Dog-friendly Ceredigion

These 3 beautiful and spacious barn conversions are set on a working sheep and beef farm, and each property has its own private hot tub. The farm itself has 140 acres, and the farmland links up to the Ystwyth Cycle Trail which is over 16 miles long. The interiors of the properties have vaulted ceilings, modern lighting, and furnished with leather sofas and wood-burning stoves, each with a hot tub available. All 3 properties (refs OA5, OA6 and OA7) can be booked together to form one large house sleeping 12, and they all have interconnecting doors which can be opened up. There is also the option of taking a horse on holiday, the farm has 6 loose boxes and a paddock which can be made available. Located near Tregaron, a small Welsh-speaking market town where guests can visit the famous Rhiannon Welsh Gold Centre that offers beautiful gifts and a fantastic art gallery. Tregaron is also famous for its trotting races, which are actually held here at Dolyrychain Farm (please check with owners for dates). The event is the largest of its kind and attracts over 10,000 visitors. This is a haven for walkers and cyclists with the Cambrian Mountains at the foot of the farm and the panoramic Pumlumon Mountains to the north. Visit the university town of Aberystwyth, home of the National Library of Wales, take a walk on the promenade or even catch the electric cliff railway on Construction Hill. For a magical day out take the narrow gauge railway from Aberystwyth to the heart of the Pumlumon Mountains where the destination will be the world famous Devils Bridge and Rheidol Falls. Shop and pub 1 mile.

Situated just 5 minutes from Cardigan Bay and within easy reach to the whole of the beautiful Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire coastline and coastal walks, The Stables is a detached, converted stone holiday cottage peacefully set on a farm with a selection of alpacas, donkeys, goats, ducks and chickens. The owners who live on the farm, which is set in 48 acres of rolling countryside, encourage the children to interact with the animals, and are also pleased to offer the use of a barbecue hut nicknamed the ‘Hobbit House’ by the family. Guests can hire it during their stay directly with the owners, subject to availability and for a small charge. There is bike storage in the barn if you would like to bring your own bikes.
Within a 15-minute drive visitors can discover quaint New Quay, famous for the bottlenose dolphins that can often be seen from the harbour (boat trips available in season). The colourful, Georgian, harbour town of Aberaeron is just a bit further up the coast road, with its chic shops and plenty of restaurants. Antique shoppers and browsers will enjoy the nearby market town of Newcastle Emlyn, and Cenarth with its waterfalls is also close by and offers indoor swimming, coracle rides, fishing and paintballing. There are numerous attractions in the area, particularly suitable for children.
Nearby is the Cardigan Island Coastal Farm Park, which is set on a headland overlooking the nature reserve of Cardigan Island, home to thousands of sea birds. At the foot of the cliffs, a colony of Atlantic grey seals can be observed in their natural habitat. Spectacular coastline and wonderful views can be savoured from the National Trust managed Penbryn Bay and a visit to National Trust Cilgerran Castle can also be enjoyed. Only the ruins remain of this striking 13th-century castle, whose vantage point overlooks the wonderful Teifi Gorge. Also nearby is the town of Cardigan with its restored medieval castle. The Teifi Valley Railway is another experience for the visitor, a 2-mile journey offers wonderful views of the valley and countryside. Golf and horse riding can also be found locally. Beach 3½ miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.
The Stables can be booked together with The Granary (OSC) and The Cottage (OSD) to accommodate up to 12 guests.

A semi-detached, deceptively spacious, single-storey holiday a.ccommodation located in a beautiful area. Situated close to the River Aeron and in a central location for touring Cardigan Bay and the western coastline. Decorated to a good standard, with all modern facilities including a dining room table and chairs, it offers a country retreat for a small family or a couple. Enjoy the scenery of the Cardigan Coast and beautiful beaches in the area, where dolphins and porpoises are often spotted. The town of Aberaeron is less than 10 minutes away with shops. New Quay, Aberporth, Aberystwyth and Llangrannog are within easy driving. A short drive inland leads to Lampeter and Tregaron, where the Welsh language is mostly used by locals. Shops 2 miles, pub 4 miles and restaurant 100 yards.

