History of Gwynfryn & The Hidden Chapel

Gwynfryn, the name of our B&B is pronounced as it were with a v (Gwynvryn) and translates as ‘a white hill’, but actually refers to ‘a blessed place’.

Gwynfryn was built by the Wesleyan Methodists in 1873 as the Chapel House for their superintendent preacher for the Capel Tabernacl, the Chapel to the rear of Gwynfryn.

The deceptively large Victorian detached property is split over 4 floors including the basement.

In 1911 the property was tenanted by the Chief Inspector Edwards of Conwy Police Station and his family. Over the next few decades the Edwards lived there, the ladies all being dressmakers.

The property still contains the original Victorian railings at the front of the property, the only one in Conwy. During the war time, railings were removed from all properties to use for scrap metal, except from Chapels. Gwynfryn’s association & location in front of the Chapel is the most probable reason for this.

In December 2003 we bought Gwynfryn and despite it being in a rather dilapidated condition, from the moment we first entered we felt a warm feeling and knew we had found the home for our B&B……

Our Story

In 2003 we were living in Manchester both working 9-5 in an office when Monica suggested we get out of the rat race and look at finding a property we could transform into a B&B!

We decided to start looking at North Wales as we both have many fond memories here and Monica also had a family connection to Conwy. We were also aware of the many fantastic attractions and beautiful scenery making it a perfect place to live and set up a new B&B. After losing out on our initial find, a large old run down hotel near Betws-y-Coed, we noticed a property in the Estate Agents window and were amazed to find it was across the square right in the centre of Conwy.

Having no real previous experience in the industry we went into the new venture eager to learn and start from scratch. With Monica’s natural and unique taste and eye for detail and Colin’s methodical business mind, we formed a great partnership with an ideal balance of attributes.

After first discovering Gwynfryn we immediately saw the potential for establishing a fantastic Bed and Breakfast due to the character and location. Over the next 20 months we transformed Gwynfryn into a Guest House offering 5 rooms, finally opening the doors in August 2005 to our first guests after being accredited 4 Star grading from Visit Wales.

Since we have continued to grow the worldwide reputation of Gwynfryn B&B to be known as one of the best places to stay when visiting Conwy or North Wales.
We continue to update and freshen the unique decor using Monica’s eclectic and wonderful taste. Striving to not only offer beautiful accommodation but also a memorable stay.

Over the years we have continued to receive glowing reviews and awards. For more details including how we even met Her Majesty The Queen at Buckingham Palace, please see our Awards & Accolades section.

In 2012 we purchased Capel Tabernacl, the Chapel original connected with Gwynfryn. After an extensive restoration programme we opened a further 4 B&B rooms in the Chapel Vestry and created a multi-functional venue within the Chapel. After another extensive restoration we opened The Hidden Chapel rooms, these 3 rooms are superior rooms located in the loft.

Since that first time we walked through the door of Gwynfryn we knew we had found something very special. We feel very fortunate to be part of the amazing spirit Conwy offers. With the help and friendship of the residents of Conwy, we have many true friends and can truly say we have found our home.

We hope to see you at Gwynfryn where you too can experience what we have been fortunate to find in Conwy.