The Old Shop

About this property

The Old Shop is a delightful Grade II listed cottage resting in the rural village of Painscastle, Powys. Ideal for families and friends seeking a peaceful escape near Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, this pet-friendly abode boasts a toasty woodburning stove,enclosed garden and a roll top bath in the en-suite bathroom. After pulling up roadside, you’ll step out to admire the stone exterior of The Old Shop, a Grade II listed cottage steeped in history, where birdsong drifts across the garden and the village beyond. Push open the door and feel the warmth of wooden flooring underfoot as you enter a space that blends heritage with homely charm.

The living/dining room invites you to settle into its mix of sofas and armchairs, or perch on the window seat to watch the world go by. Gather around the wooden dining table for hearty meals, all while the woodburning stove glows in the background. A glance towards the inglenook reveals an original bread oven, a captivating feature that whispers stories of the past as flames flicker nearby. Continue into the kitchen, where a feature bread oven nook stands as a nod to the property’s Grade II listed status, adding rustic character to a space equipped for every culinary need. Picture yourself preparing a family feast while chatting with loved ones, the scent of fresh ingredients mingling with the aroma of logs from the stove.

When it’s time to unwind, slip into the snug, a quiet retreat with a sofa and TV, ideal for film nights or a peaceful hour with a book. Upstairs, three thoughtfully arranged bedrooms await beneath sloping ceilings. The king-size room promises restful nights, while the double boasts an indulgent en-suite with a roll-top bath for long, luxurious soaks. A twin room completes the sleeping arrangements, perfect for children or friends sharing. The ground-floor bathroom offers another spot to refresh, with a full-size bath and basin for leisurely mornings. Step back outside to savour the garden’s charm. Spread out on the large lawn for a picnic, linger on the sunken patio with a glass of wine, or take in the far-reaching views from the additional slate terrace overlooking the village as dusk settles over the rooftops.

Beyond the garden gate, adventure awaits. Begin with Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, where you can stride along dramatic ridges, pause at serene lakes that mirror the sky, and marvel at waterfalls tumbling through ancient woodland. For a change of pace, head to Hay-on-Wye, a haven for book lovers, where winding streets reveal independent bookshops, riverside walks, and cafés serving homemade treats. Further afield lies Hereford, steeped in history, where you can explore the magnificent cathedral housing the Mappa Mundi, browse vibrant markets for local produce, and stroll along the River Wye for picture-perfect views. The Old Shop is more than a place to stay; it’s a gateway to unforgettable experiences, blending Grade II listed character with the beauty of Powys and its captivating surroundings.

The pretty village of Painscastle lies just five and a half miles from the famous town of Hay-on-Wye, and takes its name from its ancient fortress, where today only large earthworks remain. Standing only three miles from the England/Wales border, the village boasts a charming real ale inn serving good food, and is surrounded by scenic countryside. Under six miles away is the historic market town of Hay-on-Wye. Settled beside the River Wye, it’s renowned for its world-famous Hay Festival of Literature and with its many specialist bookshops, antiques shops, restaurants and cafes, it’s a popular destination for holidaymakers wishing to enjoy the leisure activities and beautiful scenery of the Wye Valley. Builth Wells can be reached within a pleasant drive, and is home to an 18-hole golf course, a pony trekking centre and a selection of amenities, plus each July it plays host to the Royal Welsh Show. The surrounding countryside provides excellent walking, cycling, bird watching, fishing and canoeing opportunities, amongst many more, together with a variety of tourist attractions, including the Black Mountains, The Three Castles Walk, Offa's Dyke pathway, the Mortimer Trail and the lovely walk to Hergest Ridge, which is said to have inspire the music of Elgar. The ancient city of Hereford, the epitome of picturesque England, lies just over half an hour’s drive away, with its magnificent cathedral housing its famous chained library and Mappa Mundi, and medieval bridge set over the winding River Wye. A supremely appealing area, and a perfect year-round holiday destination.

Accommodation

Three bedrooms: 1 x king-size, 1 x double with en-suite roll-top bath, basin and WC, 1 x twin.

Ground-floor bathroom with bath, basin and WC.

Kitchen.

Living/dining room with woodburning stove.

Snug with TV

Oil central heating.

Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge with icebox, kettle, toaster.

TV, WiFi.

Fuel, power and starter pack for woodburning stove included in rent.

Bed linen and towels included in rent.

Roadside parking available.

Enclosed garden with patio, lawn and furniture.

One well-behaved dog welcome.

Sorry, no smoking.

Shop 4.2 miles, pub 0.1 miles.

Note: Please take care as the lawn area in the garden is raised; supervise children.

Note: There is a sloping ceiling in the bedrooms on the first floor; take care.