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Pen-y-maes

Capel Y Ffin, near Abergavenny, Mid Wales
Sleeps 5
Bedrooms 3
Bathrooms 1
Change Fri
Dogs welcome 2
4 star
Parking on site / nearby
Highchair available
Travel Cot available
Towels included
Family friendly
Quirky
Fishing on site / nearby
Games / Play facilities
Internet access
Open fire / wood burner
Decorated for Christmas
Country houses
12 more

At a glance

  • A charming 19th century stone farmhouse set deep in the foothills of the Black Mountains
  • Exposed wooden beams and warming wood burners add further character to this detached property
  • Get competitive with your friends in the games room playing table tennis
Property code: OC-93362

This beautiful detached property in a remote location is ideal for families, friends, and up to two lucky pups. Surrounded by the rugged scenery of the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, your pups can lead you along the well-waymarked footpaths up onto the ridges of the Black Mountains. By car, you can follow the mountain pass onto the base of Hay Bluff (3.5 miles) and from the top enjoy breathtaking views across the countryside.

Access to this characterful property is via a gated farm track that can be bumpy. Enter via a heavy wooden door through the porchway into the open-plan living area, full of rustic charm and picture windows. Relax on the comfortable lounge seating with your canine companions snoozing and head to the dining area for meals. The kitchen runs along the rear of the open-plan space and is in the old farmhouse part of the property, offering everything you need to rustle up a hearty meal. You can access the barn section with vaulted ceilings, a table tennis table and other games from here. A staircase leads to the first floor with a shower room and three bedrooms within the eaves: two double rooms and a single room. Outside, the gardens are open to the adjoining farmland and walking trails. Enjoy a small walled area with seating, a secluded pond area with seating and great views to the front of the property.

Explore the area’s history, nature and culture and head to the vibrant market town of Hay-on-Wye (8 miles), located on the banks of the River Wye and known as the ‘Town of Books’. Whether you prefer mountain biking or hiking, Mynydd Du Forest (19 miles) has trails for each. For something different, head to Crickhowell (19 miles) and take a boat trip on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal.

  • 3 bedrooms – 2 doubles, 1 single
  • 1 shower room with WC, additional WC in the utility room
  • Electric oven and induction hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, and dishwasher
  • Utility room with washing machine and dryer
  • 2 wood burners providing heating for the ground floor (logs included)
  • No central heating in the bedrooms although good insulation and wood burners enable the house to warm up fairly well
  • Under heated blankets are available
  • Underfloor heating in the shower room
  • Games room with table tennis, darts and board games
  • Open-aspect gardens with table and chairs and pond area (young children to be supervised at all times)
  • WiFi although the connection may not always be reliable.
  • Secure bike storage space available in the utility room
  • Smoke alarm
  • Carbon monoxide detector
  • Private parking for up to 2 cars - please do not park between Pen-y-Maes and neighbouring property
  • Shop 8 miles, pub 3.5 miles -We recommended that you bring groceries with you as supermarket delivery vans cannot easily access the steep, narrow drive and have been known to get stuck. The nearest shop is 8 miles away. Tea and coffee is provided and the cupboards contain a few other useful basics.
  • The majority of electricity is produced via solar panels, and the private water supply is provided by a natural spring which, so far, has never run dry
  • Dogs are to be kept on a lead at all times on the grounds
  • This property will be decorated for Christmas
  • Arrival: 16:00 onwards
  • Departure: before 10:00
  • 2 dogs allowed. Additional charges may apply

Avril Hitchman

This property is personally managed by Avril.

Reviews

From guests that have stayed at the property.

Based on 36 guest ratings

Overall cleanliness
Overall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 stars4.9
Overall equipment
Overall equipment 4.9 starsOverall equipment 4.9 starsOverall equipment 4.9 starsOverall equipment 4.9 starsOverall equipment 4.9 stars4.9
Overall comfort
Overall comfort 4.7 starsOverall comfort 4.7 starsOverall comfort 4.7 starsOverall comfort 4.7 starsOverall comfort 4.7 stars4.7
Overall location
Overall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 stars4.9

Reviewed by Jane 6th June 2026

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

Great place- just as described- simple and very thoughtful- perfect for a quite relaxing break.

