The Papua New Guinea swimming team were spotted at Glasgow’s Barras Market for Irn-Bru themed activities.

The Commonwealth Games’ Papua New Guinea swimming team have joined thousands at Glasgow’s iconic Barras Market for the official IRN-BRU games.

The aquatic sports stars visited the popular east end market just hours after competing in the qualifying heats at Tollcross International Swimming Centre on Sunday, July 26. They competed in a host of urban challenges set up by Irn-Bru despite falling short of booking a spot in any of this evening’s medal competitions.

The challenges included a 10 metre Bus Sprint along an orange running track, aiming to beat the number 61 service in less than 1.7 seconds and Bin Ball, where visitors scored empty cans of IRN-BRU into an orange and blue bin through a 3-metre high hoop. The other test was the 20kg bar bell Bag Lifting challenge, weighted entirely by cans of IRN-BRU.

Over 2,000 people of all ages turned up over the weekend to show off their girders as part of the celebrations of the sporting prowess that’s taken over the city.

The challenge caught the attention of keen competitors and famous faces alike, with Scots singer Josef and ex-England rugby international and sports pundit David Flatman also turning up.

To celebrate their wins, each competitor walked away with an ice-cold can of BRU, with some even lucky enough to win an iconic ‘Made in Scotland From Girders’ t-shirt.

Kenny Nicholson, Director of Brand at IRN-BRU, said: “Glasgow is welcoming some of the best sporting talent in the world this summer, but we wanted to champion athletes closer to home too; those people who show up with feats of endurance, strength and a whole lot of girders in the everyday.”

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The Monday letters page discusses the often impenetrable decision making of video game publishers, as one reader is disappointed by the Switch 2’s second year.

Games Inbox is a collection of our readers’ letters, comments, and opinions. To join in with the discussions yourself email gamecentral@metro.co.uk

Nostalgic raid
I see the new Tomb Raider: Catalyst game (not the remake) has been delayed until 2028, which is a bit of an upset. However, I also notice that less people than I thought seem to care and there’s generally not much discussion of the two games online, even though I thought the trailers for both were pretty good.

It’s eight years since Shadow Of The Tomb Raider and not everyone like that one, or that whole trilogy in general. It wasn’t that big a hit either, or Square Enix wouldn’t have sold it off. I think the games were generally good, but not that much like Tomb Raider, if that makes sense. So I feel the series has probably lost a lot of fans over the years, and there’s probably a lot of people that don’t feel there’s been a proper Tomb Raider for a long time now.

Nostalgia is a hell of a drug but is it going to be enough for the remake to put the series back in the top-hitters again? I hope it does, but I have my doubts as to whether the original gameplay of Tomb Raider has much appeal nowadays. That’s why the reboot trilogy turned it into a generic action adventure and why it’s lost its popularity. It’s a difficult situation.
Gantz

Toilet break
To be honest, the idea of ad-based streaming games sounds like it’d be a great deal for us and a terrible one for advertisers. As far as I understand, all you have to do is go put the kettle on for the five minutes the ads are playing at the beginning and they never come back until you turn the game off. That sounds almost too good to be true to me.

Maybe they’ll try and run them while pressing the pause button, but who wants to be playing The Witcher, or some other medieval game, and suddenly you get an advert for Daz come up. Sounds awful but I guess if you’re getting a £60 game for free in return it might be worth it.
Menson

Third time lucy
I don’t think even Nintendo would be mad enough to pass up the opportunity to have a special edition Switch 2 for Zelda: Ocarina Of Time and/or the 40th anniversary general. Still, it’s going to be very odd seeing Nintendo’s big Christmas game being a 28-year-old game that most of their younger fans have no idea about.

There’s still a chance of an unannounced game lurking in the shadows but I don’t think there’s any chance of it being anything big. Maybe The Duskbloods will come out around the same time – sometime around Halloween seems a good idea – but it still seems an odd line-up to me.

It’s not been a great second year for the Switch 2, after the first one was already a bit suspect. There’s still a hope that there’ll be something good in the first half of next year, but when are they going to announce that?
Coolsbane

Email your comments to: gamecentral@metro.co.uk

Yearly fee
140 quid for FIFA, sorry, EA Sports FC 27 Ultimate Plus edition is just mind boggling. Obviously, people can spend their money on exactly what they want to, and If someone is big into FUT then it probably is worth it in the long run. But, blimey, that is a big chunk of money to shell out in one go for a video game, especially if you’re on a budget, like me.

The recent games haven’t been particularly well received, either. Used to be a big thing each year when the two footy games were due for release. Since PES morphed into eFootball, and with the most recent EA iterations receiving generally mixed reviews, I’ve kinda lost interest.

My personal faves of recent times (Xbox One/PlayStation 4 era) are PES 2016, PES 2019, and FIFA 17. I still play these games fairly regularly. They’re cheap as chips on physical nowadays. One of the many reasons to have a machine with a disc drive.
Paul C.

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Repeat play
I’ve started playing through the The Witcher 3 again, as I like a long open world game to play over weekends. I forgot how dark this game can be with the Bloody Baron and the Crones. As with all of these types of games, the side quests can be a bit boring but overall, I’m loving it all over again and Gwent is still the best thing ever.

The Ciri sections are absolutely awful though and I remember hating them when I first played through the game, but they seem even worse now. I know it will be different for The Witcher 4 but hopefully they can iron out the kinks and it will be another great game.
Simon

Different worlds
That list of the best-selling remakes was interesting because it yet again shows why companies make decisions that hardcore gamers think are wrong. The Last Of Us Part 1 might have seemed pointless to us but it actually sold really well, so it was easy money for Sony and something that a lot of people were prepared to pay for.

The most surprising thing to me was Dead Space. EA specifically said it was a flop and dropped the entire franchise over it and yet it sold over 4 million copies?! Were they expecting it to outsell GTA or something? What could they have possibly been expecting from a remake of a game that originally only sold 1 million copies?

So I guess the lesson is that sometimes companies make sensible business decisions and sometimes they make crazy stupid ones. Either way, what ordinary gamers want, or think is a good idea, has nothing to do with it. A lot of the time it seems what we want, and how we think things should be handled, is the opposite to what actually happens.

I guess that’s just business though. We want good games and they want maximum profits; those two goals don’t easily go together.
Focus

Say nothing
So I see Sony handled that PSN outage in their usual style: by saying absolutely nothing and leaving everyone wondering what’s going on. It’s really hard not to get the impression that Sony hates its customers and will do anything to avoid talking to them.

They act like some Victorian era toff that won’t speak to the lower orders. It really is a shame Xbox is so useless because there’s such an open goal there for someone else to come in there and offer a real alternative to PlayStation.
Kimble

Indie July
Just checked out a couple of new indie games on Steam, with Rubinite being a very promising demo of a very decent looking action adventure game with similarities to Zelda: A Link To The Past. The premise is a dark fairy tale type setting, taking control of a princess type character trying to reclaim a fallen kingdom using a top-down perspective.

It looks to me that the exploration is there, but with more preference given to high-focused action, like a Soulsborne variation of some sorts, which to me is the perfect blend of gaming art and mechanics for this day and age. Which leads me on to another interesting style of gameplay for a title called Dive Or Die: Children Of Rain.

I have always been a fan of Lovecraftian style games and they have come in a variety of forms with varying success. The setting is an apocalyptic rain-flooded world with just mountain top islands left and an eldritch deity to appease. The game requires you dive into something called an abyssalpPool for a variety of survival reasons.

It could be like a cross between Subnautica or Dave The Diver and Cult Of The Lamb. But it’s the mysterious deep which fascinates me in this game, where your management of oxygen, sanity level, and health is needed as you explore the depths, avoiding creepy sea creatures. On top of this you must rise onto the land and upgrade your surroundings for survival, but at a cost of making some dark decisions involving crew sacrifices to the dark deity.

These two games are exactly why indie gaming is the place to be for all the unusual, surreal, and terrifying scenarios, without the need to have the experience dampened by a lack of money and the need to have mass sales to survive. Just a good imagination and the skills and capabilities to develop these into a successful game, without too much pressure. Of course, you also need the important word of mouth to get your title out there into the world and have the income to create more titles later.
Alucard

Inbox also-rans
Does anyone think Microsoft might end up cancelling Forza Horizon 6 for PlayStation 5? They haven’t mentioned it once since they went back to having exclusives, and the summer State of Play was the obvious time. If they haven’t cancelled it, this is the worst marketing campaign ever.
Korbie

So what do we think is going to be the next remake of Assassin’s Creed, now that we know Black Flag has been a big hit? I really hope it’s Assassin’s Creed 2.
Toad

GC: The only rumour has been for the first game, but who knows how the success of Black Flag might influence Ubisoft’s plans.

