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Buzzards Breg

(Ref. 1096551)

Rhulen near Builth Wells, Mid Wales & Cardigan Bay Show on map

4.6

Sykes rating

  • 4 Guests

  • 2 Bedrooms

  • 1 Bathroom

  • Pets Yes

Features

  • Open fire
  • Garden / Patio
  • Dishwasher
  • Broadband / WiFi

Reviews & Ratings

Accuracy of the listing
Cleanliness
Comfort
Facilities and Maintenance
  • All reviews
  • cottage (12)
  • lovely (10)
  • comfortable (10)
  • our (10)
  • buzzards (9)
  • breg (9)

21 Customer Reviews

  • "We had a lovely time and Buzzards Breg."

    Wonderful place to stay. It was lovely and clean and cosy. Clover especially loved watching the dogs and chickens walk by. Garden was perfect size for Clover to relax in. Thank you for being so welcoming!! Sarah, Sam and Clover

    Reviewed by Sarah5.0Oct 2024

  • "Juli and Steve are lovely people and were helpful whenever we needed anything."

    We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Buzzards Breg. The cottage was lovely, surrounded by the scenic Welsh landscape, with beautiful walks nearby. My mum and my sister had such a joyful time meeting Juli’s horses and dogs– we’re truly grateful for that heartwarming experience. I would highly recommend them.

    Reviewed by Ashish5.0Oct 2024

  • "This was our second visit to Buzzards Breg."

    Steve and Julie are lovely, welcoming hosts and we love the cottage in such a beautiful location. My parents come for the fantastic walking routes on the doorstep and I meet friends every year at the Cob sales. Inside the cottage is rustic and cosy but with all the mod cons you need, a well equipped kitchen and a lovely bathroom with an enormous bath with shower. The style follows through to the bedrooms again cosy and comfortable. Already planning to return next year.

    Reviewed by Geraldine4.7Oct 2024

  • "We had a lovely break with our horse friends."

    The riding was fantastic endless off road riding, quiet lanes with hardly any cars. We loved the quiet location and stunning scenery. The accommodation was comfortable and the hot baths much needed after getting wet up on the mountain ride. The owners made us all feel very welcome .

    Reviewed by Suzanne5.0Oct 2024

  • "Buzzards Breg is located in a beautiful area but is quite isolated with unreliable WiFi and mobile signals, both impacted by weather conditions as we discovered."

    The owners live next door, and were responsive to initial teething issues around cleaning of the property. Otherwise the cottage was very comfortable and met our needs for a relaxing break.

    Reviewed by Nikola3.4Sep 2024

  • "Beautifully renovated barn conversion converted to a high spec."

    Loved the interior design. Beds very comfortable. Fabulous views from the property and friendly, accommodating host and hostess. Loved staying here whilst attending the Royal Welsh Show.

    Reviewed by Angela4.7Jul 2024

  • "My wife and I needed a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and booked this stay at the very last minute."

    We simply were amazed by how wonderful this cottage was. The whole feel of the cottage just is that of a comforting hug that just encourages you to slow down and just watch the world go by. Words cannot do justice to the experience. All I can say is that if you need to get away and simply switch off then this is the PERFECT place for you. We will definitely be back. Just a word from our two fur babies to say thank you too!!! We were lucky to have met the owners who were both very welcoming and were incredibly helpful. A 10 out of 10. Thank you for sharing your wonderful property with the world.

    Reviewed by Craig5.0May 2024

  • "We had a lovely relaxing and very comfortable stay at Buzzards Breg thanks to Julie and her neighbours."

    Beautiful walks nearby and a short ride to some lovely Welsh and border towns. We visited Hay-on-Wye, Bulith Wells and Llandrindod Wells. Hope to be back!