This detached bungalow is built in the owners’ grounds of 2 acres with stream, on edge of the village of Llanon, about half a mile from the beach, 5 miles from Aberaeron. Ideal for a beach or watersport holiday with New Quay and Aberystwyth both about 10 miles. Clifftop or hill walking, touring inland, with Tregaron and Lampeter both 15 miles, and Cardigan about 25 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 1 mile.

Brynhoreb is a delightful, cosy cottage in a tranquil rural setting and yet only three miles from Aberystwyth and the wonderful coastline of Ceredigion. The garden raised up behind the cottage takes full advantage of the stunning vista. Whether you are sitting in the comfortable summer house, on the decked terrace created to look like a pirate ship, or relaxing in the bubbling hot tub, you can glimpse the sea across the rolling countryside. There is even an information pack provided in the cottage, perfect for those wanting to explore the surrounding area.
Apart from its sweeping promenade and pier, Aberystwyth has the famous Constitution Hill, the Victorian equivalent of a modern day theme park, rising dramatically from the sea, providing spectacular and uninterrupted views of the town, Cardigan Bay, and on a clear day, 26 mountain peaks spanning much of the length of Wales. This majestic panorama can be reached by train on the longest funicular electric cliff railway in Britain, which has been transporting visitors to the summit since opening in 1896. Aberystwyth is also the starting point for the Vale of Rheidol steam railway to Devils Bridge and a huge tumbling waterfall and gorge; a scenic journey well worth taking. Aberystwyth is much more than a seaside town. It is surrounded on three sides by some of the most glorious countryside in the UK. Apart from the wonderful Ceredigion Heritage Coast, there are the mountains of Pumlumon to the north-east, where the sources of both the Severn and the Wye are to be found. Pumlumon is part of the Cambrian Mountain Range, the last refuge of the Red Kite in Britain, until a few years ago when a management and protection scheme was started. Now you will frequently see them soaring above the hills and hear their distinctive cry. The visitor attraction of the Red Kite Feeding Station is just nine miles away, close to the Silver Mountain Mining Experience, another great attraction for families.
Other interesting places to visit in the area and within easy reach from Brynhoreb is the impressive sand dune system of the Ynyslas National Nature Reserve, which jut out halfway across the mouth of the Dovey Estuary; the colourful Georgian harbour town of Aberaeron and the pretty resort of New Quay that once inspired poet Dylan Thomas, and where Bottlenose dolphins can often been seen from the harbour. The whole area is a haven for walkers, cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts and lovers of golden sandy beaches, many of them dog friendly year round. Brynhoreb is the perfect base to discover what a Welsh gem Ceredigion is – you will certainly want to return once you’ve been!

