Ivy Bush Royal Hotel By Compass Hospitality, Carmarthen
About the Hotel
Ivy Bush Royal Hotel By Compass Hospitality is a historic hotel in Carmarthen, the oldest town in Wales. Once a retreat for Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton, the hotel has been modernized while retaining its old-world charm. It features comfortable accommodation and is situated near popular attractions like the National Botanical Gardens of Wales and Aberglasney Gardens.
Location
Located in Carmarthen, the hotel is within walking distance of key attractions like Carmarthen Castle and is easily accessible by public transport. The Carmarthen train station is just a 5-minute walk away, and the M4 motorway connects the hotel with Swansea and other areas.
Rooms
The hotel offers 79 en-suite rooms, including Standard Single, Double, and Twin Rooms, as well as family accommodations. Each room is equipped with a television, hairdryer, and tea/coffee making facilities. The Executive Rooms provide extra space and amenities such as a private safe and fluffy bathrobes.
Eat & Drink
The restaurant serves a diverse menu that emphasizes fresh local ingredients and includes options like sharing plates and comfort food classics. Afternoon tea, including a Gin Afternoon Tea option, is available daily. A fully stocked bar offers a selection of Welsh ales, wines, and gins.
Leisure & Business
Ivy Bush Royal Hotel caters to both leisure and business clients with facilities for events and meetings. The hotel includes a spacious air-conditioned restaurant and offers casual dining options. Guests can also relax in the lounge or the new al fresco terrace.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- No smoking on site
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- 24-hour reception
- Pets allowed
- Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
- Wheelchair access
- Security
- Luggage storage
- Lift
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
- Key card access
Sports & Fitness
- Skiing
- Cycling
- Fishing
Guest Parking
- Electric kettle
Services
- Pet amenities available
- Room service
- Housekeeping
- Laundry
- Welcome drink
Dining
- In-room breakfast
- Restaurant
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Packed lunches
- Special diet menus
Business
- Meeting/ Banquet facilities
- Fax/Photocopying
Children
- Board games
- Children's menu
Facilities for people with disabilities
- Toilet for disabled
Spa & Leisure
- Garden area
Room features
- Heating
- Terrace
- Garden furniture
- Tea and coffee facilities
- Ironing facilities
Bathroom
- Free toiletries
Self-catering
- Electric kettle
Media
- Flat-screen TV
- AM/FM alarm clock
Room decor
- Carpeted floor
Location
Reviews and Ratings
The hotel's rooms had some maintenance issues like peeling wallpaper, paint peeling off pipework, and a bad smell outside. However, the location near Carmarthen Castle is convenient for exploring the town. The dining options varied from excellent to a bit greasy. The service was personalized with efforts to meet guest preferences.
My stay at the hotel was a mix of highs and lows. The rooms had everything needed for an overnight stay but were unfortunately located above the recycling bins, leading to a noisy awakening from the early morning glass clanging. The service was a bit of a hit and miss with a lengthy wait for a simple coffee, yet Rhian's exceptional friendliness and helpfulness shone through. The location was convenient for exploring the town and nearby attractions but suffered from early morning noise disturbances. The dining experience was generally satisfactory, although slightly overpriced. Overall, a stay with ups and downs.
I had a pleasant stay at the hotel. The rooms were clean and tastefully decorated, just around the corner from the reception. The service was excellent, with cheerful and helpful staff always available. The location was good, although some areas could use updates. Dining was good and plentiful, offering a variety of hot and cold dishes.