#{ServerName}
1 / 63  
2 / 63  
3 / 63  
4 / 63  
5 / 63  
6 / 63  
7 / 63  
8 / 63  
9 / 63  
10 / 63  
11 / 63  
12 / 63  
13 / 63  
14 / 63  
15 / 63  
16 / 63  
17 / 63  
18 / 63  
19 / 63  
20 / 63  
21 / 63  
22 / 63  
23 / 63  
24 / 63  
25 / 63  
26 / 63  
27 / 63  
28 / 63  
29 / 63  
30 / 63  
31 / 63  
32 / 63  
33 / 63  
34 / 63  
35 / 63  
36 / 63  
37 / 63  
38 / 63  
39 / 63  
40 / 63  
41 / 63  
42 / 63  
43 / 63  
44 / 63  
45 / 63  
46 / 63  
47 / 63  
48 / 63  
49 / 63  
50 / 63  
51 / 63  
52 / 63  
53 / 63  
54 / 63  
55 / 63  
56 / 63  
57 / 63  
58 / 63  
59 / 63  
60 / 63  
61 / 63  
62 / 63  
63 / 63  

The Castle At Painscastle

Painscastle, near Hay-on-Wye, Mid Wales
Sleeps 16
Bedrooms 9
Bathrooms 6
Change Fri
No Dogs
5 star
Parking on site / nearby
Highchair available
Travel Cot available
Towels included
Family friendly
Luxury
Games / Play facilities
Internet access
Working farm
Hot Tub
EV Charging
Open fire / wood burner
Downstairs bedroom
Decorated for Christmas
Downstairs bathroom
Pub nearby
Country houses
17 more

At a glance

  • Stunning detached property set adjoining a historic castle
  • Relax in your own private hot tub and gaze up at the night sky
  • Walk from your door to the Begwyns, a haven for walkers

 

Property code: OC-73069

Mark any special occasion in this grand Georgian property, a place where traditional features meet contemporary elements to create an exceptional place to stay. The old-timey charm of this Grade-II listed house has been maintained, with quirky bedrooms set under the eaves of the attic, original wooden beams and uneven flooring that adds character and personality. Inviting extended families or large groups of friends to stay, the property accommodates up to 16 guests with bedrooms set out across three floors. There’s more than enough room to unwind either separately or as a group, an ideal end to days filled with Powys walks and Brecon Beacons adventures.

Whilst traditional in so many senses, the property has been thoughtfully updated to feature elements such as Smart TVs, modern kitchen equipment and a hot tub to bring the abode into the 21st century. The kitchen itself is a social hub with a breakfast table for keeping the cook company and a formal dining room just a few steps up. You can also eat outdoors, exploring all the nooks and crannies of the garden to find a seating area, a BBQ and a fire pit dotted throughout. Back indoors, a generous selection of nine bedrooms and five bathrooms can be found across all three floors with a unique cottage staircase leading up to the bedrooms in the attic.

Whilst outdoor adventure is assured amongst the rolling hills of The Begwyns (1.5 miles) and the Black Mountain range of the Brecon Beacons National Park (approx. 10 miles), the accommodation is also within easy reach of the cultural hub of Hay-on-Wye (5.5 miles). A splendid tourist destination with a generous allowance of bookshops and an annual literary festival, any budding writer will no doubt take creative inspiration with a visit to this beloved border town.

  • 9 Bedrooms – 2 super king-size zip-and-links (which can be made up as twins on request at the time of booking), 3 king-size, 2 twins and 2 singles
  • 1 bathroom, 2 shower rooms, 1 en-suite bathroom and 2 en-suite shower rooms
  • Electric Range oven and hob, microwave, dishwasher, American style fridge/freezer and Dolce Gusto coffee machine
  • Utility room with washing machine and heated airer
  • Smart TV in lounge and snug
  • Wi-Fi included
  • Wood burner and open fire (first basket of logs included)
  • Private hot tub with gazebo (including towels) Please be mindful of your neighbours and keep the noise to a minimal during the evening
  • Games room with table tennis, a shuffleboard and a full sized pool table
  • Built in charcoal BBQ (charcoal not provided)
  • Please contact the owner with your preferred bed set up, details to be confirmed before arrival
  • Travel cot provided (please note that the a cot mattress and linen is not provided)
  • Ample private parking for 8 cars 
  • Shop 4 miles, pub within walking distance and golf club 2 miles
  • Care to be taken in the grounds due to varying ground levels and steps
  • Please note that fireworks are not permitted at this property or within the grounds
  • An electric vehicle charging point on-site (please refer to owner’s welcome pack for further information regarding payment)
  • Electric vehicle charging on site
  • This property will be decorated for Christmas
  • Arrival: 16:00 onwards
  • Departure: before 10:00
  • Sorry, no dogs allowed