Escape to the wonderful comfort of Ivy Bush Cottage nestled within the ancient, charming, and tranquil village of Llandewi Brefi, at the foothills of the Cambrian Mountains. Situated in a row of four stone cottages originally all owned by the owner’s great-great grandfather 150 years ago, Ivy Bush (Bwthyn Iorwg in Welsh) is now one of three cottages still owned by the family today. It has been lovingly restored and has high quality and comfort in abundance. Exposed stone work, beams and a multi-fuel burner all go towards making it a characterful and cosy holiday retreat for guests.
The village lies on the banks of the Afon Brefi and dates back to the 1st century when Romans set up camp in a settlement known as Bremia (bubbling stream). There is an interesting local legend to discover whilst here as to how the village later came to be known as Llandewi Brefi! In centuries gone by it was a thriving and bustling place on the drover’s route taking livestock to London and beyond. Today the village is rather more peaceful but still has a village shop for your essential supplies and two warm and welcoming inns.
The area abounds with walks and cycle routes, plenty starting from the cottage, and mountain biking opportunities. The market town of Tregaron is 3 miles away with shops, the Rhiannon Welsh Gold Centre, and an award-winning restaurant and pub. Just a mile beyond, you will find the stunning Cors Caron Nature Reserve, over 2000 acres of finest raised bog system with an access-friendly boardwalk route through it. Visit the ruins of the 12th-century Cistercian Abbey at Strata Florida and explore the Cambrian Mountains by car, bicycle or on foot. A variety of guided walking tours are available via local organisers.
A 35-minute drive will bring you to the fantastic Ceredigion coastline with its beaches, many are dog friendly year-round, dolphin-watching boat trips, the town of Aberystwyth with its cliff railway, pier and long promenade and the attractive Georgian harbour town of Aberaeron, famous for its honey ice cream. Back at Ivy Bush you can enjoy an al fresco meal in the enclosed garden, looking out across the Welsh slate rooftops towards the village church and you will very likely see red kites soaring overhead and hear their distinctive cry. After splendid days out exploring this wonderful area, sink into the luxurious handmade organic mattresses and dream of return journeys to this region of extraordinary natural beauty. Beach 20 miles. Shop 150 yards, pub/restaurant 200 yards.

Conveniently situated close to village amenities, it is also just yards from the shores of the Teifi Estuary and the northern end of the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path. The ancient village of St Dogmaels nestles around its ruined Tironian abbey at the mouth of the River Teifi. It boasts a working 16th-century water mill, and holds an award-winning weekly produce market.
The area is justly renowned for its lovely beaches, hidden coves and stunning coastal scenery, and abounds with historic castles, forts and fascinating archaeology. In 2017 the nearby Cardigan Castle won the RICS ’Restoration of the Year’ award, screened on Channel 4, and is well worth a visit. Superb walking is also on offer on the coastal paths of both Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion, as well as the atmospheric Preseli Hills with an extensive local network of footpaths and bridleways. Wildlife in the area is abundant and dolphins, porpoises and seals are often seen from local beaches and coves.
The property itself enjoys distant views of the estuary from the living room and is just 1½ miles from the beautiful Poppit Sands. Golfing and riding are available locally, as well as fishing and watersports such as kayaking and coasteering. Nearby family attractions include Oakwood Theme Park, Bluestones, Folly Farm, Manor Park Zoo and the Welsh Wildlife Centre at Cilgerran. The property is situated a few yards from a bus stop giving easy access to Cardigan, Newport, Fishguard and St Davids. Narberth, Tenby, Aberystwyth, Aberaeron and Newquay are also easily accessible by car. Shop ¾ mile and pub serving food 500 yards.

With arguably the best views of Aberystwyth and Cardigan Bay, Seascape, one of a pair, is a luxurious holiday retreat in an enviable location, within a 15-minute walk of two beaches and just over half a mile from every amenity this lovely seaside town has to offer. The owners, who live next door, have created an elegant and comfortable holiday home in a peaceful spot. From here you can see the summit of Britain’s longest electric cliff railway, operating since 1896. The top of the hill has one of the largest Camera Obscuras in the world, a café and restaurant, and is only a 6-minute walk from Seascape. Aberystwyth is west Wales’ premier seaside resort and a historic town, offering varied shopping, bars and restaurants, art centres with theatre and cinema, pier and long promenade, castle ruins, the National Library of Wales (tours available) or take the Vale of Rheidol steam train to Devil’s Bridge and Waterfalls. Lovers of nature will appreciate the abundance of walking available from the property and if golf is your sport, Seascape overlooks Aberystwyth Golf Club.
Visit the stunning Ynyslas Nature Reserve and sand dunes with magnificent views across the Dovey Estuary, the Bwlch Nant Yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre or the nearby centre, where you can watch majestic red kites feeding over the lake. Award-winning beaches and iconic harbours make the Ceredigion coast a beautiful place to visit, where dolphins and seals can often be seen. This region inspired Dylan Thomas to write some of his finest poetry. It’s framed by the Cambrian Mountains, the backbone of Wales, rich in wildlife, legends and intriguing landscapes. Whatever your preference, Seascape is the perfect holiday home in an unrivalled position, ideal for exploring this wonderful area or just relaxing and soaking up the views. Beach ½ mile. Shop, pub and restaurant ½ mile.

