Haybales & Horses

Haybales & Horses: Monmouthshire

Rolling countryside as far as the eye can see and quaint villages tucked into the valleys of Monmouthshire on your doorstep – this converted stone barn is an idyllic getaway. It’s a six-minute drive to the centre of Raglan where you can explore castle ruins, pop in to one of the cosy pubs or stock up at the traditional butcher and the local village shop. Further afield you’ll find the charming market town of Monmouth a fifteen-minute drive away. The home is blissfully quiet, with nothing but the occasional bleat of sheep or whinny of a horse in the surrounding fields. Out here, away from it all, you can see the canopy of stars from the private garden. During the day, this spot is perfect for a family barbecue, with dining on the patio. Inside, it’s open-plan living made cosy with a wood-burning stove set in the old stone wall of the living room. Period features like the old timber frame and arrow-slit windows have been retained, showing off the age of the building. The Aga and Belfast sink in the kitchen keep that farmhouse feel, perfect when paired with farm-fresh produce from the hole-in-the-wall farm shop just down the road.

Home truths:
*There is a farm shop nearby, but the closest supermarket is over three miles away so having a car is essential
*There is private parking for up to three cars on the enclosed driveway, and room for one more car in the lane
*Out in the heart of the Welsh countryside, mobile phone reception can be patchy
*Well behaved dogs are welcome but must stay downstairs
*Two of the bedrooms are upstairs, so these rooms may not be suitable for those with limited mobility