LUXE Serendipity magazine

By Donna Richardson

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Pembrokeshire, Grove of Narberth is the kind of place that makes you slow down -even if just for a moment – to take in the view. The boutique hotel, a lovingly restored 5 AA red star country house, sits amid whispering woodlands and manicured gardens, offering a haven of calm punctuated by the quiet excitement of discovery.

Inside, the interiors are a delicate balance of heritage and modern comfort: oak beams and soft linen mingle with contemporary art and flickering fireplaces. But it’s the hotel’s dining and wine experience that truly sets it apart. Under the guidance of Head Sommelier Cathryn Bell, recently named AA Sommelier of the Year 2026, Grove of Narberth has elevated its culinary offerings into a storytelling journey.

Bell’s philosophy is simple but profound: every wine has a story, and every story should enhance the food on your plate. At The Fernery, the hotel’s 4 AA Rosette restaurant, seasonal menus are paired with a carefully curated selection of wines, from hidden Welsh vineyards to celebrated international estates. The result is a dining experience that feels thoughtful, precise, and unexpectedly joyful—each sip and bite connecting to the landscape and its rhythms.

Bell’s own journey is as fascinating as her wine list. After 16 years working at some of Ireland’s most acclaimed kitchens – including the Michelin-starred Chapter One and two-star Aimsir – she returned to Wales to craft a wine programme that is both world-class and deeply rooted in place. Her approach is human, not just technical, and it shows: staff and guests alike are swept up in her passion for pairing, storytelling, and creating moments that linger.

Beyond the food and wine, the Grove of Narberth charms at every turn. Morning walks through Pembrokeshire’s woodlands, afternoons in the sun-drenched lounge with a book and a glass of something sparkling, and evenings by the fire in intimate rooms that feel more like home than hotel -each element is carefully considered.

For those looking to explore further, the hotel’s location is perfect for the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, quaint market towns, and hidden beaches. And when the day winds down, returning to the hotel feels like coming back to a storybook setting, where comfort, elegance, and Welsh hospitality meet seamlessly.

Whether you’re a dedicated oenophile or simply in search of a serene escape with an extra layer of refinement, Grove of Narberth offers an experience that lingers in memory long after the last pour.

Insider Tip: Book a table at The Fernery and ask Cathryn Bell to guide you through a wine flight—she’ll make even a familiar varietal feel like an adventure.

Stay: Rooms from £285 B&B
grovenarberth.co.uk