Llanwrtyd Wells grew from a tiny hamlet which was called Pont-rhyd-y-Fferau, translated as Bridge Over The Ankle Deep Ford. The hamlet was centred on the bridge which spanned the River Irfon. Fame came to Llanwrtyd Wells in an unusual way with the discovery of the mineral waters in 1732. The then Vicar of St. David’s church discovered the Wells at the Dol-Y-Coed Park, and seeing that a frog was alive and seemingly no worse for wear in the smelly waters, he decided to try the waters himself with the hope of healing his scurvy. His condition improved so dramatically that he wrote an article on the healing properties of the Wells. Thus the popularity of the Wells grew, together with the development of the town where buildings and recreational facilities were built to cater for the increasing numbers of visitors to the Wells. It was at this time also that Pont-rhyd-y-Fferau changed its name to Llanwrtyd Wells, which is now known as the smallest town in the UK. There are many buildings which have historical interest within the town. The station was built in 1868 when the trains began to run through Llanwrtyd Wells. Before this, the method of travel was a stage-coach route using the now A483. The houses that were built were in the main three or four storeys high proving that they were purpose built for the Spa visitors. One shop in particular has claims to fame – Britannia – as it was here that Sosban Fach, the very famous rugby song was jointly composed by two visitors to the town, namely, Talog Williams and the Rev. D.M. Davies. Also, built in 1852, the Cambrian Woollen Mill was the largest woolen mill in the Llanidloes area, employing over 250 workers at its peak. It was reduced to an empty shell by a fire in November 1889, but rebuilt in 1902 and has been in continuous operation since then. It is one of very few woolen mills still operating in Wales. According to the mill’s website, visitors can experience “700 years of weaving history”. Situated at the western end of Llanwrtyd Wells and south of the Irfon river, Victoria Wells was close to the site of the original discovery of spa water in the early 18th century. It was opened to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1897 and became the centre of numerous cultural events that took place in a large wooden hall in the grounds. It was built by Penry Lloyd and his generosity was awarded by a fine monument in his memory following his death in 1913. During the the 20th century the thermal procedures became less popular which eventually led to Victoria Wells starting to function simply as a holiday center. In the end, the hotel was shut down completely with the site left vacant and in terrible condition for many years before it was acquired by new owners in 2015. In year’s time a major refurbishing work began which was made difficult by the state of the property and certain architectural restrictions. From February 2020 the complex is finally up and running and now boasts refurbished log cabins, a modern bar and restaurant and a unique Russian style sauna. The historical mineral Wells are still active and we offer a chance to take a 18th Century style thermal bath in our sauna facility. The ownership’s next goal is to get these healing spa procedures fully running again with plans to build an extra spa facility for them. There are 4 different types of mineral water on the territory of the complex. Of these four one is a splendid drinking water and one is the famous “smelly” sulphate water. Our main goal is to provide customers with a healthy and pleasant stay, and we hope they fully enjoy our facilities and and the beautiful landscape around it.