Pale Hall Shortlist*
Bala, Gwynedd
Good Hotel Guide Review
Rich in antiques, wood panelling and fine original features, this historic Victorian country house on the edge of Snowdonia national park stands in a woodland garden that stretches to the River Dee. Sustainably run, the hotel is powered by one of the country’s oldest-running hydro-electric plants, and bottles its own spring water. Seasonal produce from local suppliers inspires tasting menus in the Henry Robertson fine dining room and more informal meals in the Huntsman bistro. Gracefully decorated, bedrooms and newly converted suites (some dog friendly) have little luxuries, such as organic toiletries and complimentary Madeira. Outside, there are lawn games in the grounds, and a pond whose every fish is named Alan.
Hotel details
Address
Palé Estate
Llandderfel
Bala
Gwynedd
LL23 7PS
Wales
Telephone
01678 530285
Bedrooms
22. 4 in converted barn, coach house and cottage, 1 suitable for disabled.
Open
all year.
Facilities
Grand Hall, lounge, library, restaurant, bar/bistro, Venetian dining room, in-room TV (Freeview), function facilities, civil wedding licence, 50-acre grounds, electric car charging points.
Background music
in Grand Hall, restaurants.
Children
all ages welcomed.
Dogs
allowed in 7 bedrooms, Grand Hall, bistro, on lead in gardens and public areas.
Credit cards
Amex, MC, Visa.
Prices
per room B&B single £260–£845, double £275–£1,000. Tasting menu £70 (5 courses), £90 (8 courses), à la carte £45–£50.