The Ferry Hotel, Tal-y-cafn, Wales 1974

This authentic 1970s colour photograph, captured in 1974, documents the Ferry Hotel situated in a picturesque riverside location at Tal-y-cafn, Conwy. The archival image features the charming Victorian-style hotel building, characterized by its white-rendered upper storeys and dark timber framing, nestled amongst dense woodland. The meticulously landscaped gardens descend toward the River Conwy in tiered sections, showcasing a variety of spherical and conical topiary bushes, white garden benches, and colourful floral borders. Along the rugged stone riverbank, several small leisure craft are moored, including a rowing boat and a bright orange speedboat, with visitors resting on the stone steps of the slipway. This factual record preserves the tranquil atmosphere of this popular North Wales destination during the mid-1970s, before the site underwent significant changes leading to its eventual demolition. The photograph serves as a visual testament to the historic hospitality trade that once flourished at this important crossing point of the Conwy Valley.