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"Stunning property."
Subject to price we will be back next year. Owner Wendy is very helpful and could not have done more. Lovely touch in provision of flowers and chocolates.
Reviewed by RupertNov 2021
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"Superseded our expectations!"
A gorgeous space to relax and create and enjoy a great family bubble. Remote and accessible at the same time.
A place to be revisited.
Reviewed by JonathanNov 2021
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"We were a group of 12 adults and 2 dogs all had a wonderful time house is beautiful and very comfortable lounges and bedrooms
views and gardens were amazing
owners were always there if we needed anything
it was a bit isolated but we found our way around and visited local pub roast ox."
and were made very welcome had a lovely meal
local places to visit were
Ludlow and Leominster about an hour away
And for November. Had dry weather
Reviewed by AnneOct 2021
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"Had a fantastic week with family at the cottage, which had everything you could want."
Lots of space, great rooms, very warm for such a big property and really well equipped with everything we needed for the whole stay. Wendy was a great host, very accommodating but not over bearing and there was a lovely welcome basket waiting for us. The local pub (2 miles away) served great food and had very friendly staff. We also had a walk to the stables near the cottage who let the children groom one of the horses. Only very small negative was the late check-in and early departure times but would highly recommend this property and would definitely book again.
Reviewed by PaulOct 2021
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"The Old Rectory was a lovely place to host a writing retreat."
The wifi was a little patchy for streaming movies in the evening, but we managed to Zoom in a participant from Corsica during the day, so it was good enough for that. The heating system was particularly efficient for such an old building and easily adjusted to ensure heat during the day (when it was usually off because I expect most people are out gallivanting around the beautiful countryside). Lots of dishes, pots, pans, and cutlery made catering for seven people a breeze - though they could do with a few more wooden spoons and ladles, etc. The beds were comfortable, though better pillows would've been nice (they were pretty thin). The en-suite in the downstairs room was the best of the bunch - the others were keeping in style with the age of the house, and the separate bath and toilet made it a little difficult for one participant, but they managed, and the electric showers were really efficient. The large living area and smaller sitting room were great, with really comfortable sofas and chairs, and the extra large TV in the smaller room was perfect for our presentations each day. The small conservatory (though unheated) was lovely and perfect for one of the participants who was particularly hot-blooded and needed a cool room to escape to! The gardens were lovely, and we even had a robin visit one of the rooms! The church next door is beautiful, particularly the 800AD pagan pillar inside, and it was lovely that the church was always open. Plenty to do around the area, if that's what you're looking for, but this is also a perfect base to simply kick back and relax. Would highly recommend and would definitely go again. Oh, and the lady who looks after the house was very helpful :-)
Reviewed by NicolaOct 2021
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"The cottage was clean and extremely restful."
The wasn't a thing missing. The welcome gift was excellent and the owners were very friendly and welcoming. It was just PERFECT
Reviewed by PatOct 2021
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"This location is quite remote."
It is ideal for visitors looking for horse riding or walking.
Reviewed by GillianSep 2021
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"Beautiful house and gardens, it's even better than the photos!"
Loved every minute spent there, the host was a lovely lady , we can't fault it at all ❤
Reviewed by JulieSep 2021
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"A huge property."
Photos don’t do it justice. Really enjoyed our stay. It’s really in the middle of nowhere.
Reviewed by KatieAug 2021
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"House was excellent throughout and the owners very friendly and helpful."
Reviewed by LouiseJul 2021
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"Thank you for a lovely stay!"
We all loved the house; it is absolutely beautiful, there was plenty of space for all 12 of us, and the views were amazing. There was lots of storage space in the kitchen, plenty of books and games, a handy Sonos sound system, a large garden, and the downstairs bedroom with ensuite wetroom was particularly useful for my grandma. The hosts Wendy and Leigh were very welcoming and happy to help when needed. Most local amenities are only really accessible from the property by car, but the drive is very scenic, and the nearby town of Hay-on-Wye is an absolute dream come true for book lovers! The only things to improve would potentially be the bathrooms/ toilets - getting the shower temperature right was quite tricky especially in the shared bathroom, some of the shower drains probably need cleaning out, and it would be good to have extractor fans in all the bathrooms and toilets to avoid both damp and insects! There were also quite a few cobwebs in some corners and near windows/ lights etc - I guess these are expected in such a large house but would have been nicer to have been cleaned up beforehand. But overall we really enjoyed our stay and would love to come back :)
Reviewed by GurleenJun 2021
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"A beautiful house with lovely gardens."
, comfortable, clean and super well equipped. Cannot fault the house . Surrounding area was also lovely, only marred by restrictions because of Covid 19, for eg, we couldn't go to a lovely waterfall area as it crossed the boundaries of lockdown, this however, is not the owners fault, but does mean we would return in order to explore more of the surrounding area. It was warm and welcoming when we returned from our wet welsh walks.
The owners responded immediately when we needed to contact them as there was a power cut!!
We had a brilliant holiday and I would highly recommend it. Fabulous for large groups and families .
