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Gilar House

Pentrefoelas, near Betws-y-Coed, North Wales

Check availability & Book

Sleeps 10
Bedrooms 5
Bathrooms 3
Change Fri
pets Dogs welcome 2
grade 5 star
Parking on site / nearby
Highchair available
Towels included
Family friendly
Quirky
Luxury
Fishing on site / nearby
Games / Play facilities
Internet access
Working farm
Open fire / wood burner
Enclosed garden / patio
Decorated for Christmas
Pub nearby
Cot available
Country houses
16 more

At a glance

  • A stunning Grade II-listed property with a gatehouse, full of original period features and modern twists
  • Featuring an entertainment barn with a pool table, bar, games, a fully equipped kitchen and cinema space
  • Idyllic location with 500 acres of farmland, ancient woodlands and lakes, close to Garn Prys Mountain
  • As featured in The Times ‘50 Coolest Holiday Cottages’, the BBC’s Holiday Programme and in the Food and Travel Magazine
Property code: OC-55987

Originally built in the 16th-century, this magnificent, elegantly presented Welsh manor house has been sympathetically reimagined to make an unforgettable holiday venue for multi-generational families and groups of friends. Surrounded by 500 acres of serene mountainous North Wales farmland, the property is ideally positioned for exploring the area’s ancient woodlands, sparkling lakes and unrivalled vistas. Close to Betws-y-Coed (9 miles), this stunning farmhouse sits in an idyllic spot near Pentrefoelas (2.5 miles), the gateway to Snowdonia National Park, where the River Conwy meets its three tributaries, and boasts a variety of outdoor activities, alongside craft shops, galleries, pubs and historic buildings. It’s a great base for walking, climbing, kayaking and fishing. An array of local attractions includes Mount Snowdon (23.5 miles), Bala Lake (16.5 miles), Adventure Parc (17 miles), Go Below Underground Adventures (7 miles), Conwy Castle (24.5 miles), Ruthin Gaol (25.5 miles) and Bodnant Garden (21.5 miles).

As featured in 'The Times', this superb Tudor and Elizabethan farmhouse offers exceptional interiors, marrying old with new – this stunning getaway is a real historic treat with twists and turns exuding period charm. Exploring the property, you will encounter a plethora of original features including oak panelled rooms, plaster armorial shields, feature fireplaces, exposed timber beams, stone and wooden floors, steep and quirky staircases and even the original beam-door-lock from the 1600s. An oak seat in the porch is a useful spot to perch as you remove your boots and head through to the atmospheric oak-panelled hallway. To your left is the light and spacious lounge, with an impressive stone fireplace and timber ceiling beams. Here you can relax on the comfortable sofas, light the fire, listen to music or watch a film on the Smart TV. From the slate flagstone floor hallway, a step leads down to the bespoke galley kitchen with all the equipment you need to rustle up a family feast which you can serve around the refectory table in the beautiful dining room, again featuring a fire in a huge open fireplace. The ground floor also features a refreshing bathroom with a shower over the roll-top bath and a WC.

On the first floor you will find another lovely bathroom with a free-standing bath and large monsoon shower cubicle. Further along the elegantly adorned corridor you will discover the property’s sumptuous bedrooms, each with a selection of antique furniture, historic tapestries, oak panelling, uneven floors and hidden clues to times gone by. The master bedroom has exposed beams beneath a fine late 16th-century ceiling and offers a gigantic super-king-size four-poster bed, while next door is a superb double bedroom with serene views. At the end of the corridor a spacious king-size bedroom has an invigorating en-suite shower room and WC. Up a narrow, steep staircase is a charming twin bedroom. The final bedroom is a cosy twin with oak window seats and an impressive feature fireplace, set in a separate, magnificent gatehouse which lies along the cobbled garden path. Dating back to 1623, this is one of the last remaining gatehouses in Wales.

