Bodysgallon Hotel

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A gin and tonic in the library is the ideal preparation for dinner.

Tuesday, 19 June 2007

The Bodysgallen Hotel in North Wales provides perfect sanctuary for the shooting gent.

Llandudno is a classic Victorian seaside resort which developed as a haven for Liverpudlians who no longer wanted to go to Blackpool for their summer holiday. The north Wales coastline is stunning and the town itself is a real gem of its type.

It is well worth taking the chance to have a look around the town before you head up to this splendidly situated hotel, a mile or so inland from the town and nestled into beautiful, wooded parkland.

It's always very useful to have an idea of the area before actually pulling up on the gravel drive. Not least because that may be the last time you leave the hotel before departure.

That may certainly apply in this case. The 17th century building is quite charming and provides a real contrast to the Victorian sea front hotels down the road.

Once inside the staff and service are exactly as you would wish, attentive but not intrusive. It is one of three hotels owned by Historic House Hotels, a group who clearly have a very good idea of what they are doing. The other two are Hartwell House, in the vale of Aylesbury, and Middlethorpe Hall, in York.

Room 7 has an enchanting view over Conwy Castle, which is four miles down the coast. As well as the 19 bedrooms in the hotel, there are 16 beautiful cottages in the grounds for guests who enjoy more privacy.

An early evening gin and tonic in the library is the best way to prepare before heading into the restaurant for a perfectly cooked meal. Your biggest problem is likely to be whether to have Welsh beef or lamb. The beef is certainly delicious but apparently the lamb is even better.

Another real treat here, after a gentle breakfast, is a stroll around the superb gardens, which include a walled rose garden and several follies. It is easy to see how the wealthy Liverpudlians were charmed by this north Wales attraction.

Tel: 01492 584446 www.bodysgallen.com