History
Our History
The Lodge was built in 1903, funded by the Crown for the “Crown Agent for Wales and Monmouthshire” Mr William Henry More. The building was designed by the Scottish Arts and Crafts Architect George Walton, a prominent feature of the house is the beautiful oak staircase which has been maintained to its original condition.The More family stayed in residence until 1934 and for a brief period it was then leased and operated as a private hotel. In 1949 it was purchased by Coleg Harlech who for the next 60 years used the building to accommodate residential students. The current owners took ownership in 2016.
The More Family
William Henry More arrived in Harlech in 1892, in addition to his duties as Crown Receiver he was instrumental in developing many aspects of Harlech. In 1894 he co-founded the St Davids Golf Club with the Hon. Harold Finch Hatton, he also promoted the building of the prestigious St Davids Hotel. The More Family supported many local enterprises and charities, they were also catalysts in making Harlech an attractive town encouraging new visitors and residents. Although Crown Lodge was a place of work it was more importantly a very happy home for the More Family still visited by current members of his proud family
The 1940's
The present day is not the first time Crown Lodge has been used as a Guest House. In 1940 the property was leased by Mr & Mrs Daniel who ran Crown Lodge as a hotel.The hotel benefited from electric lighting, hot water and a lawn tennis court. Booking a room would have cost 13 shillings per night, that's the equivalent of £108 in today's money.
Coleg Harlech
Crown Lodge was purchased by Coleg Harlech in 1949 for £10,000, to be used as a residence for mature students.