Reviewed by Susan 31st May 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We were fortunate to have great weather which meant we could fully enjoy the outdoor spaces, the garden has plenty of seating with quiet nooks and the sound of running water from the brook that flows through the garden (there are ponds so vigilance with children and pets is necessary). The kitchen was very well equipped with plenty of pots and pansRead more and a great range cooker. The water is freshly drawn from the hills, with a very impressive water purification unit, solar heats the water, it is pretty off grid but toilets are normal (not compost style). The best thing about this property is the staggering view down the valley, with the little chapel at Capel y Ffin nestled surrounded by green fields and hills. There is so much history in the area (if you like that sort of thing), walking, horse riding and just plain relaxing! The road to Capel y Ffin is single track for quite a distance with passing places but it can make the journey fun, the entrance to the property is steep but safe (not so sure in poor weather) and the parking can be a wee bit limited as the neighbours sometimes take two spaces (there are three in total). It is a bit of a hike to the nearest shops in Hay, so planning ahead is advised and we definitely found it useful that the property had basics including cooking oil, seasonings and spices. There is a local farm on route from Hay that sells wonderful eggs at 1.50 for 6. Honestly, if you like peace and quiet, beautiful bird song (there was a very vocal cuckoo living close by) and a comfortable, homely place with pleasing and quirky art work and decor, you will love this. There is also a games room with a dart board and ping pong table. Emma, the owners daughter is friendly and helpful, we could not ask for more! Hide

Reviewed by Patricia 16th May 2026

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

The cottage is beautiful and has everything you need for your stay. The 8 mile single track to the cottage is beautiful, though always pay close attention to oncoming vehicles and animals on the road. It is a home from home and not just a holiday cottage somebody has dumped their old furniture in. Everything is beautiful and fits well to the stylRead moree of the cottage. We really enjoyed our stay here as did our dogs, and we would for sure come back again! Hide

Reviewed by Jeremy 10th April 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

This is a very special place, clearly much loved by its owners and full of old fashioned charm. The cottage itself is very well equipped (lots of kitchen equipment, including dishwasher, microwave and big range oven), and the ping pong table was a bonus. It is a mountain house, up a steep track, warmed by a woodburner downstairs and in terms of theRead more distance from shops, it is quite remote - so maybe not ideal for those who want to be able to nip out for extra supplies, and who are after a house with the feeling of a boutique hotel. But for people who love the outdoors, incredible views, dark skies and a sense of being back in time, it is truly magical. The valley in spring could not be more beautiful, and the walks from the cottage are heavenly. Emma and Ian very friendly and super helpful. We definitely hope to come back. Hide

Reviewed by Anne 7th April 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Stunning location for this cozy cottage, well equipped and decorated with taste . We spent a lovely Easter break with very cold weather but the wood fired stove and the heated blankets were more than sufficient to keep us warm. Great bathroom and shower. Would love to go visit again.

Reviewed by Maia 5th April 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We really loved the property, great for families who want to be surrounded by nature in quiet, peaceful surroundings. The owners have made it as comfortable as possible whilst retaining the uniqueness and history of the property. Highly recommend!

Reviewed by Oliver 20th February 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Pen-y-maes is a lovely cottage. The location is amazing. Stunning views and walks from the front door. Peaceful and cosy. The cottage is well equipped and full of character. We will return!

Reviewed by Karen 30th January 2026

Guest rating 3 starsGuest rating 3 starsGuest rating 3 starsGuest rating 3 starsGuest rating 3 stars

Lovely cottage and location, for summer months only, winter time not fit for purpose the 10 mile drive on a narrow lane to get there is treacherous, the track up to cottage needs a 4x4 in wet weather you are engulfed with red slippy clay and the cottage's only source of heating 2 log burners need hourly loading up, to stay in and provide any warmthRead more.....the views are incredible, and I would imagine in spring and summer would be a perfect location, but winter not ideal for relaxing or being cosy. Hide

Reviewed by Alfie 30th December 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We fell in love with Pen Y Maes as soon as we arrived. Great spot, lovely cosy home, cool art and authentic vibes. It was incredibly well stocked with kitchen and dining equipment for cheffing, baking, etc. Plus, there was enough firewood to keep all of Wales warm. We would love to keep this gem to ourselves! We will be back.

