ACCORDING to the history books, Lord Rhys held a huge feast at Cardigan Castle during the Christmas of 1176 - and more than 800 years later the castle’s 1176 restaurant is continuing the tradition.

The festive period has seen bookings soar for chef David Coates and his team with the serving of hundreds of Christmas dinners and lunches.

During 2016 - the castle’s first full year of trading. 1176 has served tens of thousands of diners, catering for castle visitors, people attending the summer events as well as the usual lunches, afternoon teas and dinners.

And 2017 looks set to be an even busier year with eight wedding bookings, several functions plus the summer events season.

David said: “We’re really looking forward to next year.

"2016 has been a very busy year and really set the foundations for the future success of 1176 and the castle.”

The restaurant will be closed for a week from January 1, 2017, to give staff a well earned break – but will re-open on January 7.