MOTHER’S DAY is fast approaching and it’s time to start thinking and planning what to do for that special woman in your life. Things get booked up nice and early. The best deals always come with an early booking and let’s be honest, when isn’t a good time to think about our Mums?

So here is the SOUTH WALES LIFE guide to help you along. With finances being a little thin for many of us, we’ve added a section with ideas you can do at, or from home.

• THINGS TO DO AT HOME
• THINGS TO BUY
• THINGS TO MAKE
• PLACES TO GO
• PLACES TO EAT

MOTHER’S DAY in the UK is often known by its traditional and religious name of Mothering Sunday. It’s not a Bank Holiday, but let’s be honest, it’s a day to celebrate those very special women in our lives who made us who we are. Or for many of us, it’s a chance to remember Mother’s who are no longer with us.

It was actually J.K. Rowling who wrote one of our favourite quotes on that subject. One of the important themes in the Harry Potter series is how a Mother’s love protects us throughout our lives, even after she has passed away.

“Love as powerful as your Mother’s
for you leaves its own mark.
To have been loved so deeply,
even though the person who loved us is gone,
will give us some protection forever.”

Mothering Sunday is the fourth Sunday of Lent, usually landing sometime in March. Traditionally, it’s a day when people visit the church they were baptised in and on which they honour their mother. Both Roman Catholic and Anglican churches in the UK observe Mothering Sunday.

Apart from the church-based activities of Mothering Sunday, Mother’s Day is celebrated pretty much the same the world over. It has, of course become more and more commercialised, but it’s still primarily a “family time” holiday. It’s common for children to give their mother a gift, flowers, a card, a break from house chores, and maybe some time to rejuvenate at a salon or a spa.

We’ll tell you about events you can do and places you can take Mum, all of which are special and amazing. We do however, want to share some other ideas which we thing she would enjoy just as much, if not more. The old saying is – ‘the best things in life are free’ we reckon the best things to do with and for your Mum can be that too.

We’ve done some research on this subject and it appears that what WE think is a treat for our Mother’s isn’t always the case. Don’t get us wrong, a piece of jewellery, a slap up meal, expensive flowers and chocolates, will always be well received, and we aren’t discouraging those. We can however tell you that, overwhelming, the Mother’s we interviewed said the tears will flow with a personal or even hand made gift.

We can hear a collective sigh from guys who are thinking they can put their wallets away and make something Blue Peter style. Well, hold on fellas, we’re talking here about combining gifts, like a whole MOTHER’S DAY package if you like.

THINGS TO DO AT HOME

Staying at home on Mother’s Day seems a pretty good option to a lot of us. Home is a great place to spoil Mum, she is comfortable and we think would quite enjoy watching us all run around after her on this special day. Most importantly, and I think we can all agree with this one, Mums love being around the people they love above all else.

With that in mind, we thought the best way to begin this guide is to start at home. If there are lots of Mums to cater for, you can of course get them all together in one home and make a real family thing of it. If you are going to your Mums, you can take all you need to pamper her too. Whichever it is and whatever you choose, this section is packed with things to do in, or indeed from the comfort of your own home.

Since every Mother is different, you will know best what makes her happy. Really give it some thought, maybe those times when you saw her smile. What you think about and do on the day is sure to bring another smile to her face.

Focus the day on your Mother by doing at least one of these, if not more…….

• Put together a collection of photos from the past don’t forge to add a current selfie with your Mum. Most Mums seem to enjoy flicking through pages of an album and remembering those good times of the past.
• Think out side of the traditional ‘flowers’ box. Bring some of her favourite plants and help with the gardening. There are two benefits to this, the plants will be a year long reminder of you and the gift you gave and, most importantly, you get to spend time together planting them.
• Cook a meal but do it together. My Mum hated me cooking for her but doing it together made her smile. Don’t forget to take pictures together for your album.
• If the whole family is together have an afternoon board game marathon or a game night with everyone. Nibbles, drinks, laughing and pictures. All perfect.
• This will take some thinking but we reckon Mum will love this. Put together a list of things you learned from her over the years. Read it aloud and leave her with the list so you can look at it again (and she will). 
• We think the greatest gift you can give any Mum is the gift of your time and let her decide what to do.

