutique offering unique fashion accessories in the historic heart of Cardigan, Wales.
The prep shop uk
25.1 km
Cardigan’s trusted army and navy surplus shop offering authentic military gear, prepping supplies, and outdoor equipment for enthusiasts and adventurers.
Apricot
25.1 km
Discover timeless ladies' fashion and personalized style advice at Apricot Boutique in Cardigan’s historic market town.
Tŷ Hafan Shop
25.1 km
Explore unique finds and support a charitable cause at Tŷ Hafan Shop in Cardigan - where every purchase makes a difference.
The Eco Shop
25.1 km
Discover sustainable treasures and community spirit at The Eco Shop, Cardigan’s beloved secondhand store.
The Cardigan Bay Collective
25.1 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and local artisan treasures at The Cardigan Bay Collective in Cardigan’s Canolfan Teifi.
Cardigan Antiques & Collectables
25.1 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and timeless collectibles in the charming multi-level Cardigan Antiques & Collectables shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Sea Horse Inn
0.1 km
A friendly, traditional Welsh pub in New Quay known for local ales, lively quiz nights, and a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere.
Penrhiwgaled Arms
2.5 km
A cozy, family-run pub in Cross Inn offering hearty Welsh fare, friendly service, and a warm village atmosphere near New Quay.
Cadwgan Inn
7.5 km
Experience authentic Welsh pub culture in a cozy, old-fashioned setting with a warm fire and friendly locals in Aberaeron’s Cadwgan Inn.
Prince of Wales
7.6 km
A welcoming, dog-friendly pub in Aberaeron serving classic home-cooked dishes in a cozy, friendly atmosphere with a beer garden.
The Gilfach Inn
7.9 km
A cozy Welsh village pub with local ales, hearty food, and a scenic beer garden in the peaceful village of Mydroilyn.
Ship Inn, Tresaith
13.7 km
Seaside pub with stunning Cardigan Bay views, cozy rooms, and classic Welsh fare just steps from Tresaith’s golden beach and waterfall.
Tafarn y Vale / Vale of Aeron
14.1 km
A warm, community-owned pub in Felinfach offering hearty fare, local ales, and lively events in a welcoming Welsh countryside setting.
The Ship Bar & Grill
15.4 km
Traditional Welsh pub with hearty homemade food, sea views, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Aberporth.
The Cliff Hotel & Spa
24.8 km
Cliffside luxury and serene spa indulgence with panoramic views over Cardigan Bay’s stunning coastline.
The Lamb Inn
25.0 km
A cozy and affordable traditional pub in Cardigan offering hearty British fare, friendly service, and a lively local atmosphere.
Saddlers Arms
25.1 km
Cozy traditional Welsh pub on Cardigan’s High Street, known for cask ales, friendly locals, and lively nights with karaoke and jukebox tunes.
Bar 45
25.1 km
Discover Bar 45, Cardigan’s intimate bar serving authentic Welsh whisky, cocktails, and local brews in a cozy setting with a secret garden.
The Castle Inn
25.3 km
Historic and welcoming pub in Cardigan offering quality ales, cozy atmosphere, and a true taste of Welsh hospitality.
Albion Aberteifi
25.3 km
An adults-only maritime hotel in Cardigan blending historic charm with riverside views and crafted cocktails.
Cardiff Arms
25.7 km
A family-run pub in Cilgerran offering hearty food, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Welsh countryside.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Yokoswnb
29.1 km
A vibrant, budget-friendly nightclub and bar in Aberystwyth, popular with students for its lively atmosphere and central location.
Pier Pressure
29.2 km
Experience Aberystwyth’s vibrant nightlife at Pier Pressure, a lively nightclub set on the historic Royal Pier by scenic Cardigan Bay.
Savannah's Night Club
39.7 km
Experience Carmarthen’s vibrant nightlife at Savannah's Night Club—where music, dance, and stylish vibes create unforgettable Saturday nights.
Lucifer's Nightlife
39.8 km
Experience Carmarthen's vibrant nightlife and fast food fusion at Lucifer's Nightlife, where music, dancing, and late-night bites come alive on Queen Street.
The Club Barmouth
60.2 km
Experience vibrant Saturday nights at The Club Barmouth, where stylish vibes meet lively music by the scenic Welsh coast.
Sands Nightclub
60.5 km
Saundersfoot’s lively nightclub with dance, drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere near the beach.
Basement Sessions
61.7 km
Dive into the lively nightlife of Llanidloes at Basement Sessions, where eclectic music and vibrant energy create memorable experiences.
Eddie Rocks
61.8 km
A vibrant multi-floor nightclub in Haverfordwest offering energetic nights, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere by the waterfront.
Labirynth
61.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Haverfordwest at Labirynth, where unique cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you.
New Horizons
63.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at New Horizons, Dyffryn Ardudwy’s welcoming nightclub with spaces for all ages.
The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club
64.5 km
Experience lively nights and vibrant music at The Rainbow Rooms Bar & Club, Gorseinon’s premier destination for unforgettable nightlife.
Hazewell Club
64.6 km
Discover the Hazewell Club in Tenby: a cozy sports club offering a warm atmosphere and local drinks amidst stunning coastal views.
Jac’s Mansion
65.9 km
Experience welcoming, vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife at Jac’s Mansion, Builth Wells’ iconic gay nightclub with a lively, inclusive atmosphere.
Comlongon
66.5 km
Experience vibrant nightlife in the charming village of St Florence with Comlongon, Tenby’s energetic nightclub gem.
The Star Club
70.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Star Club, Pembroke Dock's premier bar for unforgettable evenings filled with music, drinks, and fun.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly