Bodysgallen Hall & Spa, Llandudno, Wales: review
Determined to explore more of the UK this year, the opportunity to spend a couple of nights at Bodysgallen Hall & Spa was the only excuse I needed to make a trip to Wales. One of the three Historic House Hotels, and a National Trust property, if my stay at Middlethorpe Hall was anything to go by I knew I was in for a real treat.
Warm Welcome
The approach to the hotel set the scene for a special stay, with a winding driveway passing through sheep filled meadows. Ahead was an incredible and imposing country house - a Grade I 17th century house, carefully restored to keep every bit of its character. I felt like I’d travelled back in time as I walked up the steps to the large wooden front door, and was welcomed in warmly to the entrance hall, fire roaring on a cold afternoon. The staff were so friendly and hospitable, ensuring that every aspect of my visit was seamless and enjoyable. Nothing was too much to ask, and I really felt like a cherished guest throughout. I couldn’t wait to make myself at home.
Elegance and Comfort
Accommodation includes 31 rooms and suites, between the main house and cottages in the grounds, all individually designed in a traditional country house style and furnished with antiques and paintings. The perfect blend of historic charm and modern comfort, my room was a cosy haven for the weekend. I knew I was in for a restful night’s sleep with a huge king size bed, while a picturesque window seat, with a view out to the garden, made an idyllic reading spot. There were countless cute nooks and crannies throughout the house too, to curl up with a book or play a card game.
A Picturesque Setting
Secluded within 200 acres of stunning parkland with spectacular views of Snowdonia and Conwy Castle, you can get lost in the beautifully maintained grounds. The gardens, woodlands and meadows are wonderful to relax in, while several trails make for hours of exploring. On a sunny afternoon I couldn’t wait to have a game of croquet on the lawn, the perfect way to work up an appetite.
Award Winning Dining
The three-course dinner at the hotel's 3 AA Rosette award-winning restaurant was exceptional. Ingredients were fresh and local, and each course presented beautifully. The scallop and crab starter was cooked to perfection, light and delicious. For main I had duck in a luxuriously rich sauce, and wiped my plate clean. And a white chocolate delice with rhubarb sorbet for dessert was a wonderfully sweet way to finish a perfect meal. The wine selection was excellent too, all topped off with friendly and knowledgeable service - hospitality at its finest.
Breakfast was well worth getting up for, with a lovely continental selection, and delicious home cooked options too. Sitting at the table overlooking the gardens and mountains beyond with a full English and hot pot of coffee was a dreamy way to start each day.
And how could I resist a traditional afternoon tea, cosied up by the fire in the oak panelled hall with the rain pattering outside. The cake stand was stacked high with classic finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of sweet treats - my favourite being the warm apple pie. Paired with a pot of loose leaf tea, it was the perfect way to unwind in the luxurious surroundings. On sunny days this can be enjoyed out in the garden too which would be charming in its own way.
The Spa
Now in full relaxation mode, I couldn’t resist the spa. It was as wonderful as I’d expected, with a large pool, sauna, steam room, whirlpool and gym, (plus a wide range of treatments if you’d like an extra treat!). Time really stood still here, and I felt utterly peaceful after leisurely whiling away a few hours without a care in the world.
Venturing Out
Just a short drive from the charming town of Llandudno, Bodysgallen Hall makes a great base for exploring North Wales. The town itself makes a lovely day trip, with some beautiful west facing beaches the perfect spot to watch the sun set (fish and chips optional!). A little further afield, the natural beauty of Snowdonia National Park offers stunning landscapes and a range of outdoor activities, from hiking to mountain biking. You're spoilt for choice, and probably, like me, will find yourself wishing you had more time.
There were some lovely moments chatting with other guests during my stay, hearing their stories about why they were here - the anniversaries, the birthday surprises, the regulars who came back every year for the same sense of care and attention. And I could see exactly why - it’s pretty rare these days to find somewhere quite so characterful, charming and to feel so looked after. Timeless and memorable, I can’t wait to return, and have no doubt that things would be exactly how they were, in the best possible way.
Lily was a guest of Bodysgallen Hall & Spa