As someone with a passion for historic hotels and country house stays, I was especially excited to visit Bodysgallen Hall during my recent trip to Wales. Set just outside Llandudno, this National Trust-owned country house hotel has long been celebrated as one of Wales’ finest luxury retreats, and I was eager to experience its renowned blend of history, elegance, and tranquility.
I stayed solo for two nights in one of the Garden Cottages, as part of my ongoing journey to explore the best luxury hotels in Wales (with the Rarebits Collection). Having lived in Wales previously and returned many times over the years, I’ve developed a deep affection for the country’s grand manor houses and warm hospitality – and Bodysgallen had been high on my wish list for some time.
In fact, the wheels started turning for the entire trip because I got an email from the Rarebits Newsletter saying that Bodysgallen was having a Winter offer on rooms (and that their fires would be lit during the cold afternoons). Since I had had Bodysgallen on my hotel bucket list for years, I decided it was time to go!
While I had anticipated that the grandeur and history of the house would be the highlight of my stay, it was the exceptional service that truly made this visit stand out. From the warm welcome on arrival to the attentive care throughout my stay, the staff consistently went above and beyond, adding a personal touch to every aspect of the experience. This makes Bodysgallen one of the my favorite luxury hotels in Wales.
Whether you’re a history lover, a couple seeking a romantic escape, or a solo traveler (and history lover) like me looking to unwind in luxurious surroundings, Bodysgallen Hall offers a uniquely Welsh blend of tradition, comfort, and five-star service.
🤩 Check Availability & Book Here!
Table of Contents
First Impressions & Check-In
Driving up the winding driveway to Bodysgallen Hall felt like entering another world – sheep grazing on either side of the car, the grand country house slowly coming into view. By the time I stepped through the door into the 17th-century sitting room, I already felt like I had traveled back in time.
Check-in was friendly and relaxed, and from the very beginning, I could tell that the service here would be special. A member of staff personally showed me to my cottage, taking the time to share stories about the house’s history along the way – a small touch, but one that immediately made me feel both welcome and connected to the place.
The Hall/Garden Cottage
For my two-night stay, I was booked into New Cottage, one of the Hall Cottages tucked away within the grounds, right by the main house. The cottage had a cozy, slightly rustic charm, with a small sitting room and kitchenette, perfect for a solo traveler like me. The Nespresso machine was a welcome sight (a little morning luxury I’m always relieved to see).
The bed was comfortable, and I slept well, though I did wish there had been a proper duvet instead of layers of sheets. However, the cottage was warm and snug, so this ended up being more of a small observation than a complaint.
Staying in a cottage came with its own pros and cons. I loved the privacy – especially in the mornings, when I could enjoy my coffee and journaling in my own sitting room, and in the evenings, when I may or may not have indulged in a little Love Island binge.
That said, I sometimes missed being in the main house, particularly at night, when leaving the warmth of the hall to walk back to my cottage felt a little sad.
Next time, I think I’d love to stay in a room within the house itself, but the cottage was still a lovely retreat, especially for those seeking extra seclusion.
🤩 Check Availability & Book Here!
Exploring Bodysgallen Hall
Exploring the main house was one of my favorite parts of the stay. Every room felt steeped in history, and the house’s age was part of its charm – 17th-century windows might be a bit drafty, but that’s what roaring fireplaces are for.
There were three larger sitting rooms, each with a fireplace, as well as two smaller alcoves, all offering a quiet, peaceful place to unwind. I spent most of my time in the library, which I particularly loved because it was so warm and cozy, though the second-floor drawing room had the best views, including a distant glimpse of Conwy Castle peeking through the trees.
Read later: My Guide to Conwy and Llandudno
The gardens were beautiful, even in February, and I enjoyed a couple of peaceful strolls around the grounds. You know, the kind of quiet walks that remind you just how special these country house stays can be.
Dining Experiences at Bodysgallen Hall
During my stay I was lucky enough to be booked in for both the Afternoon Tea and dinner in their 3 AA Rosettes Dining Room Restaurant.
Afternoon Tea Experience
I opted for Afternoon Tea during my stay, which felt wonderfully relaxed and informal, served in the cozy Crocodile Alcove, right next to the second-floor drawing room. It is usually served in various spaces around the house, depending on the size of your group.
