Palé Hall in the picturesque Dee Valley isn’t an average hotel—it’s a luxe destination escape that transforms Christmas into an unforgettable experience.
With its illustrious history and lavish décor, this Victorian mansion delivers the perfect setting for a swanky festive escape on the edge of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia).
Arriving at this large hotel is an experience in itself. The grand exterior, framed by frosted gardens and a backdrop of rolling hills, creates an immediate sense of occasion.
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Step inside, and the magic begins in earnest. Towering Christmas trees adorned with sparkling lights and ornaments fill the rooms, while festive garlands elegantly drape over fireplaces and bannisters.
The scent of pine blends with the warm, comforting aroma of wood fires crackling in ornate hearths. Every thoughtful detail wraps you in the feeling of yuletide indulgence this holiday season.
From the first sip of an expertly crafted cocktail in the Huntsman Bar to the impeccable service that makes every moment feel special, Palé Hall redefines what it means to celebrate Christmas in style.
Add to this a Michelin Green Star dining experience, luxurious rooms decorated with festive touches, and the stunning natural beauty of Snowdonia on your doorstep, and you have the ultimate Christmas retreat.
Here’s why you should visit this Christmas.
My stay at Pale Hall was very festive -Credit:Portia Jones
The Hotel: A Victorian masterpiece
Palé Hall isn’t just a hotel; it’s a destination steeped in history and elegance. Built in 1871 by Henry Robertson, a renowned railway engineer, the mansion reflects the opulence of the Victorian era while offering modern comforts and sylish interiors.
Located in the heart of the Dee Valley, just on the edge of the Eryri National Park, the historic estate spans 50 acres of lush, landscaped gardens and woodland, making it an ideal sanctuary for those seeking peace during the festive season.
The property features 18 individually styled bedrooms, each offering unique charm, alongside four garden suites for guests who prefer more secluded accommodations.
What sets Palé Hall apart is its exceptional attention to detail, from the grand entrance with Jacobean-style features to the stained-glass skylight in the main hall. The hotel’s AA Five Red Star rating and Relais & Châteaux membership ensure guests experience the finest hospitality.
The combination of attentive yet discreet service, luxurious surroundings, and a serene location makes this a truly special place to celebrate the holidays.
The decorations are beautiful -Credit:Pale Hall
Palé Hall’s history and famous guests
Palé Hall is more than a luxurious escape for the festive period; its history is as captivating as its architecture, tracing back to the 15th century when the original house was first built.
However, the stately Victorian mansion we admire today was constructed between 1869 and 1871 by Henry Robertson, a prominent railway engineer and Liberal MP. Robertson, known for his ambitious railway projects across Wales, spared no expense in creating a home that reflected his success.
Designed by architect Samuel Pountney Smith, the hall’s honey-coloured stone and eclectic Jacobean style make it a landmark of elegance and grandeur.
Over the years, Palé Hall has welcomed an impressive roster of guests. Queen Victoria visited in 1889, enchanted by the house and its picturesque surroundings. During her stay, she used a magnificent bath and slept in an ornate bed, both of which remain in the now aptly named Victorian Room—one of the many luxurious suites available to visitors.
In the 1950s, the hall became a favourite retreat for Winston Churchill, who often stayed while hunting on the estate’s sprawling grounds. The Churchill Room preserves this link to history, allowing guests to sleep in the grand room that once hosted the wartime leader.
You can stay in a suite named after Sir Winston Churchill, who was an occasional guest at Palé Hall in the 1950s. -Credit:Portia Jones
Palé Hall’s role in history extends beyond its famous guests. During the First World War, it served as a convalescent hospital, offering recovery and respite for injured soldiers amidst its tranquil setting.
It had taken on a new role by the Second World War, sheltering evacuated children from urban centres. These young evacuees found safety, freedom, and a chance to explore the vast estate, creating memories that stand in stark contrast to the upheaval of the time.
Today, Palé Hall enters a new chapter under the ownership of Anthony and Donna Cooper Barney, who took over in 2024. The couple actively honours the hall’s rich history while driving thoughtful restorations and improvements, preserving its charm and character for future generations.
