Those with interest in the history of railways might well consider a stay at the Black Lion to be pleasurable and convenient.
One of the best-known narrow-gauge railways, the Vale of Rheidol railway, that commenced operations in 1902, has a station a few miles north at Devil's Bridge. Originally, intended to carry ore from the Rheidol valley mines to a wharf at Aberystwyth, it speedily became a major tourist attraction with splendid views of the upper Rheidol valley and the added delight of the Mynach gorge and bridge.
Visitors might also consider a visit to the old Strata Florida station and a stroll along the track way over the Cors Caron bog, stabilised by tens of thousands of bales of sheep wool.

Pontrhydfendigaid has a thriving railway enthusiast group, presently working on a scale model of the old line, operated originally by the Manchester and Milford Railway Company.
In the 1880's the company ran excursions from Aberystwyth to Strata Florida Abbey, although the station of that name was more than three miles from the newly excavated abbey ruins.
   
In 1887-8 Stephen Williams, one of the MMRC's senior engineers carried out excavations revealing a fairly complete plan of the abbey, bringing brisk horse-carriage and accommodation business to the enterprising Black Lion management.