A house called Falcondale was built by Daniel Evans, a Lampeter banker, formerly of Llechwedd Deri and Peterwell. It was left empty in 1820 and soon rented by the Vicar of Lampeter, John Williams, who ran a boarding school for boys. It then became the home of David Evans until taken over by the Harford family. The house has long been associated with the Harford family of Blaise Castle, Bristol who came to Cardiganshire early in the 19th century. In 1812 John Scandrett Harford married Louise Hart Davies, heiress to the Peterwell estate. It was he who, in 1859 demolished the first Falcondale and erected in its place a three storey, Italian style mansion as seen today. He produced two detailed drawings outlining his dream which were passed onto Mr Talbot Bury, an architect from London, who turned them into reality.
Falcondale History
Falcondale was kept in the Harford family until sold in 1952 to the County Council and was converted to a retirement home.
After being empty for a number of years the Smith family bought the building from the Council and started turning it into a hotel. Adjustments were made to the interior and the gardens were brought under control. It was the Smith family that sought to get Falcondale listed and it was granted grade 2 status.
Chris, Lisa and Derek took over the hotel in 2000 where they have created their own flat and cottage. The decor, furnishings and fixtures have been bought up-to-date with improvements still on-going. Within 2010 planned improvements include fixing the leaking roof of the Courtyard area, upgrading of two bedrooms and decorating the lounge area.