Riverside Retreat - Historic Charm Hay-on-Wye, Powys

At just 0.5 miles from the centre of Hay-on-Wye and the River Wye, this early Victorian lodge offers something for everyone. You might choose to explore the second-hand and antiquarian bookshops, boutiques, antique shops and art galleries in the town, before dining in one of the local eateries or enjoying a picnic by the river. Alternatively, you might prefer to burn a little more energy and hire a canoe or take to your bike, or perhaps make the short journey south to The Black Mountains, or the 15-mile trip to Brecon, your gateway to miles of mountain trekking and cycling among the peaks of the Brecon Beacons.

Now over 200 years old, this slightly quirky old cottage has lots of delightful period features including flagstone floors, oak beams, oak doors and floorboards. In places there is low headroom and despite being set on one level there are a couple of steps up into the bedrooms, which might not suit guests with limited mobility. Featuring a separate kitchen, dining room and living room, the lodge comfortably accommodates four guests, with a wood burner in the living room for cosy nights in and patio doors in the dining room that open up onto a sunny terrace on warmer days. The bathroom features both a bath and electric shower, depending on your preference, and a choice of two elegantly styled bedrooms – one king-size and one twin.

The lodge is situated in a large garden with a lawn area and terrace with garden furniture. The terrace is a wonderful spot to quietly sit on sunny days, admiring the views up the hill or down the valley to Hay-on-Wye, or to wind down in the evening after a day of exploration. Don’t forget to bring your BBQ!