First impressions

Grand Victorian pile converted from Swansea’s old port authority building at a cost of £2.5 million. Martin Morgan, the owner, has gone for the ultra-chic look.

Why it’s special

The restaurant is first class and the staff incredibly helpful. The night porter even loaned me his phone charger.

Hitting the sack

Twenty bedrooms in pale shades of satin and suede, all named after ships. Vast beds, plasma TVs, huge bathrooms and dustbin-lid showers.

Sampling the fare

Luscious Welsh lamb, great steaks and seafood. Smoked chicken salad (£4.50); shank of lamb with parsnip mash and beans (£15); bread and butter pudding with honey and banana ice-cream (£5).

Added attractions

Swansea Bay is lovely for a morning walk; Mumbles and the Gower peninsula are a short drive away.

Access all areas

Ramp into the hotel, lift; one bedroom has disabled facilities.

Bottom line

Doubles from £100.

What we think

Super stylish (Catherine Zeta- Jones likes it), and good value.

Need to know

Morgans (01792 484848, www.morganshotel.co.uk), Somerset Place, Swansea.

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