Above: Frontal view of The Wolfscastle Country Hotel & Spa
- Wolfscastle, Pembrokeshire
Wolfscastle Country Hotel is marking a remarkable milestone in 2026 as it celebrates 50 years at the heart of Pembrokeshire hospitality.
Since being purchased by Andrew Stirling in 1976 and opening its doors shortly afterwards, the hotel has grown from a much-loved country retreat into one of Wales’ most respected independent hotels, combining warm hospitality, award-winning dining, weddings, events, wellbeing and a deep connection to the local community.
Over five decades, Wolfscastle Country Hotel has continually evolved while staying true to the values that have shaped its success: personal service, attention to detail and a genuine passion for creating memorable guest experiences.
Above: 2025 wedding celebration
1976–1980: A New Chapter Begins
The story began in 1976, when Andrew Stirling purchased the hotel and began building the foundations of what would become a landmark Pembrokeshire destination.
By 1978, the hotel had already expanded its facilities with the addition of two squash courts. These quickly became a lively hub for the local sporting community, hosting a busy Pembrokeshire league with six teams playing ten matches each season.
1981–1985: Expanding the Welcome
The early 1980s brought further investment, including the construction of a kitchen extension in 1982. This marked an important step in supporting the hotel’s growing reputation for food and hospitality.
In 1985, the hotel added a dedicated function room, allowing Wolfscastle to host a greater number of events, celebrations and weddings. Around the same time, the former tennis court was redeveloped and transformed into a garden area, creating a more beautiful and versatile setting for guests and special occasions.
Above: The Wolfscastle Country Hotel with new Stirling Brasserie and Garden Room extensions.
1996–2014: Recognition and Refinement
From 1996 to 2014, Wolfscastle Country Hotel proudly held 1 AA Rosette, reflecting the quality and consistency of its dining experience.
The turn of the millennium brought another important development, with a reception extension completed in 2000 to enhance the guest welcome from the moment of arrival.
In 2012, the Brasserie was created, featuring a striking glass extension that increased dining capacity and gave guests a relaxed, contemporary space in which to enjoy the hotel’s food and atmosphere.
Two years later, in 2014, the Garden Room was introduced, further enhancing the hotel’s ability to host functions, civil weddings and special celebrations. This same period marked another major achievement, as the hotel was awarded 2 AA Rosettes, a distinction it retained from 2014 to 2023.
2017–2019: Awards, Wellbeing and Welsh Excellence
The hotel continued to invest in the guest experience with the creation of a spa extension in 2017. This development enhanced the wellbeing offering for guests and provided additional facilities, alongside the full redevelopment and extension of the former Barclay Suite.
This period also brought significant national recognition. Wolfscastle Country Hotel was awarded Best Welsh Romantic Hotel of the Year in both 2017 and 2019, celebrating its reputation as a special destination for couples, weddings and romantic escapes.
In 2018, Andrew Stirling was named Best General Manager in Wales, an award he would go on to win again in 2023. That same year, the hotel was recognised at the Pembrokeshire Business Awards, receiving the Food, Drink and Hospitality Award for Best in Pembrokeshire. It was also named Best Dog Friendly Hotel in Pembrokeshire by Pembrokeshire Tourism, reflecting the hotel’s warm welcome for four-legged guests as well as their owners.
2023–Present: A New Era of Fine Dining
In 2023, Wolfscastle entered an exciting new culinary chapter with the appointment of Head Chef Seb Smith and the launch of fine dining at the Allt yr Afon restaurant. The restaurant was redeveloped to match this new ambition, creating an elegant setting for a refined and memorable dining experience.
From 2024 to the present day, the hotel has been awarded 3 AA Rosettes and has also earned a listing in the Michelin Guide, placing Wolfscastle Country Hotel firmly among the leading dining destinations in Wales.
Looking Ahead to the Next 50 Years
As Wolfscastle Country Hotel celebrates its 50th anniversary, it does so with enormous pride in its past and great excitement for its future.
From squash courts and family celebrations to award-winning dining, weddings, spa experiences and Michelin recognition, the hotel’s journey has been one of constant care, investment and evolution.
For 50 years, Wolfscastle Country Hotel has welcomed guests to the heart of Pembrokeshire. Today, it remains a place where milestones are celebrated, memories are made and Welsh hospitality is delivered with warmth, character and distinction.
