Pen-y-Dyffryn

‘As close to the Welsh border as you can get’ this ‘charming, family-run hotel’ in a Georgian rectory has ‘tremendous views from the beautiful garden’. Miles and Audrey Hunter, with son and daughter Tommy and Charlotte, are natural hosts (see The Castle Hotel, Bishop’s Castle, for brother Henry’s venture). The personal attention impresses. ‘I was chuffed that they had a gluten-free scone for me with a cream tea on arrival,’ writes a returning guest. Bedrooms, some in the coach house, have the look of a smart private home. Several have a spa bath, a private patio, ‘magnificent views of the Welsh hills’. ‘We had a large room with giant bed … a bath with spa system and a fancy shower, which worked very well.’ A nightly changing menu caters to all, with ‘very generous portions’ of ‘well-cooked, tasty dishes’ such as pea and lemon risotto; haunch steak of venison, venison and apricot sausage, blueberry and cassis jus. ‘The cooked breakfast menu is extensive.’ ‘Excellent sautéed potatoes with the eggs and bacon.’ 
A morning newsletter with suggested activities adds to the hotel’s charm. (John G P Barnes, Steven Hur, and others)