Here are some special things you can do for your Mum which may be perceived as either ‘going out’ or ‘going away’ activities, but actually can easily be done or organised from the comfort of home:

• Book a spa day. Many Mums spend quite a bit of time taking care of everyone else, and tend to neglect themselves. If this sounds like your Mother/Partner, make an appointment for her to be pampered at your local day spa – your home. Think about it for a moment, she will love being pampered, a proper long soak in a bubble filled bath (strict orders for the kids not to disturb), time to indulge herself in getting ready, doing her hair, nails and all the things she may not be able to do because of everyday life. Maybe, at the end of the day, you could consider giving Mum a massage? Now we are talking partner Mum not your Mum!!! Perish the thought.
• Treat her to a weekend adventure. If Mum is the adventurous type, whether it’s hiking and bicycling, or she’s more of a B&B sort of girl, why not arrange it all from home. Breakfast in bed, day swimming somewhere, all of you out on your bikes. In fact everything you would do on an adventure weekend only this time, home is your base.

Go on holiday – Hold on a minute, we’re in the middle of a crisis, funds are tight and you expect us to go on holiday? Well, as nice as it would be, why not bring the holiday to your home. If you go to Spain each year, I sense Tapas and Sangria being served. France, then it has to be croissants fro Brunch. Get the idea now? You can even pack a picnic filled with all your holiday favourites and go into the garden or further afield. You don’t have to go on holiday to have a good time. For an added touch, adorn your kitchen or dining room table with a red-and-white-checkered tablecloth and fresh flowers, put on some appropriate music. You could even teach the kids a few basic words to greet Mum. “Bonjour” and “Merci”.

Go to the movies – Maybe the local multi-plex isn’t on your radar today, we don’t think Mum would want to sit in the dark and not having a chat to everyone anyway. So how about your own Silver Screening at home. The main feature could be your favourite holiday video or even a slide show if you are going old school. Think of the fun you’ll have looking back over those great times and fashions.

Go to a gig – We’re sure you get the idea behind these now. You can bring the concert to your home. Do the kids play an instrument at school. Are you are dab hand on the karaoke. Or is there a favourite CD you all love listening to. Get the kids to perform, singalong to some cheesy tunes and get Mum to be the X-Factor style judge for the day.

Make a good impression – Bit messy this one and maybe needs a warm day, it is so much fun though. Go outside, mix up a small bucket of colourful non-toxic paint, get the kids to put their hands and feet in it (which they’ll love), spread out a large roll of paper, and have everyone press their hands and feet onto it, leaving their prints behind. When it dries don’t forget to mark who’s feet and hands and the date, then next year come back and do it all over again.

THINGS TO BUY

St David’s Cardiff has unveiled its most-wanted gifts to treat mums and mother-figures this Mothering Sunday. Shoppers looking for gift inspiration will find everything under one roof at St David’s.

From afternoon tea, self-care and personalised fragrances, there is something for every Mum, including:

DINING OUT 

·        Afternoon Tea at Ivy Asia

Treat mum to a special afternoon at the Ivy Asia, with afternoon tea running from 3pm – 4.45pm every day for £29.95 per person, with a luxurious champagne upgrade available for £39.95 per person.

·        Thai treats with Giggling Squid

Those who book a table for Sunday 10th March at Giggling Squid St. David’s and order a bottle of Whispering Angel will receive a sweet treat of delectable macarons to take away, and you can even treat your favourite woman to a Giggling Squid cookbook for just £25. 

·        Gaucho’s Sunday Roast

Enjoy Gaucho’s delightful Sunday roast, with a Bottomless option for more ambitious diners, including free homemade truffles. Guests can even order ahead and have a glass of Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé or Wild Idol (alcohol free) waiting for them on arrival, and can pick up a fresh bouquet from the on-site florist.

JEWELLERY

·        Diamond Heaven

The glistening jewellery brand is offering 25% off ready-to-wear items in time for Mother’s Day, including a Diamond Solitaire Pendant available in white and yellow gold. RRP £600, now £450.

