The Hand Hotel

After reading the reviews, I assumed this would be the pits, but as I'd already booked it and it was non-refundable, I couldn't cancel. However, I was pleasantly surprised. The hotel has so much potential, but it's a bit sad and run-down. I heard someone describe it as Fawlty Towers and laughed because... yes. The staff were lovely, though, and our room at the top was clean with comfortable beds. There were a couple of issues: the TV didn't work (not a big deal for a couple of nights) and the toilet refused to flush. Water pressure seems to be a problem throughout the building, as even the public toilets downstairs wouldn't flush. The location is perfect, right next to the River Dee. The view from our room was lovely! Breakfast had to be eaten in the bar because I had my dog with me (dogs aren't allowed in the main breakfast area), which was fine. However, the seats were absolutely disgusting — covered in stains. The food was acceptable; nothing fancy, just standard hotel fare. Parking was included because I booked direct. This may explain some of the conflicting reviews, as third-party bookings apparently incur an £8 charge for 24 hours. Parking isn't allocated, though, so if you arrive late there's no guarantee of a space. It was jam-packed on Friday evening and several cars were blocked in. Value for money? Fair. £100 avg per night incl. parking. **Would I go back?** Unsure.

Rooms were okay. Parking included in the price. Breakfast was awful.

Great location, within the beautiful Llangollen, but the hotel is very dated. Our room was shabby, with wallpaper peeling off in one area. Live music on the Saturday was a little disruptive, as were the early morning (0650 am deliveries) below our window. We chose not to eat there.