Plas Dinas Country House

The former country residence of the Armstrong-Jones family is ‘steeped in history’ and enjoys a ‘lovely setting’, with views across the Menai Strait. Annie and Daniel Perks have preserved the romance of this Victorian home (with 17th-century origins), where Princess Margaret and Lord Snowdon used to spend weekends, while also introducing modern comforts. Antiques, family portraits, memorabilia and signed photographs by Lord Snowdon decorate the rooms. Bedrooms are furnished with bold wallpapers, swagged curtains and a mix of antique and bespoke furniture. Some have four-posters or carved beds, others a fireplace or window seat. Readers staying in Lady Buckley were pleased to find luxurious styling and two full-size armchairs. Bathrooms vary from compact to opulent with gold fittings. ‘Everything is high quality, from the bedding to the cutlery and crockery.’ Guests gather in the welcoming drawing room with its open fire and plump sofas before an ‘excellent dinner’. The monthly changing menu might include salt-marsh lamb belly, lamb-fat potato, or baked leek with smoked burrata. ‘Breakfast is top notch.’ (Tracey van de Laarschot, Sara Hollowell)