The Bulkeley Hotel, Beaumaris

Overlooking the ‘beau mareys’ or ‘beautiful marsh’ beside the Menai Strait, stands a masterpiece of impressive architecture and elegant proportions. No, not the castle – the Bulkeley. A hotel built for a princess, and the crowning glory of Beaumaris high street. Located at the heart of the captivating waterfront town, this Georgian showpiece was built in 1832 during the golden age of hospitality. Today, it retains all the period charm of that bygone era, from the magnificent façade with its grand entrance, to the impressive staircase, and well-appointed rooms and suites. And the crowning glory? Breath-taking views across the tidal waterway to the dramatic landscape beyond.

A hotel built for a princess

The Bulkeley was built in 1832 for a royal visit to Beaumaris from heir to the throne, Princess Victoria, and her mother The Duchess of Kent. Commissioned by Sir Richard Bulkeley, the elegant beach villa was to afford uninterrupted view of the Menai Strait and the Snowdonia mountain range. It was realised by Joseph Hansom (of Hansom Cab fame) who designed a hotel with such elegant proportions and impeccable good taste, it was deemed a hotel fit for a princess.

Snowdonia and a sea view

The Bulkeley has 43 rooms to suit all budgets, from Single Pods to Family Suites. I may travel solo, but that doesn’t mean I have to settle for a single bed. So I booked a Cosy Double, then pushed the boat out and upgraded to a Sea View Four Poster after receiving a special offer from the hotel.

It was a great choice. Not just because I wanted a luxurious space to relax in after a long day researching the best beaches the island has to offer; I also fancied the idea of a traditional four poster bed. It was incredibly comfortable, decadent, and indulgent. But waking up to panoramic views over Beaumaris Beach and Pier to the Welsh mountains was absolutely worth it.

The furnishings in the Sea View room had a certain ‘faded grandeur’ about them, but it only added to the old world sense of charm. And quality always speaks for itself. More importantly, the en-suite was sleek and contemporary with a rainfall shower over the double-ended bath, a floating basin, and heated towel rail. There were also excellent tea and coffee making facilities, which I took full advantage of, and free wi-fi and a flat screen TV, which I didn’t.

Dinner at Hansoms

Thanks to my ‘Dinner, Bed & Breakfast’ package, I was able to reserve a table at Hansoms at The Bulkeley prior to my arrival. It’s the perfect place to enjoy leisurely à la carte dinning to the sound of the accomplished resident pianist tinkling the ivories. Non-residents are also able to book a table to experience dining at the Bulkeley, including Hansoms, the family Bar & Grill, and the Llewelyn Suite where dogs are also welcome.

Hansoms serves a selection of creative dishes to inspire all tastes from Nibbles and Seafood to the Chef’s Selection and Grills. I started with Pan Fried Scallops in a Lemon Butter, on a bed of Creamy Cauliflower Puree & Crispy Chorizo. This was followed by a gigantic plate of Bulkeley Fish and Chips in a Homemade Crispy Beer Batter, served with Mushy Peas & Fresh Tartare Sauce.

Unfortunately, that left no room for the White Chocolate Crème Brûlée with a Fruit Compote & Shortbread Biscuit. I polished that off the next evening having had the foresight to order Deep-Fried Devilled Whitebait as a main course, rather than a starter. Both were incredible.

Hansoms also serves a hearty Welsh breakfast, cold buffet selection, and hot brunches to fuel a day’s sightseeing in the area. Residents and visitors can savour a traditional Afternoon Tea in the splendid surroundings of the Georgian dining room, with premium patisseries, classic cakes, scones, and finger sandwiches. Or there’s the option to enjoy a coffee and cake, and a range of mid morning snacks, in the hotel’s traditional Coffee House.

The portions were generous, to say the least, and the £30 per night allowance was perfect for my appetite In fact, I only managed to add £1 in additional costs to my final bill – and that was thanks to a tonic water!

Antiques and art

Throughout the hotel reception areas, residents can peruse display cabinets with all manner of fascinating artefacts. From fabulous costume jewellery to pottery and antiques – all available to purchase. There is also a gallery displaying selected art works, and a gift shop that leads straight out to the quirky independent shops on Castle Street. A truly fabulous hotel in one of Anglesey’s most treasured waterfront towns.

Let’s go

The Bulkeley Hotel
19 Castle Street
Beaumaris
Isle of Anglesey
LL58 8AW
+44 (0) 1248 810 415
reception@bulkeleyhotel.co.uk

www.bulkeleyhotel.co.uk

Go-Solo Star Rating
****