Llanthony Castaway
- Premier host
- Llanthony, Monmouthshire, Wales
- See on map
- Sleeps: 2
- Bedroom: 1
- Bathroom: 1
- Minimum stay: 2/3 nights
Featured as one of The Times’ 30 Epic Escapes in 2021, Llanthony Court Castaway is blissfully encircled by lush, rolling scenery, in a ‘secret’ Black Mountains valley that’s also a Dark Sky reserve.
Although Llanthony Valley is only twelve miles from bustling Hay-on-Wye, you’ll feel as though you’ve left civilisation far behind as you head up through the mountains, and along the single-track road that leads to your idyllic Castaway retreat.
A cosily restored, warmly rustic railway carriage set within 270 private acres of family-run farmland, you’ll also be surrounded by the fascinating 12th century ruins of Llanthony Priory – not to mention over 500 Welsh Cross ewes! – for that magical feeling of time having completely stopped in its tracks.
With no phone or internet access to be found in your calming Castaway, you can reconnect with your loved one in blissful peace, or revive that long-lost creative spirit… Llanthony Valley being the inspirational setting for a wealth of painters and writers through the ages, including JMW Turner and Eric Gill.
The living and sleeping space comes equipped with a downy kingsize bed, a crackling log burner to warm your evenings, and a compact kitchen with everything you’ll need to whip up tasty suppers, with all utensils and crockery supplied (so you can pack perfectly light.)
You’ll even find some foodie essentials waiting for you, including bread and butter, tea and coffee, and some newly laid free-range eggs for breakfast.
There’s a separate shower room just next door, complete with towels kept lovely and toasty by a heated rail, and a selection of locally made toiletries.
Keep readingAt a glance
- A lovingly renovated railway carriage for 2, privately secluded within Llanthony Valley, a ‘secret’ spot in the Black Mountains that’s just twelve miles from Hay-on-Wye.
- Part of The Times’ 30 Epic Escapes list for 2021, the area is described as feeling “thrillingly remote” thanks to the single-track access road that leads you through the mountains – ideal for couples looking to reconnect in tranquil comfort!
- There is a downy kingsize bed and full kitchen facilities inside the rustic carriage, with a separate shower room next door that features locally made toiletries and heated towels.
- A Dark Sky reserve, you can savour those twinkling stars as you fire up the pizza oven or huddle around the firepit by evening – don’t forget your telescope!
- Llanthony Priory is a ten-minute walk away, serving food in the Crypt bar. There is a café and pub close by, and the nearest shop is 15 minutes’ drive away.
Facilities
Restored carriage, sleeps 2 guests. Access via private farm track with private parking. Living/sleeping space: kingsize bed with linen, log-burning stove with logs and kindling, seating, compact kitchen with two electric rings, oven, grill, fridge, freezer space, cooking utensils, crockery, cutlery, cafetiere, cleaning products, welcome basket with bread, fresh-laid eggs, tea, coffee, milk, salt, pepper, olive oil, packs of cards, board games, books on the local area. Shower room: WC, shower, towels, heated towel rail, locally made shampoo and soap. Outside: furnished deck with fairy lights, firepit, pizza oven. EV charge point.
Local Activities
Walking, cycling, wildlife watching, historic sites, churches, castles, village shops, cafés, pubs, bookshops
More information
Once you’re all settled in, why not light the firepit and watch this mesmerising part of the world go by from your furnished, fairy-lit deck? Llanthony Valley is a Dark Sky reserve, so if you’ve brought your telescope then you’ll be in for a twinkling treat as the stars make their appearance overhead.
What to do after that sound, silent night’s sleep? You could start by exploring your rural, wildlife-steeped surroundings (during which you might catch a glimpse of friendly owner Bryony and her dog Flash rounding up the sheep – don’t forget to wave hello!)
A mere ten-minute stroll will take you to the aforementioned Llanthony Priory, where you can enjoy home-made delights in the Crypt bar. Wander just a few minutes more to enjoy the charms of the local pub, or a slap-up afternoon tea in the village.
In the mood for a special treat? There are award-winning restaurants just half an hour away by car, or you could visit Hay-on-Wye, weaving your way in and out of quaint bookshops.
An area infused with ancient history, there are plenty of castles and churches to visit, and long, lazy walks to take, before you head back to your Castaway for another soft-glowing, laughter-fuelled evening with your loved one.
Things to note
Pets are not permitted.
Where you'll be staying
Llanthony, Monmouthshire
What the guests of Llanthony Castaway say
“There is no superlative for ‘perfect’ but if there was Castaway would be this. Well thought out, exquisite accommodation in a heavenly location. A much needed break. Thank-you so much.”
“Wow! What an incredible couple of days. The cabin is a work of art. As soon as we arrived we could feel our bodies decompress. This place is soaked in peace.”
“We had really high expectations before arriving all of which were exceeded. It is a stunning design concept which is so well thought through and our every needs were catered for by the delightful Bryony and team. We will most certainly be back.”