Hay-on-Wye (5.5mls NW), Powys, self catering

Surrounded by farmland, this stunning Grade II-listed retreat is perfect for families and groups of friends seeking a quiet getaway in a beautiful part of the historic county of Radnorshire. Offering spacious accommodation for up to eight guests, the sympathetically updated 17th-century farmhouse has a range of characterful features including two welcoming wood burners, timber beams, exposed stonework, beautiful tiling, and wooden flooring. Enjoying glorious, far-reaching rural views, this beautiful property has been charmingly furnished and stylishly decorated to provide a fantastic holiday base for walkers, climbers, nature lovers and cyclists eager to explore the Brecon Beacons National Park.

The light-filled lounge has a wood burner, TV, and ample seating along with a selection of books and games. Heading through, the magnificent dining room has a handsome central dining table, wooden beams, a charming window seat and a wood burner-effect oil fire set in an impressive fireplace. The ground floor also features a spacious and colourful kitchen with an informal breakfast table.

The 17th-century stairwell leads to the first floor which has the main bathroom and two sumptuous bedrooms; an en-suite king-size room and a super-king-size room with an additional day bed and armchairs. Up on the second floor you will find a snug lounge nestling between two pretty twin bedrooms in the eaves of the house; one with Jacobean beds, the other with Edwardian beds. Heading outside, there’s a small pond in the top garden, and a couple of terraces offering splendid views and providing lovely spots for dining alfresco on a summer’s evening.

The bustling town of Hay-on-Wye (5 miles) is known for its literature festival and wide array of second-hand bookshops. The north-eastern corner of the Brecon Beacons offers miles of breathtaking walks and bike trails, with Black Mountain Adventure and Bronllys Castle both within 11 miles.