What sets Penally Abbey apart as one of the best hotels in Wales? Named in The Times' 100 Best Places to Stay in the UK 2025, this Pembrokeshire retreat has been recognised as the top hotel near Tenby. This annual list assesses hotels based on design, facilities, value for money, dining, and service, offering a guide to standout destinations nationwide.
A well-known landmark to those who know the area, Penally Abbey is set in a late-Georgian rectory with uninterrupted views over the coastline. Since 2014, it has been run by Melanie and Lucas Boissevain, who have shaped it into a hotel known for its warm atmosphere and carefully curated interiors. The communal spaces feature striking, characterful decor, while the guest rooms adopt a more muted, coastal-inspired aesthetic, striking a balance between elegance and comfort.
Key Points
Penally Abbey, a late-Georgian rectory in Pembrokeshire, has been named the best hotel near Tenby in The Times' 100 Best Places to Stay in the UK 2025.
- Penally Abbey is renowned for its elegant coastal views, cosy atmosphere, and meticulously curated interiors.
- The hotel offers a range of individually styled rooms, each with unique features and facilities.
- Guests commend the high-quality dining at Rhosyn and the exceptional service provided by the Boissevain family and staff.
A respected name in Welsh
The hotel’s reputation extends beyond its looks. Maintaining a 4.5/5 rating on TripAdvisor from over 450 reviews, guests frequently commend the high standard of service, the peaceful surroundings, and the quality of dining. Many describe Penally Abbey as a place for rest and rejuvenation, its quiet location making it particularly appealing for those seeking a slower pace away from busier tourist spots.
https://twitter.com/cntraveller/status/1392101766544642053
This year’s Times recognition places Penally Abbey alongside other Welsh favourites such as the Harbourmaster in Ceredigion, The Angel Hotel in Monmouthshire, Plas Dinas Country House in Gwynedd, Penmaenuchaf in Gwynedd, and Inn at the Sticks in Carmarthenshire, reinforcing the strength of Wales’s hospitality scene.
Elegant rooms with coastal views
Those who have stayed at Penally Abbey will be aware of its variety of individually styled rooms, each offering something different depending on preference. The Eaves Double/Twin rooms, tucked away at the top of the house, are cosy spaces with sloping ceilings and views of either the gardens or the sea, well suited to those after a quiet retreat.
For a more spacious stay, the Large Double/Twin rooms provide super-king-size beds, stylish furnishings, and comfortable seating areas, making them a popular choice for longer visits.
The dozen rooms are more restrained, all coastal creams and soft greys to match the sky and sea outside.
The Times
The Superior Double, with its sweeping views over Carmarthen Bay and Caldey Island, offers a touch more luxury. Its larger layout and refined design make it a favoured option for those who want to fully embrace the coastal setting.
One of the most sought-after options is the Large Seafront Double, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that frame uninterrupted views of the dunes and the Gower Peninsula. Waking up to the sight of the coastline from this vantage point is an experience in itself, particularly for those who appreciate a true waterfront stay.
Dining service and hospitality
A significant part of the Penally Abbey experience is Rhosyn, the hotel’s intimate restaurant that has gained recognition. With a focus on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, the menu showcases the best of Pembrokeshire’s produce. Guests often highlight the attention to detail in presentation and the balance of flavours in each dish, making Rhosyn a destination in its own right for those who appreciate good food in a relaxed, candlelit setting.
Beyond the setting and the dining, it’s the level of service that keeps guests returning to Penally Abbey. The Boissevain family have made hospitality a personal endeavour, ensuring that every visitor feels looked after. The hotel staff are known for their warmth and attentiveness, often going above and beyond to enhance each guest’s stay.
Ready to invite both new and returning visitors, Penally Abbey has long been a cherished part of Pembrokeshire’s coast. Whether it’s assisting with local recommendations, organising travel arrangements, or simply making sure guests are comfortable, the team at Penally Abbey have built a reputation for excellent service without unnecessary formality. It’s this personal approach that continues to set the hotel apart from others in the area.