    Many thanks for posting your feedback Johanna. I am so pleased you and the rest of the family enjoyed the beauty of the local Landscape and the facilities at 'Buzzards'. It is lovely to share this special location with guests who appreciate the natural order of nature! We would love to see you again and Hannah can see how big the Chicks have grown! Property Owner

    Reviewed by Johanna5.0Apr 2024

  • "Buzzard’s Breg was mostly good, with an efficient woodburner, comfy sofa, and decent facilities for cooking and eating; however, a few things let it down: On our arrival on a rainy dark evening, the motion-sensor security light was off (hard to access a phone torch when carrying luggage!"

    ) The heating temperature and timings are totally controlled by the owners next door, and were insufficient for cold weather. The underfloor heating provides background heat, and upstairs the radiators and towel rail are supposed to come on for an hour each morning and evening; they only came on once during our 6-day stay, even when it was 5 degrees outside. It was explained to us that people in the area rely mainly on their woodburners – but only a starter pack of logs is provided so we had to buy extra. Also, we were cold getting up and washing in the mornings. Lack of blinds on the skylight windows made the bedrooms too bright for a decent night’s sleep; we did suggest to Steve that blinds would be useful. Several mattress toppers and a plastic-backed protector on the sagging double bed made it too hot at night. The TV was internet only, i.e. no Freeview or any way of watching live TV. For all this, we had an enjoyable stay. I would, however, suggest to the owners that they spend a full night in Buzzard’s Breg, if they haven’t done so recently.

    Thank you Isabel for your suggestion of 'the owners' spending a full night in 'Buzzard's', but it has already been done! It is a bit of a treat to experience the 'up to the minute' under floor heating, roof and wall insulation installed just 18 months ago when the barn was converted, this keeps the internal temperature steady and comfortable from the weather outside. The radiators and towel rail only function when the ambient temperature falls below 19 degrees. The modern log burner serves as an added benefit for those who wish to be 'hot', or, just wish to enjoy watching the dancing flames of a real fire. (Features. such as the log burner, is advertised with Sykes and state that a starter pack, only, of logs is provided).. All of the beds are topped with brand new 'Dunelm Toppers' and breathable Terry mattress protectors, (not 'plastic-backed'), the mattress lies directly on top of solid pine frame with slats, my personal experience is, 'no sagging'. Maybe the room temperature was too hot overnight? The TV provides 'iplayer' and is set up for guests to 'log in' with their own 'pass word' if Netflix, Prime etc is required. I am happy that you had an enjoyable stay. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Isabel3.4Mar 2024

  • "Buzzards Breg is a lovely barn conversion."

    It’s well equipped, warm and cosy, has very comfortable beds, helpful owners, it’s rural with stunning views and dark skies. We hope to return. Thank you Julie and Steve for letting this property out for others to enjoy.

    Reviewed by Jill4.7Oct 2023

  • "We and our dog had a wonderful stay in Buzzards Breg."

    Kitchen well equipped with fridge, electric oven, microwave, kettle and toaster - maybe could do with a second frying pan as only one may be awkward if catering for a fried breakfast for a family, but did us two ok. Boot room was great for a wet dog to get dried off and for storing muddy boots and wet coats. Also there is a small freezer in the boot room which is needed as shops are quite far away. Bed was very comfortable and cottage was warm and views fantastic. Thank you for a lovely peaceful week. Cathy, Trev and Merlin

    So glad that you had a lovely break away and enjoyed a good dose of 'quietness'! It was lovely to meet you and the handsome Merlin. Thank you for leaving 'Buzzards' so clean and tidy, hope to see you again in the future. Julie, and all the animals Property Owner

    Reviewed by Catherine5.0Sep 2023

  • "Fantastic place, highly recommended."

    Julie and Steve are wonderful and amazing people.

    We are so glad you enjoyed 'a retreat of a holiday', and hope that your batteries are now 're-charged'. Thankyou for leaving 'Buzzards' so immaculately clean, even better than when you arrived!! Love to see you again,..................you can see how the 2 day old chicks have grown. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Anna5.0Aug 2023

  • "A very comfortable cottage especially the bed which is a necessity after a day’s hiking."