·        Clogau Daffodil Collection

A stunning collection with a nod to March’s St David’s Day, the Daffodil Gold and Diamond Stud Earrings or Daffodil Gold and Diamond Pendant are sure to please. Available in store from 1^st until 31^st March, RRP ranging from £159 – £420.

·        Thomas Sabo

Guests will receive a complementary pair of ear studs with any purchase of £119 or more* at Thomas Sabo until 10^th March. T&Cs apply, see in-store for details.

SELF CARE & BEAUTY TREATS

·        Treatments at Rawr Beauty, Primark

Treat her to the gift of self-care with 20% off all treatments over £10, including nails, brows, and lashes.

·        Home Spa Experiences from MINISO

Snap up some self care goodies, including the Fruit Series Face Scrub (£3), Real Me Perfume (£13), Eye and Facial Serum (£4) and even a Jade Massager set (£7) at MINISO.

·        A Penhaligons personalised fragrance

Gift a new Penhaligons fragrance, with an option to add a heartfelt personalised message on the bottle. Artists will be engraving live on-site on Saturday 10^th March from 1pm – 5pm. Engraving is complementary with the purchase of Penhaligon’s new AlUla fragrance, RRP £215 100ml and £110 30ml.

·        Sweet scents from The Perfume Shop

Enjoy 15% off when you shop in-store and spend £60 with The Perfume Shop, where you can find the latest fragrances and gift sets to create a lasting memory this Mother’s Day.

·        Pampering gifts at L’Occitane

Choose three of your mum’s favourite hand creams in-store for £24 (RRP £28.50), and bundle them up in one of L’Occitane’s new Pink City pouches. Pink City Prints was founded to preserve the traditional crafts of India’s Pink City – each of their pieces has been created using techniques that have been perfected and passed down for generations.

FASHION

·        Bravissimo

Gift the gift of a new wardrobe so she can choose from bikinis, swimsuits, nightwear, and more. Guests can quote ‘Better Fitted’ during their first fitting to receive £10 off their first purchase throughout March.

·        BOSS Women’s Spring / Summer Collection

Shop the brand-new range of BOSS Women’s clothing for Mother’s Day, from Melange Virgin Wool dresses to elegant blazers that will suit any occasion and make her feel amazing.

SOMETHING ELSE…

·        BoConcept’s Interior Design Consultation

For the home décor-loving Mum, Danish furniture brand BoConcept is offering a £250 voucher towards purchases with every interior design consultation this March.

For information about St David’s including store listings and opening hours, please visit HERE

Here’s a few places to go for ready-made gifts, flowers and photo albums. We have no affiliation, financial or promotional interest in any of these whatsoever. They are just to give you some ideas.

• BUY A GIFT
• I WANT ONE OF THOSE
• FIND ME A GIFT
• GETTING PERSONAL
• DON’T BUY HER FLOWERS
• NOT ON THE HIGH STREET

• BUNCHES
• PRESTIGE
• INTERFLORA
• FLYING FLOWERS
• NEXT

• BONUSPRINT
• FUNKY PIGEON
• PHOTOBOX
• ETSY
• MIXBOOK

As fantastic as they are, we would still advocate going down the D.I.Y. route, especially if you have kids who can help – or you can help them more like. We have come up with a few ideas to get you started. The SOUTH WALES LIFE team have all done things like these over the years and from our experience are always well received.

THINGS TO MAKE

Occasionally, thinking outside the box will give you the most affordable, creative easy to prepare presents and the nice thing is, you can personalise them so easily. Take this one for example. Four jars which cost a couple of quid, things to put in them, and a little bit of writing or printing.

This one you can actually buy but what we have done in the past is get a really nice, small box or jar and some pretty parchment type paper. Cut them into small pieces, write your message on them, or get the kids to do it, tie them up with pretty string or ribbon, put them in the box or jar and give them to Mum.

You can even make a little “Things I/We love About You” Book. Hole punch blank index cards in the upper left corner. On each card, write down one thing you love about your Mum. When you’re finished, slip a binder ring through the hole in the all of the cards.

