Plans have been submitted to Vale of Glamorgan Council for a major upgrade to historic Holm House in Penarth, a luxury retreat that has hosted celebrities including Daniel Craig, Harry Styles, Tyson Fury, and David Hasselhoff. The proposals include outdoor ice baths, a sauna, hot tub, and changing rooms in the rear courtyard.
Details of the Proposed Development
The application, submitted by Hedd Spa, states: “The development… would make a positive contribution to the overall attractiveness and offer of the hospitality business, enhancing its leisure provision and supporting its continued viability.” The outdoor wellness area will be a quiet zone with a maximum occupancy of six users at any time, operating from 09:00 to 20:00 Monday to Saturday and 10:00 to 18:00 on Sundays and bank holidays.
According to the application, there will be no walk-in access, unmanaged public use, separate admission point, independent hiring, alcohol service, private parties, events, hen/stag bookings, or amplified entertainment. Guests will be briefed on quiet-use requirements, and breaches may result in the session ending.
History and Reopening of Holm House
Holm House operated as a boutique hotel until it closed in 2024 due to the Covid-19 pandemic and cost of living crisis. It reopened in 2025 as a luxury retreat featuring the popular restaurant Silures. The planning application describes the development as “carefully designed” to be “visually attractive” and “clearly functional,” suitable for a “high-quality hospitality and leisure offering.”
Controversy arose during the reopening when the restaurant prematurely celebrated receiving an alcohol licence before the council’s decision. Local residents expressed concerns about noise and anti-social behaviour. Director Daf Andrews apologised, stating the social media post was made “on the basis if we received the licence… this is how we would celebrate,” adding, “We would never assume… and we are certainly not spreading misinformation.”
Decision Timeline
A target date for the council’s decision on the new development has been set for August 28, 2026.
