Ynyshir Restaurant and Rooms

“Superlative cookery setting trends rather than following.” - AA Inspector

LOCATION

EGLWYS FACH, CEREDIGION

Official Rating
Inspected by
Visit England Logo
Awards
awardaward
Book Direct

Our Inspector's view

Set in beautifully landscaped grounds within a 2,000 RSPB nature reserve, Ynyshir was once owned by Queen Victoria and is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. But that’s where the 19th-century utopia ends as this previously whitewashed building is now painted black, fire pits burn outside and DJs play throughout the day and evening. Ynyshir has long been on the foodie trail, however under the direction of Gareth Ward it has now moved to the forefront of the UK scene. Ward has redefined what is possible in terms of high quality ingredients, with chefs pickling, salting and fermenting, as well as preserving fruits, foraged leaves and berries. The stylish room is darkly comfortable, with exposed stone walls and sheepskins to soften the look, diners facing the open kitchen to watch all the action. Around 30 courses served over four hours, this is pure gastronomic theatre, with a DJ making sure the soundtrack ebbs and flows with the cooking. A strong Asian influence results in umami-rich flavour profiles through to the desserts. This is immersive, cutting-edge dining at its sharpest and the pace is relentless with dish after dish sent out, mostly mesmerising single bites leaving you wanting more.

Awards, accolades and Welcome Schemes

award
5 Rosette Award for Culinary Excellence
award
AA Notable Wine List
Ynyshir Restaurant and Rooms
EGLWYS FACH, MACHYNLLETH, Ceredigion, SY20 8TA

Features

Facilities
  • Seats: 18
  • Private dining available
  • On-site parking available
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Steps for wheelchair: 2
  • Accessible toilets
  • Assist dogs welcome
Opening times
  • Closed: one week April, 2 weeks Summer, one week October, 25 December to 8 January
Food and Drink
  • Wines over £30: 60
  • Wines by the glass: 50
  • Cuisine style: Modern British

About the area

Discover Ceredigion

The name ‘Ceredigion’ takes a bit of explanation. The town of Cardigan gives its name to the surrounding bay, but the county now uses the Welsh word for Cardiganshire – Ceredigion, pronounced with a ‘dig’. Cardigan Bay itself is a large inlet of the Irish Sea and stretches from Bardsey Island to Strumble Head. With many beaches and a unique marine life, it’s the place to come to spot bottlenose dolphins, porpoises and Atlantic grey seals. The area is a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), designated under European law to protect its species and habitats. The Ceredigion coastal path is also a major attraction.

Much of the surrounding land is fertile farmland, dotted with towns and seaside resorts such as Fishguard, New Quay, Aberaeron, Aberystwyth, Borth, Aberdyfi, Barmouth and Porthmadog. It’s also a section of coast that major rivers flow into, including the Afon Glaslyn, Teifi, Rheidol, Dyfi, Aeron, Dysynni and Mawddach. Historically, the area supported a strong maritime industry. Cardigan was a major hub, once having more than 300 ships registered in its port, seven times as many as Cardiff. Due to being something of a backwater, in many ways this area remains charmingly unspoilt. The nearby heather-clad Preseli Hills are an additional delight.

Why choose Rated Trips?

Your trusted guide to rated places across the UK
icon example
The best coverage

Discover more than 15,000 professionally rated places to stay, eat and visit from across the UK and Ireland.

icon example
Quality assured

Choose a place to stay safe in the knowledge that it has been expertly assessed by trained assessors.

icon example
Plan your next trip

Search by location or the type of place you're visiting to find your next ideal holiday experience.

icon example
Travel inspiration

Read our articles, city guides and recommended things to do for inspiration. We're here to help you explore the UK.