    The owner was very friendly and discrete, offering advice on where to visit, places of interest and to answer any questions. The cottage was well adapted for welcoming our dog. An excellent time spent in beautiful countryside.

    Reviewed by Deborah5.0Jun 2023

  • "We didn’t realise that the appliances weren’t switched on."

    Perhaps the instructions were in the manual but we missed it. It wasn’t immediately obvious where the switch for fridge and freezer was located.

    Reviewed by Caroline5.0Jun 2023

  • "Beautiful cottage in lovely surroundings, very peaceful & relaxing holiday."

    Reviewed by Elaine5.0Apr 2023

  • "Fabulous barn conversion with lots of character, warm and cosy with wonderful views from the enclosed garden and a sun trap at the front."

    Very warm welcome and lots of suggestions for walks from doorstep which the dogs loved. Althrough it says remote it is easy to find and not far to a pub. Will definitely be back.

    Reviewed by Shauna5.0Apr 2023

  • "What a gem beautiful cottage everything has been done to a high standard can’t recommend enough."

    If you are looking for isolation and fantastic views this is a must. One thing I found out was if you have your own horses you can bring them with you as they have stables attached and said yes people can bring their own horses. Julie and Steve are a lovely couple and will be there for you if you need or will leave you to it too. The kitchen is well equipped for you to cook a full Sunday roast if need be. You won’t be disappointed

    Reviewed by Sue5.0Dec 2022

  • "Buzzards Breg is in a beautiful, but very remote location."

    The cottage itself has been sensitively & creatively refurbished after the rebuild from barn to cosy cottage. It was very comfortable. But it was a shame the woodburner had not been cleared out of ash & subsequently relaid , ready for us. ( as promised in information ) We are both touching 80 years & had recent serious health issues & stress over many months related to this. The ow ners knew this.There is no freezer in the property & we would suggest this is a neccessity due to its location, much preferable to the dishwasher which we did not use. The lobby & utility area ( with large sink ) by front door was a most useful feature where one could leave wet boots , waterproofs etc & gather our belongings together, making arrival & departure much easier, rather than continually walking back inside with outside shoes on. The listing was not accurate as there WAS a shaving point & there WAS a hairdryer provided, the former not obvious. We had not expected to provide our own toilet rolls or to strip the bed on departure. Neither of these requisites have ever been required before in s/c accommodation & friends were amazed that this was expected. A welcome pack or even just milk would have been much appreciated . In the past owners had actually asked us if there were any food items they could provide for us on our arrival. We , of course, wished to pay for these but that offer was always refused !!! The most aggravating feature of Sykes is that one cannot reach the owners until 48 hours before departure. This has NEVER been our experience before & owners have consistently wanted to be as helpful as possible prior to the holiday, always going the extra mile, even to the extent of texting us while they have been on holiday abroad themselves ! Nothing has been too much trouble. My wife was made to feel an inconvenience by Steve when she contacted Sykes re delay in owners contacting us. She had many concerns to make the holiday as easy as possible due to the huge pressures we had been under since early 2022. We are 'easy ' folk, not the troublesome variety (!) & initial communications were definitely not helpful or particularly kind. That was a shame. She was told that consumable items like bin bags , loo rolls etc must be brought by us & that personal items like a hairdryer should be brought too !!! Extraordinary ! She was told we were renting the building & that was all. It was not a good introduction & she was rather shocked, as was I . However, we give thanks for the peace & beauty of the environment, once there. It is most appropriate for walkers who have little desire to venture further than the immediate landscape.

