One night near Cardiff ?

[blamethecat]

Off to Bluestone in May but thinking of travelling part way the day before so need a hotel for one night, probably around Cardiff ? DP, Ds (age 4) and myself. Is something like Travelodge the best bet ? Should we stick with Cardiff or maybe Swansea ? will probably arrive mid-day and leave early morning so will want something to do for an afternoon and somewhere to eat and all without spending a fortune !

If they have a special deal on try the Celtic Manor. Its about 20min from Cardiff but the facilities (playground/Pool etc )are excellent and we always found it very child friendly. Otherwise try somewhere around Swansea-Marriot in the marina, Village Hotel not too far out of town, Towers Hotel in Jersey Marine about 10 mins drive from Swansea.
Go out to the Mumbles, walk along the prom, have an ice cream in Verdis, or a meal at Castellamare on the road out of Mumbles towards the Gower with a nice playground nearby.

Not a long drive to Bluestone afterwards.

Try somewhere in Cardiff Bay. They have a Travellodge and there is loads to do in the bay for the kids. Look up Techniquest. It's a science museum down there. There is also loads of places to eat and the dr who exhibit. A short walk away (or train or bus) is Cardiff city centre. The castle is worth a visit.