THE HOTEL
Little sister to the Celtic Manor Resort, the 146-bedroom Tŷ Hotel Newport opened in June 2024 as the largest all-electric hotel in Wales, sourcing its electricity from 100% REGO-backed renewable sources. It’s just off Junction 24 of the M4, a short (free) shuttle bus ride from the Celtic Manor. You can also walk (15-20 mins) but across a busy M4 roundabout.
THE CHECK-IN
The large lobby opens out on to the bar, lounge and restaurant and was busy with guests coming and going. A lift or a staircase leads up to the upper floors. I was staying on the adults-only floor with access to the Tŷ+ Lounge, a quiet space on the first floor with free tea and coffee, morning pastries and early evening snacks and drinks. Guests on this floor are also guaranteed early check-in from 3pm (usually it’s 4pm).
THE ROOM
My superior king room felt more spacious thanks to the full-length windows with tree top views. The bathroom had plenty of space for my toiletries and a decent-sized walk-in shower, fluffy towels and Elemis toiletries. I was attending a conference so the iron and ironing board came in handy and I was able to work on the small desk. The free Wi-Fi worked well.
THE FACILITIES
CASA Kitchen & Bar is open for breakfast 6.30am-10.00am and dinner 6.00pm-9.30pm, when it has a Mediterreanean inspired menu – paella, croquettas, souvlaki, bruschetta – along with all the staples like burgers (£18) and sirloin steaks (8oz £30), plus plant-based options. My colleague and I shared a tiramisu for dessert (on the waiter’s recommendation) and it was a theatrically constructed in front of us, complete with a chocolate dusting. The Tŷ Hotel Lounge is open for light dining 8am-9.30pm. All hot drinks are served with a Welsh cake. Thanks to its M4 location, the hotel is a popular meeting and dining spot for non-guests too with free parking for up to 3 hours. I made use of the Tŷ+ Lounge but was slightly disappointed with the choice of cold ‘happy hour’ drinks (just beers and sodas) but on check-out the receptionist told me there’s usually wine on offer too.
THE VERDICT
If you want to play golf or hold a meeting at the Celtic Manor but not pay the five-star room rate, this is a safe bet. Great sustainability credentials too.
THE DETAILS
Rooms start from £63 per night, including breakfast.