Reviewed by Charlotte 23rd December 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Superb holiday over Christmas! Stunning location, beautiful rustic cottage with peaceful gardens. A well equipped kitchen (even for a Christmas Dinner) The owners couldn't do enough to ensure we were well settled and happy. A huge supply of logs for the burners and to top it off a toasty electric blanket for getting into bed at night. Hot powerful Read moreshower, which was most welcome after a frosty hike. Lots of little touches to make sure everything has been thought of. Hide

Reviewed by Colin 7th November 2025

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

What a fantastic place! Arrived at night with no clue of the location/views. Woke up to spectacular sunrise and views down the valley. Cottage is lovely - full of character with a great relaxing feel about it. We will definitely be back!

Reviewed by Sherzad 27th October 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We had a lovely time and relaxing, it is a good place for family. This is a nice place walks and the house has good views.

Reviewed by Jamie 19th September 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We absolutely loved our stay here. The location, design of the house, and amenities were all perfect for a long weekend away. We would recommend staying here for a fun and atmospheric trip away!

Reviewed by Flora 12th September 2025

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

The cottage is super homely and well equipped with an amazing shower and great oven/hobs. Perfect for walking out into nature or staying in around the fire. Will definitely come again in future.

Reviewed by Julian 5th September 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We loved the house and its location. The views are sensational, the walking excellent. The house is generously equipped, spotless and full of character. We loved the individual ceramic dishes, the pictures and the selection of books. Table tennis was great fun. The wonderfully efficient log burning stove with the limitless supply of logs means thatRead more whatever the weather the family room is warm and cosy. Highly recommended. Hide

Reviewed by Mark 22nd August 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Emma does a great job making sure the cottage is well equipped with laundry and towels. Very clean to a high standard. Well stocked with everything to provide a home from home experience. Games room is the prefect addition for family fun. We cannot fault it. The perfect retreat.

Reviewed by Suzanne 3rd August 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

A lovely cottage, very well equipped with everything you could possibly need. The location is great for walking and chilling out. It was lovely to just get away from everything and hear only the birds, sheep, and the occasional passing walker.

Reviewed by V 13th June 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Pen y Maes is a truly magical place and it was hard to leave! The location is wonderful with stunning views of the Llanthony valley and immediate access to the Black Mountains with fantastic walks, waterfalls, Welsh ponies and majestic views at Hay Bluff. The house is comfortable and cosy. Great to have a wood burning stove and the table-tennis tabRead morele provides good fun for adults and children alike. The garden is beautiful and Hay on Wye is nearby for bookshops, the castle, shops & restaurants. Hide

Reviewed by Julie-Ann 30th May 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

A beautiful cottage in a stunning setting. Bags of character and personality, lots of little places to relax and drink coffee in the garden. Very relaxing.

Reviewed by Sarah 23rd May 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

A fantastic farmhouse in a quiet secluded valley that seemed miles away from civilisation. It was very well equipped with kitchen equipment and entertainment options considering the property is largely offline.

Reviewed by Bridget 25th April 2025

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

The cottage is well-equipped and beautifully located. We had lovely weather and very much enjoyed the garden and barbecue. Just two warnings. It is reached by a poor quality road for eight-ten miles in either direction (although there are lovely views), and it is best to stay with family or intimate friends as the bedrooms and bathroom are not sounRead mored-proof! Hide

Reviewed by Laurel 11th April 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

This is an amazing place. Walking, pony trekking and bird watching were fabulous. The accommodation is so special, being remote in a beautiful location. We will definitely return.

Reviewed by Petra 4th April 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We had an amazing week staying at Pen Y Maes cottage. Such a peaceful and magical place with stunning views. We loved the location with so many nice walks on the doorstep. The cottage was clean and equipped with all we needed. Table tenis was a bonus! We would love to come back soon and definitely recommend this cottage to anyone who loves watchingRead more sheep grazing on hills and listening to buzzing bumblebees :-) Hide

Reviewed by Charles 28th March 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We really enjoyed our stay. The cottage is very comfortable and well equipped with lots of interesting art works on the walls. Beautiful peaceful area. Plentiful supply of very good firewood for the stoves. The wifi was pretty reliable too.

