Securing a five-star hotel room for a mere £90 feels like discovering a well-kept secret. This was the reality for journalist Gareth Butterfield during a recent weekday stay at the renowned Celtic Manor Resort in South Wales, a chance find booked through Booking.com in late November 2025.
A Grand Entrance and a Reality Check
From its picturesque setting to its grand façade, the Celtic Manor Resort exudes luxury. The vast lobby, adorned with an incredible Christmas tree encircled by a festive miniature railway, immediately transports guests into a world of opulence, a stark contrast to the nearby M4 motorway.
After a smooth check-in, complete with complimentary parking, the journey to the room began. The descent from the glitzy main lobby via stairs and escalators felt symbolic, moving away from the five-star grandeur towards a more standard hotel wing known as 'The Manor'. The room itself, while warm, clean, and comfortable, was a sobering reminder of the £90 price tag, lacking the special touches of the main hotel's signature suites.
Fine Dining and a Welcome Surprise
Retreating to the luxurious main building, the experience transformed. A pre-dinner pint of Peroni in Merlins Bar, served with a smile and complimentary snacks, washed away the frustrations of the day. For dinner, the Steak on Six restaurant proved an irresistible draw with its double AA-Rosette Award-winning menu and stunning views.
The meal was nothing short of astonishing. A citrus cured salmon starter, a Welsh venison main, and a crème brûlée dessert, accompanied by a glass of Viognier, justified the £80 set menu price. The bill arrival brought a delightful shock: a 20% discount had been applied, an unexpected promotion not clearly advertised at the time of booking.
A Resort of Possibilities
Beyond the accommodation and dining, Celtic Manor lives up to its name as a true resort. Guests have access to a wealth of activities, from archery and axe throwing to world-class golf and a gorgeous swimming pool. While this visit was a brief overnight stop, it highlighted the resort's potential for a longer, more immersive weekend break.
The experience, even from the budget-friendly 'Manor' wing, was memorable. The resort makes you feel special, though next time, packing a smart shirt and chinos might be advisable to fully blend in with the five-star ambiance. While another £90 deal might be a rare find, the Celtic Manor Resort has certainly created an appetite for a return visit.