• You can ask your whole family to participate, so she knows why you all love her.
• Try using different coloured index cards or decorating them before you put the book together. It will make the book look more personal and let your mom know you spent a lot of time on it.

Make a memory jar. You can use any jar you like – even an old vegetable jar – just make sure it’s cleaned out really well and smells fresh. Then write one memory of your Mum on each slip of paper. When you’re finished, fold them in half and put them in the jar. This is not about the jar but very much the memories. You can even put pictures inside too.

• You should use at least twenty slips of paper so the jar looks pretty full.
• You can decorate the jar with stickers, craft paint, or ribbon. Make sure you write “Memory Jar” on the outside or tie a label around with ribbon.

This is a full on Mother’s Day Party Kit, just click below and it’ll send you to the download page. There are banner, food labels, sweet wrappers and so much more. There’s a lot, you have been warned.

PARTY KIT

PLACES TO GO

VISIT A CASTLE

It would be ridiculous for us to list every single one of the 400 plus Welsh Castles, so what we thought we’d do is pick a couple at random with the hope of inspiring you. CADW have so many more fantastic Castles featured.

White Castle, Monmouthshire

Named after its original white-rendered walls, White Castle is one of three fortresses – Grosmont and Skenfrith are the others – built by Norman lords in the Monnow Valley to guard the borderlands. Although it was already derelict by the 1600s, White Castle is easily the best preserved of the trio – with the bonus of a rural Monmouthshire setting.

Skenfrith Castle, Monmouthshire

Time travel fans need to visit Skenfrith – the Norman castle once played host to an episode of Doctor Who. See why this circular keep, constructed in the Monnow Valley as one of three neighbouring castles resulting from the Norman conquest of South Wales, is a repeated favourite of television crews.

Castell Coch, Cardiff

Castell Coch is a castle on top of a castle. It was originally a chieftain’s fortress in the 13th century, but was resurrected as a gothic fortress several centuries later. It is now notable for its extraordinary complex of lavish chambers, making it a repeated favourite with film and television crews.

Laugharne Castle

The magnificent medieval Laugharne Castle is forever associated with Dylan Thomas, who escaped writer’s block at the 12th century ruins. Discover his inspiration within the Victorian ornamental gardens, and relax near the Boathouse and Shed where poetry was once in motion.

Raglan Castle

Raglan Castle’s striking round towers make this fortress a singular classic, and there’s every chance you’ll be enraptured from the moment you see the astonishing gatehouse which once denied Oliver Cromwell at the end of the Civil War. Surrounded by fields, the romantic ruins even make space for a bowling green.

Caerphilly Castle

The largest castle in Wales, and the second-largest in Britain, Caerphilly Castle was locked within water defences when it was built by the English during the 13th century. The outside is the place, among an array of delights, to see four siege engines, and the inside has a hallowed, majestic feel.

PLACES TO EAT

We ought to warn you that a lot of places we have looked at are already booked up or getting close to the mark. If you are looking to book a Mother’s Day Lunch anywhere, our advice is sooner rather than later.

We’ll start this page with just a few ideas but it will expand over the next few days. Bookmark and come back regularly.

The Ivy – Cardiff

The Ivy Cardiff is celebrating Mother’s Day with an unforgettable dining experience at The Ivy. Whether you’re treating your mum, grandmother, or simply celebrating a special person in your life, dining amongst the charming ambience of the brasseries is the perfect way to show your appreciation.

Mother’s Day Weekend Breakfast

A perfect start to the day with the Mother’s Day Weekend Breakfast, start with your choice of juice or smoothies curated specially, enjoy a selection of Mini Viennoiseries, then choose one from three favourites, Eggs Benedict with Hand-pulled Ham, Buttermilk Pancakes, or Crushed Avocado and Roasted Tomato.  

Available until 10:45am Priced at £19.50 per person.

