Windfall
Black Mountains, Herefordshire, UK
At the foothills of the Black Mountains, where the Olchon Brook traces an ancient border between England and Wales, a former cider mill has been transformed into a luxury barn. Just half an hour from Hay-on-Wye, Windfall pairs its agricultural heritage with an interior purposefully designed to look as though it’s been there forever. Here, enveloped in Herefordshire’s glorious Dark Sky territory, is a home that stands the test of time.
Introduction
Once the beating heart of the Olchon Valley's cider-making heritage, this stone barn with its golden slate roof and rustic exterior now offers a different kind of sustenance—that of the soul. The five-year search for the perfect property culminated in this blend of seclusion and connection, where weathered stone and broad windows frame pastoral vistas across bracken-covered hummocks. Set into the hillside beneath sheltering oaks, the barn belongs wholly to its landscape. Like his home in the Scottish Campsie Fells that inspired the owner's vision, the terrain here gathers mists and memories, creating a romantic retreat in the Black Mountains.
Inside
Windfall’s interiors blend rural warmth with collected treasures. Whitewashed living room walls showcase botanical prints and an antique Suzani in a marriage of English garden charm and Silk Road exoticism, while Howard sofas and armchairs bring splashes of pattern in Robert Kime fabrics. In the bespoke Plain English kitchen, pine-green panelling stages a magnificent French enfilade—a flea market find. Through mullioned windows, light falls on a dining table where heirloom chairs gather beneath vintage pendants. The eaves bedroom, adorned with Welsh tapestries and florals, leads to a clawfoot bath nestled beneath ancient beams.
Outside
The barn commands 12 acres, with the Olchon Brook providing a silver boundary that once separated two nations. Now, it serves as nature's soundtrack to outdoor contemplation. The al fresco dining area, tucked beside sun-warmed stones, looks across patchworked fields. In this Dark Sky territory, evenings are measured by the appearance of stars rather than clock hands, and the Hikki bath offers the finest viewing platform as the mountains trade their daytime palette for dusky hues. Just a kilometre away, Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) begin their march toward the horizon, while Hay-on-Wye beckons with its labyrinth of bookshops.
The Facts
- SleepsUp to 2 guests
From £1,550 per week, £1,150 per short break - Bedrooms and bathroomsThe property features one upstairs double bedroom with a king-size bed and a family bathroom featuring a shower over a standalone bath.
- FeaturesSwedish wood-fired tub
- PetsOne well-behaved dog is welcome
Pets are charged at £60 per week or part thereof - Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
- FamilyBabes-in-arms are very welcome
- PracticalitiesA driveway leads through the field offering ample parking and turning space for two or more cars. The kitchen features an Lacanche gas oven, gas hob, dishwasher, fridge-freezer and Nespresso coffee machine. A utility room houses an additional fridge-freezer, washing machine and tumble dryer. The garden is enclosed but adjoins open farmland with grazing cows, and includes a pond; guests with dogs should supervise them when outside.
- Homestay includesA luxury welcome hamper, Wi-Fi, Smart TV (Amazon and Netflix), coal barbecue.House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
- Private cateringSeeking a celebratory dinner or fully catered escape? Our recommended caterers will work with you to create personalised menus for your stay. Details are shared through our house book on confirming your booking.
- Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questions
Prices & Availability
Longtown
Set in rural Herefordshire, this village boasts a well-preserved Norman castle and striking views of the Black Mountains. It’s a gateway for hikers exploring Offa´s Dyke Path and the scenic Hatterall Ridge.
Getting there
- On the Map This rustic barn conversion is located near the Herefordshire village of Longtown, close to the England-Wales border and overlooking the Black Mountains.
- By Car The property is one hour 15 minutes from Cardiff, two hours from Birmingham and three hours 45 minutes from London.
- By Train The nearest train station is Hereford, a 40-minute drive away.
- By Air Cardiff Airport is 90 minutes away by car, while Bristol Airport is one hour 45 minutes away.
From the owner
“Our countless holidays in the Scottish Highlands inspired us to dream of creating our own mountain sanctuary closer to home. When we discovered this derelict mill tucked into these hills, we knew we´d found somewhere truly special that could capture that magic.”
After years of searching for the perfect property in the English countryside, we finally found this special place that ticked all our boxes: optimal sun exposure, breathtaking mountain views, year-round accessibility and, most importantly, the potential to create a sanctuary that reminded us of our beloved holidays in the Scottish Highlands.
I never imagined we'd end up purchasing a derelict mill without water, electricity, or internet! Yet the moment we first laid eyes on it, we both knew it was meant to be ours.
One of our biggest challenges in developing the mill was considering our resident barn owl, who had made his home in the eaves. Feeling responsible for displacing him, we constructed a specially designed owl box in his favourite oak tree. To our delight, he took to his new home immediately; you can often hear his gentle hooting as you drift off to sleep.
The property also serves another purpose dear to our hearts—providing grazing land for our small herd of Dexter cattle. We maintain them as naturally as possible; our Dexter beef is highly sought after by Michelin-starred restaurants for its outstanding tenderness and rich flavour.
The Morrison Hazell Family
Owner recommendations
Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in Longtown with an insider’s perspective.
To Eat
The Bull´s Head
A historic drovers´ inn in Craswell, this charming flagstone-floored pub pairs its traditional bar with sophisticated British cuisine. Tuck into house-aged steaks and seasonal ingredients in the dining room overlooking the majestic Welsh peaks.
To Do
Black Mountain Walks
The Black Mountains offer endless walking opportunities. Head over the mountain to Llanthony Priory for a rewarding pub lunch, or start at Red Darren for a shorter route. The Cat´s Back provides spectacular views.
To See
Llanthony Priory
This 900-year-old Augustinian monastery stands dramatically in the Vale of Ewyas. Its magnificent red stonework and pointed archways remain, while a pub in the grounds makes a perfect destination a two-hour walk from the house.
To Do
Hay-on-Wye Market Day
This historic market town holds vibrant trading days throughout the year alongside its famous literary festival in May/June. From local produce to antiques, check the market calendar online to plan your visit.
Press
Below are a selection of features in which Unique Homestays has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.
complete an image bank request
Snow white
Country Homes & Interiors
December 2024The UK´s cosiest boltholes for Christmas
The Times
December 2024Natural beauty
25 Beautiful Homes
December 202425 of the best autumn getaways
The Times
November 2024Good manors
Condé Nast Traveller
November 2024Ways to improve your life—from our experts
The Times
October 2024The UK´s most relaxing riverside stays
The Times
October 2024At one with nature
25 Beautiful Homes
September 2024
Collections > Dog-Friendly Escapes > UK > Herefordshire > Black Mountains > Windfall
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Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.
