Imperial Hotel

Opened in 1872 in a prime location overlooking Llandudno's promenade and beach, the Imperial Hotel falls a bit short of its self-proclaimed four-star status -- but it's an inviting property offering a good selection of amenities and features. Traditional interiors feature a classic style full of Old World details like decorative ceiling molding, stone fireplaces, and columns; the spaces are welcoming, if a bit too old-fashioned. The lobby is awash in pleasant dusty blue and yellow hues, and the subtly patterned wallpaper and carpeting, floor-to-ceiling curtains around the large bay windows, and comfy sofas all contribute to a homey but elegant Victorian living room vibe. 

The formal fine-dining restaurant draws non-guests as well with gourmet fare and lovely views of the bay; the atmosphere is also charmingly traditional, with a touch of datedness (some elements look like they hail from the 1980s rather than the 1880s, though the hotel last renovated its interiors in 2008). History lovers, though, will appreciate the property's storied past -- Prince Leopold is believed to have stayed at the hotel incognito, and during World War II the Inland Revenue department set up office here.

Today, the property attracts a varied mix of travelers, primarily couples, as well as families seeking a beachside vacation during school holidays. Business travelers stay here too, and the hotel's various event spaces attract weddings and other functions.

The hotel is located in Llandudno, a seaside resort town in northern Wales. It's right across the street from the beach and the promenade, which affords it lovely views of the bay from many of its public spaces and guest rooms. There are many other hotels lining the street, and plenty of dining options, bars, and shops within a short walk. Llandudno Pier, the longest pier in Wales, is a 15-minute walk away. It's also a 15-minute walk to the Great Orme Tramway, which takes guests up to Great Orme, a beautiful destination for hiking with scenic views of the sea and Snowdonia National Park. Other area attractions include the Llandudno Museum (11-minute walk), Bodafon Farm Park (five-minute drive or 20-minute bus ride), the Conwy Suspension Bridge (a 12-minute drive away or around a half-hour by public transportation), and Bodnant Garden (14-minute drive or 40 minutes by public transportation). The train station is a five-minute walk from the hotel, while the nearest bus stop is a two-minute walk. Both the Liverpool airport and Manchester's airport are about an hour and 20 minutes away by car or close to three hours by train. London can be reached in three-and-a-half hours by train.

Like the rest of the hotel's interiors, guest rooms feature traditional decor that includes subtly patterned wallpaper, carpets, and simple wooden furniture. Color schemes vary and include a pleasant pale yellow and blue combination, light orange and green, or dusty blue paired with brown and beige shades. Overall, the spaces are clean and pleasant, but some may find the decor dated. Some rooms offer lovely views of the bay, plus some of those on the fifth floor have balconies. Suites have separate living rooms. Extra beds and cots can be requested for children. 

Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, electric kettles (the free biscuits are a thoughtful touch), telephones, bottled water, and free Wi-Fi. All rooms have small round tables flanked by two chairs as well as writing desks. Bathrooms are fairly standard, with beige or white tiling as well as shower/tub combos -- upper-category rooms (Superior Rooms and suites) have soaking tubs and separate rainfall showers. Toiletries, bathrobes, and slippers are provided.

The hotel offers an indoor pool that's adequate for lap swimming, but shows its age a bit. A handful of plastic chairs line its sides, and there's a hot tub as well. Guests can also use a sauna and steam room. A small wood-paneled fitness room is equipped with a handful of machines as well as weights and exercise balls, but it's dated and due for a revamp. The on-site Beauty Lounge offers various treatments like massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures.

The hotel's fine-dining Chantrey's Restaurant serves lunch and dinner. There's also a terrace dining space, as well as afternoon tea in the lounge or on the terrace. A free breakfast is served daily and includes a cold buffet as well as cooked-to-order hot items.

The hotel offers event space for various functions, including conferences and weddings. Parking is available on-site, but it's limited and available on a first-come-first-served basis. Wi-Fi is free throughout.