 

Sally Thomas

This property is personally managed by Sally.

Reviews

From guests that have stayed at the property.

Based on 38 guest ratings

Overall cleanliness
Overall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 starsOverall cleanliness 4.9 stars4.9
Overall equipment
Overall equipment 4.8 starsOverall equipment 4.8 starsOverall equipment 4.8 starsOverall equipment 4.8 starsOverall equipment 4.8 stars4.8
Overall comfort
Overall comfort 4.9 starsOverall comfort 4.9 starsOverall comfort 4.9 starsOverall comfort 4.9 starsOverall comfort 4.9 stars4.9
Overall location
Overall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 stars4.9

Reviewed by Sheelah 14th April 2026

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Reviewed by Claire 11th April 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We had a fabulous time at the Castle. The house was well equipped for our big group of three families and finished to a high standard. The grounds are fabulous and the hot tub was lovely. We also had the wonderful treat of meeting all the lovely lambs. Wed definitely go back.

Reviewed by Liz 2nd April 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Excellent beautiful and welcoming house- fabulous facilities, very well equipped Kind and responsive hosts - large hot tub, lovely location, great food at pub down the road - we had a lovely time celebrating a 90th and 3rd birthday with all the family Highly recommend - we will be back

Reviewed by Julia 9th January 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

What a wonderful weekend, perfect in every way! We were celebrating our grandmothers 90th birthday with children and grandchildren.. and all our guests expressed their wonder at The Castle as the chosen venue. Spacious, clean, full of historic interest and unique character, lots for everyone to do all weekend, despite the winter weather outside is Read morewell kitted out and comfortable games room, two log burning fires and a cosseting hot tub. Such fun! Thank you for everything, Suzanne! Hide

Reviewed by Susan 28th November 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

I celebrated my 70th birthday with my family at this lovely characterful house. It was a perfect and peaceful location and there was so much to do. We took full of advantage of the hot tub and games room, the children loved it. The house was spotless and the kitchen was well equipped. The welcome pack was appreciated and especially the birthday carRead mored and wine a lovely personal touch. Hide

Reviewed by Sophie 14th November 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We have been doing our girls weekend for 15 years and this is the best place we have ever stayed - full of character, beautifully furnished and high quality facilities. Hosts are really thoughtful - printed instructions for those things that always confuse, like induction hobs, a lovely welcome treat and concern for us as the weather when we were aRead morerriving was awful. Could not ask for more. Hide

Reviewed by David 11th November 2025

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Lots of positives like the welcome pack, the cozy & warmth of arrival. Thanks. Lovely towels, decor & beautifully presented as well. We loved the history- 4 of us have taught motte & bailey so that was fantastic. We loved access to the games room & hot tub (a fewdipped in).

Reviewed by Matthew 17th October 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

One of the best properties weve stayed in! Clean, extremely well equipped, amazing games room, hot tub, EV charging, lots of bedrooms. Large parking area. Hosts were lovely and very easy to contact. We would highly recommend.

Reviewed by Susan 10th October 2025

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

The house is ideal for large groups as there is ample space catering for all generational needs. The jacuzzi and games room were a particular hit. There was a welcome pack on arrival which was very unexpected.

