Escape Shortlist*

Fresh and fashionable, Sam Nayar and Gaenor Loftus’s design-savvy B&B is in a serene, white-stucco Victorian villa whose traditional facade gives no hint of the copper baths, cocktail chairs and crystal-encrusted wallpaper that lie within. Come in to a cool, urban space, where contemporary and vintage furnishings and fabrics contrast with oak panelling, stained glass and period fireplaces. Each bedroom is as different as one might imagine; the Loft, set over three levels, has a wall-mounted fireplace and a body-dryer in the shower room. Choose coastal stripes or a whimsical air; in every room, find fancy toiletries and up-to-date technology. Hole up with DVDs from the library, luxuriate under granny-square crocheted blankets made chic. Welsh breakfasts are praised. The beach and promenade are minutes away. Lounge, breakfast room; honesty bar. Free Wi-Fi, in-room TV. No background music. Garden. Limited parking. Children over 10 welcomed. 9 bedrooms. Per room B&B £95–£149. Closed Christmas.