Hergest Lee

Handcrafted Cabins in the Welsh Countryside

Sometimes the more personal a project is, the deeper we fall for it. These two newly built cabins in the Welsh countryside have so much charm they've already made headlines in several major UK publications, drawing praise for their heart, soul, and immaculate attention to detail. 

The first of the two, Hergest Lee Cabin, was designed and built by carpenter and oak framer Paul Gent in Presteigne. It was completed in March 2020, just as the UK went into lockdown, so the family moved into it and experienced life inside this tiny home for six months. However, it's now available for rentals.

Constructed from local cedar, its unconventional curves were inspired by Frank Gehry's designs and mimic the natural lines of Hanter Hill, which sits opposite the home. Paul also handcrafted all the striking modular units throughout the interior, as well as the floating staircase and bed. He used high ceilings and blurred lines between walls and ceilings to create a sense of space that defies the actual dimensions of the cabin.

Interiors are grey, brown and blue, inspired idiosyncratically by Edwardian drawing rooms, and furnishings are mid-century in influence, including Ercol 203 chairs and a Stouby sofa. But it's the little details that really add character, the found objects from antique fairs and eccentric creations by local artists, elevating the space to something truly unique.

The second cabin, the Lean-To, has just been completed at the end of the same site's old threshing barn. Enter it through bi-fold doors, and you'll find a spacious living room and a cantilevered staircase that splits in two directions. At the top, there's a mezzanine with a bath. The color palette is elegantly moody, using rust and charred woods for a decadently luxurious feel.

To read an interview with the owners of the cabins, visit our Stories section here.

The Cabin sleeps two adults in its master bedroom (king-sized bed) and up to three kids in the low-ceilinged mezzanine area, which has one double and one single mattress.

The Lean-To has a master bedroom with king bed and two single beds in the bunk areas that are suitable for children over the age of seven (as they are accessed by ladder).

The two units can be rented separately or together for larger groups.

The cabins are designed with environmental features that include a continuous insulation layer and a breathable membrane that almost completely eliminates draughts. All paints and varnishes are natural, and heat comes from energy-efficient infrared panels.

AROUND

One of the best activities to enjoy from this cabin rental in Wales is walking. The owners recommend a hike to Stanner Rocks for views of the valley and wild horses, Hanter Hill for views of the black mountains and Brecon Beacons, and Hergest Ridge for stunning views to the Malvern Hills and beyond.

There are a number of good pubs close by, including The Harp, an award-winning eatery with great views, and The Forest Inn, one of Wales' oldest pubs. There are numerous cafes and tea rooms, including one in the grounds of Hergest Croft Gardens. Other gardens worth a visit include Bryans Ground and Rhodds Farm. 

Don't miss the many bridlepaths and horse riding centers, canoeing, and the Red Kite Feeding Centre,  a family-friendly venue with hundreds of birds of prey. The owners are happy to make recommendations and to disclose the best locations for wild swimming nearby.

The nearest town is Kington, which is about four minutes away by car. It has a co-op shop, a deli, coffee shops, and a greengrocers. The Burton Hotel has a spa with swimming pool, which is open to the public for day use.

LOCATION

Presteigne, Powys, Wales, UK. Nearest airports: Birmingham (55 miles), Cardiff (62 miles).

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year round. The cabins are well insulated for the winter months.