The Longhouse Wales

Glorious views in an unspoilt corner of Wales

If you haven’t heard of the Clwydian Hills in North Wales, close to England’s border, it’s no surprise. This undiscovered Eden is one of the country’s best-kept secrets, where the green hills sweep down to your garden gate, birds of prey soar and rare butterflies flit through the grasslands. And right at the heart of it lies The Longhouse.

Dip your head as you enter beneath ancient beams and low ceilings, run your hand along the exposed Welsh stone walls, and warm yourself in the glow of the log burner. This cottage may be cosy but it has room for up to 16 guests in seven luxury ensuite bedrooms. The country kitchen, complete with four-oven Aga, finds space for four fridges, three freezers and two dishwashers, so cooking for the crowd is easy and pleasurable. Eat at the long table and retire to the bar area for a convivial evening. Or congregate in the living room, on leather Chesterfield sofas and wing-backed chairs, to stream a movie via the superfast Wi-Fi.

Outside, there’s an acre of private garden from which to soak up the mountain views in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With a dining area, plenty of relaxed seating, and a sheltered 8-person hot tub, the patio will become one of your favourite areas to gather. And the gas barbecue can be fired up instantly for breakfast bangers, lunchtime grills or al fresco meals in the evening sunshine.

Bring your hiking boots, because this is walking country. Hills, heathlands and forests are all on your doorstep, making this the ideal large cottage for a friends’ reunion or an extended family gathering.

Selected by Gareth

Learn more about our handpicking process