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New Inbox updates appear every weekday morning, with special Hot Topic Inboxes at the weekend. Readers’ letters are used on merit and may be edited for length and content.

You can also submit your own 500 to 600-word Reader’s Feature at any time via email or our Submit Stuff page, which if used will be shown in the next available weekend slot.

You can also leave your comments below and don’t forget to follow us on Twitter.

MORE: Games Inbox: Is the EA Sports FC 27 Ultimate Plus Edition worth it?

MORE: Games Inbox: Is buying second-hand video games going to end?

MORE: Games Inbox: Which is better out of Cyberpunk 2077 and The Witcher 3?

By NOOR QURASHI, NEWS REPORTER

Published: 01:48 BST, 27 July 2026 | Updated: 02:46 BST, 27 July 2026

By NOOR QURASHI, NEWS REPORTER

Published: 01:00 BST, 27 July 2026 | Updated: 02:40 BST, 27 July 2026

Postmen have come out in support of a Royal Mail worker who kicked a blind Shih Tzu ‘like a football’ – before it later died from organ failure.

An unidentified delivery man was seen booting the dog, Ethel, outside a family home in Buckinghamshire earlier this month.

The 11–year–old pet was partially blind and had only one tooth, so posed no threat, her owner said.

But fellow postal workers have now defended the driver for his actions – with some saying they have kicked dogs themselves and ‘would do it again’.

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One postman told the Telegraph: ‘Kicked a terrier that bit my leg to get it off me, and I would do it again.

‘I would say about 10 of us in my office have been bitten. It’s very common, and it’s always the dogs that have ‘never done that before’.’

Another said: ‘I felt for that dog and the owner but I also felt for the postie.’

A third postman, based in the South East, said he was ‘on his side’, adding: ‘If you know the area you can do your best to keep safe – if you don’t then you’re supposed to not take any risks.’

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A postman wearing an England shirt was caught on camera kicking a blind shih tzu ‘like a football’

The man allegedly denied attacking Ethel, but Ring doorbell footage showed that he had, just seconds after he handed over a parcel

Ms Lewis made the difficult decision to put Ethel down after the vet said she had suffered irreversible brain damage

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Last year, around 2,019 dog attacks were reported on postal workers, according to Royal Mail.

Of these, 61 had caused significant injuries to employees.

Eve Lewis, 40, said the man denied attacking her dog Ethel, but Ring doorbell footage showed he had – just seconds after he handed over a parcel.

She said: ‘The driver was walking away and still made the effort to turn around and kick her.

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‘He didn’t just kick her, he toe punted her like she was a football. She flew up in the air and hit the ground and rolled three times.’

The NHS worker, who lives with her five-year-old son and their other dog, Stanley, a French bulldog, also described her panic after the attack.

She took Ethel from their home in Aylesbury to the vets, but was told she could not be saved.

‘Her blood pressure dropped and they put tubes up her nose. Then they said there’s internal bleeding.

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‘At this point, I’m thinking, “This literally can’t be happening.” From then on, it was just a complete blur.

‘I went home overnight, but when I came back to the vets in the morning, she was pretty much already out of it,’ Ms Lewis added.

Ms Lewis made the difficult decision to put Ethel down after the vet said she had suffered irreversible brain damage.

Royal Mail said: ‘We are deeply sorry for this distressing incident, and we know how upsetting it is for the family.

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‘We are treating this matter very seriously. We have seen the footage and launched a full investigation to establish the circumstances. We have also confirmed to the family that we will cover the veterinary costs.

‘We take animal welfare and the safety of our people very seriously. Dog–related incidents can present a serious risk to postal workers, and we will take any appropriate action once our investigation is complete.’

Thames Valley Police previously said no arrests had been made but that there were ‘ongoing enquiries regarding animal welfare and criminal damage incidents’.

By CHRISTOPHER STEVENS, TV CRITIC

Published: 01:22 BST, 27 July 2026 | Updated: 02:34 BST, 27 July 2026

There was joy in Cheshire as the lucky winning postcodes landed cash prizes, with every ticket in the winning postcode areas receiving £1,000.

The winners were CH4 7DQ, covering Roman Crescent in Chester; CW6 0EQ covering High Street in Tarporley; and CW7 2FJ covering Elderfield Drive in Winsford.

The North West postcodes were among 20 winning postcodes announced in the lottery’s daily draw.

Players living in the winning areas who held a valid ticket for their postcode received £1,000 for each ticket they owned.

Subscriptions to the Postcode Lottery support a range of charities across the UK, with a minimum of 33 per cent of ticket sales going to good causes.

Every day, 20 postcodes across the country are selected to win £1,000 for every ticket in the postcode.

The Postcode Lottery also manages society lotteries on behalf of a number of charities and says it supports a wide range of charitable organisations and community projects in Britain and around the world.

To date, players have helped raise more than £1.7 billion for thousands of charities and good causes.

Here are 24 of the best hotels and pubs with rooms Wales has to offer to guarantee you have the perfect place to lay your head

Summer is here and it’s time to start planning trips in Wales with family, friends, and relatives you can survive a holiday with.

Thankfully Wales has an abundance of fabulous accommodation where you can enjoy standout food, spas, dreamy locations, and buffet breakfasts.

Maybe the homemade sourdough at breakfast, the epic lake views, or the quirky design pulls it all together. Either way we have a very long list of top accommodation options to choose from for your perfect summer trip.

My job as a travel journalist and podcaster takes me to hotels across Wales and the globe. Over the years,I’ve bedded down everywhere from dingy hostels with bathrooms that would make the Red Cross wince to five-star palaces with bellhops, butlers, and even a pillow menu. Why, yes, I will have a buckwheat pillow, thank you.

After running the full gauntlet I know what makes a stay shine. The thoughtful touches, offbeat design choices, and exceptional service and food elevate it from a good stay to a fabulous one and often it has nothing to do with star ratings.

So when I was trying to choose some of my favourite places to stay in Wales I had to mull it over (with a wine).

It’s tempting to just name the fanciest five-star stays in Wales, a recognisable name we can all agree is a bucket-list break. But I’m of the mind to break the mould and share my personal favourites that have bags of personality.

This isn’t just a roll call of five-star showstoppers and the most luxe stays. These are the places I love and book again and again. The characterful hotels and pubs with rooms I rave about to my long-suffering mates.

From cool little boltholes in lively towns to grand spa hotels I’ve rounded up some of my favourite spots for a fabulous Welsh getaway, though there are plenty more places I would like to patronise in 2026.

St Brides Spa Hotel, Saundersfoot

Enjoy Unparalleled sea views at the award-winning clifftop St Brides Hotel and Spa, where you can gaze over Saundersfoot Bay from their jaw-dropping infinity swimming pool and elevated rooms.

This privately-owned hotel is a few minutes from the beach, allowing guests to enjoy ocean therapy before indulging in the many spa treatments.

Nearby are the flat sandy beaches of Saundersfoot and the popular seaside town of Tenby, where boutique shopping, diverse dining, and boat trips are plentiful.

This coastal escape has plenty of accolades, and the most recent is a spot on the coveted The Times 50 Best Places to Stay in the UK list for 2026.

Claudia Rowan, Commissioning Editor, writes: “The view! That’s what has made St Brides so popular with guests since it opened as a hotel in the early 1900s: the sweeping, striking panorama of Saundersfoot Bay and the wild Pembrokeshire coast beyond.”

Why I love St Brides Spa Hotel

Bright and airy rooms feature hints of coastal chic along with quality bedding and furnishings.

At their clifftop restaurant, you can also taste Pembrokeshire produce and locally landed fish with dishes informed by the season.

The main attraction is the dreamy infinity pool and marine spa offering. Unwind in a full thermal suite with a rock sauna, ice fountain, steam room, and marine hydro pool.

You can also book Individual treatments featuring marine-sourced products and spa packages for an indulgent stay.

Choose from massages, facials, and holistic therapies expertly delivered by excellent therapists.

