The Falcon, in the centre of Llanilar, is noted as an inn on the first and second editions of the 25-inch Ordnance Survey maps, published in 1888 and 1905 respectively. It is also labelled as an inn on modern Ordnance Survey maps. However, between 1897 and 1940 it was also known as the Falcon Hotel.
Established before 1834, the Falcon was used for Petty Session meetings (Ceredigion Archives, TPS/LL1) and Inclosure dispute meetings (Ceredigion Archives, MUS/50/2). On 19 June 1869, an advert was placed by Robert Jones about The Falcon. He ‘respectfully begs to intimate that the above Inn has been thoroughly renovated, and is now fitted up with every convenience for the accommodation of Tourists and Visitors, or of Parties taking a drive from the town. Bitter and Mild Ales and Porter. Spirits, etc. WELL-AIRED BEDS. GOOD STABLING’
According to the ‘a Pint of History’ project, ‘the building is a mirror image of the adjoining house, both the property of Castle Hill mansion. There was originally stabling for horses in the outbuildings called The Stable Bar.’ It was a free house in 1968 but became tied to Felin Foel in 2015. ‘Quiz nights are a regular feature. There is a Thursday Lunch Club (information supplied by Llanilar Women’s Institute)’
Sources: modern and historic Ordnance Survey maps; A Pint of History Project Website; photography by Arthur Chater
M. Ryder, RCAHMW, 2nd November 2022