Mother’s Day All-Day Menu                                                                                                                                                        

For a special celebration meal, the Mother’s Day set menu, available all day on Sunday 10th March, has a wide range of The Ivy favourites for guests to choose from. Highlights to start include, the Robata Grilled Chicken Skewers or Twice-baked Gratinated Cheese Soufflé. Sumptuous mains include, Artichoke and Sweet Potato Tagine, or the classic Chicken Milanese. To finish, guests can enjoy a special Mother’s Day treat, Strawberry and Elderflower Trifle, layered Savoiardi biscuits with strawberries, lavender and vanilla cream. To add an extra touch, diners who book this set menu will receive a special gift for their mother, a mini votive candle from Penhaligons and a single red rose to take home.

Available from 11:30am through to 12th March

• Two courses for £27.50
• Three courses for £32.50
• Add a glass of The Ivy Champagne for £10                                  

St Germain Cocktails 

To complete the Mother’s Day experience at The Ivy Collection, St Germain have created three extraordinary cocktails especially for the weekend. A fresh and floral selection, using the classic St Germain elderflower liquor as a base, the St-Germain Hugo Spritz is for Prosecco lovers, (£12.00), the Elderflower Martini uses vodka, Lime juice, Cranberry juice and Pomegranate syrup (£12.00) and the St-Germain Mother’s Day Spritz features Cucumber vodka, Citric blend, Green Strawberry bitters, Prosecco and Soda water (£14.50)

To book a table for Mother’s Day go HERE.

Laguna Kitchen and Bar at Park Plaza – Cardiff

The independent, award-winning Laguna Kitchen & Bar is situated in the city centre within Park Plaza Hotel Cardiff and famed for serving classic British cuisine with a twist of Welsh character. Combining the very best local produce with fresh herbs from their own garden, their chefs design seasonal dishes to satisfy every palate.

Make Mother’s Day one to remember this year by treating your mum to a delicious 3 Course Lunch in Laguna Restaurant or enjoy a fabulous Afternoon Tea in the Park Suite. 

Laguna Restaurant 

3 Course Lunch Menu
Served from 12.00 pm to 9.00 pm
£34.95 per person

For more information and to get yourself booked in, go here. LAGUNA

o courses. Craig Y Nos Castle is on Brecon Road, Penycae in Swansea. For more details go here – CRAIG or give them a call on 01639-731167

Newbridge on Usk is part of the Celtic Manor Group and situated in Tredunnock, Near Usk. For the latest details, go here. NEWBRIDGE

The Celtic Collection

If you’re looking to do something a little extra special for the Mother in your life, Celtic Manor have plenty to offer. The best offer at the moment os their up to 30% off gift experiences for Mum.

One thing is guaranteed, Mum will have a relaxing experience – from a boutique spa day with unrivalled panoramic views overlooking the stunning Cardiff skyline, to decadent afternoon tea and Prosecco in the panoramic parkland of the Celtic Manor resort.

The Gift Sale does end on the 10th March. Details HERE.

You could pay a visit to Twenty Ten Clubhouse with its elegant restaurant and sensational menu.

For a relaxed Mother’s Day carvery lunch with a unique atmosphere, there’s no better place than The Olive Tree and we can’t lie, this is our favourite. While The Grill is the perfect place to relax on this extra special Sunday afternoon enjoying a mouthwatering menu.

Just a little further afield, why not try the fabulous restaurant at Coldra Court Hotel and enjoy a delicious Mother’s Day lunch at The Rib Smokehouse and Grill , or head to the city for a perfect afternoon of indulgent treats for Mother’s Day at The Parkgate, Cardiff.

Enjoy a relaxing spa day at The Parkgate Hotel’s exclusive Elemis Spa in the heart of Cardiff. The boutique rooftop spa offers a tranquil escape from the city, with panoramic views over the Cardiff skyline. If you want to go all out, there’s also a range of special offers incorporating Afternoon Tea or Lunch at The Sorting Room brasserie restaurant and bar.

You can also check out our feature, and behind the scenes look at the opening of The Parkgate Hotel, right HERE.

If you fancy a little trip away to West Wales Tŷ Milford Waterfront is an option. It’s the perfect point from which to explore the gorgeous Pembrokeshire coast. Overlooking Milford Marina, the waterside restaurant, dulse, is all about serving up fresh local ingredients and on Mothering Sunday, you can enjoy a tasty three-course lunch or Afternoon Tea, with views like no other.

