10 lovely boutique hotels in Cardiff for a city break in Wales
Thinking of visiting Wales' capital city for a mini-break? Whether you're planning a weekend trip from London or a longer staycation, you'll want to browse our pick of the best boutique hotels in Cardiff.
Cardiff is a city marinading in history – the medieval Cardiff Castle has stood for over 2,000 years – but it is also moving with the times. It is a fascinating place to explore, especially when paired with the chance to explore the rugged natural beauty and varied landscapes of the Welsh countryside that surrounds it.
The former coal docks of Cardiff Bay are now home to enticing harbourside bars and restaurants as well as the Millennium Centre. The city offers plenty of entertainment for visitors too: sports fans can catch a game of rugby at the Principality Stadium and art lovers can look at the world-renowned collection of Impressionist paintings in the National Museum Cardiff.
Perhaps because the city has only more recently begun to present itself as a leisure destination, the list of boutique hotels in Cardiff might not be as extensive as in other locations, like London, but that doesn't mean you can't find some real gems.
There's The New House Country Hotel, for example, which nestles on the fringes of Cardiff among the Welsh hills, or the wonderfully designed 1920s Holm House, which boasts cosy lodgings and stunning views across the Bristol Channel to the islands of Flat Holm, Steep Holm and beyond.
Here are our top picks of must-stay boutique hotels in Cardiff.
No.73 by Coffi
Steps from Sophia Gardens Cricket Ground, No.73 by Coffi is a gorgeous little boutique hotel above one of the coolest coffee shops in Cardiff. On a leafy street in Pontcanna, one of the hippest neighbourhoods in Cardiff, it's close to an ever-growing array of independent bars, cafes and restaurants, while still being an easy stroll into the city centre.
Set on the top floors of a huge Victorian villa, No.73 is all high ceilings, exposed brick and polished wood floors, while vintage-style furniture, green-tiled fireplace and Deco mirrors give the cafe and restaurant a lovely mid-century modern vibe.
There are eight guest rooms upstairs, all decorated in more muted tones: contemporary creams and greys. The fine breakfast served downstairs will set you up for a day exploring the Welsh capital.
voco St. David's Cardiff
This five-star boutique hotel is a haven of chic interiors, sumptuous guest rooms and creativity, all framed by views across Cardiff Bay.
voco St David's Cardiff's Spa at St David's is an impressive wellness space, giving you use of a swimming pool, a water corridor with swan-neck fountains, a modern fitness studio and relaxation room.
Tir a Môr is the place to eat modern Welsh food, with the likes of smoked haddock and Brecon lamb rump on the menu.
Mermaid Quay is a five-minute walk away and the much-talked-about, magnificent Cardiff Castle is 25 minute by foot.
Number One Hundred
If you're the type of traveller who really likes to feel at home in a different destination, then the Number One Hundred — which sits on Cardiff's bustling Newport Road — is just the place.
From the cosy lounge to the warm welcome, Hotel One Hundred perfectly blends a homely feel with a caring attitude to ensure that guests feel perfectly comfortable.
The well-loved Edwardian terraced house has retained much of the period charm remains, though rooms are dressed with more modern colours and fabrics – and represent brilliant value for money.
New House Country Hotel
On the outskirts of Cardiff, this gorgeous four-star hotel boasts unrivalled views over the city and the breathtaking Vale of Glamorgan.
Hidden among the greenery of the Welsh hills, you can expect a roaring log fire, exquisite furnishings, beautifully restored bedrooms, historic embellishments and a peaceful retreat feel just a 15-minute drive away from the centre of Cardiff.
Just a note, if you're looking for a quiet stay, New House Country Hotel regularly hosts weddings so request a more peaceful room when booking.
The Parkgate Hotel
Moments from the Principality Stadium, The Parkgate Hotel is housed in the old Post Office, a grand 19th-century pile built from Portland stone.
You can dine out on Welsh fine dining in the Savour The Sorting Room restaurant – now listed in the Michelin Guide – or relax over a classic cocktail or two in the elegant Cwrt Lounge.
A highlight is The Spa at The Parkgate Hotel, which offers a range of Elemis treatments and has a fabulous rooftop indoor pool with views over the pitch.
All the rooms and suites are individually decorated, cool and contemporary rather than classic, with warm tobacco, greys and greens. All have spacious modern bathrooms, some even have egg-style tubs, but our favourite rooms have smashing views of the stadium.
The Angel Hotel
The Angel Hotel is not your average boutique hotel in Cardiff. This Victorian building offers classic bedrooms next to Cardiff Castle and 150 yards from the Principality Stadium, with an appropriately-elegant restaurant and bar - Castell’s Restaurant serves fine cuisine and an exclusive wine list.
Many of the bedrooms here allow guests to really immerse themselves in the Welsh culture without having to step foot outside, with views of the historic Cardiff Castle and its grounds.
Cardiff’s small city centre means that this hotel is just 100 yards from peaceful Bute Park, boutique shops and many restaurants, while the central train and bus stations are a mere five-minute walk away.
Maltsters
Maltsters is situated in the heart of Llandaff, a quiet residential suburb, home to Insole Court, a lavish 19th-century mansion with ornamental gardens and the restored 12th-century Llandaff Cathedral with a triptych by Dante Gabriel Rossetti.
The pub and boutique hotel combines the traditional inn feel with contemporary style and boasts cosy rooms that feel both thoughtful and peaceful.
A range of Brains real ales, continental beers and fine wines are served at the restaurant, as well as a menu offering a mixture of seasonal and quality dining favourites.
Holm House Hotel
This magnificent 1920s' house in the south of Cardiff is both homely and decadent, occupying a prime spot on Penarth’s Marine Parade and affording views across the Bristol Channel.
Previous guests have described the property as "bohemian", "sumptuous" and "quirky", with a holistic spa, gym and a large hydrotherapy pool.
As well as a relaxed outdoor bar - ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring during the warmer months - Holm House guests can enjoy at a nightcap in the wood-clad bar, before retreating to freshly decorated bedrooms.
Lincoln House Private Hotel
Lincoln House Hotel describes itself as a 'modern B&B' but it's high level of service and sumptuous interiors has meant it has still earned a deserved place in our list of the best boutique hotels in Cardiff.
This family-run business offers classic and comfortable rooms as well as a warm welcome and a full Welsh breakfast, served each morning, which gathers high praise from guests.
Bedrooms range from a simple double up to a penthouse suite, complete with a kitchen and dining area, but all rooms are tastefully decorated and have a feel of a bygone era about them.
Leonardo Hotel Cardiff
With a great location in Cardiff’s centre, Leonardo Hotel Cardiff is set in a beautiful Victorian building and boasts a restaurant and bar.
Occupying a prime position on Queen Street, this grand hotel features sleek rooms with contemporary furnishings, earthy hues and views over the city, while suites have spacious living areas to help maximise relaxation after a day of exploring.
Cardiff’s compact city centre means that the hotel is just a two-minute walk from St. David's Cathedral, a four-minute walk from National Rail trains at Cardiff Queen Street and a nine-minute walk from Principality Stadium.
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