One of Wales’ most iconic hotels continues to play a starring role in the life of Llandudno – a town recently hailed by The Guardian as one of the UK’s most charming seaside destinations. 

Perched proudly on the town’s elegant promenade, St George’s Hotel has long been part of Llandudno’s fabric. With a guestbook that reads like a who’s who of royalty, prime ministers, poets and pioneers, the hotel’s story is deeply entwined with the resort’s rise to prominence. 

In fact, The Guardian named St George’s as one of the best places to stay in Llandudno – no surprise to those familiar with its blend of Victorian grandeur, sea views, outstanding customer service and storied past. 

The hotel’s origins are as remarkable as its guest list. It was founded by 24-year-old Isaiah Davies, who built St George’s after trading unpaid debts from the King’s Head pub for land owned by John Williams, agent for the Mostyn estate. A bold beginning for what would become one of Wales’ most beloved hotels. 

Over the years, it has played host to several British Prime Ministers, including Gladstone, Disraeli, Lloyd George, Margaret Thatcher, and, more recently, John Major, Tony Blair, Gordon Brown, and Keir Starmer. The elegant Churchill Suite pays tribute to one of its most famous guests. 

St George’s also welcomed Queen Elizabeth of Romania for five weeks in 1890 — she described Wales as “a haven of peace” — and Napoleon III, Princess Eugénie and Otto von Bismarck are all among its former guests. Dean Liddell and his daughter Alice stayed in 1862; Alice would go on to inspire Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. 

While the hotel has been carefully modernised over the years, many original features remain. The grand foyer still houses original brass bell knobs labelled ‘Boots’, ‘Ostler’ and ‘Chambermaid’, offering a glimpse into a bygone era. 

“St George’s Hotel isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a living piece of Welsh history. From its unique founding story to welcoming some of the most influential figures in history, the hotel has been at the heart of Llandudno for 171 years,” said Nathan Cousins, General Manager, St George’s Hotel.  As Llandudno enjoys a fresh wave of national attention for its timeless appeal, St George’s continues to welcome visitors with the same warmth and charm that has defined it for generations.