Whilst the farmhouse was what we expected in terms of age, (actually older than we thought) the decor and fittings could do with an update.. The kitchen was the same design that my mother-in-law had way back in the '70s. Whilst I wouldn't want the farmhouse to be dragged into the 21st century there are certain areas which could do with a spruce up.
The owners were very friendly and helpful - can't fault them. There were extras we didn't expect - tea & coffee trays in the bedrooms with an excellent selection of teas, and biscuits. In the kitchen, Joanne, the owner, had left some typical Welsh goodies for us to sample and bags of fresh coffee - very much appreciated. The kitchen had an ample supply of various utensils - in some ways it was like being in a private home whereby one accumulates all sorts of things over the years. There were things I hadn't really needed to take i.e. tea towels, bin bags, dishwasher tablets, sponges - ample supply under the sink.
The beds are really comfy with good quality sheets and lovely white fluffy towels. Toiletries were also provided, which was a nice touch.
My granddaughters were fascinated by the creaky floors and the 'bumps in the night'.
Whilst I appreciate the age of the property and all that goes with it in terms of cleaning, there were areas that could be improved upon and spiders removed by hovering. I think the pressure of 'sanitizing' everywhere in the time available between bookings could have contributed to less attention to detail in the cleaning process.
But, let's be clear, it is a big property, very good value for money, and these little things did not detract from our enjoyment of the property and the idyllic setting.
What I would criticise is the instructions for finding the property! We were coming from the north for a start and whilst the sat-nav was helpful when we came out of Oswestry we ended up going up and down country lanes - also bad road signage didn't help.
What I suggest is that people are encouraged to stay on the A4396/4391 to Pen-y-bont-fawr (not actually go through Llanrhaeadre-ym-Mochnant), turn right in the village (at the signpost leading to Llanrhaeadre-ym-Mochnant (pub on corner-Railway Inn) as this road is wider than the one advised coming out of the village. The distance to the farmhouse is approximately one mile from the junction (best to check) and on the right. It would be useful to have another name sign of the property facing that way.
We had a lovely relaxing holiday in beautiful surroundings and will certainly be back.