The food was good, but the freshly baked scones were the true highlight – light, fluffy, and exactly what you dream of when booking an English or Welsh country house tea! The afternoon tea was also a great alternative to a full dinner, and I was full for the rest of the night.
Service was excellent, and the same staff member who had shown me to my cottage took care of me during tea. He was helpful, kind, and made me feel well looked after throughout my entire stay.
Dinner at Bodysgallen Hall
Dinner at Bodysgallen Hall had a certain grandeur to it, though the experience leaned towards classic rather than cutting-edge dining. The menu focused on local ingredients, including produce from their own gardens, which I loved.
While no dish stood out as extraordinary, everything was enjoyable and well-prepared. If I had to offer one note, it would be that the portion sizes were slightly large for a three-course meal, though I may also have brought that upon myself by ordering risotto, which tends to fill you up quickly.
The wine list was excellent, and I enjoyed both the Malbec and the Merlot during my stay. I also appreciated that half-bottles were available, which would have been a great option if I hadn’t already committed to a glass.
Service was attentive without feeling intrusive, contributing to the overall sense of dining as a slow, elegant experience, perfect for winding down after a day of exploring.
The Spa
Though the spa at Bodysgallen Hall leans more functional than luxurious, it was a very welcome addition to my stay.
I used the gym for a treadmill session, and later spent an hour in the jacuzzi with my Kindle, which was exactly what I needed after spending two hours walking around Bodnant Garden in the cold earlier that day.
The spa features a pool, jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, and a small gym, making it a great way to unwind after a day of sightseeing, though it’s not quite a destination spa in its own right.
Things to Do Nearby
One of the best things about Bodysgallen Hall is its fantastic location, perfectly positioned for exploring some of North Wales’ most iconic landmarks and gardens. In fact, I have named the area in my guide to where to stay in North Wales!
Just a 10-minute drive away is Conwy Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Wales’ most impressive medieval fortresses. Overlooking the Conwy Estuary, the castle walls offer stunning views, and walking the town walls is one of my favorite ways to soak in the town’s history and scenery.
Side note: If you are heading into Conwy, whether to visit the castle or to just walk around the cute town, make sure to download this audio tour before you go!
Also nearby is Bodnant Garden, one of the most famous gardens in Wales. Managed by the National Trust, Bodnant is beautiful year-round, though it’s particularly magical in spring when the Laburnum Arch is in bloom. During my visit in February, the winter gardens were still a joy to walk through, and walking along the babbling stream running through the gardens was really relaxing.
Read later: The 25 best things to do in North Wales
For those wanting a bit of sea air, the Victorian seaside town of Llandudno is just a short drive away. The Great Orme, with its tramway and sweeping views over the Irish Sea, is another lovely addition to your itinerary.
Whether you’re after history, gardens, or coastal scenery, Bodysgallen Hall’s location places you right in the heart of North Wales’ best attractions. Below are some of the top rated activities near Bodysgallen.
Service & Hospitality
The service at Bodysgallen Hall was one of its true highlights, from the helpful receptionists who cheerfully accommodated my ever-changing Afternoon Tea times, to the thoughtful touches like a staff member keeping the library fire topped up as I read in the evening.
While the overall tone was relaxed, there was a clear effort to maintain a sense of formality, as you might expect in a house of this heritage. I felt well cared for as a solo traveler, though at breakfast, I did feel a little overlooked when I wasn’t allowed to sit at a window table because it was set for two (the only table set for one was facing the dining room – not quite the morning view I hoped for). It was a quiet Monday morning, and this small detail slightly detracted from an otherwise wonderful experience.
Still, the warmth and professionalism of the staff made Bodysgallen Hall stand out, and I left feeling that the service had elevated my entire stay.
Final Thoughts: Is Bodysgallen Hall Worth It?
Bodysgallen Hall is a place for travelers who appreciate history, character, and quiet luxury. It’s perfect for couples looking for a romantic retreat, but I’d also recommend it to solo travelers – especially those who, like me, enjoy cozying up in front of a library fireplace with a book.
The cottages offer seclusion, while rooms in the main house would offer even more immersion in the Hall’s history – I’m already planning to return for a stay in the main house next time.
For history lovers, country house enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a restorative break in North Wales, Bodysgallen Hall is well worth a visit.