    I am so pleased that you enjoyed the location and conversion of Buzzards Breg from tumbled down 'Barn' to 'Cosy Cottage'. Emptying the ash pan of the wood burner was a complete oversight on this occasion, and the first time it has ever happened for which I apologise. Having said that everything was ready on the hearth to instantly make a first fire. I was only aware of age and stress upon your arrival; I would never dream of asking anyone concerning private issues, but I am always ready to listen and help if information is volunteered. I had been made aware of 'health issues', (although not of the specifics) and made sure I was available upon arrival to meet and carry luggage, helped to locate and use the key safe, and said I was available for the duration of the stay if any additional assistance was needed. The property is listed with only a fridge but a small freezer has now been added to the property for those needing to store frozen food or ice cubes! The 'remoteness' of location is one of the attractions of Buzzards Breg, and to quote your comment penned in the Visitors Book, 'Paradise'. The shaver point now has a notice by it so guests will 'notice' where it is, a hair dryer is available but being a small, movable object and I must admit it never occurred to me to list it. Due to developments during Covid it is standard practice' for guests to strip beds and pop into the laundry bag provided so it can then be left for 48 hours to lessen chances of possible transmission. (This procedure is listed by 'Sykes' in their notes to guests at the time of booking). Covid is still out there! A 'Welcome Pack' will vary between holiday lets. On this occasion flowers, home produced eggs and shortbread biscuits were provided. It is good to have feedback, and that milk would have been more useful. In future details will be sent out to guests sooner that the suggested 48 hours; but this period has to be balanced against security issues. This should make planning and packing for Self Catering bookings easier allowing more time to contact myself rather than someone, who in hindsight, does not have all the answers. A 'top tip' for guests is always to familiarise themselves with, 'Sykes booking terms and conditions, and notes to guests'. It is comprehensive and very useful. Only being launched in the middle of August this year, 'brand new Buzzards Breg' is 'feeling it's way'; this makes constructive feedback very useful. Thank you, Julie Property Owner

    Reviewed by William3.4Oct 2022

  • "The cottage was well situated within the beautiful Welsh countryside, which is exactly what we wanted."

    The amenities were good, but few things could be added/amended on the description. 1) The garden's picture didn't reflect the real size of the garden. When we arrived it had been fenced off, which was a much smaller place than advertised. 2) An external light at the back of the garden would be useful for the evening/night to check on the dog when he goes out. 3) A big gap in the fence leading onto the road MUST be fixed, as our dog escaped through it! Lucky no tractor was passing at the same time... 4) A fridge with a freezer compartment would be ideal, for storing food or ice cubes, as shops are quite a way away. 5) A door (or something else) would be very useful at the bottom of the stairs to stop dogs going upstairs. 6) The underfloor heating is great, but it takes a long while to warm the place up.... We had a very nice time though. The stillness of the environment, the views on the hills and the birds chirping were all fantastic.

    Being new to holiday cottage letting, constructive feedback is useful to make improvements, offer explanations, and address any concerns. Firstly the photo of the garden was taken before a fenced area was provided to accommodate guests with dogs. New photo's have been taken and will be uploaded to show an 'up to date' picture of the garden. Every care had been taken to provide a dog safe area but during this visit the boundary hedge appears to have been tested! Guests are reminded of their responsibility for their canine chums and, that, ' Sykes, Your Responsibilities (9.5) ' states that, 'Pets must not be left alone in the Property (which includes the garden and any outside areas) at any time'. A 'doggie gate' has now been added to bottom of the stairs Sadly the addition of an external light is impossible due to Planning Restrictions imposed to protect Bat Habitat. This special place has some sensitive ecological issues in which we are very fortunate to be able to share. A 'doggie gate' can now be found at the bottom of the stairs, a small, 33L Freezer has been added for use due to popular request and a greater understanding of the underfloor heating has been achieved. So happy you had a 'very nice time and enjoyed the environment, landscape and wildlife. Property Owner

    Reviewed by Philip4.1Oct 2022

  • "Lovely comfortable cottage with welcoming hosts."

    Reviewed by Susan4.7Oct 2022

  • "The cottage has been converted to a high standard."

