Newbridge on Usk is situated at the top of The Celtic Manor Resort. Unlike the glitzy main hotel, the country inn and accommodation offers guests a relaxed rural escape.
I was invited to stay earlier this week in one of the six stylish en-suite rooms. Fortunately the weather was idyllic and after a leisurely drive north along the winding river, we arrived and settled in to our room before dinner.
I opted for a twin room furnished with quintessential country features including sturdy oak furniture, retro radio and tea set.
The tea set included; Welsh and herbal tea bags, hot chocolate sachets, milk and cookies (we were informed fresh milk is available on request by calling the staff).
The charming period features continued in the bathroom with a deep claw foot bath, along with a shower, fresh towels and Elemis toiletry set.
The beds were clean and comfortable and bath robes were provided in the wardrobe along with extra pillows. For those who don’t wish to totally switch off, there’s a large flat screen TV in the dresser and wifi is provided.
The rooms are only seconds away from the Newbridge on Usk inn by foot. I’ve visited the restaurant a few times for creams teas and dinner and have always thoroughly enjoyed my experience.
Featured in the Good Food Guide, this 200 year old inn is so relaxing and quaint with views over the gardens, countryside and river.
The menu uses ingredients sourced locally, including their own kitchen garden where seasonal fruit and vegetables are harvested to make soups, cocktails and more.
After enjoying a freshly picked leek and potato soup with homemade bread, I tucked into a roasted Welsh lamb rump with onion textures, asparagus and tongue. The lamb was juicy, tender and full of flavour – beautiful food paired with a beautiful view!
My company had the 10oz Sirloin Steak with grilled tomato, mushroom and twice cooked chips (that I couldn’t resist trying too).
Back last year I came to Newbridge on Usk for a bloggers evening where we made cocktails and were shown how they made their meringues. I’ve not had meringue much before this as I always found it to be not as satisfying compared to other sweets.
Their meringues however are perfection with a variety of crunchy and gooey textures and fresh flavours. There was little evidence left of this zesty lemon meringue…
My meal finished with a freshly brewed fragrant tea and petits fours, delicious!
After a comfortable nights sleep I awoke to sunshine and the cheerful sound of birds chirping. Breakfast is served in the same location until 9:30 with pastries, juice, cereal, fruit and a variety of homemade jams and preserves on offer, along with a hot food menu.
From the kitchen I opted for eggs florentine while my company had the Welsh cooked breakfast. I particularly liked the hollandaise sauce, it was thick, warm and buttery.
After sipping tea and enjoying the views once more, we moved into the garden, soaked up the sunshine and watched folk heading down to the river with their fishing gear.
Newbridge on Usk offers a range of activities like fly fishing, golf and full use of the Resort’s spa facilities.
My stay was only brief but I had a memorable experience and was once again impressed by the attentive service and quality of food in the restaurant. For more information visit the Celtic Manor’s website here.
Disclaimer: My experience was complimentary however all opinions are my own.