Reviewed by TriciaOct 2020
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"Firstly the house is homely, has everything you have at home, so for our family group it was very very comfortable."
The house was bright and airy and the views were breath taking.The lady on sight was very helpful and gave us good tips as to where to go, but that was only when we came out to get in our car, she wasn’t invading our space or time. It’s real country around the area, the air is clean and, it’s soooo peaceful, roads are quiet too. There was a excellant pub down the road, the ox, where we enjoyed a wonderful meal twice cooked by a real chief..... IT WAS FABULOUS! I was very pleased we managed a holiday during covid, all mask wearing, and sanitizer, were in place wear needed, but it didn’t have a great impact on our stay because there were generally fewer people around. We had great weather too, that was my only concern around going to wales, but I’m so pleased I did, the prettiest country side I’ve seen☺️ My whole family felt the same as me...... wonderful holiday
Reviewed by KarenSep 2020
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"We had such an amazing holiday at the Old Rectory."
Everything was wonderful. The rooms were spacious, clean, beautifully furnished, comfortable and inviting. The kitchen had everything we needed, and the dining room could accommodate our family comfortably. We loved the spacious yet cosy living room and beautiful views. The gardens were perfect for the kids (aged 2 - 18!) and a great place to gather for a barbecue. We really enjoyed long walks in the local countryside, how peaceful everything was, and the lovely friendly help available from the landlady, who was unobtrusively available when we needed her. Highly recommended, and definitely on the list of places to visit again.
Reviewed by VanessaAug 2020
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"The property and gardens are very spacious and therefore ideal for family “get togethers”
Wendy, our host was extremely helpful and provided a trampoline which was great for the children."
Also a BBQ was made available. The property is an idyllic location with numerous walks on your doorstep.
Would definitely recommend.
Jonathan
Reviewed by JonathanAug 2020
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"Excellent holiday had by all."
Lovely welcoming by the caretakers and well received wine, chocolates and flowers. Very comfortable house and had everything we needed. My only suggestion would be a bbq. Thank you.
Reviewed by MirandaJul 2020
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"Lovely place in a gorgeous setting, would go again."
Reviewed by StevenJul 2020
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"The Old Rectory totally exceeded our expectations!"
It is huge, beautifully renovated
and furnished to a very high standard. The beds and sofas are very comfortable, perfect for a spot of relaxation. The kitchen is packed with crockery and all the equipment you could ever need. The Old Rectory easily absorbed our party of 11, the 3 kids had plenty of space to play inside and out. It's in a beautiful secluded location, it was too wet for us to do much walking but there's plenty on the doorstep and it's only a 15 minute drive from the lovely Hay-on-Wye. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend The Old Rectory, it's perfect for a group getaway.
Reviewed by AnnaJan 2020
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"My friends and I were very satisfied with the quality of this property."
The rooms were of a perfect size for our large, gregarious group, especially the kitchen and the larger living room.
Unfortunately, there was a series of local power cuts on New Year's Eve, our first full day at the property; we were however satisfied with and grateful for the response of the owners, who live in the adjoining annexe. They providently lit the fire in the larger living room early in the morning, when many of us were still asleep and therefore unaware of the first power cut; brought candles and a torch during a later power cut; and regularly and reassuringly dropped in throughout the day.
I would like to bring the owners' attention to some minor faults in the property, which can be fixed for the convenience of future guests: 1) a number of doors, such as that to room 5, would benefit from being oiled because they creaked so loudly that they could wake up anybody already asleep in the room; 2) the cold tap in the bathroom next to room 5 did not work; and 3) the soap dispenser by the basin in room 5 intially emitted an unpleasant black goo, and had to be pumped several times before the blue liquid soap visible inside was produced.
Thank you for our lovely stay at The Old Rectory.
Reviewed by KieronDec 2019
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"Been having family long weekend get togethers for last 20 years and this property voted best ever."
Lovely fluffy towels in bathrooms. Hi-spec everywhere.
Such large rooms and so spacious everywhere. Unfortunately weather too wet to be able to enjoy outdoor spaces as well.
Only complaint, no kitchen scissors!
Reviewed by TerenceOct 2019
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"A beautiful house, really well equipped and comfortable."
A great deal of thought has gone into decor. The views are spectacular
We all had a fantastic week,
Lots of great walks and a riding school within walking distance. Hay on Wye is a quaint little town , well worth a visit and only about 6 miles away. Thank you Wendy for your help in making it a perfect holiday.
Reviewed by FrancisAug 2019
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"Our trip was perfect the house is amazing and in such a lovely location."
Worth every penny and definitely excited to come back! The house was clean and had everything you’d need for a nice weekend in the country.
Reviewed by JessicaAug 2019
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"This was a return visit but this time with family members-10 in all plus 2 ..."
This was a return visit but this time with family members-10 in all plus 2 dogs
Made to feel very welcome
Loved sitting round the big table for meals and playing games
Love the area
Reviewed by LorraineJun 2019
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"The house was fabulous, and perfect for our group of 3 families (6 adults and 3 six year olds)."
The caretaker was welcoming and helpful. We had a great time, and will definitely consider The Old Rectory for future group breaks.
