New House Country Hotel Shortlist*

Just north of the city, magnificent views over Cardiff and Vale of Glamorgan spread below this hotel with the air of a country retreat. A tiered fountain fronts the creeper-covered Grade II listed manor house. Stone steps lead to elegant rooms with high windows that look out on to lush greenery. Afternoon tea may be taken in the lounges; at mealtimes, Modern Welsh dishes in the restaurant or under the glass pergola might include baby pear, Per Las cheese, pickled walnut salad, or braised blade of Welsh beef. Colourful and contemporary bedrooms are supplied with Welsh toiletries. Part of the Town & Country Collective; see also The Bear, Cowbridge, and The West House, Llantwit Major (Shortlist entries).