Making an exciting addition to the property, is a fantastic, self-contained entertainment barn. Imaginatively updated, the barn retains plenty of its original character, with high timber beams, whitewashed stonework and an array of original artefacts stylishly repurposed as decor. Entering from the garden, a wooden door leads into this beautiful space where you will be greeted by a bespoke, elegantly organised kitchen and a cedar dining table with bench seating for 12 guests. A charming copper-topped bar features bar stools, a drinks fridge, extensive storage, an ice bucket, champagne cooler, cocktail shakers, and glasses – though you’ll have to bring your own choice of drinks! For more active pursuits, you will find three yoga mats, a 7’ pool/snooker table, an illuminated dartboard and a multi-purpose games table for playing cards, roulette or chess. In addition, a diverse supply of books, games and boardgames can be found dotted around the barn. There is also a cinema area with a 72” Smart TV with a Bose soundbar, plush sofas and comfortable armchairs. A WC and cloakroom rounds off this wonderful space.

The marvellous outdoor spaces surrounding this characterful farmhouse are equally sublime, with some 500 acres for you to explore. Situated on a working sheep farm, the grounds also feature ancient woodlands, the impressive Garn Prys Mountain, serene lakes and an enclosed, walled garden which is accessed from the porch. The walled garden is a perfect spot for al fresco dining, with its covered BBQ area, patio and fire pit. There’s also a generous, covered dining table.


 

Read more Code: OC-55987

  • 5 bedrooms – 1 super-king-size four-poster, 1 king-size, 1 double, 2 twins (1 in the gatehouse)
  • 3 bathrooms – 1 ground-floor bathroom with shower over a roll-top bath and WC, 1 bathroom with bath, separate shower cubicle and WC, 1 en-suite shower with WC (there are no bathroom facilities in the gatehouse)
  • Electric oven and hob, fridge/freezer, dishwasher and microwave in main kitchen
  • Extra under-counter fridge and separate wine fridge in dining room
  • Outside utility area with washing machine and tumble dryer
  • Electric double oven and hob, in-built air-fryer, dishwasher, American-style double-door fridge/freezer in the kitchen of the entertainment barn
  • 2 open fires (logs included)
  • Smart TV and DVD player in lounge
  • Self-contained entertainment barn with large TV and sound bar, pool/snooker table, dartboard, casino/games table, fully equipped kitchen, full-size (unstocked) bar, and WC
  • Walled garden with seating, charcoal BBQ in covered patio area with fire pit; lawned area
  • Ample private parking
  • Beach 18 miles, shop 3 miles and pub 1 mile
  • Please note, dogs are to stay on the ground floor’s hard-floored areas only
  • Heated dog kennels available outside
  • Covered bike store and outside tap
  • Please note, the staircases are steep and uneven so may be unsuitable for some guests, especially infants and small children
  • The property is on a working sheep farm – please expect to experience the sights and smells of such
  • Caretakers available on site, but privacy is assured
  • No stag or hens
  • This property will be decorated for Christmas
  • Arrival: 17:00 onwards
  • Departure: before 10:00
  • 2 dogs allowed. Additional charges may apply

Photos

Show 42 more

Emma Beagley

This property is personally managed by Emma.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

From guests that have stayed at the property.

Based on 15 guest ratings

Overall cleanliness
Overall cleanliness 4.6 starsOverall cleanliness 4.6 starsOverall cleanliness 4.6 starsOverall cleanliness 4.6 starsOverall cleanliness 4.6 stars4.6
Overall equipment
Overall equipment 4.6 starsOverall equipment 4.6 starsOverall equipment 4.6 starsOverall equipment 4.6 starsOverall equipment 4.6 stars4.6
Overall comfort
Overall comfort 4.8 starsOverall comfort 4.8 starsOverall comfort 4.8 starsOverall comfort 4.8 starsOverall comfort 4.8 stars4.8
Overall location
Overall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 starsOverall location 4.9 stars4.9

Reviewed by James 1st November 2026

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

The cottage was lovely, full of character and had everything we needed. It was cosy, welcoming and just perfect for our stay.