Reviewed by KateMay 2019
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"The Old Rectory is a great place for a get together."
We only had 8 people due to cancellations but there's ample room for 12. Well maintained and equipped with a welcoming owner. We arranged caterers for a party and as well as recommending the property we would recommend 'Beeton for Time' if you need catering.
The nearest pub isn't really walkable but there's plenty to explore in the local area. Overall would definitely book again.
Reviewed by NigelApr 2019
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"We had a wonderful few days in this lovely large house - it seemed bigger than the pictures made it out to be!"
Very well appointed kitchen, comfortable beds and two lounges, one a lovely big room that we spent many hours in together, the other smaller but with a huge TV.
May well book again sometime!
Some nice walks from the house, plenty more within a short drive, great scenery. Hay on Wye (6 miles away) is probably the nearest place to do some shopping.
Reviewed by PaulApr 2019
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"What a fantastic holiday home!"
It was huge!! Absorbed 9 adults, 2 small children and 3 labradors without problem. So easy to get lost in this house when you first arrive.
The owners/ caretakers were very helpful and provided spare linen as we had a Change over of guest part way through the week. The farmer invited us all to visit the part of the farm where he was lambing. The local stables over the road was also a great experience for complete novices.
We returned yesterday and are already missing this brilliant house. Fabulous holiday.
Reviewed by KatApr 2019
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"The cottage was clean, very well equiped, spacious, warm and comfortable."
The wood burners were a bonus, especially with wood included. Great wifi. Many thanks to Wendy for making us welcome and for the tasty goodies on arrival.
Reviewed by SueApr 2019
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"Great property, would had a lovely visit and will be back again next year"
Reviewed by AnnFeb 2019
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"The doors particularly downstairs were quite stiff and we couldn’t turn the ..."
The doors particularly downstairs were quite stiff and we couldn’t turn the handles, one of the people with us had to climb out of the downstairs window as couldn’t open the door
Reviewed by VictoriaDec 2018
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"Regarding Sykes: Ver prompt replies to queries raised and provided constant communication prior to the holiday."
The online system really helped keep track of holiday details including the payments and details of the house. Great service.
Regarding the Old Rectory: The house is beautiful. Filled with character and charm. Comfortable and cosy for all guests. The caretakers/owners were very accomodating, even when the mains water went off without warning they quickly acted and had us up and running within an hour or so. Very thankful.Tiny downside with property facilities. The showers in the majority were not the most powerful, a couple were great but the older ones were not so good. Also, limited toilet roll provided and therefore I would recommend others take a small supply if a large party are staying.
We used a local caterer on one of the evening to provide dinner to my party of 12. Without any doubt they were incredible. a small independent company with delicious food and professional service. The company we used were Beeton For Time, http://www.beetonfortime.com/.
Reviewed by LukeNov 2018
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"Gorgeous property only put wouldn't return as we like to go to different places each time."
gorgeous walks we all enjoyed it
Reviewed by JennaOct 2018
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"The Old Rectory was the nicest house we've stayed in so far - spacious, well equipped and warm."
The owner was very kind and helpful, and had added some homely touches for our arrival. The surrounding area was also beautiful, with walks directly from the door and horse riding available just minutes away. We would definitely consider booking again.
Reviewed by EricaOct 2018
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"Perfect in all respects for our stay and the party constituents."
Reviewed by PeterSep 2018
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"Absolutely loved our stay here, such a beautiful property
Can’t wait to go back"
Reviewed by LorraineSep 2018
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"We stayed as two extended families for our annual weeks gathering and had a fantastic time."
The property and grounds are very spacious and met our needs perfectly. The bedrooms are lovely and comfortable with high quality, comfy beds and bedding. There are plenty of bathrooms, many of them en-suite and large areas for eating and relaxing, with a separate dedicated TV room (in addition to a TV in the lounge area and the ground floor bedroom). The kitchen is large and well-equipped for cooking for large groups (something we have struggled with in some bookings in the past) and there is also a utility room with washer, dryer, ceiling clothes airer, recycling boxes and a 5-bottle wine cooler (which was well used!). Our daughter also loved the high-tech automatic bin in the kitchen... There was plenty of space for the 4 cars we came in (and you could easily fit at least another 2 cars if your group make-up required this). There is an excellent horse-riding facility (www.ridinginwales.com) a 5 minute walk away, where you can have lessons or just enjoy a hack out/pony trekking in the beautiful surrounding countryside. If you need a 6 bedroom holiday let for up to 12 people then I would recommend that you seriously consider booking this property. The only thing I should mention is that sat-navs/google earth etc will try to send you to a different nearby property (due to the rural nature of the area with spread-out properties sharing postcodes). The Old Rectory is right next to the pretty church in Byrngwyn, just before the cattle grid, with easy car access (2 vehicle entrances) - it is NOT down a rough track opposite the road down to the riding stables as Google Earth suggests. Thank you very much Sykes and particularly Wendy and Lee (the really helpful caretakers who live in an adjoining property)
Reviewed by JohnJul 2018