• Lunch: from £38 per adult / £18 per child
• Afternoon tea: from £30 per adult / £15 per child

Bill’s

To salute all mums, step-mums, grans, aunts, or whoever that motherly figure is in your life, Bill’s are offering families (we’re talking to you, eldest siblings aka chief organisers of the group) a helping hand with treating mum this Mother’s Day.

For anyone that’s likely to end up forgetting to get a card or present, how about a free glass of Prosecco or dessert for the Mum in your life? It’s on Bill’s, but the credit can be all down to you…

On Sunday 10^th March, with a little help from Mionetto Prosecco, Bill’s are treating Mums to an extra special surprise. With an envelope awaiting to be opened and enjoyed on the day, Mum can receive either a glass of crisp and refreshing Mionetto Prosecco or delicious dessert, courtesy of Bill’s. All to be enjoyed whilst spending quality time with loved ones, in the name of who you call Mum.

On the dessert menu, Mums will be spoilt for choice and able to choose from a selection of sweet treats, including the much-loved Bill’s Flowerpot: a passionfruit cheesecake with chocolate soil, fresh strawberries and edible flower; Mini Cinnamon Doughnuts, served with cinnamon sugar, chocolate sauce & dulce de leche; or Chocolate and Salted Caramel Tart served with coconut ice cream, and many more delightful desserts on the menu.*

Booking in advance is advised, but walk-ins will be welcomed subject to availability. Celebrate Mum at Bill’s this Mother’s Day at restaurants nationwide. To book, visit HERE

*Bill’s sharing desserts including the profiterole stack is not included in this promotion.

The Angel – Abergavenny

The Angel Hotel is a luxurious, 4 Silver Star hotel, located in the centre of Abergavenny. Situated between 7 hills on the Welsh/English border. The town is often referred to as the ‘Gateway to Wales’ and The Angel is a perfect base for a Mother’s Day lunch or Afternoon Tea as it is only a 2 minute walk from Abergavenny Castle or 5 minute walk from Linda Vista Gardens. Providing a warm, friendly environment in a truly residential setting.

The Angel Hotel does get really busy and it’s Sunday Lunch and Afternoon Tea is second to none. For more details, go here. ANGEL

Voco St David’s

Voco St David’s Cardiff has launched its Mother’s Day offering and the five-star luxury hotel in Cardiff Bay certainly knows the way to a mum’s heart.

On Mother’s Day (Sunday 10th March), the hotel’s waterfront restaurant, Tir a Môr, will be serving a special Sunday menu featuring seasonal Welsh produce, including Roasted Leg of Welsh Lamb, Roast Sirloin of Welsh Beef and Bara Brith Bread and Butter Pudding. Two courses are priced at £27 and three courses at £35 per person. As well as enjoying the breathtaking panoramic views of Cardiff Bay – the perfect backdrop to make Mum feel special – every mum will receive a small complimentary gift during her visit.

For those mums in need of some R&R, the award-winning Spa at St. David’s has a number of specifically curated packages, designed to instil deep relaxation and rejuvenation. 

From rejuvenation packages to signature spa days, comprised of swan-neck fountains, waterbeds and hydropools, as well as massages and facials using ishga and Oskia products, mums can benefit from the skilled hands of expert masseuses who will work their magic, target key areas of tension and use a combination of techniques to release knots and restore balance.

Gift vouchers for Mums to use as and when they choose can also be purchased from the voco St David’s website where there’s the opportunity to choose from afternoon tea, restaurant, spa and bed and breakfast vouchers.

Costel Amarioarei, Food & Beverage Operations Manager at voco St. David’s, Cardiff told us…..

“We’re delighted to offer our special Sunday menu on Mother’s Day to help those celebrate the mums in their life.  Tir a Môr prides itself on its relaxed atmosphere, backdrop across the bay and dishes that celebrate quality produce from across Wales. We look forward to welcoming everyone on this special day.”

