Luxury Merthyr Tydfil hotel arises on site of historic local bakery

This autumn, Merthyr Tydfil town centre will welcome a new boutique hotel — within the former walls of historic bakery and confectioners, Howfield’s & Son (est. 1921).

The hotel is due to be open from November 2023.

Howfields Hotel, the circa £2m development will also see the addition of a high-end restaurant, stylish bar, and 13 luxury private flats — bringing a new era of elegance and modernity to the town centre.

At the helm of the project is Glynneath-based development company, RWP Properties, which has invested significantly into the venture.

RWP Properties Director, Richard Powell, said: “I’ve been watching the development of Merthyr Tydfil town centre with great interest over the past few years. It’s been remarkable to see not only the scale and quality of the projects underway, but also the arrival of so many exciting independent businesses. The future looks bright in Merthyr Tydfil — and we jumped at the chance to be a part of it.”

In recognition of impact the project will make on the town centre, RWP Properties also received support from the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns initiative to the value of £770k and finance from Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council.

The centrepiece of the development will be the boutique hotel, which will offer eight double bedrooms — each fitted with beautiful furnishings and amenities, with the aim of attracting both leisure and business travellers seeking a luxurious and comfortable stay.

Adding further excitement to the development, however, is the inclusion of esteemed Swansea-based restaurant, Haystack, and a stylish new bar — aptly named ‘Needle’.

Expanding its reach from Swansea to the Valleys, Haystack in Merthyr Tydfil will serve breakfast, lunch, and evening menus, providing delectable dishes that cater to all palates. The business will also take advantage of an outside terrace at the rear of the property — offering an enchanting dining experience within a comfortable environment.

Recognising the importance of supporting local businesses, RWP Properties has also committed to maintaining popular café, Café N Joy — which already exists within the property. The entire café has undergone a thoughtful renovation, courtesy of RWP, to enhance its offerings, further contributing to the town centre’s vibrant culinary scene.

Meanwhile, other new amenities will include a purpose-built internal bike lock-up — catering to cyclists and encouraging sustainable town centre travel with secure lockers, cleaning equipment, and a repair space equipped with an air pump.

RWP Properties Director, Richard, continued: “Our vision for the redevelopment of this much-loved building was to create a space that celebrates the town's history while providing a contemporary, upscale visitor experience — and I feel that’s exactly what we have achieved.

“I would like to extend my gratitude to Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council and Welsh Government for its support in making this ambitious venture possible. Like the Council, we see great promise in the town’s future as a thriving tourist destination — and we are honoured to be a part of the wider journey.

“I look forward to welcoming customers to experience our bespoke blend of history, luxury, exceptional dining, and luxurious overnight stays. Together, with the support of the community and the Council, we aim to create a landmark destination that will shine bright in the heart of Merthyr Tydfil for years to come.”

Cllr. Michelle Symonds, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Housing and Public Protection said: “I wait in eager anticipation for the arrival of this sophisticated and vibrant addition to Merthyr Tydfil town centre — which will no doubt bring a sense of pride for locals and newfound interest for tourists from the wider Valleys, Cardiff and beyond.

“It’s clear that the vision of RWP Properties matches that of Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council and our wider town centre Masterplan — which aims to transform Merthyr Tydfil into a tourism capital of the Valleys by 2035. I’d like to send my congratulations to everyone involved as we all look ahead to future filled with possibilities for Merthyr Tydfil.”