In mid-Wales countryside, a family-friendly B&B in a Victorian house ringed by large, flower-filled gardens. The peaceful, homely retreat has books, maps and games in the drawing room, plus an antique Bechstein grand piano to play; children may run free in the timber fort and outdoor play area. Up the 19th-century oak staircase, traditional country-style bedrooms have period furniture and views of fields graced by a herd of rare-breed sheep. Eggs from free-range hens and ducks supply the organic breakfasts.

Just outside Mumbles in mature gardens, a Georgian manor house has standard, superior and family rooms as well as self-catering apartments, a friendly ambience, and casual all-day dining in the modern, light-filled bistro. An Early Bird menu is served from Monday to Sunday. A stroll along the front to the recently renovated pier (one of Swansea’s oldest and most famous landmarks), is recommended.

In the heart of the maritime quarter, an imaginatively modernised hotel in a converted Regency Port Authority building (Grade II* listed). Featuring Welsh produce, the restaurant is in an impressive former boardroom on the first floor (it is open to non-residents from Wednesday evening through to Sunday lunch). Catch major sporting events on the large screen in Morgan’s bar while enjoying a chilled beer, classic cocktail or wines from around the world. The Champagne bar is a sophisticated alternative. Some of the well-equipped modern bedrooms are across a small side road in The Townhouse.  

Opposite the stone cross on the square, a relaxed, cosy and dog friendly hotel in a well-maintained garden. Comforting dishes in the intimate dining room use locally sourced produce; the bar has an extensive cocktail menu.