The Kings Arms Hotel, located in the heart of town in St John’s Square, has been a familiar Abergavenny landmark since the sixteenth century. Big changes are afoot and now, under the expert management of award winning hoteliers Jon and Sacha Child, it’s set to become one of the central jewels in Abergavenny’s crown. I went along to find out more…
The light-filled dining rooms are airy and make a great spot for a lazy breakfast or long lunch.
I was excited to discover on my recent visit to the Kings Arms, that Jon and Sacha have already begun to make changes to really put the Hotel on the map. The downstairs area has been refreshed and is now a bright and welcoming space where you can sink into a leather sofa and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Welsh Coffee Company coffee, or relax over an evening drink and sharing platter with friends. The light-filled dining rooms are airy and make a great spot for a lazy breakfast or long lunch.
The rooms have a wonderful period feel, but are bright and modern too
Upstairs there are eleven beautifully appointed ensuite guest rooms that up until now I hadn’t known existed. Each room is immaculately furnished and by the end of my tour I was searching for a reason to go and stay simply for a chance to enjoy the sumptuous beds, mountain views and delicious breakfast!
As well as guest rooms, the hotel benefits from an extensive and versatile function area which can cater for small meetings and functions as well as larger gatherings for up to 100 guests, such as weddings and christenings.
Both Sacha and Jon have won awards in the hospitality industry
Managers Jon and Sacha live locally, and this new venture allows them to bring together their vast knowledge and twenty years experience of the hospitality industry. It was exciting to hear about their plans for the future of the hotel, not least of which included the launch of their new restaurant menu.
Jim is a firm believer in local produce, and as much as possible, sources all his ingredients from the surrounding area
It was a privilege for me to meet Head Chef, Jim Hamilton and his right hand man – David Jeal, who talked me through the mouth watering menu they’ve put together. Jim is a classically trained chef and comes from a strong culinary background having worked both locally and abroad. He is passionate about Abergavenny’s Foodie fascination and our very own Food Festival convinced him to make Abergavenny his home a few years ago. Lucky us, because Jim’s presence at the King’s Arms will allow diners to enjoy delights such as home cured organic salmon, slow-braised Welsh ox cheeks and crisp belly of Gloucester old spot pork to name just a few highlights.
It’s clear from talking to Jim that local, fresh and seasonal aren’t just buzz words. He is evidently passionate about and focused on the quality and provenance of his ingredients and the philosophy that food should be prepared fresh, from scratch, on site, without compromise. And if all of that doesn’t convince you, the reasonable prices certainly will.
Jon and Sacha have struck a unique balance with the Kings Arms in managing to create a relaxed and welcoming environment alongside a feeling of elegance and quality. Their warmth and hospitality means that everyone will feel welcome through their doors, whether it’s to meet friends for a pre-dinner drink or to stop for a much longer stay.
Good luck both, it’s beautiful xx
So pleased fpr you both.Good luck! When you introduce afternoon tea and a Scottish high te
a I will let you adopt me!!
Looks and sounds fantastic guys, we will have to come and visit soon xx