Large country houses and estates are popular places to visit in Wales. Their intriguing histories, large and well managed grounds and gardens and collections of artefacts attract visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Abercamlais house is such a place and has the added benefit of its own holiday cottage, known as Dovecote Cottage, within the grounds.
Abercamlais House
Abercamlais is an impressive Grade 1 listed mansion house located just inside the Brecon Beacons National Park. Built in the Middle Ages, Abercamlais was rebuilt in the eighteenth century and had various additions during the Victorian era. The history of the family who still to this day live in Abercamlais house can be tracked back through the generations and was recently the subject of a BBC documentary. During the summer the house is open to the public and tours are offered by a member of the family by appointment.
Dovecote Cottage
To the side of the mansion house sits Dovecote Cottage. The Cottage building was originally the dairy and laundry for the big house and you certainly won’t forget this as the old laundry rollers have been preserved and decorate the ceilings. The cottage has four bedrooms and can sleep up to eight people. Every window has a superb view of the gardens, the river Usk or the Dovecote itself. The kitchen is fully equipped with a homely oil-fired Aga and a log fire in the living room will keep you even warmer. For sunny days, a spacious conservatory allows you to enjoy views across the lawns. On a practical note, there are plenty of parking spaces and guests are required to bring their own towels. You’ll also have good mobile phone reception should you need to be in touch with those back home.
Fishing
The River Usk flows right past Dovecote Cottage and offers three miles of excellent trout and salmon fishing. A maximum of four rods is allowed and the owner must be consulted beforehand. The cost is usually around £12 per rod, per day which is a bargain if it gets you a delicious trout or salmon supper… but that all depends on your fishing skills of course! Please note that due to the proximity to the river, only children over eight years old may stay at Dovecote Cottage.
Places to visit
The local area offers an abundance of activities for adults and children alike. There are places to explore such as castles and caves, outdoor sports such as golf and pony trekking and beautiful woodlands, waterfalls and reservoirs for the nature lovers. The historical market town of Brecon offers a stunning ancient cathedral and Georgian architecture and a popular jazz festival every August.