Book here.

The Harbourmaster Hotel, Aberaeron

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Crowned Wales’ hotel of the year 2025 by the Sunday Times for its “old splash of style and substance,” this coastal hotel overlooks the colourful Georgian quayside in Aberaeron.

The deep blue landmark hotel is no stranger to accolades. It has won several awards, including the Good Hotel Guide’s César Award for Best Hotel in Wales in 2024.

Earlier this year, the hotel was once again in the spotlight when presenter Jeremy Clarkson said his experience at the coastal town’s luxurious Harbourmaster hotel trumped his recent stay at the Four Seasons in Miami, Florida, which, admittedly, was “very good, but this is better”.

The hotel also won Jeremy’s approval by selling drinks from Hawkstone Brewery, which the Who Wants To Be a Millionaire? presenter owns a significant stake in.

The Clarkson’s Farm star declared: “This is the best hotel … in the world. The staff were fantastic, the view was pretty, they sold Hawkstone, and for dinner, I had deep fried cockles followed by sea trout.”

The Harbourmaster opened as a hotel in 2002 and now offers 13 maritime-themed rooms in three historic harbourside buildings. Once used as homes and offices, these buildings now welcome guests with character and plenty of maritime charm.

Climb the spiral staircase to reach seven original rooms in the former residence where you’ll get sweeping sea or harbour views, rolltop tubs, and balconies. The top-floor suite often books up first, so lock down your dates.

Stay in a converted warehouse room if you prefer lift access, roomy bathrooms, and stylish sofas. Check into the self-catering cottage just across from the main building for more space.

You can expect marine blues and panelling, huge tin baths, and cosy beds inside swish rooms.

The rooms feature Melin Tregwynt fabric used stylishly on headboards, blankets, cushions, and squishy armchairs that look out over the harbour and the sea.

Why I love the Harbourmaster

While the uniquely designed rooms are a big draw, we just can’t get enough of the sunset harbour views from the on-site restaurant, which the Sunday Times describes as offering “unfussy but bang-on flavours.”

As you’d expect from a dining room within reach of the local fishing fleet, it strongly emphasises locally-caught seafood dishes such as Cardigan Bay shellfish, Welsh beer-battered haddock, and Cardigan Bay crab linguine.

There’s also plenty of other local produce, including Welsh lamb and beef sirloin, Ammanford’s Coaltown coffee, and Welsh spirits, beers, and wine from vines in the nearby Llaethliw vineyard.

Order a Welsh gin and a beautifully presented charcuterie board and enjoy a sundowner on the small terrace.

Book here.

Parkgate Hotel, Cardiff

The Parkgate Hotel on Westgate Street is known for its lavish rooms, restaurant, and gorgeous spa with expansive views over the Welsh capital.

This landmark hotel, located right by the Principality Stadium (handy for gigs and matches), has hundreds of nods to its industrial past, including the remaining sign at the front.

Here, you’re stepping into Cardiff’s history, but with really good lighting and an excellent cocktail, and I’m here for it. The Parkgate Hotel occupies two historic Grade II-listed buildings: the former Head Post Office and the old County Court.

Following an impressive glow-up, these Portland stone beauties now blend early 20th-century grandeur with a modern luxury feel that never tips into stuffy.

The original details and architectural mash-up of French Renaissance Revival and late-Victorian and Edwardian are a visual highlight.

Soaring ceilings, beautiful stonework, and carefully restored period features add character without making it feel like you’re sleeping in a fusty museum. Read my full review here.

Why I love the Parkgate Hotel

Of the 170 bedrooms, no two are quite the same, each styled around the building’s original features and historic layout. The calming colour palette spans deep blues, soft greys, muted greens and warm tan leather, with a large upholstered headboard that feels custom-built for leaning back with a morning coffee and some light existential pondering.

Patterned wall panels add texture, and the beds are generously sized and dressed in crisp linen, with plump pillows that help ensure a good night’s sleep.

Food-wise, The Sorting Room, a two AA rosette-awarded and Michelin Guide-listed restaurant, is a swish spot to dine in the city’s most luxurious destination.

The real highlight, though, is the bougie spa with commanding views of the city skyline and a small pool for unwinding while gazing out over the Diff.

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The spa and thermal suite have recently been refreshed and now operate as an OSKIA spa, with treatments focused on glowing skin and switch-off time. It blends clever, results-led products with a calm boutique feel.

The space is beautifully kitted out in soothing creams, with two saunas, a large thermal pool complete with jets and showers, comfortable heated loungers, and commanding views across the city skyline.

A range of treatments is available in four elegant treatment rooms and can be booked separately from the thermal suite. Spa access is a 90-minute slot, ample time to de-stress.

Book here.

The Albion Aberteifi, Cardigan

Perched on the riverside in Cardigan, the adults-only Albion Aberteifi blends seafaring charm with maritime design featuring original sketches and calculations by 1800s shipwrights.

Just four months after opening, The Times and The Sunday Times named it the Best Place to Stay in Wales 2023, and it’s easy to see why.

The Times journalist said of the property: “Expect more of a grown-up vibe here (no children are allowed) with a moody bar serving the Albion Collins, a heavenly blend of mead and local gin.”

It’s perfectly positioned to explore Cardigan, a traditional Welsh market town with a creative streak, a place steeped in history yet buzzing with indie vibes.

As the birthplace of the Eisteddfod, Wales’ most important cultural festival, the town has long been a hub for storytelling, music, and art. Wander its streets, and you’ll find charming cafés, proper pubs, and a thriving collection of independent shops and businesses.

Why I love the Albion

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Each of the 12 en suite rooms feels like a captain’s cabin with reclaimed wood-panelled walls, 150-year-old oak floors, Welsh wool blankets, custom furniture, and river views from every window.

The hotel wears the town’s maritime past with plenty of character and design features. Contemporary comforts sit alongside the quirks of the original buildings, giving a historic feel while providing plenty of modern amenities.

Old stone and timber are left proudly on show, giving the place a sense of history you can actually feel. Head up to the third floor, and the walls tell their own story, lime-washed surfaces covered with mid-19th-century pencil sketches of tall ships, alongside careful notes on rope lengths and sail sizes.

Breakfast is served in the relaxed resident lounge, where you’ll also find crafted cocktails, wines and local beers by night and coffee and cake by day.

Book here.

Hafod Hotel, Devil’s Bridge

I’m a huge fan of the stone-clad Hafod Hotel, which TV fans will likely recognise from the popular Welsh TV drama, Hinterland.

This historic hotel is located a short hop from Aberystwyth and Pontarfynach, meaning ‘the bridge on the Mynach’ – a tiny village reached via a heritage train that winds through woodland and countryside. It lies at the head of the Rheidol Valley and is famous for its waterfalls and narrow-gauge steam railway.

Also known as ‘Devil’s Bridge,’ this village is relatively small, but it offers stacked bridges, waterfalls, and the boutique Hafod Hotel right in the centre.

Originally built as a hunting lodge in the 1700s, the Duke of Newcastle extended and remodelled it in the 19th century into a distinctive Swiss-style château for the owner of the Hafod estate.

Refurbished again in 2016, the hotel has managed to retain its unique charm despite several modern upgrades and renovations.

It adjoins the famous Devil’s Bridge (three legend-filled, vertically stacked bridges), which overlooks the Mynach waterfalls and dramatic wooded gorge.

According to Bangor University, Devil’s Bridge has been drawing tourists since the late 1700s. Back then, anyone on the hunt for rugged Welsh beauty and dramatic landscapes made a beeline for this beauty spot and who could blame them?

Why I love the Hafod Hotel

While I’m a fan of budget hotels and private hostel rooms, I’ll admit I love a ‘splurge stay’ in a fancy room, especially for a special occasion.

I would recommend booking a rather swish suite here with a king-size bed, a private sitting area, wifi, a Monsoon shower, complimentary Thierry Mugler toiletries, and tea and coffee-making facilities for my morning brew.

The welcoming bar is linked to the main hotel by a tearoom, where Sunday lunch is served. You can choose whether to dine in the restaurant, tearoom, or bar.

The light-filled, high-ceilinged restaurant, with wooden furniture, pops of colour, and rustic signs, is a relaxing spot for Welsh classics and proper pub food.

Typical menu offerings include local trout, Welsh ale-battered haddock, lamb pie, and my personal favourite, the towering Devil’s Beast Burger.

