In the heart of the maritime quarter, an imaginatively modernised hotel in a converted Regency Port Authority building (Grade II* listed). Featuring Welsh produce, the restaurant is in an impressive former boardroom on the first floor (it is open to non-residents from Wednesday evening through to Sunday lunch). Catch major sporting events on the large screen in Morgan’s bar while enjoying a chilled beer, classic cocktail or wines from around the world. The Champagne bar is a sophisticated alternative. Some of the well-equipped modern bedrooms are across a small side road in The Townhouse.  

In the rolling mid-Wales countryside, this Victorian red-brick vicarage is a welcoming base from which to explore a ‘wonderful but little-visited part of the world’. The bedrooms are pleasingly styled, with contemporary fabrics and furnishings. Evening meals can be taken (Tues-Sat) at The Dolfor Inn.

In mid-Wales countryside, a family-friendly B&B in a Victorian house ringed by large, flower-filled gardens. The peaceful, homely retreat has books, maps and games in the drawing room, plus an antique Bechstein grand piano to play; children may run free in the timber fort and outdoor play area. Up the 19th-century oak staircase, traditional country-style bedrooms have period furniture and views of fields graced by a herd of rare-breed sheep. Eggs from free-range hens and ducks supply the organic breakfasts.

Just outside Mumbles in mature gardens, a Georgian manor house has standard, superior and family rooms as well as self-catering apartments, a friendly ambience, and casual all-day dining in the modern, light-filled bistro. An Early Bird menu is served from Monday to Sunday. A stroll along the front to the recently renovated pier (one of Swansea’s oldest and most famous landmarks), is recommended.

Opposite the stone cross on the square, a relaxed, cosy and dog friendly hotel in a well-maintained garden. Comforting dishes in the intimate dining room use locally sourced produce; the bar has an extensive cocktail menu.