Reviewed by Nick 5th September 2026

Guest rating 2.2 starsGuest rating 2.2 starsGuest rating 2.2 starsGuest rating 2.2 starsGuest rating 2.2 stars

Would not recommend the property

Reviewed by Anwen 7th July 2026

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Gilar , it was a great experience for our grown up grandchildren to stay at such a historical house and enjoy the many walks and views nearby.

Reviewed by Olga 22nd January 2026

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Lovely farm and facilities. Very wholesome

Reviewed by Tammie 3rd October 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Reviewed by Tracie 23rd September 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Gilar House! It was the most extraordinary and beautiful cottage that exceeded all our expectations. In such a gorgeous part of the world. It was even more special because we hadn't seen our daughter for five months and having her with us to enjoy this wonderful part of the world was a dream come true! We celebrated a special birthday, had day tripRead mores in the area and enjoyed cooking too - coming all the way from Australia we were thrilled to stay here, enjoyed the history, love the country x Hide

Reviewed by Gillian 19th September 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Reviewed by Peter 1st August 2025

Guest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 starsGuest rating 4.6 stars

The ambience of the place was great, working farm and the kids watch the sheep dog heard the sheep in all morning- a real memory for them. We loved being away from the crowds and so remote where it allowed us all to reconnect and get unplugged for a week. The Argentinian Asado was FANTASTIC, as an avid BBQ fan it was a pleasure to use. Everything wRead moreas well stocked and didn't use a thing of my own, perfect location for us, where we had family (6adults and 4 kids) fun was perfect Hide

Reviewed by Rosi 18th July 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

We were a party of 10 ranging from 73 (with a 3 week old hip) to 12 weeks old. This house provided an amazing base for our whole team. The teenagers like the hideaway in the gatehouse, the 7 year old loved the garden space and the rest of the adults loved the outdoor seating area and BBQ! The kitchen catered for every need and was extremely well eqRead moreuipped which suited us foodies! The owners communication was timely and helpful- wish we could give it a score of 11/10!! Amazing home from home- cant recommend highly enough! We will definitely be back x Hide

Reviewed by Shannon 30th May 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

This cottage and surroundings are gorgeous. We went with 2 dogs and a toddler. Both dogs and toddler were in heaven as there was so much room to run about and play! The beds are super comfy, its very clean, there is literally every utensil/pan/dish you could ever need. They really thought of everything. Its like stepping into history. We absolutelyRead more loved it and had so much fun. Hide

Reviewed by Marion 23rd May 2025

Guest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 starsGuest rating 5 stars

Reviewed by Paul 16th May 2025

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Lovely house and location, sunshine all week was a bonus.

Reviewed by Imogen 11th April 2025

Guest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 starsGuest rating 4.8 stars

Wonderfully comfortable. Beautiful, quiet location. Stunning countryside. Lots to do. Thoroughly recommend.

Reviewed by Katherine 4th April 2025

Guest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 starsGuest rating 4.2 stars

What an incredible spot and special place to stay. We had a week of creating wonderful memories at Gilar House and despite there being so much to do in the surrounding area we spent a couple of wonderful afternoons at the house and a whole week of evenings cosy by the fire in that dreamy sitting room. We have never seen such a well equipped kitchenRead more and beautifully presented rooms. Thank you! Hide

Reviewed by Peter 3rd March 2025

Guest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 starsGuest rating 3.8 stars

A nice historic and rustic Farmhouse in a stunning location.

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LOCATION

Map
Note: As the postcode is used to identify the general area of the property, it may not always reflect its precise location, therefore please only use this map as a guide.
Big Domain is a trading name of The Travel Chapter Limited | The Travel Chapter Limited is registered in England and Wales. | Registered office Travel Chapter House, Gammaton Road, Bideford, EX39 4DF. Company No. 02431506 | VAT reg: 143053210.