Where to Stay in Cardiff Like a Local

Starting at the bright pink front door, Jolyon’s is full of personality. It offers a boutique service, and to that end there are just seven rooms, all individually styled in a quirky way with statement wallpaper and decadent furnishings. The Georgian building of the hotel is right in the centre of Cardiff; and its history and charm is best displayed in the shared lounge, which is decorated with blue walls, velvet chairs, wooden accents and brightly coloured art.

This luxurious French-Renaissance-style hotel sits in the Glamorgan region, just 411m (1,348ft) from Cardiff Bay. The Grade-II-listed building is an architectural wonder, starting with a pale-cream limestone facade and the Jacobean-style entrance hall. Accommodations range from family-friendly rooms hosting six to the luminous Presidential room, which has a whirlpool bath and rainfall shower. Special mention must go to the beds; they’re all queen-sized and come with padded headboards that stretch to the ceiling.

A five-star guesthouse, Cathedral 73 is close to major sites in Cardiff such as the castle and Principality Stadium. With a terrace and a flower-filled garden, this hotel is particularly great during breaks in the famously prolific Welsh rain. The rooms feature sink-in-to-me furniture, Linea bed linen and luxurious toiletries. Room service is also top notch – we suggest ordering the club sandwich. Better yet, head to the cocktail and gin bar for a glass of something special to be enjoyed under a chandelier.