Clearbrook Lodge
Description
Llanarthney 1.4 miles.
Clearbrook Lodge is one of two Grade II listed Georgian stone cottages, serenely located in stunning Carmarthenshire countryside (alongside Meadow Cottage, also available), on a small, secure and very private country estate; Full of character and built in c 1831 along with Clearbrook Hall, Clearbrook Lodge enjoys an elevated position with private enclosed garden, set in beautifully landscaped grounds, paddocks, and managed woodland (with owners’ zip wire for use by guests at their own risk) and a lake directly behind; The cottage, hidden away on this small private country estate on the outskirts of Llanarthney is mentioned in the Pevsner Architectural Guide for Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion and was the former stable block for Clearbrook Hall.
It offers an ideal retreat for families and friends seeking a relaxing escape; Within the working private estate, which has gates and is fully enclosed are 55 acres of grounds, wildflower meadows and ancient woodland; The estate has an acre lake with an island in its midst, ponds, an apiary, flock of sheep and friendly dogs; After a day spent wandering around the estate, past sheep, bee hives and over wooden bridges spanning winding streams, why not go for a wild swim in the lake or paddle board around the island in its centre; As the sun fades, enjoy a barbeque under the open skies with the sound of birdsong and nature, before moving inside and gathering around a cosy woodburning stove.
Sustainability is at the heart of Clearbrook, with spring-fed water, solar power, and lake-sourced heating ensuring your stay treads lightly on the land.
With a woodburning stove, calming countryside setting, and welcoming up to two well-behaved pets, this delightful abode welcomes families and groups of friends, idyllic for a rural retreat; Step inside and be charmed by the kitchen/dining room, fully equipped for you to prepare and enjoy meals.
Here, you can gather around the dining table and enjoy home-cooked meals, sharing stories of your day's adventures.
Adjacent is the sitting room, with an oak floor and large mantlepiece, woodburning stove, and large French doors where the original coaches would enter.
It offers a light and warm retreat where you can unwind in front of the Smart TV (Netflix, Amazon, etc.) whilst being warmed by the glow of the fire.
When it's time to retire for the evening, choose from three well-presented bedrooms; The large four-poster double bedroom boasts an en-suite with a walk-in shower, offering a private sanctuary for relaxation and the use of Farmers' Welsh lavender wash; The double and twin bedrooms are equally inviting, providing pleasant accommodation for the rest of the party and side and overhead windows to give extra light.
Outside, the enclosed rear garden is a haven for outdoor living with teak pergola and patio furniture, and a barbecue; Here, you can enjoy dining on the patio, use the barbecue on warm summer evenings, or relax with a good book.
Immerse yourself in the diverse beauty of the area, with unspoilt villages, castles, beaches (Coast Path 20 mins drive) as well as 2 of Wales 3 National Parks (Pembrokeshire and Brecon Beacons/Bannau Brycheiniog), and Gower, an Area of Outstanding National Beauty, all within 40 mins drive; The National Botanic Garden of Wales is right next door to Clearbrook, with its regency landscape and features, walks, lakes and waterfall, Norman Foster designed enormous Eden Project type glass and tropical house, double walled garden, array of stunning plants, regular events, dog friendly days, café, restaurant and garden centre.
Note: This property is one of two adjoining cottages, each sleeping 6, and can be booked together with Ref 1162283 Meadow Cottage, with both cottages sleeping up to 12 guests, with adjacent gardens that can be joined.
General information.
The rural village of Llanarthney is one of Carmarthenshire's best kept secrets, with ancient castle ruins, country walks, an outstanding delicatessen and cafe, village pub and medieval church.
The river Gwynon runs through it, whilst the Black Mountain Range, Brecon Beacons and River Tywi encircle it; Above the village is Paxton's Tower, a 19th-century cottage owned by the Landmark Trust, from where you can see Dryslwyn Castle, Dinefwr Castle, Dinefwr Park (National Trust) in nearby Llandeilo; Llandeilo itself is famous for its row of colourful houses overlooking the bridge over the river Tywi, independent shops, galleries, cafes, and nearby several medieval castles.
Nearby, Laugharne is a sleepy estuary village made popular by Dylan Thomas, former resident of the Boathouse (now a cafe and museum), whilst Llansteffan Beach, castle and coastal path is 20 mins drive.
Carmarthen is the oldest town in Wales, also on the Tywi and is larger, with a cinema, leisure centre, and shops such as Next and Marks and Spencer.
Gower, Pembrokeshire and the Brecon Beacons National Parks are only 35-45 mins drive away.
Explore the stunning Bannau Brycheiniog National Park in the Brecon Beacons, where magnificent landscapes and scenic walking trails await or journey to Carreg Cennen Castle for a taste of history and breathtaking views from its dramatic hilltop location; For a unique wildlife experience, don't miss the opportunity to visit The Red Kite Feeding Station and witness these majestic birds swooping and soaring in the skies above; Round off your day with a perfect fine dining experience at the celebrated Y Polyn fine dining restaurant, only 5 mins drive away, before returning to the tranquillity of Clearbrook, where your escape to the idyllic Welsh countryside awaits; Clearbrook has an interesting historical background and was built in c 1831 by the Abadam family, owners of the 'Middleton Hall Estate' purchased from Sir William Paxton in 1824 (now the National Botanic Garden of Wales); Formerly known as Clearbrook Cottage.
King Charles II later provided an Abadam Crest, to be found above the front door of the main house.
Your dates
Everything you'll need
- Wifi
- Baby Friendly
- Dishwasher
- Garden / Patio
- Open Fire
- Wifi
- Baby Friendly
- Dishwasher
- Garden / Patio
- Open Fire
- Off Road Parking
- Pet Friendly
- Smoke Free
- Near Walks
- Washing Machine
What guests are saying
Fantastic location on a small private estate with lovely walks through woodland and around the lake.
Very peaceful but still close enough to amenities and places of interest.
We Enjoyed our stay at clear Brook Cottage and the only thing that might stop us going back is the 5hr journey to get there.
We were fortunate to have good weather, so made use of the Lake, Boat and Paddle Boards. We didn't need to buy anything for our stay, some places have the odd item missing, so that was a bonus. Lot's of places to travel to within 30mins if you venture out. The only small downside was the occasional WiFi issue, but it wasn't anything major. Overall it was a nice property set in quiet and lovely surroundings, just what you need if looking for a peaceful relaxing holiday.
Fantastic location with friendly/helpful but not intrusive hosts.
We loved walking around the grounds even in winter - bring some shoes you don't mind getting muddy for full access, but there are areas you can walk without getting muddy feet if needed. In the summer it would be amazing. The resident dogs are friendly but excitable. If you have a more nervous dog be aware and have treats to distract them/calm the introduction or avoid the times they are out. The patio area is secure for letting the dog out with chest high walls. The heating system kept the accomodation warm, and the wood burner added a lovely touch. Beds were comfortable and there was plenty of hot water in the tank for a shower and a bath in the evenings. Sarn checked that we had everything we needed. I would not hesitate to stay again if we are in the area.
Good to know
House Rules
Good housekeeping bond
This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £350
Smoking
Not permitted
Stay Information
Check-in / Check-out
16:00 / 10:00
Property ref
1162282
Parking
Designated parking place, Off Road Parking
Guest & Pet Policy
Pets
Allowed
Children
Children and infants welcome