Phil Bailey, spa and leisure lead, added…..

“Mums dedicate every waking moment to others, so we are looking forward to celebrating their hard work and welcoming them to take time for themselves. Massage therapy has long been recognised for its myriad of health benefits, both physical and mental and we’ve developed bespoke packages which combine rest, therapies, treatments and products to instil deep relaxation and rejuvenation, helping to nurture the mind, body and soul.”

To find out more visit HERE, call 029 2045 4045 or email [email protected]

Mother’s Day – Harvester Restaurants

Treat Mum to a Mother’s Day she’ll always remember with the 3-Course Set Menu featuring all her favourite flavours.

Whether she loves a delicious burgers, 21-day aged steaks or classic rotisserie chicken, Mum is sure to find something delicious on the menu. Of course, she deserves a sweet treat too!

Bring the family together in celebration on Saturday 9^th or Sunday 10^th March. The best part? You get a delicious Harvester meal and quality time with Mum!

They have now unveiled the Harvester Mother’s Day menu. To avoid disappointment, they advise booking a table at your local Harvester today, then relax, knowing that Mother’s Day is going to be one to remember.

For more details and to book a table, go here. HARVESTER

Llechwen Hall Hotel & Restaurant – Llanfabon

A hidden gem in the heart of the Cynon Valley, Llechwen Hall is a charming country house hotel with an AA-Rosette awarded restaurant.

Celebrate Mother’s Day with the 3-course Sunday Lunch menu or Afternoon tea and treat your loved ones to a little Llechwen Hall luxury.

Bring the family together, relax, and catch up with a drink in the hotel lounge before enjoying 3 delicious courses of lovingly prepared produce. There’s a special menu carefully designed by our Head Chef, we are sure your mouth will be watering as soon as you see the menu.

And as a special ‘thank you’, they’ll be handing out a small complimentary gift to all the mums who dine with us over the Mother’s Day weekend!

Sunday 10^th March | 12pm & 3pm | Adults £25 | Children £14

Llechwen Hall Hotel in in Llanfabon, near Pontypridd Mother’s Day lunch is between 12 and 4pm and costs £25 for adults and £14 for children. For more details on what they have on offer, go here. LLECHWEN or give them a call on 01443-742050

Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea
Sunday 10^th March | 12pm to 4pm | Adults £25 | Children £14

For something a little more indulgent, they’ll be hosting our Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea. A perfect treat, our menu includes a glass of prosecco per person on arrival, sweet & savoury favourites, scones with clotted cream & jam, our signature Welshcakes and freshly brewed tea or coffee.

Mother’s Day at The Old Custom House – Penarth

Dine in the bustling open plan restaurant El Puerto. It overlooks the sea and has a wide range of wine and beer at the 45-foot long bar.

In June 2000, the Martinez family purchased the custom house, which was in serious need of love and attention. After an extensive refurbishment and a touch of European flare the Custom house was revived.

The custom house has since become the established restaurant it is today, home to El Puerto and La Marina, both offering the same brasserie style concept, serving the finest locally-sourced seasonal ingredients cooked and finished in the perfect Galician style.

The Custom House is at Penarth Marina. They do get really busy so we suggest getting in touch with them sooner. Visit here for more details on their Mother’s Day Menu. CUSTOM

Carvery Buffet at The Vale Resort – Hensol

They have so much on offer at the Resort and do a fantastic Afternoon Tea, which is a really nice and relaxed way to enjoy Mother’s Day. In fact they have three ways for Mum to enjoy her day with them.

For an extra special treat this Mother’s Day, why not join us for a decadent Champagne Afternoon Tea in the charming surroundings of Hensol Castle. 

• A selection of finger sandwiches and sweet treats
• Harpist on arrival
• Tea from our specialty ranges
• Glass of Champagne

Mother’s Day after noon tea is £40 per person.

Details on Afternoon Tea are HERE.

Mother’s Day 3 Course Lunch is on Sunday 10th March.

• £34.95 per adult
• £12.95 per child (3-12 years)
• FREE under 2’s (from the children’s menu)
• Gift for Mum from Hensol Castle Distillery

For more details on Sunday Lunch go HERE.