This banging burger features a juicy beef patty slathered in house-made burger sauce, served with hand-cut chips.

Book here

The Angel Hotel, Abergavenny

Named Best foodie hotel by the Sunday Times, the Angel in the centre of Abergavenny is one for the gastronomes. Previously scooping the AA Hotel of the Year for Wales, the luxurious property began life as an 18th-century coaching inn.

It’s now a popular, thriving hotel renowned for its fabulous food. Read my review of the Angel hotel here.

Chef Wesley Hammond is at the helm, offering fine dining in The Oak Room, crafted cocktails in the stylish Foxhunter Bar, and award-winning afternoon tea in the Wedgewood Room.

The Art Deco Oak Room restaurant has an ever-changing menu bursting with seasonal dishes and local produce. Here you can admire artwork in a warm, welcoming ambience while nursing a robust Rioja or a sparkling Cremant de Loire.

Typical dinner dishes include Cefn Mawr Farm dry-aged beef ribeye, Wye Valley asparagus, pea and feta risotto, and a seafood platter loaded with oysters, mussels, and octopus carpaccio. I would also recommend the indulgent afternoon tea – you can read my full review here.

Why I love the Angel Hotel

Aside from its excellent dining, The Angel is also ideally positioned to enjoy Abergavenny’s gastro offerings.

This lively market town is already renowned as a foodie haven with the artisan Angel Bakery (described by Times writer Caitlin Moran as “the best in the world”) and The Walnut Tree Inn, a popular Michelin-starred restaurant with cottages led by legendary chef Shaun Hill.

For die-hard foodies, the best time to stay at the Angel is during the famous Abergavenny Food Festival, a celebratory weekend of all things food held every September. Expect the best Welsh, British, and international producers to showcase exciting dishes and homegrown produce.

Book here.

Cliff Hotel Cardigan

This cliffside hotel is ideal for a summer escape, and the hotel offers a dozen room and suite types, from modest to mortgage-threatening. Many have sea views and private balconies, and if you’re feeling particularly flush, some rooms even come with a private hot tub.

Minimalist vibes and contemporary design are found throughout, with hints of marine chic and locally sourced artwork on display. Rooms are spacious with muted tones and modern amenities, including a pod coffee machine dispensing creamy espressos.

If you fancy dining in-house, the hotel offers Carreg at the Cliff, where you can indulge in ocean-view dining that’s decidedly swish, because why settle for less when you can gaze at the sea while you eat?

The main bar and restaurant have floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto a terrace with sweeping views of Poppit Sands, making it the perfect spot for a sundowner by the sea.

The menus are seasonal, so they’ve clearly got fresh, locally sourced ingredients on the brain. They even have the more laid-back Point Bar & Lounge, ideal for a cocktail or two with your fave.

Lunch and dinner menus feature classic dishes with a Welsh twist, including Braised Loin of Lamb, The Carreg Burger, and Y Ddraig pizza topped with bacon, leeks and laverbread.

Why I love the Cliff Hotel Cardigan

The spa is a brilliant addition for wellness by the sea, and the hotel offers spa packages with light lunches and treatments, signature massages, scrubs, mini facials- you name it.

It’s also in a great location for the sunset coast walk with immediate access to the Ceredigion Coast Path, and it is just a short hop from Poppit Sands and the town of Cardigan.

Cardigan Bay remains one of Wales’s most underrated stretches of coastline, sandwiched between the headline-grabbing beauty of Pembrokeshire and the Llŷn Peninsula.

In 2023, Time Out magazine even dubbed its main town, Cardigan, the “most underrated” spot in West Wales. Here, you can experience Wales as its most authentic self, zipping between secluded bays to spot dolphins, trekking the coastal path and feasting on piping hot fish and chips in small fishing villages.

The relative remoteness of Ceredigion and its communities’ proud, resilient character have long made this coastline a stronghold of Welsh language and culture. Here, you can visit ancient castles, shop for local crafts, and try local produce at a food festival.

Book here.

Pale HallHotel, Bala

Pale Hall, located in the scenic Dee Valley, is far from your average hotel. With its rich history and opulent décor, this Victorian mansion provides the ideal backdrop for a posh getaway on the fringes of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia).

The arrival at this grand hotel is an event in itself. The majestic exterior, set against manicured gardens and rolling hills, instantly sets the tone.

Throw in a Michelin green star dining experience, sumptuous rooms adorned with extra special touches, and the epic natural beauty of Eryri right outside your door, and you have the ultimate Welsh retreat for 2026.

Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a curious mixture of grandeur and décor I would describe as a hipster fever dream. Imagine a grand staircase, chandeliers and roaring fireplaces paired with patterned wallpaper and abundant taxidermy.

How many hanging deer heads can one country house hotel have? Well, the vibe here is ‘not enough’! Rooms and suites are individually styled with plenty of thoughtful touches, and some even have unique features like a stained glass roof light, chrome bateaux bath and antique beds.

Take a moment to chat with staff, and you’ll soon discover that dog-friendly Pale Hall is more than just your standard countryside escape. Its history is as captivating as its architecture, tracing back to the 15th century when the original house was first built.

Why I love Pale Hall

I’ve stayed several times at this AA Five Red Star, Relais & Châteaux destination luxury country house hotel, with an acclaimed AA three-rosette rating and a Michelin Green Star for sustainable practices.

It was one of the first hotels in the UK to receive a Michelin Key Award. Like Michelin stars, the Keys are a three-tiered award highlighting the best places to stay globally.

The property has 18 uniquely designed bedrooms, each with its own charm, and four garden suites for guests seeking more private lodgings.

What distinguishes Pale Hall is its extraordinary attention to detail – from the majestic entrance featuring Jacobean-style elements to the stained-glass skylight adorning the main hall.

The hotel’s AA five-red-star rating and membership in Relais & Châteaux ensure guests experience top-tier hospitality.

The Henry Robertson Dining Room is a must-visit. With its marble fireplace and ornate plaster ceilings, this elegant space creates the perfect setting for a memorable feast.

The dinner menu is a testament to the culinary team’s skill and creativity, showcasing Pale’s relationships with local farmers, growers, fishermen, and food producers.

Choose from four- or six-course menus, or spoil yourself with an indulgent afternoon tea with fizz featuring finger sandwiches, scones, and beautifully presented cakes.

Book here.

Browns Hotel, Laugharne

Located in Laugharne, a timeless town that Welsh icon Dylan Thomas famously called a “sociable place… with good pubs and little law,” Browns has a connection to the poet.

Known as his favourite drinking spot, the historic and welcoming pub was more than just a boozing bolthole for Thomas; according to local lore, it was a meeting place, a community hub, and, often, where Thomas would spend long afternoons holding court with whisky. He used the pub’s phone number as his own, so frequent were his visits.

Today, the bar has retained much of its original character, offering a cosy spot for locals and visitors.

Accommodation-wise, you’ll find beautifully designed rooms with thoughtful touches, such as Welsh wool blankets, a sizable bath, a Media Bar, and a Pod Coffee Machine.

Why I love Browns Hotel

Browns has also expanded its offerings since Dylan’s day and now features Dexters at Browns, their in-house steakhouse that prides itself on sourcing local Welsh beef and offering a menu showcasing the best regional ingredients.

The steaks are the star of the show, cooked to perfection, but the menu also features a variety of other hearty options, from fresh fish to vegetarian dishes, all with a focus on quality and flavour.

Nearby, Brown’s new sister restaurant, Ty Glô, is behind the town’s historic clock. Here, you’ll find a stylish and inviting atmosphere that balances modern sophistication with a touch of natural charm.

Warm, earthy tones and lush greenery characterise the large space, creating a chic, chilled-out ambience.

Their delicious pizzas, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, are an utter standout. Options range from classic Margherita to more inventive toppings, such as roasted shoulder of lamb.

Book here.

The Cawdor, Llandeilo

The Cawdor is a standout property in the market town of Llandeilo. Its distinctive cherry-red exterior contrasts with the town’s rainbow strip of buildings, and according to The Sunday Times, this four-star Georgian hotel is officially among the UK’s top 100 hotels.

It’s a roll call of historic property features, including an open fireplace, grand high ceilings in the dining room, a snug little bar perfect for a nightcap, and classic sash windows.

