I can highly recommend The Willows, a two-bedroom B&B run by Sue and Gari Jones in Sontley, about ten miles south of Wrexham in northern Wales.
My wife and I stayed there for two nights in early May, drawn by a night of horse racing at the Bangor-on-Dee course, about two miles away. Sue welcomed us at the door and showed us the large, well-appointed lounge and breakfast room downstairs and our double-bedded, ensuite room upstairs. Before we knew it, Sue had produced some lovely tea & cakes so we could refresh before rushing over to catch the races. Good British B&Bs are known for warm welcomes, but this one really stood out.
The next morning, though, came the real payoff. We arrived in the breakfast room to find an elegantly set table; a coal fire in the fireplace; crystal fruit cups with delicious, ripe fruit melanges ready for our arrival; an assortment of pastries and cereals; coffee, and tea; and just for good measure, soothing chamber music on the radio! We felt like the Lord and Lady of the manor!
The full Welsh breakfast that followed was equally delightful. All the ingredients (egg, Welsh sausage, bacon, fried bread, tomatoes, mushrooms and black pudding) came from a farm shop down the road, and all were fresh and satisfying. And each day there was an extra surprise from Sue's kitchen -- crepes with fresh lemon the first day, and Welsh cakes (a scone-like treat with raisins) the second.
On our only full day there, Sue recommended a trip to Chester, about 20 miles away, and told us how to get the Park & Ride bus and avoid the traffic. We enjoyed the day in Chester, visiting its grand cathedral and the medieval wall that encircles the city, and we returned in the early evening, tired and not eager to go find a place for dinner. Once again, Sue magically made tea & cakes appear in front of the fireplace in the lounge. It was just what we needed, and we didn't even have to ask.
There's not much within walking distance of The Willows, but if you have a car, it's a great choice over the chain hotels in Wrexham, and there is some pretty farmland and a National Trust house nearby. We paid 60 pounds per night, which we considered quite reasonable for what we got -- a comfortable place to sleep, outstanding food and an attentive hostess. We hope to return.
