The Enigmatic Ugly House of Snowdonia
Nestled within the rugged beauty of Snowdonia-Eryri National Park in Wales lies a small, picturesque stone cottage that defies its name: Ty Hyll, or the "Ugly House." This charming yet wonky structure is shrouded in profound mystery, with its origins—including who built it, when it was constructed, and why—lost to the mists of time. Today, under the stewardship of the Snowdonia Society, it has transformed into a beloved family-run tearoom, offering homemade cakes, scones, teas, and coffees to visitors from near and far.
A History Veiled in Obscurity
According to Visit Wales, the precise history of the Ugly House remains curiously obscure. No records exist to identify the builder or the date of construction, leaving its early days a tantalizing enigma. However, Wales Online reports that we do have some knowledge of its former inhabitants, piecing together a timeline from the 20th century onward.
The earliest documented resident was a shepherd named John Roberts, who made the Ugly House his dwelling in 1900. Life within those thick, dry stone walls would have been simple and secluded. John's abode consisted of just one living space, a substantial fireplace for warmth and cooking, and a ladder leading to a sleeping loft beneath the roof.
Long-Term Occupants and Renovations
The longest-term occupants were the Riley family, who resided there from 1928 to 1961. Edward Riley, employed at the Towers—now an active learning centre—left a lasting impression on the property. He added an upper floor complete with bedrooms and a bathroom, alongside a separate parlour and scullery on the ground floor. His wife, Lilian, frequently welcomed guests to stay, and the couple also kept a pet cockatoo, adding a touch of whimsy to the rustic setting.
After the Rileys vacated the property in 1961, the Snowdonia Society acquired the house in 1988. It subsequently operated as an antiques room and tearoom before falling into a state of neglect. The Snowdonia Society, a registered charity dedicated to safeguarding the region, stepped in to rescue the building. They renovated it and used it as their offices until 2010, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
Transformation into a Beloved Tearoom
Today, the Ugly House operates as a tearoom, welcoming visitors Monday to Sunday from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm. It has proved a firm favourite with guests, who praise its cozy atmosphere and delicious offerings. The grounds buzz with beehives, managed by Snowdonia Society volunteers, adding to the property's charm as a honeybee centre.
Reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor highlight the tearoom's appeal. Gareth wrote, "Every time we come to North Wales we go to Ty Hyll. Amazing staff, amazing food and a great all round experience. A great welcome from attentive staff and a wonderful goodbye said from the heart and one that makes one want to come back soon. The chilli is gorgeous and tastes amazing." He added that the tearoom's consistent operation is a testament to its success, noting, "I remember a few years ago, being open was a gamble, but now, it's open to the advertised times."
Carol Watson shared a similar sentiment, remarking, "Such a sweet little place and a little unplanned stop but couldn't resist. Lovely cup of real tea with tea strainer and tea pot and a jug of hot water to refill. Friendly staff and a delicious slice of victoria sponge cake. Table by the window, all so very sweet." She also noted a charming detail: "To top it all, a little Robin comes in to visit! They call him Bob... will always remember this day." This feathered visitor echoes the legacy of the Riley's cockatoo, blending past and present in a delightful way.
A Gem in Snowdonia's Landscape
The Ugly House stands as a testament to resilience and community effort, nestled in the beautiful, rugged hills of Mount Snowdon. Its mysterious origins only add to its allure, drawing visitors who are captivated by its story and warm hospitality. Whether you're seeking a quiet cup of tea, a slice of homemade cake, or a glimpse into Wales's hidden history, this cottage offers a unique experience that continues to enchant all who step through its door.
