Old Rectory Country House

Despite the panoramic backdrop of the Conwy estuary, Conwy Castle and Snowdonia, Michael & Wendy Vaughan’s Georgian-style house makes a pleasing domestic scene of panelling, antiques, silver and glass. Evenings run to a simple format: diners arrive at 7.30pm for something to nibble on over an aperitif in the sitting room, followed by a three-course set-price dinner (no choice until dessert) in the tiny dining room at 8pm. With such constraints, the country house cooking plays it safe, so expect roasted quail with a wild mushroom risotto & truffle creme fraiche, roast breast of guinea fowl with pears, spinach, braised chicory, fondant potato & antibois, & an assiette of dessert or Welsh & Celtic farm cheeses. But expect to pay: set menus are £34.90 for non-residents.