Talybont-on-Usk, located in the heart of Brecon Beacons National Park, offers a wealth of attractions including a canal, two rivers, a reservoir, hills, woods, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. The village also features local arts and crafts, a village shop with a Wi-Fi cafe, three pubs, and a restaurant. From Gilestone Farm and Talybont, you can embark on a variety of scenic walks: take a leisurely stroll along the canal, challenge yourself with an epic circular hike covering the Central Beacons, or enjoy a shorter walk around the beautiful Talybont Waterfalls. A short drive away, Cantref Adventure Farm offers riding stables, an animal farm, and Europe’s longest sledge ride, while the Play Barn at Brynich is located on the outskirts of Brecon. Further afield, the Red Kite Feeding Centre near Trecastle, the Brecon Mountain Railway, and the stunning National Showcaves at Dan yr Ogof are all within a 30-40 minute drive.
Travel along the picturesque tree-lined drive, and midway up, you’ll catch sight of this charming farmhouse, set on a working farm spanning 240 acres along the banks of the River Usk. The house exudes timeless charm, featuring a cosy wood-burning stove, a four-oven Aga, a large pitch pine kitchen table, and beautifully furnished bedrooms. With ample space for 13 guests and up to three dogs, it’s an ideal spot for groups and extended families to gather. You’ll see sheep and cattle grazing in the surrounding fields and plenty of wildlife, including pheasants, buzzards, red kites, and herons. A short walk from the farmhouse leads to Gilestone Pond, a peaceful haven for wildlife. The owner, passionate about conservation, supports several community initiatives on the farm and in the nearby village of Talybont-on-Usk.
Step into this classic Georgian family home through the porch, and settle in as you choose bedrooms, unpack, and put the kettle on for a warm welcome. After a day of exploring, cosy up by the wood burner in its charming inglenook fireplace in the main lounge. There’s also a second lounge for those seeking some quiet time. The bright kitchen, with its four-oven AGA, makes it easy to prepare meals for everyone, and the large kitchen table provides ample dining space. An additional kitchen is perfect for storing leftovers or packing picnics for the day’s adventures. After dinner, head to the conservatory area for a drink, or step outside to the enclosed garden, a perfect spot for relaxing, dining, and play. As you explore the house, you’ll discover many original features like oak floorboards and beams.
When it’s time for bed, head upstairs via the original oak staircase to find seven beautiful bedrooms, each offering comfortable bedding to ensure you wake up refreshed and ready for the day ahead. The first floor also features two family bathrooms and a shower room. The bedrooms include a spacious double room in the eaves, a master suite with an intricately carved four-poster bed, three additional double rooms, a twin room, and a single room - all tastefully decorated with vibrant touches.
Outside, the extensive grounds offer plenty of space for everyone to enjoy. The enclosed garden is perfect for playing games or simply relaxing in a garden chair. Ample on-site parking is available for guests.