Reviewed by Evelyn 26th September 2025

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Party of 10 women walkers, we cooked for ourselves every evening; such a wonderful house - characterful, comfortable, cosy, historic & in such a stunning part of the world. This was our ninth annual group get together in a large property in walking country, and overall definitely in the top 2 of accommodation we have found. And we are all thinking Read moreabout coming back, either as this group, or with a different set of folk. Host Suzanne could not have been more welcoming and helpful - thank you. Hide

Reviewed by Heike 19th September 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

A group of 16 of us - adults and kids - spent a 60th birthday weekend in this beautiful house, and it was perfect. Spacious rooms made it easy for everyone to come together, while smaller rooms offered quiet retreats when needed. The house manages to feel grand yet cosy and welcoming. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered, and it was equippRead moreed with everything we needed for a memorable few days. The owners even left a birthday card and wine as a warm personal welcome. Hide

Reviewed by Stephanie 11th July 2025

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

Reviewed by Rachel 20th June 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The house is a lovely old house with everything you would need for a perfect stay, the games room is a great addition,. You will need a car to get about although there is a local pub within walking distance it is not open everyday. The owners have thought of everything from games to play to towels for the hot tub. The only thing that could of been Read morebetter during our stay was better weather, so that we could have made the most of the beautiful view from the top garden with the fire pit. Hide

Reviewed by Diana 30th May 2025

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

What an amazing place! I went with 14 close family and friends and had the most amazing 60th birthday experience you can imagine. We came together for meals, an evening around the fire pit or in the games room partying, but the rest of the time, people did their thing. At any time, some might be playing pool or ping pong, some by the fire pit, someRead more jamming or playing games in the living room, some off for a walk, some in the hot tub, some in the kitchen, one or two chilling in the snug. Fab! Hide

Reviewed by David 2nd May 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Wonderful property in a beautiful setting. An absolute privilege to stay in this stunning period property lovingly restored with excellent modern additions. The games room is a great feature and the hot tub was a great focal point to relax and unwind in after walking the nearby Offa's Dyke trail. Large, well equipped kitchen for cooking and large tRead moreable for bigger groups eating together. Great BBQ too. Highly recommended. Hide

Reviewed by Richard 25th April 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We had a fantastic stay at this beautiful house in Painscastle. Peaceful location, close to the local pub and nearby towns. The house was spotless, spacious, and well equipped. The garden, patio, and hot tub were perfect for sunny days, with stunning views from the upper garden is ideal for stargazing. The games room was a brilliant bonus. It trulyRead more felt like a home from home. Highly recommended for a relaxing and memorable break! Hide

Reviewed by David 18th April 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Painscastle is a great house in a fabulous location. We loved staying there.

Reviewed by Gaynor 11th April 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Everything at Painscastle was of such a high standard. The property itself was everything we hoped for and more. Ten adults and 6 children enjoyed 4 nights in beautiful bedrooms most with ensuite, all large and very clean. The rooms in the loft were such fun for the children with the sleigh beds and old roof beams. The kitchen was extremely spaciouRead mores and well equipped, the lounge spacious with lots of books and board games, the dining room sat 16 comfortably, and the lambs a big hit! Hide

Reviewed by Ann-marie 4th April 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We had an amazing time at The Castle and what a fantastic house! The kitchen was incredibly well equipped, making meal times a breeze, and the hot tub was such a treat for relaxing. The games room kept everyone entertained, and the lovely welcome gift was a thoughtful touch. The hosts were brilliant and friendly, helpful, and welcoming. One of the Read moreabsolute highlights was witnessing the lambs being born - such a special and memorable experience! We can't wait to come back next year. Highly recommend Hide

Reviewed by David 14th March 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We had an amazing stay here. Everyone came away saying how much they enjoyed the house. The games room was a real highlight, and was used consistently. The location was great as a base for walks, there is lots of parking and the house was spotless. We had such a fun weekend, thank you for making our stay so memorable.

Reviewed by Kathleen 21st February 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Lovely location. Fantastic games room. Beautiful, spacious property. Lovely welcome pack too.

Reviewed by Jeni 31st January 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The house and surroundings are beautiful. The facilities you have are excellent and we all loved every minute of our stay. Thank you!

Reviewed by Sofie 24th January 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The Castle at Painscastle is a fantastic house to hire for the weekend (or longer) as it fits all needs. Plenty of space for 16 adults, fantastic bedrooms and ensure for some. The hot tub and games room are a highlight. Location is rural but fantastic walks and views. Suzanne was an excellent host and communicated effectively. Thank you for being aRead more very special place to celebrate a 30th! Hide

Reviewed by Elaine 10th January 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

This grande house was well equipped and cosy provided everything anyone would need for their stay away. Including fabulous games room for all the family and that well earned Hot tub . Suzanne and Owain made us most welcome . Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a large house to accommodate their ever growing family. In tranquil surroundingsRead more . With plenty of walks. Hide

Reviewed by Suzanne 27th December 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

A fantastic family holiday with friends. Beautiful walks, charming house which catered for all ages. We had a very special week in this beautiful location.