This beauty has been around for a while – the current building dates back to the Georgian era and is proudly Grade II-listed. But its story goes even further back. In the 17th century, it was a busy coaching inn known as The Bear.

Why I love the Cawdor

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At The Cawdor, there are 24 beautifully furnished bedrooms and two luxurious penthouse apartments, each with its own unique style and character.

Every room is super stylish, featuring crisp white Egyptian-cotton bedding, plush duck-feather pillows, and massive Hypnos beds that promise a restful slumber.

The bathrooms are nothing short of fabulous, with premium Melin Tregwynt accessories adding a touch of local charm. You’ll also enjoy free Wi-Fi and indulgent Myddfai toiletries.

If you want to splurge, I recommend the Penthouse Loft Room – a vast, chic dwelling in the attic. A sliver of light covers the space, which has wooden floors, exposed beams, and deep purples blending with soothing creams.

Food-wise, you’re in for a treat. The Cawdor kitchen serves fresh seasonal produce sourced whenever possible from farmers and local suppliers they “know and trust”.

The focus is on flavour and decent portions, and the skilled kitchen bakes brownies and biscuits and produces delicious homemade puds.

The slow-braised Welsh beef shins in a cottage pie are the chef’s favourite, and no-one should leave without trying the Cawdor old-fashioned sticky toffee pudding.

Book here.

Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa, Lake Vyrnwy

This show-stopping hotel commands epic views of forest-hugged Lake Vyrnwy in the glorious Powys countryside. Lake Vyrnwy has all the bells and whistles you’d expect from a four-star stay, but with a bonus historic personality.

This sprawling lakeside hideaway is full of nooks and crannies to explore. Sip fizz on the terrace while the sun dips behind the hills, head to the small but mighty spa for a steam and soak, or cosy up in the homely Tavern Bar with a pint.

Food-wise, the Tower Restaurant is the hotel’s main dining option. It serves breakfast, afternoon tea, and classic British cuisine with a Welsh twist.

Typical plates include Beef fillet, shallot & red wine jus, artichoke puree and mash potato, Pork three ways and Pan fried sea bass with Mediterranean new potatoes.

The spa and wellness centre also offers lake views from a suntrap terrace, a big, bubbly hot tub, and heated loungers.

The ‘thermal suite’ offering includes Showers of Monsoon & Fragrant Mist, which blends cold and warm water and promises a “multi-sensory experience”.

Why I love Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa

Scenic Lake Vyrnwy is the star attraction here, and the hotel offers panoramic views across the water and the alpine-like landscape.

Perched above the reservoir, you’re just a short walk or drive from a nature reserve, forested trails, and cascading waterfalls.

We love this property for its historic charm, lake panorama, quality dinner dishes, and fancy afternoon tea.

Sure, the hotel might benefit from a few interior design updates, but who cares when the views are this magnificent?

With a fizz in hand and the sun setting over that woodland-hugged reservoir, you’ll feel like you’re in the Alps – with fewer zeroes on the bill.

Book here.

Y Talbot, Tregaron

Y Talbot operates as an independent, Grade II–listed hotel, pub, and restaurant in the market town of Tregaron and is prominently situated in the town square.

This historic Welsh hotel began as an old drovers’ pub and now appears in the Michelin Guide and holds two AA Rosettes. Y Talbot also carries an unusual legend.

According to local lore, people buried a circus elephant there in 1848, and it now lies beneath what is today Y Talbot’s beer garden.

The bar and restaurant, run by head chef Dafydd, who was trained by Marco Pierre White, serves local produce, including lamb, beef, and cheeses from the Teifi Valley, fish from Milford Haven, and shellfish from Cardigan Bay.

Why I love Y Talbot

Location is a big draw, as the hotel is located in Tregaron, one of the oldest market towns in Wales, with a royal charter dating back to 1292.

It’s proper Welsh through and through; over 60% of locals speak Cymraeg, making it a buzzing hub for our lyrical language.

It’s also the gateway to one of Wales’s most epic drives.

From here, you can set off on a thrilling road trip along an old drover’s track that features hairpin bends through a wild and rugged landscape. The Abergwesyn Pass is a 20-mile single-track route that runs from Llanwrtyd Wells to Tregaron.

Book here

Château Rhianfa, Menai Bridge

This historic hotel was built in 1849 by Sir John Hay Williams, Baronet of Bodelwyddan, as a gift for his wife, Lady Sarah, and ‘Rhianfa’ translates to ‘ladies’ abode’.

Perched on the edge of the Menai Strait on Anglesey, this striking Grade II listed château looks straight out across the water towards the Eryri mountain range and delivers a serious wow factor before you even step inside.

All the rooms are gorgeous, but their suites are really something special, radiating elegant style and comfort.

There are loads of fancy little added touches, and you can enjoy the hotel’s facilities, including complimentary turndown service, a choice of bars, tennis courts, a sauna and hot tub, a wine cellar, a sun terrace, and a music room.

Why I love Château Rhianfa

Check-in is from 3pm, ideal for a leisurely arrival and a lovely wander around the glorious grounds, and check-out is at 11am, so no early-morning panic if you forgot to set your alarm.

Accommodation is flexible, with a choice of room types to suit how fancy you are feeling. You can opt for a standard or sea-view room, either within the château or at the Rhianfa Lodge, all elegantly styled and designed for comfort.

Every room includes a double bed, an ensuite bathroom, Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, a TV, and access to a 24-hour reception and room service. Sea-view options include extras such as an in-room safe and a radio, and rooms within the château itself let you wake up to historic charm.

One of the highlights of this stay is the included cream tea, which feels particularly fitting in surroundings like these.

Picture fresh scones layered with cream and jam, served with tea or coffee in one of the beautiful lounges, while you admire ornate interiors or gaze out at the dreamy landscape beyond the windows.

Breakfast the next morning is a full English feast, setting you up nicely for a day of exploring or lingering over a steaming cup of coffee.

The hotel also offers an on-site restaurant, bar, lounges, a lift, free parking, and luggage storage. Ticking all the staycation boxes.

Book here

Glangwili Mansion, Carmarthenshire

The award-winning Glangwili Mansion is set on the edge of Brechfa Forest and is a remarkably romantic and luxurious escape in the Carmarthenshire countryside.

Each room is uniquely decorated, featuring ensuite bathrooms, plush bedding, elegant furnishings and intriguing artwork.

Breakfast is cooked to order and served in the spacious dining room, where jazz music drifts over the sizzle of bacon and the pop of toast.

It’s a cosy base for Carmarthenshire, just a short drive from winding forest trails, local pubs, and the historic market town of Carmarthen.

Why I love Glangwili Mansion

One highlight here is that you can book a dinner in their wooden Star Gazing Cabin.

Just a few steps from the B&B, their cosy stargazing cabin has scandi-cool vibes, indoor and outdoor kitchens, comfy chairs, and a terrace.

It’s a gorgeous romantic retreat where you can cook dinner on the BBQ and gaze up at the stars on a clear night. Nearby, you’ll find Brechfa Forest, where you can explore wooded trails.

This expansive forest encompasses over 6,500 acres of ancient woodlands, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys, and is managed by Natural Resources Wales.

Grove of Narberth, Narberth

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Grove of Narberth has received many accolades over the years, including Independent Hotel of the Year at the 2024 Independent Hotel Show in London and the 2023 Hotel of the Year award from the Small Luxury Hotels of the World Awards. In October, 2024, the Grove also won a coveted Michelin Key, recognising hotels for outstanding stays.

It’s a wildly popular destination hotel in the heart of Pembrokeshire, in a gorgeous glade surrounded by cherry blossom trees and the rolling Welsh countryside.

The hotel is just a 15-minute drive from the coast and overlooks the town of Narberth and the Preseli Mountains. Located within 26 acres of woodland grounds, well-kept lawns and gardens, and pretty meadows, it’s certainly a romantic break.

This historic property is set on a sprawling estate, with parts dating back to the 15th century. The property was once owned by the bailiff of Tenby, who would have lived in the hotel’s ‘longhouse’ with his family.

Why I love Grove of Narberth

The resort has 26 rooms, including the main building and cottages scattered around the grounds. Rooms vary in décor, with some sporting a more traditional look and others a more modern feel. There are also two restaurants on site.

Dining-wise, head chef Douglas Balish, who came to The Grove from the Michelin-starred Tudor Room in Surrey in 2019, has firmly made his mark at this luxury hotel.

