The Carn, Dog Friendly Accommodation in Presteigne

In June 2024 we headed away for a weekend staycation in a nearby cabin. Nestled in the peaceful Welsh hills of Powys, The Carn is a secluded retreat that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Perched at the end of a winding track, this charming hideaway offers the perfect escape into nature while still being just a short stroll from the picturesque town of Presteigne.

Presteigne is a delightful discovery for food lovers. Its quaint streets are lined with local delis, independent shops, and vibrant farmers' markets brimming with fresh, locally sourced produce. Whether you’re hunting for artisan cheeses, freshly baked bread, or seasonal vegetables, you’ll find an abundance of culinary treasures to inspire your meals, or if you don't fancy cooking there is a local fish and chip shop too. Gather your finds and head back to The Carn, where outdoor cooking becomes an experience in itself is best enjoyed with a bottle of organic wine as the sun sets behind the rolling hills.

Arriving at The Carn

The Carn offers the convenience of self check-in, allowing you to start your getaway at your own pace. As we arrived, we were immediately captivated by the breath-taking views of rolling hills and the charming sight of bunnies playfully hopping about. There was a chorus of songbirds, and we even spotted a red kite soaring through the skies. Stepping inside, we were met with an even more heartfelt welcome from a bottle of refreshing homemade apple juice and a freshly baked loaf of sourdough bread, adding a deliciously warm touch to our arrival. I think that the apple juice was quite honestly the nicest I have ever drank.

The Space

The Carn isn’t just a retreat; it’s a testament to sustainable living. Carefully crafted with the environment in mind, the cabin is built using salvaged and sustainably sourced timber from a local sawmill. The insulation is made from natural wool and recycled newspaper, ensuring optimal energy efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. Even the paints are eco-friendly, contributing to the cabin’s harmonious connection with its surroundings.

Designed to embrace all weather conditions, The Carn features a beautifully integrated indoor-outdoor living space. A covered deck provides the perfect setting for cooking and dining alfresco, complete with a fully equipped kitchen that encourages firepit cooking under the open sky. For cooler days, the cabin has underfloor heating, radiators, and a charming wood-burning stove that adds to the rustic ambiance. Whether you’re curled up with a good book or sharing stories around the fire, The Carn ensures comfort and warmth throughout your stay.

Accommodating up to five guests and two dogs, The Carn provides ample space and comfort for families or groups. It features a luxurious king-size bed, a comfortable double bed, and a charming bunk bed, ensuring a restful night’s sleep for everyone.

The breath-taking views from the windows are a highlight of the cabin, with deer and rabbits frequently making appearances right outside. One of the best spots to enjoy this natural spectacle is from the swinging chair on the veranda, a perfect place to relax and take in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape.

The Garden

The Carn is nestled in a private field amidst the ancient woodlands of the Welsh hills, offering a truly secluded and picturesque escape, seamlessly blending into its natural surroundings, providing views of the rolling landscape.

To enhance your outdoor experience, the cabin features a luxurious outdoor bath and an array of relaxing seat swings, perfect for unwinding and soaking in the tranquil scenery. Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful soak under the open sky or swaying gently in a swing, relaxation comes easy at The Carn. However, the area is not enclosed at all. To ensure the safety of pets and respect for the local wildlife, guests are kindly asked to keep dogs on a lead when outside. While this can be slightly annoying, especially for those high energy dogs, there are hooks to tether the dogs to and we found these handy for tethering up longlines so the dogs still had some freedom.

Surrounding Walks/Things to Do

There’s no shortage of things to do during your stay at The Carn. Start by exploring the

enchanting woodland that surrounds the cabin. For a taste of local flavour, head into town and treat yourself to mouth-watering pizza and creamy ice cream at Daphne’s which is a must-visit for food lovers. On warmer days, take a refreshing dip in the River Lugg before unwinding with a pint of local ale at one of the charming nearby pubs, such as the Royal George in Lingen, known for its cosy atmosphere and friendly locals.

For those seeking more adventurous pursuits, the renowned Offa’s Dyke trail offers spectacular hiking opportunities with beautiful views. And if you’re a fan of cider, don’t miss a visit to Dunkerton Mill, where you can enjoy a leisurely meal and sample some of the finest local brews, perfect for bringing a taste of the region back home with you.

Final Thoughts- Is This Suitable For Sensitive/Reactive Dogs?

The Carn is thoughtfully designed for those seeking seclusion, making it an ideal retreat for reactive or anxious dogs. During our stay, the remote location ensured complete privacy, we didn’t encounter a single person, allowing for a truly peaceful escape. We did however, encounter one rogue jack russell that ran through the decking. This was presumably from a nearby farm, possibly a gamekeeper in the woods.

The combination of its secluded setting and self check-in option provides a stress-free environment, perfect for dogs that are easily triggered by unfamiliar faces or bustling surroundings. However, as the cabin is situated in an open field without fencing, it’s important to keep dogs on a lead whenever they’re outside. To make things easier, convenient tie-up spots are provided, allowing you to safely secure your pets while still letting them enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery. If you’re looking for a tranquil getaway where both you and your reactive dog can truly relax, The Carn is an exceptional choice.

Book The Carn Here