Staying in the Carmarthen Suite
The property features 18 individually styled bedrooms -Credit:Portia Jones
Our stay at Palé Hall was in the top-floor Carmarthen Suite, and it was nothing short of spectacular. Walking into the suite felt like entering a Christmas dream. A mini Christmas tree adorned the corner, twinkling with warm lights, creating an immediate festive cheer.
The suite’s décor, in soothing shades of green and cream, exuded understated elegance, perfectly complementing the panoramic views of the Dee Valley and surrounding mountains.
The suite’s amenities elevated the experience further. The dramatic bathroom featured a freestanding slipper bath—ideal for soaking away winter chills—and a spacious separate shower.
The super king-size bed, wrapped in luxurious linens, provided a wonderfully restful night’s sleep. Thoughtful details like the Welsh Mead welcome gift and soft bathrobes added a touch of indulgence—perfect after a day of exploring and an evening of festive dining.
Cocktails at The Huntsman Bar and Bistro
Have a drink by the fire -Credit:Pale Hall
No festive getaway is complete without indulging in a little liquid cheer, and The Huntsman Bar and Bistro delivered this in spades. This space is a tribute to the Victorian heritage of Palé Hall, with its ornately carved bar, warm, inviting atmosphere and roaring fire.
It’s a place where you can relax by the fire with a classic cocktail or raise a toast to the season with one of their inventive creations. One standout cocktail, Autumn Gold, features glowing ice cubes and is served in a treasure chest that pours out dry ice—a theatrical touch that perfectly captures the festive spirit.
One standout cocktail, Autumn Gold, features glowing ice cubes -Credit:Portia Jones
The Huntsman isn’t just about drinks, though. Its bistro menu offers a relaxed dining option if you want something less formal than the hotel’s fine dining experience.
The ornately decorated bar is also dog-friendly, making it a welcoming space for all family members, four-legged ones included. And with an extensive wine list, it’s the sort of cosy bar where you could easily lose track of time in the best way possible.
Afternoon tea
Afternoon tea at Palé Hall is not to be missed -Credit:Portia Jones
Afternoon tea at Palé Hall is not to be missed. Served in the grand surroundings of the country house, with its striking peacock-themed Christmas tree taking pride of place, it’s an indulgent foodie treat that feels perfectly in step with the season.
The menu is classic but elevated, starting with a selection of dainty finger sandwiches—each bite bursting with fresh, seasonal flavours. Then come the scones, warm and buttery, served with clotted cream and strawberry jam.
You’ll have your choice of plain or fruit scones—or both, because who’s counting? And just when you think you couldn’t possibly eat any more, out comes the top tier: an assortment of delicate patisserie and sweet treats, all handmade and almost too beautiful to eat.
The selection is just as much a part of the experience for tea enthusiasts. From the bright and malty Hoogly Breakfast to the refreshing Chill Out Mint or indulgent Vanilla Chai, there’s something to suit your tea preference. If you’re feeling celebratory, you can upgrade to a glass of sparkling wine, with options like Ridgeview Cavendish or Lanson Brut adding a bit of fizz to the occasion.
Fine Dining in the Henry Robertson Dining Room
The hotel’s Henry Robertson Dining Room is a must-visit. -Credit:Pale Hall
For a truly special Christmas dining experience, the hotel’s Henry Robertson Dining Room is a must-visit. With its marble fireplace and ornate plaster ceilings, this elegant space creates the perfect setting for a festive feast.
As an AA three-rosette and Michelin Green Star establishment, Palé Hall prides itself on delivering impeccable cuisine that celebrates the best British and Welsh produce.
The dinner menu is a testament to the culinary team’s skill and creativity. Starters like pulled pork croquette with burnt apple and radish salad set the tone, while mains such as the butter-roasted chicken with jumbo white beans and grain mustard sauce showcased the kitchen’s ability to balance comfort and sophistication.
Desserts were just as memorable, with options like salted caramel tart and Palé Hall’s signature crème brûlée. Each dish was beautifully presented and bursting with flavour, making the dining experience one of the highlights of the stay.
Exploring Bala
For the more adventurous, cold water swimming in the lake has become increasingly popular -Credit:Portia Jones
While Palé Hall offers abundant luxury and relaxation, its location makes it the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area.
Just four miles away lies Bala, a historic market town that brims with charm and opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re seeking lake walks, local shopping or a taste of Welsh culture, Bala delivers.