    Unfortunately the utilities come from the owners property next door. The radiators in the two bedrooms can't be put on constant when required. The underfloor heating downstairs is great once hot but it takes a few hours to warm the cottage initially. The internet which also provides the TV reception has a very poor download and upload speed which causes interrupted viewing which is very annoying. Fridge supplied without ice compartment. Freezer would have been useful as the nearest supermarket is 7 miles away and frozen food would have been useful.

    CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organisation. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognise the sender and know the content is safe. Dear Emma, Buzzards Breg is completely independent from the owners' property regarding utilities. Being a completely new barn conversion it has its own water supply, phase 3 electricity; hot water system; under floor heating system and programmed radiator system. The under floor heating system is on constantly and is set to greet guests at a temperature suitable for weather conditions and the time of year. The temperature can be easily decreased or increased by guests by a turn of the wall mounted thermostats in any of the three heating zones. With the arrival of 'Broadway' in the very near future, (works have commenced), internet issues will be a thing of the past. As Sykes state in the 'Booking Terms', 3.9; 'The owner can not (and does not) guarantee the speed of any Broadband at the property. Please be aware that the internet and phone reception in rural areas can sometimes be poor. Only a fridge, (not freezer) was listed in the property description. A small 33L freezer has now been added to the amenities provided, after all when a table top freezer arrives by courier half way through a guests' visit one has to take a hint like that seriously! Property Owner

    Reviewed by Andy2.8Oct 2022

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Summary

  • Two bedrooms: 1 x double, 1 x twin
  • Bathroom with bath, shower over, basin, and WC
  • Cloakroom with basin and WC
  • Open-plan living space with kitchen, dining area, and sitting area with woodburning stove
  • Utility Room, This room is a handy area for drying off damp dogs and also houses the dishwasher, Belfast sink, pew bench seats, coat/boot/outdoor footwear storage, framed O.S Map, plus utility and cleaning products.
  • Electric central heating and underfloor electric heating with wood-burning stove
  • Electric oven and hob, microwave, fridge
  • TV, WiFi
  • Fuel, power, and starter pack for wood-burning stove inc. in rent
  • Bed linen and towels inc. in rent
  • Designated parking for 2 cars
  • Enclosed front courtyard with seating, enclosed, secluded rear garden with lawn and furniture
  • Horse stables with turnout, tack room and undercover grooming area
  • Two well-behaved dogs welcome and accommodation for horses
  • Sorry, no smoking
  • Shops 8.1 miles, pub 3.3 miles
  • Note: The parking area is 50m from Buzzards Breg adjacent to the owner home
  • Note: Dogs are to be kept downstairs only and are not allowed on furniture or to be left unattended in the barn at any time
  • Note: The property does not provide facilities for young children under 6 years of age
  • Note: No barbecues to be used at the property
  • Note: There is a supplement of £20.00 per pet
  • If pets are not declared at the time of booking guests are required to pay £30 per pet should they attend the property.

The property

Buzzards Breg ‘rests’ in the hamlet of Rhulen, a fold, a natural amphitheatre in the tranquil, magical rolling Radnorshire Hills at the very heart of the Welsh Marches, it is a place of ancient peace and beauty with hidden secrets to discover and share.

‘Breg’ is an old ‘field name’ for a ‘brow of a hill, or pitch’, found at the top of a ‘pitch’ is a cosy, inviting converted stone barn completed in 2022; ‘Buzzards Breg’.

The barn houses an eclectic mix of complementary traditional and contemporary features, wholly amerced in the stunning ‘Landscape of Powys’.

The barn along with its secluded private garden provides a place of tranquil contemplation or, a springboard for adventure; in fact it can be anything you want it to be!

Two well behaved dogs are welcome as are equine chums, turn out or stabling is available within 12 acres with out riding second to none, with further details of equine accommodation found by Googling Cwmfillo Bed and Breakfast.

There are two designated parking places just 50m distant from the front gated courtyard.

