Osborne House

THE BEAUTY OF Osborne House, a stylishly refurbished Victorian townhouse that kisses the coast in seaside Llandudno, is that you get all the style of bygone days, with none of the stuffiness.

Owners Len and Elizabeth Maddocks whisked this 1851 seafront property from crumbling obscurity to stylish splendour,  lavishing TLC on it to create a glowing, all-suite townhouse. From the Prague crystal chandeliers and marble bathrooms to the antique Persian rugs,  no expense has been spared. Huge suites have canopied beds, fireplaces, king-size brass beds and double-ended roll-top bathtubs. You can soak in style before slipping between Egyptian cotton sheets, down duvets and feather pillows.

Osborne House's extravagant Belle Epoque style is carried through the sitting room and bar, with deep, dramatic colours, ornate mirrors, glowing lamps and statuetry.

Brocade and chandeliers

A theatrical hand is much in evidence in Osborne's Cafe and Grill, done out in flamboyant black and gold, and lit by scores of candles. Seats are clad in pale brocade, walls are dressed in huge oil paintings and mirrors and chadeliers glimmer. It's definitely the place to make an entrance – and the food wins plaudits galore.

Go for the full works  (the crispy aromatic duck is a big hit here)  or simply  savour a menu of light bites such as potted shrimps, crayfish tails or tiger prawn wontons. A walk along Llandudno's breezy seafront will soon work off your excesses.

© Room for Romance