My (adult) son and I will be traveling to London in early August (thanks to all who helped me plan this trip!) and think we might like to go first to Cardiff for about three days. Rick's Britain book has no accommodation suggestions. We don't want to share a room and have a budget of under $100 per night each. We will not have a car, so need to be in a central location. Britain by Britrail suggests The Townhouse or Lincoln House. Any suggestions or advice would be appreciated.
Posted by
Tustin, CA, USA
92 posts
Perhaps a B&B would be within your price range. I did a google search of "bed and breakfast UK" and it came up with several websites. Or maybe a local college rents out dorm rooms in the summer.
Posted by
Pensacola
9110 posts
I know nothing about the to places you list.
However, stayinwales.co.uk should solve your problem -- the few times I've used them, everything was as expected. I generally have my own ideas, unfortunately none match your criteria.
Posted by
Tampa, FL, USA
417 posts
Stayed at the Ibis in Cardiff for one night the evening before I left Wales. Good location, should be in your price range.
I stayed in Wales for about a month, so if you have any other questions, just ask!
Posted by
OP
Salinas
124 posts
Thanks Ed and everyone. I actually do have some questions. I thought Cardiff would be convenient for London, but after posting my question, my son told me that he would like to see North Wales as he is interested in hearing Welsh spoken. I suppose we could make our initial flight from the US into a more northern airport such as Liverpool? then fly out of Heathrow after our stay in London. Again, we will not be driving. A number of years ago, I stayed in Chester and visited Conwy by rail. What would be a good base for the northern portion of Wales? Any suggestions about places to stay and important things to see? I've got a 2008 edition of Rick Steve's Britain, but haven't picked up anything more recent, yet.
Posted by
Pensacola
9110 posts
It has to be either Conway or Caernarfon. The castles are the obvious things to see, each has its merits, both are great. Also, there's a well-known train that cuts up into Snowdownia (not well-known to me, however, since I've forgotten the name of it -- maybe something as simple as Snowdonia Railroad -- beats me I'm a hiker).
In my mind, the absolute best castle in the world is Harlech, about twenty-five miles south of Caernarfon. I drive everywhere, but I'm sure there's a bus that goes all along there.
Posted by
Santa Rosa, CA, USA
1446 posts
Sounds as if you will be going north but, just to tell you, we stayed at the Town House in Cardiff, and it's great. We liked Conwy as a location on a different trip, but we always have a car. Not sure about trains.
Posted by
Pantego, NC, USA
1014 posts
Do not forget about the local bus. They go where trains fear to travel. Bus travel in UK is fine, not like the US. It can also be cheaper.
Travelodge.com has rooms from £22.00per night, per room. It is in downtown bar area. They also have one close to the Cardiff Atlantic Wharf 1.0 miles away from Cardiff Central Travelodge from £29.00 per room per night. See: http://www.travelodge.co.uk/