Your complete guide to The Royal George reveals a historic treasure nestled in the heart of Tintern, where centuries of heritage blend seamlessly with contemporary comforts. This remarkable pub and hotel offers more than just a place to eat and stay - it’s an experience that connects you to the rich tapestry of the Wye Valley’s past and present.
Whether you’re planning a countryside escape, seeking exceptional dining, or simply curious about our storied establishment, this guide to The Royal George provides everything you need to know about our thoughtfully refurbished spaces, distinctive dining venues, and unique place in Tintern’s history.
What is The Royal George
The Royal George is a historic pub and hotel situated in the picturesque village of Tintern on the Welsh bank of the River Wye. Part of the Greyheath collection, we offer 20 elegantly appointed rooms, four distinctive dining venues, and a warm welcome that reflects our deep connection to local heritage.
Our weathered façade echoes stories of generations past, while inside, original wood beams blend with carefully preserved architectural detail. The result is an authentic countryside retreat that honours both tradition and contemporary comfort.
More than just a place to stay or dine, The Royal George serves as Tintern's natural gathering place. Whether you're a local stopping in for a pint, a walker seeking respite after exploring the valley, or guests staying for a longer retreat, our spaces are designed for connection, conversation, and creating memories.
Located just steps from the magnificent Tintern Abbey ruins and surrounded by the natural splendour of the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, The Royal George provides the perfect base for exploring this enchanting corner of Wales.
History of The Royal George
The story of The Royal George begins in 1598 when our original structure was established in Tintern, already a place of significance due to its medieval abbey and early industrial works. For centuries, the building served various functions within the community before becoming a hotel in 1829.
This transition coincided with the rise of tourism in the Wye Valley, as Romantic poets and painters like Wordsworth and Turner brought attention to Tintern’s picturesque beauty. The Royal George began welcoming travellers eager to experience the atmospheric abbey ruins and sublime river landscapes that had captured the artistic imagination.
Throughout the Victorian era and beyond, The Royal George continued evolving while maintaining its historic character. Our recent thoughtful renovation preserves this rich heritage while ensuring thoughtfully integrated features for today’s guests. Original features have been carefully restored, telling the story of our building’s 400-year journey while creating spaces that feel both timeless and fresh.
What to expect
Rooms
The Royal George offers two distinctive collections among our 20 thoughtfully appointed rooms, each providing a unique connection to our setting and history.
Our Garden Rooms offer contemporary comfort with views of our grounds. Many feature either private patios or balconies, perfect for enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea or glass of wine.
For those seeking a deeper connection to the area’s rich past, our Welsh Heritage Rooms offer characterful rooms with original beams, period details, and views toward Tintern. Each room celebrates a notable Welsh figure while providing a tangible connection to the centuries of history that has unfolded in this enchanting village.
All rooms include ensuite bathrooms, comfortable bedding, complimentary Wi-Fi, and thoughtful touches that enhance your stay. Several dog-friendly options ensure your four-legged companions can join your countryside getaway.
Dining
The Royal George features four distinctive dining venues, each with its own character and culinary focus, united by our commitment to showcasing the region’s bounty through farm-to-table fare.
Upper Deck delivers a rustic elegant restaurant experience, showcasing delectable local cuisine with expertly grilled meats, fresh seafood, and a curated wine list. The adjoining terrace offers a wonderful outdoor dining alternative when the weather permits, extending our welcoming space beyond the restaurant walls and creating a memorable setting for special occasions or simply savouring exceptional food in remarkable surroundings.
Lower Deck embraces the warmth of a classic pub, serving hearty favourites alongside an impressive selection of draught and bottled beers. Our signature cocktails feature local ingredients, while the atmosphere encourages relaxed conversation and community, a true countryside pub.
The Garden invites you to a serene outdoor experience, where you can savour delicious pizza freshly baked in our outdoor oven. Dine under a beautifully designed marquee surrounded by the lush greenery of Tintern, creating a uniquely atmospheric dining option during warmer months.
The Café provides the perfect retreat, serving freshly brewed coffee, artisan salads, and sandwiches in a cosy setting with both indoor and outdoor seating options. It’s ideal for light bites, afternoon refreshments, or casual meetings.
Wherever you choose to dine, our Upper Deck restaurant is available by reservation, while our other spaces welcome you on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend booking your restaurant table in advance.
What you can do
The Royal George serves as the perfect base for exploring the treasures of Tintern and the Wye Valley. Just steps from our door stands Tintern Abbey, whose magnificent Gothic ruins have inspired artists and visitors for centuries. The abbey’s soaring arches and windows frame views of the surrounding hills, creating an unforgettable connection to medieval history.
Outdoor enthusiasts will delight in the network of walking paths that weave through the area, including the Wye Valley Walk and routes through the ancient Forest of Dean. Cycling along the scenic Wye Valley Greenway offers another way to experience the landscape’s natural beauty.
For those interested in local heritage, nearby Chepstow Castle, Monmouth, and Raglan Castle offer fascinating glimpses into Wales’ storied past. The area’s industrial heritage can be explored at preserved sites along the Angiddy Valley, where ironworks and wireworks once thrived.
Wine enthusiasts can visit local vineyards, while those seeking excitement might enjoy a day at Chepstow Racecourse, home to the Welsh Grand National. Seasonal events including the Green Man Festival bring additional cultural dimensions to the area.
Whatever your interests, our knowledgeable staff can help answer any questions you may have to make the most of your time in this remarkable region.
About Tintern
The idyllic village of Tintern nestles in the beautiful Wye Valley on the border between Wales and England. The history of Tintern village stretches back thousands of years, from Bronze Age settlements to its medieval heyday centred around the abbey, followed by surprising industrial innovation and eventual renaissance as a beloved tourist destination.
Tintern’s eventful past includes visits from King Edward II, battles during Owain Glyndŵr’s Welsh uprising, and later fame through the works of Wordsworth, Turner, and other Romantic artists captivated by its picturesque ruins and sublime natural setting.
Today, Tintern balances its role as a visitor destination with maintaining an authentic village community. Its unique combination of architectural heritage, natural beauty, and cultural significance makes it one of the most captivating destinations in Wales.
Summary
The Royal George offers a rare opportunity to stay within the pages of history while enjoying refined additions. From our characterful rooms to our diverse dining options, every aspect of your experience connects you to the rich heritage of Tintern.
Whether you’re drawn by the magnificent abbey ruins, the natural beauty of the Wye Valley, or simply the promise of warm hospitality in an extraordinary setting, our guide to The Royal George provides a glimpse of the experiences that await.
Book your stay at The Royal George to experience timeless Welsh hospitality in the heart of Tintern, or learn more about us and our commitment to preserving and sharing this special place.
