HOTEL HEAVEN

The award-winning Angel Hotel in continues to provide THERE ISN’T ANYWHERE ELSE IN TOWN LIKE excellent food and accommodation plus first class service THIS – IT’S OPEN ALL DAY, WITH FOOD ALL DAY. THE ANGEL DOESN’T REST

aking a trip up to Abergavenny, as singer there is a veritable feast of events throughout the draws visitors from all over Great Britain, yet it is Marty Wilde suggested 50 years ago, may year, including champagne high tea on Mother’s still a favourite watering hole for locals. Tnot be such a bad idea, especially when your Day, Mad Hatter’s tea parties in May, the food Over 60 years ago, it was on the steps of The destination is the splendid Angel Hotel. festival and later in the year, Oktoberfest, an evening Angel where Sir Harry Llewellyn raised a stirrup Heavenly is the word to describe the luxury you revelling in craft beers with dinner. Meanwhile, the cup – a framed photograph recalls the moment will discover at The Angel, an 18th century former Griffiths family think of everything for their guests. when the head porter passed the drink to Sir Harry, coaching inn restored to a unique perfection. The Hooked up to a power socket outside, the electric older brother of Princess Margaret’s close friend 35 guest rooms are handsomely appointed, the Renault Twizy is available for eco-friendly twirls Roddy Llewellyn. In those days, Sir Harry and his locally-sourced food is excellent and the genuine around this highly scenic area. In the summer, horse, Foxhunter were the toast of the nation. They warmth of the staff, palpable. Thus, it is no surprise The Angel will be offering ‘Green and Groovy’ became the only horse and rider to win the King to learn that The Angel was hailed as AA Hotel overnight stays with exclusive use of this natty, George V Gold Cup three times, and Foxhunter’s of the Year for two years ago. little runaround. showjumping skills earned them the only gold Set in the heart of Abergavenny, a town teeming Everywhere you will discover the hand of local medal for Britain in the 1952 Summer Olympics. with a wonderful collection of independent shops artist, Alexis, in a series of enthralling pictures in Their celebrity status is preserved at The Angel, and cafés, and surrounded by no fewer than seven the hotel as well as highlighting The Angel’s very where the oak-panelled Foxhunter Bar sports hills, The Angel is undoubtedly the jewel in the own bakery and shop next door. pictures of man and horse, including a fine oil crown. As one happy patron enthused: “The staff Most importantly, Alexis’s work shines in painting. Foxhunter died in 1959 and was buried are superb, environment, superb, location, superb spectacular fashion to declare The Angel’s major on the mountain overlooking The Angel. and then there’s all the history.” accolade as AA Hotel of the Year Wales. Poignantly, when Sir Harry died 40 years later, his With its highly polished entrance and wonderful Her distinctive hand declares: “We would like ashes were scattered around his horse’s memorial. curving walls leading off into the hotel, it’s hard to to thank our loyal and valued guests, also our If you’re looking for some luxury living, the imagine a time when The Angel was not airborne. fabulous and flexible suppliers who provide us with rooms at The Angel are exquisitely appointed, Everyone you speak to will praise the Griffiths amazing products both back and front of house, and you can enjoy excellent food with gentle family who gave The Angel back its wings 16 and of course our team of incredibly dedicated piano-playing in the background. You can also be years ago. Civil engineering company boss Allan crew who consistently deliver and make the Angel assured of friendly, attentive service, and can even Griffiths took on the considerable project, and with such a wonderful place.” leave your shoes outside your door to be polished his son, William and daughter-in-law Charlotte Pam Horswell is a staunch advocate for the hotel. overnight – it’s all part of the service. brought the sparkle back to The Angel. “There isn’t anywhere else in town like this – it’s The hotel is a particular favourite for weddings open all day, with food all day. The Angel doesn’t The Angel Hotel, 15 Cross St, and the ballroom, with its spectacular chandeliers, rest,” she says, praising the day the Griffiths Abergavenny NP7 5EN makes a perfect backdrop for receptions. Afternoon family took it over. Nigel Bray is a regular in the T: 01873 857121 tea at the Angel has become an absolute must and Foxhunter bar, and he agrees with Pam. The hotel W: angelabergavenny.com

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