unwind, relax, read, be active

About

Relax and recharge in our converted 300-year-old forge nestled in the beautiful countryside of rural West Wales. Although a secluded location, we are conveniently only 10 miles away from the stunning coast of Cardigan Bay. You can watch the birds in our lovely garden, or simply unwind with a good book. For those seeking adventure, there are plenty of outdoor activities available such as running, walking, wild swimming, and cycling, all right on our doorstep.

The space

The Reading Room is a converted 300-year-old forge (records date back to 1724). Set on the edge of 1.2 acres, adjacent to the former blacksmith's cottage, Yr Efail (translation The Smithy). The interior is one space with a shower room at one end. With feature beams, traditional-style radiators, and reclaimed flooring. Stone steps lead to a mezzanine sleeping area. There is good wifi and a Bluetooth speaker for listening to your music. The fully equipped kitchen area, features an electric oven, induction hob, and integrated fridge (there is no freezer, but we can find space on our own if required). We also provide a blender, a Nespresso coffee machine and pods, a toaster and a kettle. Complementary coffee, teas, herbs, and oils are all provided. Please use eco-friendly cleaning products provided as we are not on mains drainage. We are plant-based so kindly request that no meat or fish are cooked on the premises. There is a woodburner, for use in colder weather. We provide one bucket of logs, kindling and firefighters. after that should you want more, we charge £6.00 per bucket. There is a Hive controller for the central heating. The sofa can be converted to a bed if two people are staying who don't want to share the mezzanine. (Please inform us in advance so we can provide the extra bedding). There is a dedicated area for hanging (hangers provided), plus storing bags and shoes. The Reading Room Library has a wide selection of reading material to peruse. During renovations, we lost over half of our books to water damage when they were stored in our studio. Feel free to leave your holiday read for future guests! We are gradually replacing the lost ones. We also provide a couple of board games. The large cupboard houses a plastic dog bed, bowls and treats for those bringing furry friends. In addition, ironing-board and iron, utility ware, and a first aid kit. The shower room features a de-misting light-up mirror, heated towel rail and extractor fan. Towels, toilet rolls and eco products are provided. (Please use to avoid harmful chemicals going into our septic tank). The stone steps up to the mezzanine can feel cold so please bring slippers! There is a handrail rail, the stairs are steep and care is required. The sleeping area has restricted head height; again, care is needed. There is a very comfortable king-sized bed with linens provided. Should you wish to go to the coast, we provide beach towels. There is also a flask, mugs and a cool bag for picnics. For walks, see our local guidebooks and maps which you can borrow.

The kitchen

The Italian kitchen is new and designed and installed by the host a cabinet maker and kitchen designer. It has Siemens appliances including Oven, Induction Hob and Fridge. Use of a freezer is available if needed. There is also a Nespresso coffee machine, blender, kettle and toaster. The kitchen has a full inventory of items needed. We also supply complimentary coffee, tea, oils and herbs. All cleaning products are natural and sustainable as we are not on mains drainage.

Other things to note

We are both plant-based and keen runners. Kerry spends her time wild swimming, gardening, walking and monitoring the birds in the garden.