So much so that in 2022, his restaurant at the hotel was awarded four Rosettes at the AA Hospitality Awards and won Wine List of the Year for Wales.

And surrounded by the excellent local produce of Pembrokeshire and The Grove’s kitchen garden, he’s got plenty to work with.

Book here

Hotel Portmeirion, Porthmadog

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Inspired by Portofino’s multicoloured façades, Portmeirion is a uniquely constructed tourist village that offers a slice of Italy on the bracing Welsh coast.

Alongside its unique architectural heritage, the private, ticketed site features two swanky hotels, self-catering cottages, an indulgent spa, gift shops, cafés, restaurants and an authentic Italian-style gelateria.

Walking into Portmeirion for the first time is undoubtedly an experience. The village rises like a painted mirage, with pastel-coloured buildings and whimsical towers that seem plucked from a fairy tale.

Here, clusters of lush, green trees frame the view while the estuary beyond glitters under the changing light of the Welsh sky.

You can stay overnight in Hotel Portmeirion, a Gothic Castle, or a twee ‘village room’.

The flagship four-star Hotel Portmeirion has stylish bedrooms, a fine-dining restaurant, a bar and terrace, and relaxing lounges. Founder and visionary, Clough Williams-Ellis, opened The Hotel Portmeirion in 1926 as the focal point of his ideal village.

He retained much of the Victorian interior, including an intricate Italian fireplace, a Mirror Room, the Great Exhibition of 1851 library carvings, and a grand 18th-century oak staircase.

Why I love Hotel Portmeirion

Portmeirion was born out of the long-held ambition of its founder, architect Clough Williams-Ellis. His creative vision for an Italianate-style, private peninsula village on the Welsh coast resulted in a charming tourist destination with a Mediterranean feel, reflected in the hotel’s offerings.

The hotel has undergone refurbishments over the years to modernise its style while retaining some original features. The Grade II-listed hotel is also famous for being the place where English playwright Noel Coward wrote Blithe Spirit in 1941.

We love that the hotel offers guests a chance to explore the hotel when day-trippers have gone, and you can roam the surreal site with fewer crowds. Only overnight guests can be on site after the village has ‘closed’ for the day, so make the most of the near-empty streets.

Dinner at the Portmeirion Hotel Dining Room is the perfect end to a whimsical day. With its elegant décor and sweeping views of the estuary, this award-winning Art Deco restaurant offers a refined dining experience deeply rooted in the local landscape.

Executive head chef Mark Threadgill and his skilled team, led by head chef Daniel Griffiths, work their culinary magic in the kitchen. They source the finest local ingredients, some even foraged within the village, to craft a distinctive modern Welsh cuisine.

Book here.

voco St David’s, Cardiff

One of Cardiff’s flagship hotels, voco St David’s, is in a commanding position in the marina, overlooking the cosmopolitan waterfront area.

Stylish rooms feature expansive floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the bay and include little luxuries like fluffy robes and high-end toiletries.

Casual dining and Welsh-inspired dishes are available at their on-site restaurant, Tir a Môr, and wellness amenities include a gym, indoor pool, and luxurious spa facilities.

While the hotel is celebrated for its marine spa offerings, the on-site restaurant is far more than a convenience dining – it’s the place to book if you want dinner with a view and food that combats the usual “Meh, hotel dining” stigma.

With its name meaning ‘land and sea’ in Welsh, the stylish restaurant and bar takes its inspiration from its bayside location and utilises the best of Welsh produce.

The interior matches the setting with a coastal chic flair and is decorated with deep teal blues, lush leafy plants, and moody lighting near the bar.

Food-wise, the kitchen creatively twists Welsh dishes and produce.

You can expect beautifully presented plates of Tiny Rebel beer-battered fish and chips, Roasted rump of Brecon lamb with summer vegetable tartlet, and char-grilled local asparagus, egg yolk puree, and Halen Mon black garlic ketchup.

Read my review of voco St David’s here.

Why I love voco St. David’s

As a hotel guest, you’ll have complimentary access to the impressive boutique spa, an indoor pool with a toasty water corridor, bubbly spa pools, and soothing steam and sauna rooms.

Fancy a little extra pampering? You can book holistic face and body treatments in advance – all using top-quality products to leave you glowing.

There are wellness packages to suit every budget and mood, whether you’re looking for a quick refresh or a full-on spa day.

When it’s time to relax in your swanky room, you have four options – from cosy standard rooms to suites with sweeping sea views. Expect crisp white linens, fluffy towels, and luxe Antipodes toiletries.

Book here.

Tŷ Hotel Milford Waterfront, Milford Haven

Tŷ Milford Waterfront, part of Milford Haven’s new multi-million-pound waterfront development, covers everything you need for a Pembrokeshire family staycation.

Opened in 2022, this waterfront hotel is managed and operated by the team responsible for the iconic five-star Celtic Manor Resort. It’s a welcome addition to The Celtic Collection and the Tŷ Hotels family’s expanding portfolio, which is in partnership with the Port of Milford Haven.

Featuring spectacular scenery of the Pembrokeshire coastline and situated right on the water’s edge, it offers picture-postcard views over the marina and beyond, and is the ideal base to stay and explore the stunning West Wales coast.

The 46,000 sq ft property features four floors of contemporary bedroom accommodation, benefiting from superb views across Milford Marina.

Why I love Tŷ Hotel Milford Waterfront

All rooms include complimentary Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, Elemis toiletries, and a TV. The largest rooms feature seating areas, waterfront views, and balconies to enjoy the incredible sunrises and sunsets over the marina.

Family rooms are super-comfortable and stylish, and accommodate up to two adults and two children. Due to the hotel’s convenient location, it’s perfect for relaxing after days out adventuring at some of West Wales’ finest beaches and attractions. Tŷ Milford also offers accessible hotel rooms to make guests with disabilities feel more at home.

The glass-fronted dining exceeded our expectations and is a proper destination dining hotel for foodies.

Housed inside the Tŷ Hotel Milford Waterfront, Dulse is one of the best places in Pembrokeshire for delicious seafood. The stylish restaurant is named after Pembrokeshire’s edible and versatile seaweed that grows abundantly around the rocky coastline.

Decked out in soothing shades of deep-sea blue contrasting with muted tones, the light-filled restaurant strives to provide a relaxing and memorable dining experience.

It offers panoramic views of the marina through floor-to-ceiling windows, along with locally sourced seafood.

Book here.

The Metropole, Llandrindod Wells

The charming spa town of Llandrindod Wells is home to the luxurious, Victorian-style Metropole hotel and spa, known for its striking forest-green exterior and opulent interior.

This independent hotel is ideally located for exploring the verdant landscapes and dammed reservoirs of the Elan Valley, where you can find scenic solace along its peaceful hiking and biking trails.

The best time to visit is in June, when the weather has improved but the school holidays have not yet begun. The 120 en suite rooms are equipped to a very high standard. There is also an indoor leisure spa and state-of-the-art gym facilities, complemented by an award-winning restaurant.

Why I love the Metropole

Llandrindod Wells has welcomed wellness seekers for many years, thanks to the discovery of mineral springs in the 18th century, which propelled the area from a rural outpost to a fashionable spa town.

Today, visitors can admire Victorian architecture and soothe their worries in the Metropole’s warming pools.

The Radnor and Miles Restaurant serves modern British cuisine, expertly crafted from locally sourced seasonal ingredients. Spencer’s Bar and Brasserie offers relaxed dining, with lunch and evening menus available.

The Metropole’s sublime Rock Spa is the standout feature for guest use and packages. Swim lazy lengths in a heated 18m indoor pool, then continue your wellness journey in their sauna, whirlpool spa, and steam room.

Treatments include soothing massages, scrubs, and facials that use natural products where possible to help you feel rejuvenated and relaxed.

Book here.

Penally Abbey, Pembrokeshire

Built on the site of an ancient monastery, the magnificent Penally Abbey is a treat for those looking for history and prestige and is just a stone’s throw from the beach.

Located at the far end of South Beach, this is one of the premier places to stay in Tenby. It offers glorious sea views and an award-winning restaurant. The pretty garden also features a Holy Well and a medieval ruined chapel called St Deiniol’s.

