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.

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, overwhelmingly, 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, 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 squeeze, 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 for 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
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
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.


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.
Beefeater – Mums Eat Free
With Mother’s Day just days away, don’t miss the chance to make it one to remember! Treat your special someone to a delicious meal on us-it’s just one of many perks you get when signed up to Beefeater emails.
Enjoy 2 or 3 courses from our Mother’s Day set menu, whether it’s flame-grilled favourites or a classic Sunday Roast with all the trimmings. So gather your loved ones and make it a day to cherish.
Details HERE.

The Cwtch Cafe – Swansea
The Cwtch Cafe & Bar combines a breakfast, brunch and lunch concept on the ground floor whilst hosting spectacular events of all kinds in the basement.
The modern interiors will take you on a journey from the bright and clean finish of the ground floor cafe where our menu’s cater for all needs and are sourced from the best possible local ingredients.
The do everything from Breakfast to Brunch, Lunch and Afternoon Tea.
For more details go HERE.
The Ivy Asia – Cardiff
This Mother’s Day weekend, celebrate the leading lady in your life with an unforgettable dining experience at The Ivy Asia – where bold flavours, stunning surroundings, and a touch of glamour come together.
Indulge in a specially curated set menu for £40 per person, designed to delight her senses and make her feel truly cherished.

Start with exquisite appetisers like Barbecue Duck Salad or Spicy Tuna & Sesame Rolls. For the main course, choose from vibrant dishes such as Thai Green Chicken Curry or Salmon Teriyaki, served with fragrant steamed rice and wok-fried greens.
For the perfect sweet ending, add a decadent dessert for an additional £5—choose from Warm Passionfruit & Coconut Doughnuts or a silky Coconut Panna Cotta—because Mum deserves a little extra indulgence.
Available for lunch and dinner on 29th and 30th March. Give Mum the ultimate treat and make her feel as glamorous as she truly is. To make the occasion even more memorable, every mum dining on 30th March will receive a complimentary flower—our way of showing appreciation for the amazing women in your life.
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
£37.95 per person
For more information and to get yourself booked in, go here. LAGUNA
Newbridge on Usk is part of the Celtic Manor Group and situated in Tredunnock, Near Usk.
Make the most of your Mother’s Day by sharing three courses of deliciousness with live music* and enjoying the rustic charms of Newbridge on Usk.
Prices
£56 per adult
£28 per child (3 – 12 years)
Reservations available between 12.00pm – 8.30pm.
*Live music between 1pm – 3.30pm.
For the latest details, go here. NEWBRIDGE
The Coal Exchange – Cardifff
Here you will find everything from themed afternoon teas to exciting unique events, All year long, every season, there’s something fun happening at The Coal Exchange and you just need to book to be a part of it. Check out what we have going on HERE.
The Mother’s Day menu looks a little bit special. Take a peek HERE.

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. It is worth checking their latest offers and watch our for special ‘voucher’ deals0.
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.
More 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.

Bill’s
Treat those that give you Motherly love to a glass of FREE fizz or dessert this Mother’s Day.
Simply purchase a main meal, roll the dice & enjoy your special treat.


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
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
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.
They’ve got some delicious dishes she´s sure to love from the signature rotisserie chicken and juicy burgers to Tandoori Chicken Skewers or veggie options like our Camembert & Cherry Tomato Tart. Of course, she deserves a sweet treat too – how about a New York Cheesecake or indulgent Treacle Sponge?
Bring the family together for the Mother’s Day Menu from 29th – 30th 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 in the heart of the Welsh countryside with a choice of two mouth-watering menus! Dive into a scrumptious Sunday Lunch or laid-back Afternoon Tea and treat your Mum to the relaxing day she deserves.
Bring the family together for a drink and an overdue catch up in the hotel’s lounge bar, before tucking into three delicious courses of lovingly prepared dishes from the special Mother’s Day Sunday Lunch Menu.Filled with fantastic food, and good times, this one’s to show all our mums out there a little love and appreciation!
Sunday 30th March | From 12pm | Adults £25 | Children £14

Llechwen Hall Hotel in in Llanfabon, near Pontypridd Mother’s Day lunch is between 12 and 4pm and costs £29 for adults and £15 for children.
For more details on what they have on offer, go here. LLECHWEN or give them a call on 01443-742050
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 Welsh cakes and freshly brewed tea or coffee.
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 them for a decadent Champagne Afternoon Tea in the charming surroundings of Hensol Castle.
As a little extra treat, every mum will receive a gift from Hensol Castle Distillery, adding a touch of luxury to her day.
Sunday 30th March | £40 per person | 12:30pm or 3:30pm
Details on Afternoon Tea are HERE.

Mother’s Day 3 Course Lunch is on Sunday 30th 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 Marston’s
Marston’s has gone marmalade mad, creating 7 new dishes for a special, Paddington-inspired children’s menu. The new menu will be served in over 250 pubs across the UK until 30th March, with the last chance to try this Mother’s Day.
In the biggest celebration of Paddington’s favourite snack, the new menu features 5 brand-new marmalade dishes including a build-your-own version of the iconic marmalade sandwich.
Also on the menu is Sticky marmalade chicken wings, Crispy chicken dippers with marmalade dipping sauce and a Picnic Platter featuring a marmalade, cheese, chicken or ham sandwich, cucumber and carrot sticks, cheese cubes and a fresh fruit salad.
To have their very own Peruvian adventures, little explorers could also enjoy the new Peru-fect chicken strips with piri piri mayonnaise.
The menu also features new and exciting, sweet treats including a Chocolate orange jelly sundae and Build Your Own Blue Bear-y pancakes. Children can order a dish from the Paddington inspired menu and keep busy completing the activity sheet on the back of their menu.

To find out more, and your local Marston’s, 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
- Caramelised Onion and Cheese Stuffed Mushroom £6
- Mixed leaves and balsamic glaze (v)
- Chimichurri Chicken Skewers £7
- Flatbread and a tomato and onion salad
- Sticky Honey Cauliflower Wings £7
- Pickled vegetables
- Chilli and Mango Prawn Salad £7
MAINS
- Served with roast and new potatoes and local, seasonal vegetables – Add Yorkshire or Stuffing 50p
- Slow Roast Silverside Beef* £15.00
- With Yorkshire pudding
- Roast Welsh Chicken Breast* £15.00
- Homemade stuffing
- Roast Shoulder of Welsh Lamb* £16.00
- Homemade stuffing
- Kitchen Prepared Nut Roast* £15.00
- Vegetarian gravy and Yorkshire (v)
- The Sunday Lunch Feast £17.00
- A selection of Beef, Chicken and Lamb with Yorkshire pudding and stuffng
- Cod in a White Wine and Tomato Sauce* £15
- Served with crushed new potatoes
- *Children’s portions available at £10
DESSERTS
- Limoncello and Raspberry Bread Pudding £7
- White chocolate creme anglaise (v)
- Rich Chocolate Brownie £7
- Clotted cream ice cream (v)
- Banoffee Cheesecake £6.50
- Rum salted caramel bananas (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.
They are now taking a limited amount of orders for Mother’s Day cupcakes and takeaway Afternoon Tea. Available to collect on Saturday 29th or Sunday 30th.
Box of 6 cupcakes £15
Deluxe box of 6 cupcakes and a mini pink Prosecco £20
Takeaway Afternoon Tea £12 with a soft drink or £16 with Prosecco.
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