The entrance welcomes you into the boot/utility room where you can take a seat and untie your walking boots and home your coats.

Enter through the stable door into the open plan living space, a light airy place where meals can be prepared and shared before relaxing on the capacious sofa in front of the log burner and TV after a busy day exploring.

The country-styled kitchen, log burner, oak features reinstated from the original building, plenty of seating and a convenient cloakroom makes for a very comfortable and attractive inclusive living space.

To appreciate the panoramic views of the nearby hills and fields just step outside through the patio doors into the enclosed and private garden, perfect for alfresco dining whilst your four-legged friends relax in the sun.

After sunset enjoy a spot of star gazing and the wonders of the ‘Dark Skies’: listen out for the Tawny Owls!

The bedrooms, one double and one twin are both well presented and all beds have toppers for extra comfort.

The contemporary bathroom has sleek tiles and high-quality fixtures.

The location of ‘Buzzards Breg’ affords miles and miles of quiet lanes, footpaths, old drover’s ways, bridleways and open moor which are accessible from the front door; no need for further travel, which makes this the ideal place for artists, photographers, bird watchers, avid walkers, horse riders, cyclists and mountain bikers.

For those who would like to arrange a day of adventure in picturesque locations in the local area or the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) visit www.bluemountainactivities.co.uk.

Here is a unique opportunity to experience a variety of adventure activities including, Rock Climbing, Abseiling, Cave Exploration, Adventure Treasure Hunt, Kayaking or take a Canoe journey on the River Wye – a great day of adventure making special memories.

The National Cycle Museum, Cors y Llyn Nature Reserve, The Weir Garden, Hay-on-Wye (Town of Books), The Elan Valley, Abberedw Rocks and Common and Llewellyn’s Cave are but a few local hidden gems, to add to your itinerary.

Builth Wells boasts an abundance of eateries, pubs, shops and walking trails including The Groe Park on the banks of the River Wye.

If you time your trip well there are plenty of prestigious events to keep you entertained at The Royal Welsh Show Ground and is just 6 miles distant, the Show Ground hosts, among others, ‘The Royal Welsh Show’, the BHS Red Dragon Endurance Competition, the Welsh Kennel Club Dog Show, the Spring Festival, Antique Fair, the Glanusk Stallion show, Cob sales, Fareoaks, the Christmas Fair, Motor Sport and Rallying events etc.

Family-friendly adventures are close at hand with Rhayader Riverside Walk, Alpaca petting sessions at ‘Fronserth Farm Alpacas’, and Small Breeds Farm Park and Owl Centre, displaying a diverse range of species.

Guests can enjoy a unique break away, like no other offered in Powys, by booking ‘Buzzards Breg’.

Note: This property has a Good Housekeeping bond of £250.

View on map

About the location

BUILTH WELLS

Llandrindod Wells 8 miles; Hay-on-Wye 10 miles; Brecon Beacons 22 miles; Elan Valley 22 miles

The market town of Builth Wells (Welsh spelling: Llanfair-ym-Muallt) is located in beautiful, unspoilt countryside and makes an interesting base for a Mid-Wales break. Home to interesting craft stores and many collectors’ fairs, this is also the ideal location for walking, pony trekking and mountain biking. The town offers a challenging 18 hole golf course, a sports centre, and the Wyeside Arts Centre, which includes a cinema as well as many live shows. Across the River Wye lies the Royal Welsh Showground, home to the famous Royal Welsh Show, which brings an explosion of colour to the town every July, along with many other events taking place throughout the year. With the spa town of Llandrindod Wells just 8 miles away, and the beautiful Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons National Park) and spectacular Black Mountains within easy reach, this wonderful location is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts or those just wishing to relax amidst wonderful scenery. Builth Wells is an excellent base offering a gateway into Wales.

Note: No barbecues to be used at the property.

This property offers the following short breaks:

  • Winter
  • Off-season
  • Last minute
  • Christmas