Acquired in 2014 by its new owners, 18th-century Penally Abbey is a real labour of love for Lucas and Melanie Boissevain, a husband-and-wife team who saw a gap in the market for an intimate luxury hotel and an upscale restaurant to serve Tenby and the wider Pembrokeshire area.

The coastal-chic rooms are spread across three floors and feature expansive ocean views, swish furnishings, and super-king-sized beds.

For dinner with a view, the two-AA-rosette-awarded Rhosyn Restaurant serves a seasonal à la carte and tasting menu, featuring a range of tasty plates, including monkfish, pork cheek, and mushroom parfait.

This “faultless” retreat has bagged a coveted César Award (organised by the Good Hotel Guide) and has excellent reviews.

Why I love Penally Abbey

Magnificent Penally Abbey is a rare treat if you want to combine history, prestige, and a short walk to the beach. Along with the gorgeous décor and exceptional dining, we love that the origin of Penally Abbey is shrouded in mystery.

Legend says a monastery existed on the site in the fifth century before the advowson was given to the nuns of Aconbury in 1301. Eight nuns and their prioress lived in the rectory until the dissolution of the monasteries.

The abbey has been in private occupation since the beginning of the 20th century. In 1916, the Jameson family from Ireland came and stayed until 1925.

Military personnel resided there in the 1930s and 1940s. In the 1950s, it became a country club. The Boissevain family now owns it, and it has become a must-visit location in Pembrokeshire.

Book here.

Penmaenuchaf, Eryri National Park

A luxurious stay in Eryri National Park (Snowdonia), Penmaenuchaf has been named one of the most romantic hotels in Wales, according to the Michelin Guide and one of The Times 50 Best Places to Stay in the UK for 2026.

The Gwynedd hotel already has a Michelin Key award – the accommodation version of a Michelin Star – and is part of the much-loved Seren Collection of hotels and restaurants that includes Grove of Narberth and The Beach House at Oxwich.

The revamped historic manor house has 21 acres of pretty woodland and landscaped gardens, and looks gorgeous even in winter.

The estate once covered thousands of acres and included landmarks such as the Cregennan Lakes, the George III Inn, and the wooden toll bridge in Penmaenpool.

Uniquely designed rooms blend traditional styles and textures with original features. Choose from superior and deluxe rooms with balconies to swanky suites with mountainous views.

Depending on your booking, expect a range of rolltop baths, four-poster beds, and picture windows.

Michelin-starred dining is also knockout here, and the conservatory has the best seats. The Michelin Guide review notes that the “cooking’s strength is drawn from the prime-quality produce”. It also recommends staying overnight to “make a proper occasion of your visit”.

Laura Jackson, Deputy Head of Travel at the Times, writes of the accommodation: “Penmaenuchaf Hall — practise saying pen-mine-ee-khav before setting foot in Wales — was built in the 1860s in a valley below Cadair Idris, the 893m mountain in Eryri National Park that’s named after a giant who used the peak as a seat.

“The story goes that if you spend the night on the mountain, you’ll come back either mad or a poet. Today, a night or two at the revamped Penmaenuchaf hotel is more likely to result in a total reset, although it’s possible the views could inspire verse.”

Why I love Penmaenuchaf

Set by Cadair Idris overlooking the Mawddach Estuary in the Eryri National Park, you couldn’t ask for a better hotel location. Penmaenuchaf is the perfect base for exploring this spectacular landscape.

With picturesque towns, mountain walks, lakeside exploring, and plenty of opportunities for adrenaline-fuelled adventures, you’ll have an endless list of places to visit during your stay.

Book here.

Oxwich Bay Hotel, Gower

Location-wise, you are truly spoiled at this coastal-view hotel; right on the doorstep, you’ll find some of the most picturesque Welsh beaches and miles of coastal path to explore.

There’s a range of accommodation on offer here, including beachfront hotel rooms, “Secret Garden Pods” (some with hot tubs), static homes, the romantic Ivy Cottage, and Beach Walk Parc accommodation.

Opt for a Sea View Room, which offers views of Oxwich Bay Beach. All of these rooms have their own ensuite bathrooms with walk-in showers and whirlpool baths.

Enjoy drinks, light bites, lunch or dinner at the on-site restaurant, By the Beach. Typical plates include chilli king prawns, moules mariniere and Oxwich Bay Curry.

Why I love Oxwich Bay Hotel

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It’s hands down one of the best places for a drink by the sea. Here, you can enjoy the ocean view as you sip your drink in the Oxwich Bay Hotel’s beer garden. It’s just a stone’s throw from the beach – 10m, tops!

This coastal bar is the perfect spot to unwind with a refreshing pint or a crisp glass of wine while soaking up the beautiful beachside scenery.

Located within eight acres of private grounds at the western end of Oxwich Bay, this hotel offers a great selection of drinks and a menu perfect for a casual lunch or a laid-back afternoon bite.

Book here

Plas Dinas Country House, Caernarfon

Plas Dinas Country House is no stranger to accolades, having received the Wales AA Wine Award and been featured in the Michelin Guide. The Sunday Times described the 5-star property as “serene, never stuffy. Homely, even.”

The former royal residence was also named the best hotel in Wales at the National Tourism Awards of Wales.

Plas Dinas Country House was purchased by Daniel and Annie Perks in 2019 after they fell in love with the former Royal retreat. In the 1960s, this Gwynedd home served as a retreat for Lord Snowdon (formerly Anthony Armstrong-Jones) and Princess Margaret, providing a sanctuary away from hectic London life.

It was also the location where Lord Snowdon orchestrated the controversial investiture of the then Prince of Wales, now King Charles, at Caernarfon Castle in 1969. Daniel ap Geraint joined The Gunroom team in 2018, just a year before Plas Dinas was purchased by Daniel and Annie Perks.

The couple have since restored the building and elevated the standard of hospitality in the area, proving to be an excellent team. The restaurant has earned a Michelin Guide spot, received two AA Rosettes, and won the AA Wine List Award for Wales 2024/25.

The restaurant has garnered quite a reputation in recent years as the place to go for special birthdays, wedding anniversaries, or any other celebration. You can read our review of the restaurant here.

Why I love Plas Dinas

This luxurious property features 11 bedrooms and the award-winning Gunroom restaurant, which serves a hybrid taster menu. Rooms are individually designed and themed around the person or role in the Armstrong-Jones family that they’re named after.

Thoughtful extra touches include quality robes and slippers, sherry, biscuits, Welsh fudge, and teas in silk bags, available in all rooms for an indulgent stay.

Dining here is also a must. Award-winning chef and TV personality Daniel Ap Geraint updates the menu monthly, using the freshest seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

Book here

Pen y Gwryd Hotel, Eryri National Park

This ivy-clad beauty is a long-established, traditional British mountaineers’ hotel in the adventure capital of Eryri.

The historic hotel at the foot of Yr Wyddfa, the highest mountain in Wales, is ideally positioned for hiking adventures.

Built in 1810 as a remote mountain farmhouse, extended and used as a coaching inn and later as the training headquarters of the first successful Everest climbing expedition in 1955, it’s famous as being the hub where Hillary and Tenzing trained for the first successful ascent of the world’s highest mountain.

If you’re popping in for a day, the public bar is open for tea, coffee, homemade cakes, and alcoholic beverages. They also serve open-toasted baguettes with a selection of tasty fillings.

Why I love Pen y Gwryd Hotel

At Pen-y-Gwryd Hotel, comfort comes easily after a long day on the mountain. Cosy rooms promise deep, uninterrupted sleep, with comfortable beds, peaceful surroundings, and antique furnishings that give each space its own character.

Relaxation continues beyond the bedroom. The garden holds a clear mountain lake, perfect for a brisk swim or a quiet afternoon beside the water. Ornamental planting and thick green lawns lead to a hidden sauna, ready to soothe tired legs.

From the peaks and slopes of Snowdonia above, the grounds stand out as a vivid green oasis against the rugged stone landscape.

Book here

Iran has threatened Ukraine after accusing it of carrying out an attack on one of its ships in the Caspian Sea. 

Tehran has condemned Ukraine for carrying out the strike on what it claims was a commercial vessel in the Caspian Sea, adding that the explosion killed one sailor and injured another. 

After Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged the attack, adding that the Iranian vessel was being used to transport Russian ‘military cargo’, Iran’s foreign minister weighed in. 