Mother’s Day at The Lion Hotel – Blaenavon

The hotel prides itself “on providing quality dishes using local ingredients. The Lion has become famous for their Sunday Lunches. Served every week from 12pm to 4pm. They serves only the freshest vegetables and the best meats that Wales has to offer.

Here’s a look at what’s on their Sunday Lunch menu.

STARTERS

• Chef’s Soup of the Day £6
• Crispy ciabatta (v)
• Twice Baked Applewood Cheese Souffle £7
• Parmesan cream (v)(gf)
• Tempura King Prawns £7
• Served with sweet chilli sauce
• Chicken, Pistachio and Garlic Terrine £6.50
• Plum chutney (gf)

MAINS

• Served with roast and new potatoes and local, seasonal vegetables – Add Yorkshire 50p
• Slow Roast Silverside Beef* £14.50
• With Yorkshire pudding
• Roast Welsh Chicken Breast* £14.50
• Homemade stuffing
• Roast Shoulder of Welsh Lamb* £15.50
• Homemade stuffing
• Kitchen Prepared Nut Roast* £14.50
• Vegetarian gravy and Yorkshire (v)
• The Sunday Lunch Feast £16.50
• A selection of Beef, Chicken and Lamb with Yorkshire pudding and stuffing
• Herb Crusted Cod and a Dill Hollandaise* £15
• Served with new potatoes

*Children’s portions available at £10

DESSERTS

• Sticky Toffee Pudding £7
• Butterscotch sauce and clotted cream ice cream (v)
• Spiced Apple & Pear Crumble £7
• With custard (v)
• White Chocolate Cheesecake £6.50
• With winter berries (v)
• Mario’s Welsh Ice Cream £5
• Clotted cream / honey comb / strawberries & cream / chocolate fudge (v) (gf)

The Lion Hotel is at 41 Broad Street in Blaenavon. For more details, go here. LION

Margam Deer – Port Talbot

The Margam Deer in Port Talbot is a family friendly pub where great food is always on the menu. Whether you’re a traditional meat and two veg, a chooser of healthy options, or a massive fan of classic burgers, they will have a treat in store for you.

Their legendary Carvery is served seven days a week, alongside a selection of proper pub grub and calorie-counted alternatives. And the cellar is stocked with fine cask ales, draught beers, and wines, not to mention treats for the little ones. Let them blow off some steam in the toddler area or outside play area, while you sit down and relax.

For details of their Mother’s Day Lunch and to book, go here. MARGAM

Blainia Wharf – Newport

The Blaina Wharf in Newport is part of the same chain as the Margam above so expect a family-friendly pub serving a busy area on the banks of the River Usk. Their menu includes a traditional Carvery as well as plenty of pub classics and light bites. They have a children’s play area outside, and serve a delicious, nutritious children’s menu too.

With an al fresco area for sunny days, and plenty of indoor seating for when it’s not so nice, they are the perfect venue for a family meal at any time of year, especially Mother’s Day.

For details of their menu and to see what’s on offer, just go here. BLAINA

Sand Martin Pub – Cardiff

And once again the Sand Martin is part of that group. They are very well suited to family groups with a varied menu of classic pub grub, a Family Zone complete with toddler activity area, and of course a great selection of draught beers, cask ales, wines and spirits.

The enviable location next to the Cardiff City Stadium makes the perfect pub for a post-Mother’s Day mooch around the shops, and they’re a favourite with families from the Leckwith, Riverside, and Ninian Park areas of the city.

For details of what the Sand Martin Cardiff have on offer, go here. SAND MARTIN

The Tea Cosy – Dowlais

THE TEA COSY opened in May 2019 as a small family business in the local Dowlais community. They offer cooked breakfast, a place to meet friends for a coffee or indulge in one of their delicious cakes or sundaes.

No details as yet on the Mother’s Day afternoon tea but they are well worth checking out.

THE TEA COSY are based at 27 Mount Pleasant Street, Dowlais in Merthyr Tydfil. To find out more head to their Facebook page here. TEA