Reviewed by Katy 29th November 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Excellent property and location. We were a group of University friends meeting back up for a mini christmas get-together. We had a great time and had plenty of room for all of us, and plenty to do with the games room, hot tub and pub, a stones throw away.

Reviewed by Andrea 15th November 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

This was a return visit for us as we enjoyed it so much the first time. Lovely accommodation with plenty of space for our large party. Everything was thought of. A huge brand new games room was a great addition on top of the ever-popular hot tub. Susanne is a great host, great communication and very accommodating. Will definitely be back!

Reviewed by John 7th November 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Excellent Property everything you could wish for, from welcome pack to games room and hot tub. House very good accommodation with good bathrooms and plumbing. Lovely stay.

Reviewed by Margaret 28th October 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Absolutely superb holiday home the house was beautiful and the surrounding area everything was catered for and it was my husbands birthday he received a lovely card and gifts from the owners and the homemade scones went down a treat!

Reviewed by Rob 17th October 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

What a superb house. It is massive and our group of 7 had plenty of room! The location is very peaceful next to a small quiet working farm, with the Roast Ox Inn a 2 minute walk- fantastic food. Close to Hay on Wye. The house had everything you could wish for (the hot tub was not used, but looked great). The games room was well used - table tennis,Read more pool and shuffle board. All the accommodation was warm and immaculate with plenty of space for a large group. Suzzane communicated attentively. Hide

Reviewed by Gary 27th September 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Reviewed by Colin 16th September 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Reviewed by Deborah 6th September 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We based ourselves here for an annual get-together and couldn't fault the house - perfect for a big group with plenty of space to eat and socialise, and the added bonus of the hot tub. Everyone commented on the character of the house and the lovely decor. Would recommend booking in advance if you'd like to eat in the nearby pub, as unfortunately weRead more were unable to get a table for food. Hide

Reviewed by Amrik 30th August 2024

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

It was one of my best holidays we are 16 members enjoy a lot the owner was very friendly nice and clean villa will definitely recommend my friends and family hope will go again next year!

Reviewed by Christine 23rd August 2024

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Lovely welcome pack on arrival. Good communication with updates on check in time & clear instructions on how to access the property via the key safe & parking facilities. The games room in Grumpys shed is brilliant & this was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone as was the hot tub. Loads of board games to choose from & a very spacious property for a largRead moree number of people to stay in. Well equipped kitchen & it was great to have a table that was big enough to accommodate us all. Would recommend. Hide

Reviewed by Susan 18th August 2024

Guest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 starsGuest rating 4.4 stars

We stayed here with 17 family members of all ages. We found there to be ample room with two sitting rooms, excellent large dining table and plenty of bedrooms and bathrooms. The house was very clean and comfortable. The house is situated in beautiful countryside with access to a ruined castle and has the benefit of an excellent games room. and hot Read moretub. We enjoyed our stay thoroughly. The owners were friendly and very helpful. Hide

Reviewed by Theresa 16th August 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

A lovely house in a beautiful location with wonderful views. Very well equipped with everything you need. In particular the numerous books, to suit all ages, games and the games room is a great idea and well used during our stay. The garden is well maintained and the hot tub was wonderful. Would love to go again and would highly recommend.

Reviewed by Sarah 21st June 2024

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

Lovely house in a peaceful location. The games barn and hot tub were excellent. Would highly recommend.

36 more
Show 51 more

Location

Map
Note: As the postcode is used to identify the general area of the property, it may not always reflect its precise location, therefore please only use this map as a guide.
Wales Cottage Holidays is a trading name of The Travel Chapter Limited | The Travel Chapter Limited is registered in England and Wales. | Registered office Travel Chapter House, Gammaton Road, Bideford, EX39 4DF. Company No. 02431506 | VAT reg: 143053210.