In a post to X, Abbas Araghchi tonight said: ‘Zelensky has attacked an Iranian commercial vessel, killing a sailor. 

‘A blatant UN Charter violation done at Israel‘s behest to drag Europe into its war. In calls with EU High Rep [sic] [Kaja] Kallas and [Russian] FM [Sergei] Lavrov, made clear that what the freeloader in Kyiv did CANNOT GO UNANSWERED.’

Tehran decried the ​attack on its vessel as an act of aggression and ⁠said it would defend its national interests and security, while accusing Kyiv ​of seeking to expand the war in Ukraine.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry summoned ​Ukraine’s chargé d’affaires in Tehran to convey its protest over what it described as a ‘hostile and criminal’ attack. 

But shortly after Tehran’s statement last night, Zelensky said that Kyiv had noted Russia was passing ​on its satellite observations in the Middle East to Iran to enable it to direct ‌strikes ⁠in the region amid its war with the US and its Gulf allies. 

Firefighters work at the site of the postal distribution centre of Nova Post company, hit by a Russian drone strike, amid Russia’s attack on Ukraine, in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, July 25, 202

The Ukrainian president, in subsequent remarks posted on X, said Kyiv had recorded ​since the beginning of ​July ‘active Russian satellite ⁠surveillance of the Gulf states and US military facilities located there. These images subsequently appear in Iran.’

‘At the ​same time, there is a clear correlation between Russia’s ​satellite imagery ⁠of these sites and Iranian strikes – both before the attacks, in preparation for them, and afterward, to assess the damage inflicted,’ Zelensky said.

He said that on ⁠July ​19 and 20 alone, Russian satellite observation had ​included four air bases: two in Bahrain, one in Jordan and one in Kuwait.

Back in Ukraine, Kyiv came under ballistic missile attack from Russian forces early on Sunday, while other regions suffered bombardments later during the day that killed four people.

Russia, for its part, said four people were killed by a Ukrainian drone strike in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian city of Horlivka.

Ukraine’s air force said Russian forces had targeted the capital with ballistic missiles, as explosions rocked the city.

In its morning note, the air force said Russia had launched seven ballistic missiles and 136 drones at Ukraine overnight.

In the northern Ukrainian city of Chernihiv, local authorities said a Russian drone hit a supermarket, killing two people including a 10-year-old child, and wounding three others.

‘This is deliberate Russian terror that has no military justification,’ Zelensky wrote on Telegram.

In the eastern city of Kharkiv, one person was killed and 12 others required medical attention after a daytime drone attack. 

Meanwhile, a glide bomb attack killed one person and wounded six in the southern city of Zaporizhzhia, which has been under heavy bombardment in recent months.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said one blaze had broken out on the seventh and eighth floors of a multi-storey apartment block in a central district after the overnight missile attack. Three people were wounded in the capital, and images released by the state emergency service showed vehicles in flames.

Zelensky had warned on Friday that Russian attacks were likely over the next 48 hours.

In Horlivka, a city in the Russian-occupied part of Ukraine’s Donetsk province, Russian-installed Mayor Ivan Prikhodko said four civilians had been killed in a Ukrainian drone strike, Russia’s TASS news agency reported. Prikhodko gave no further details.

Firefighters work at the site of the postal distribution centre of Nova Post company, hit by a Russian drone strike, amid Russia’s attack on Ukraine, in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, July 25, 2026

Ukrainian rescuers work at the site of a Russian attack a logistics operator’s warehouse in the Zaporizhia, Ukraine, 25 July 2026

On Saturday, Russian-installed authorities accused Ukraine of deliberately attacking civilians after 12 people were killed in a drone attack on a holiday camp in a Russian-held part of Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region.

Both Russia and Ukraine deny targeting civilians in the war launched by Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. 

Thousands of civilians have died, most of them Ukrainians killed in Russian attacks.

The investigation reportedly relates to allegations of attempted rape at his Balnagown Estate in the Highlands.

An investigation has been launched by Police Scotland into sexual assault allegations made against the former Harrods owner, Mohamed Al Fayed.

The force is reportedly looking into allegations of attempted rape at his Balnagown Estate in Easter Ross in the Highlands. Al Fayed, who died in August 2023, is alleged to have sexually abused hundreds of women and girls over the course of decades.

In 2024, police said they had completed their investigation into a “non-recent sexual assault” in Balnagown, which Al Fayed bought in 1972. Officers have now reopened the case after a new witness came forward, according to the Scottish Mail on Sunday.

The case is reportedly related to an alleged attack at the estate in 1991. This comes after a new witness has spoken to officers and provided information.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Further investigation is ongoing. It would be inappropriate to comment further.”

More than 400 allegations of sexual misconduct have been made against Al Fayed dating back to 1977.

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Chinook helicopters for logistical and heavy-lift capacity and support from UK standby battalions will be made available upon request.

The UK Government has offered military support to tackle the Cairngorms wildfire following a request by Scotland’s Justice Secretary.

Douglas Alexander, the Scottish Secretary, told Neil Gray that specialist resources will be made available upon request, including Chinook helicopters for logistical and heavy-lift capacity and support from UK standby battalions. However, the First Minister said the UK Government’s offer was unnecessary.

John Swinney said the Scottish Government had requested aerial support to drop water on the fire but was told that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) did not have such equipment. Instead, the UK Government has offered alternative support.

On Sunday afternoon, firefighters said an “intensive operation” is still under way but better weather conditions, including heavy rain and low winds, have slowed the fire and limited its spread.

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More than 75 firefighters remain at the scene, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said. Residents of Nethy Bridge who were evacuated on Friday night have been told they can return home.

Police Scotland said on Saturday night it was no longer treating the fire as a major incident. Following a request for military support on Saturday, the Scottish Secretary confirmed some help could be made available.

He said: “The last 12 days have been extremely challenging for the teams on the ground tackling the wildfire and for those who live and have livelihoods in the area. Scottish Fire and Rescue services and the local community have committed exceptional efforts to trying to get the fire under control and they deserve a wealth of praise and thanks.

“Since receiving the request for assistance from the Scottish Government, I have worked at speed with the Defence Secretary to establish the resources we can deploy to support the efforts in the Cairngorms.”

The First Minister said: “The Scottish Government requested military assistance, in the form of aerial support to drop water on the fire, from the Ministry of Defence to supplement existing aerial resources that are in place.

“We have received a formal response advising that the UK Government are not in a position to agree to this request, given that the Ministry of Defence does not possess aerial firefighting assets stationed within the UK.

“The offer of other resources is welcome but SFRS has confirmed they have the other resources they need.

“Ministers will continue to be updated on the fire, and resources and services will remain until the fire is out.

“As I stated earlier, this wildfire is being treated with the utmost seriousness and necessary resources will be in place until the last flames are out.”

Earlier on Sunday, Scotland’s Justice Secretary said he did not expect to receive military support, saying it was his understanding that the UK military “does not have the capability” that is required for the fire. Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said the armed forces are “always ready” to respond to emergencies.

He said: “My thoughts are with those who have been affected by the terrible wildfires in the Cairngorms and I pay tribute to the brave emergency services personnel who have been working tirelessly to tackle the blaze.

“Our armed forces are always ready and able to respond to serious situations and Chinook helicopters can be available to provide heavy-lifting capacity, which may be needed given the landscape, and we have UK standby battalion personnel ready to deploy to provide additional numbers on the ground to help bring the wildfire under control.

“The Ministry of Defence is ready to support in any way we can and we are working closely with teams on the ground.”

The SFRS still has more than 75 firefighters, nine fire appliances and additional specialist resources on scene, supported by three helicopters conducting water-bombing operations.

Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Kenny Barbour said: “I want to reassure everyone affected by this prolonged incident that we are still fully committed with the appropriate resourcing in place as we work to protect the community.

“This is still very much a large, multi-agency response with partners, volunteers and the community pulling together to bring this incident to a safe conclusion.

“We intend to take advantage of the positive weather conditions to aggressively fight this fire in key areas, particularly in the north end of the incident ground to make an impact while the conditions allow.

“However, we are not complacent. SFRS staff and partners remain vigilant across all areas of the incident ground to monitor for any flare up.”

More than 500 firefighters and staff from partners and community volunteers have been actively involved in or supported the response since the incident began on July 15.

Mr Barbour added: “This remains a dynamic and changing incident and we expect to be in attendance with significant resources into next week.”

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