Reviewed by Michael 27th December 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

A great mid winter break. Breath taking scenery with a cozy cottage to come back to. Lovely extra games room on wet days with an eclectic library for all tastes. Most definitely recommend to friends. Thanks for allowing us to share a special part of Wales.

Reviewed by Sebastian 8th November 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Pen-y-maes, a charming cottage nestled in an idyllic location, proved to be the perfect escape. From the moment we arrived, the car became redundant as a network of enchanting walking trails unfolded right from our doorstep. A week simply wasn't enough to explore all the paths and hidden gems surrounding this delightful retreat. The nearby town of Read moreHay-on-Wye, a haven for book lovers, offered a charming day trip with its countless bookshops and inviting cafes. Hide

Reviewed by Nigel 21st September 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Characterful old house tastefully decorated, in the most picturesque location, ideal for cosy family holidays whatever the weather, and rewarding walks in every direction.

Reviewed by Clare 31st August 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Amazing! Pen-y-maes is a beautiful cottage in a beautiful location. It is so well set up that it feels more like a home than a holiday cottage. We did not move the car for the first week as there are some fabulous walks from the door and the garden is so lovely, you do not actually want to head out! When it rained we alternated between sitting by tRead morehe log burner and playing table tennis. We had a brilliant holiday and even got a glimpse of the Northern Lights due to the dark skies. Thanks! Hide

Reviewed by Mark 23rd August 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

A lovely week spent in Pen y Maes. Well looked after. I'd recommend staying here.

Reviewed by Hollie 17th August 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The cottage is exceptional. The area is very isolated and required a 30 minute drive down a single country track to access.

Reviewed by Abby 9th August 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

The location was just so beautiful, and your house was so great to be in.We hope to stay at Pen y maes again sometime. Llanthony Valley and the surrounding area is such a special place .

Reviewed by Josie 2nd August 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Pen-y-Maes is very special - it has so much character (difficult for the photos to do that justice) and a beautiful garden with wonderful views. We really enjoyed walking to the waterfall and babbling streams (a short walk) where we would hang out with a picnic and a book. We also enjoyed the road to Hay-on-Wye, and pottering about this wonderful tRead moreown with its many offerings. Would highly recommend. Hide

Reviewed by Claire 26th July 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

This is a wonderful, quiet and remote farmhouse in a beautiful location. It is spacious, comfortable and very well-equipped. It is a relaxing place to spend time in, from the eclectic vintage art on the walls to the many seating areas in the garden. The table tennis and darts board were well used! Close by, there are many spectacular - and steep - Read morewalks and Hay-on-Wye is a scenic drive away. The cellar bar at Llanthony Priory a few miles down the road is special too. Hide

Reviewed by Bill 19th July 2024

Guest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 stars

We had a really great few days here. Very well equipped kitchen and comfy bed with walks in all directions. Beautiful.

Reviewed by Monika 7th July 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

This has been one of the best properties we have stayed in! It had the most amazing views, everything you need (it is literally a home away from home) and even more: electric blankets, a beautiful wood burning stove and delicous water from the spring. The area was truly stunning with lovely walks straight from the cottage and great places to visit Read morenearby. Also, we were very fortunate as WiFi has just been installed. We are feeling genuinely refreshed! Thank you! Hide

Reviewed by Alice 21st June 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We really enjoyed our stay. So peaceful and off the beaten track but an easy enough drive to nearby towns. The views were amazing with some great walks right out the front door. The place had every thing we needed - was very well kitted out and we enjoyed the added games and ping pong table. Would recommend and we hope to stay again.

34 more
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Location

Map
Note: As the postcode is used to identify the general area of the property, it may not always reflect its precise location, therefore please only use this map as a guide.
Canine Cottages is a trading name of The Travel Chapter Limited | The Travel Chapter Limited is registered in England and Wales. | Registered office Travel Chapter House, Gammaton Road, Bideford, EX39 4DF. Company No. 02431506 | VAT reg: 143053210.