Converted from an 18th century milking shed to a high standard cottage in 2020, Ty Arth has lots of original features that have been upcycled and used in the property. Situated in Maen-y-groes, on the owner’s quiet small holding with 5 acres of land, this lovely semi-detached cottage nestles in a fabulous rural location where red kites can often be spotted. The famous Ceredigion coastal paths can be accessed behind the owner’s land from where guests can take a short walk down to New Quay shops, restaurants and beaches and beyond. This delightful, pet-friendly property (2 pets welcome) has everything you need to enjoy a self-catering holiday.
Underfloor heating on the ground floor provides guests with a cosy and warm welcome, especially during the cooler months. On the first floor there are two bedrooms; one with a super kingsize bed, the other with zip and link twin beds (which can be made into a second super kingsize bed if required), and a family bathroom. Outside, a lovely patio area with garden furniture, as well as an enclosed grassed paddock close to the property with picnic benches, makes this a great place to let your pets roam free (under supervision).
New Quay has an array of local pubs, shops and restaurants, as well as Cardigan Watersports Centre for those who fancy trying paddle-boarding or sailing. The picturesque fishing harbour is also home to bottlenose dolphins who may be spotted on a clear day. New Quay is where the poet Dylan Thomas lived during World War II, and visitors can follow the Dylan Thomas Trail around the town. Nearby New Quay Honey Farm is well worth a visit, as is the delightful and colourful harbour town of Aberaeron. The ruins of Strata Florida and the Cambrian Mountains are only a short drive away, and golf and horse riding is available nearby. Beach 1½ miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles.Ty Arth can be booked together with Ty Draenog (UK31653) to accommodate up to 8 guests.

Within the beautiful remote setting of this family run smallholding in Aberporth, sits the most delightful renovated stone barn conversion formerly the old cow shed. Now unrecognisable, this unique light and airy barn offers a wealth of charm and warmth, bringing together character and contemporary under one roof all set within the beautiful grounds of the owners’ farmhouse. This property also has the benefit of being ’wheelchair friendly’ designed especially for disabled users with a ramp for access and the barn being on one level. With pine flooring throughout and fully tiled wet room, your stay will give you comfort and relaxation to the full. The gable end of the lounge having a stunning vaulted ceiling, has a unique stained glass window originally from a Welsh Chapel to the top whilst the bi-folding doors beneath, open fully onto the raised patio with outdoor seating, bringing the outdoors in. The leather sofas invite you to relax after a long day exploring the sights and gaze out at the views surrounding you.
The open plan character kitchen/dining room with the old Belfast sink together with modern units and appliances entices you to prepare that special something. The well proportioned bedroom with two windows overlooking the courtyard and gardens to the front, ensure tranquillity for a perfect night’s sleep. There is also a Dutch barn to the rear where bikes can be stored; also housing an undercover washing line, ideal for drying out those coats should the weather take a turn for the worse! The path from the gardens through the wooded area joins up with the main coastal path which is a 15 minute walk directly to the dog friendly Aberporth beach just 1 mile away; you may even see wallabies and emus along the path. If you fancy adventuring out, there are a number of beaches only a short drive away, including Penbryn, Tresaith, Mwnt, Llangranog and Poppit Sands. Staying local, you’ll have a selection of amenities, including a choice of takeaways, a shop, and dog friendly café and pub within walking distance. Whatever you choose, you won’t be disappointed making Troed Y Rhiw as your holiday base.