Bala Lake, or Llyn Tegid, is the largest natural lake in Wales and a stunning spot to visit, especially in winter. Crisp, frosty air and snow-dusted landscapes create a serene atmosphere, ideal for scenic walks or moments of quiet reflection by the water.
For the more adventurous, cold water swimming in the lake has become increasingly popular—even during the colder months—and offers a bracing way to connect with the natural world.
The Bala Lake Railway is a highlight for history and train enthusiasts alike. This charming narrow-gauge line runs along the southern shores of Llyn Tegid, offering a delightful hour-long ride from Llanuwchllyn to Bala.
The line, lovingly rebuilt by local enthusiasts after the original Ruabon-Barmouth railway closed in the 1960s, uses old locomotives that once hauled slate from the region’s quarries, adding a rich historical layer to your journey.
If you love walking, Bala is a gateway to some of Wales’ most epic landscapes. To the west, the mighty peaks of Eryri (Snowdonia) offer rugged and dramatic trails, while the quieter Berwyn Mountains to the east boast an isolated, untamed beauty. Whether scaling summits or meandering through woodland paths, you’ll find an inspiring route.
In town, Bala itself offers plenty of attractions. Explore its historic sites, independent shops, and cosy cafés, where you can pick up unique gifts and savour local Welsh delicacies. Christmas shopping here is a treat, with the festive season adding a special buzz to the streets.
Why Palé Hall Is the perfect festive break
Palé Hall Is the perfect festive break -Credit:Pale Hall
Palé Hall is more than just a standard hotel; it’s a festive holiday bolthole. Its rich history, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional dining create an experience that feels like stepping into a Christmas film special on Netflix.
Add personal touches—like a mini Christmas tree in your suite or a perfectly prepared cocktail in the bar—and you have a recipe for unforgettable festive memories.
What truly sets Palé Hall apart, though, is its atmosphere. It strikes the perfect balance between grandeur and cosiness, making you feel pampered and at home.
Each tree has unique decorations -Credit:Portia Jones
Whether you’re looking to escape the holiday rush or celebrate in style, Palé Hall offers an idyllic retreat where you can embrace the magic of Christmas.
So, if you’ve ever dreamed of living out a festive fantasy, complete with roaring fires, cheeky cocktails, and the charm of a Victorian mansion, Palé Hall is the place to make it a reality.
It’s a destination that doesn’t just meet expectations—it exceeds them, wrapping you in warmth, comfort, and a touch of holiday magic.
Booking your stay
Rooms at Palé Hall start from £226 per night, offering a range of accommodations to suit your needs. Choose from elegantly appointed bedrooms or spacious suites, including those steeped in history, like the Victorian Room where Queen Victoria stayed or the Churchill Room, named after its famous guest. Each room promises comfort, style, and thoughtful details to make your stay unforgettable.
You can book your stay directly online at www.palehall.co.uk, ensuring a seamless reservation process. For any queries or special requests, the friendly team at Palé Hall is ready to assist—simply contact them at Tel: 01678 530 285 or email enquiries@palehall.co.uk.
How to get to Palé Hall
Driving to Palé Hall is straightforward and offers beautiful views along the way -Credit:Portia Jones
By roadDriving to Palé Hall is straightforward and offers beautiful views along the way. From the M54, take the A5 and turn left just after Corwen onto the B4401 for 4 miles. After passing through Llandrillo, continue for 3.7 miles before turning left at the Bryntirion Inn. The gates to Palé Hall will appear 100m on your right.
If you’re using a sat nav, be aware that it might guide you off the A5 at Knockin and through the scenic Tanat Valley. While this route is stunning, it features narrow and mountainous roads, which are best avoided at night or in poor weather.
Alternatively, if you’re travelling from the South West, consider the scenic drive through the heart of Wales. Take the A479 from Abergavenny and join the A470 towards Dolgellau, approaching Palé Hall via Bala for a truly breathtaking journey.
By railIf you prefer to travel by train, Palé Hall is accessible from London Euston to Chester in just over two hours. Car hire is available at Chester station, or the hotel can arrange a transfer for you.
By airFor international visitors or those travelling from further afield, Manchester International Airport is just an hour and a half away. Car hire is available at the airport, or you can let Palé Hall arrange a transfer to whisk you straight to the estate.