The Best Boutique Hotels To Book In Cardiff Wales

From exploring gothic Cardiff Castle to rafting at Cardiff International White Water centre, there’s plenty to do in the Welsh capital. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic weekend away or a spot of sightseeing, we’ve selected the top boutique places to stay in Cardiff – bookable on Culture Trip – to make your time here memorable.

1. The Coal Exchange Cardiff, for vintage charm

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Double bed on carpeted floor in blue-and-grey toned room at the Coal Exchange Cardiff

At one time this building in the Welsh capital was one of the most important industrial buildings in the world – up to 10,000 people came here to trade coal, and millions of pounds changed hands daily. After various incarnations, it’s finally finding its feet as one of the best luxury hotels in Cardiff, complete with 100 gorgeous rooms and suites, plus a tasty on-site restaurant and bar, Culley’s. Treat yourself to the Aber Falls gin afternoon tea, featuring sweet and savoury bites.

2. Lincoln House Hotel, for a traditional B&B

Bed and Breakfast

Four-poster bed in room with desk, chair, radiator and two upholstered armchairs in bay window at Lincoln House Hotel

A Victorian hotel with reasonable prices and friendly service. Its imposing building, dating to 1900, retains plenty of original features and antique furnishings, conveying an air of traditional grandeur. Freebies including a full Welsh breakfast, car parking and wifi all make it a solid choice for a boutique hotel in Cardiff. It’s also just a short walk to the castle, universities and National Museum.

3. Elgano Hotel, for a taste of Italy

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When considering places to stay in Cardiff, your wish list probably doesn’t include the word “Italian” – but perhaps it should. This charming place describes itself as “The Best Italian Hotel in Cardiff”, and is home to one of the best Italian restaurants in the city. The ten rooms are all ensuite and come with a free full breakfast (Welsh, not Italian). One of the closest guesthouses to Sophia Gardens, it’s a good choice for lovers of cricket, as well as pasta.

5. Holm House, for a romantic getaway

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Couples seeking a weekend escape should consider this luxury hotel in Penarth, just a ten-minute drive from the centre of Cardiff. Arrive in summer and toast each other with champagne in the manicured garden. If you really want to push the boat out, book the Balcony Suite, complete with a freestanding copper bathtub and expansive views of the Severn Estuary. After a day exploring, enjoy a pint in the wood-panelled bar or seek refuge in the Elemis Spa, which features a hydrotherapy pool and eucalyptus steam room.

6. The Bear Hotel, for a cosy rural retreat

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You’ll find this postcard-pretty traditional inn in Cowbridge, about 13 miles (20km) from Cardiff city centre. Enjoy a quiet night’s sleep in one of the oak-beamed bedrooms, many of which are dog-friendly. Travelling as a group? Book a self-catered option, which sleeps up to six people. Come morning, tuck into a proper cooked-to-order breakfast in the bar and, in winter, warm up by the crackling fireplace after a country walk.

Sarah Warwick contributed additional reporting to this article.

For more options, discover our guide to the best hotels in Cardiff or the best cheap hotels in Cardiff, bookable on Culture Trip.

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