Charity | Luxury Self-Catering Farmhouse | Black Mountains

Charity

Black Mountains, Herefordshire, UK

Clever artistry and divine seclusion combine to make Charity a sublime self-catering  retreat for families and friends wanting to escape it all. Set off the Olchon Valley's Mountain Road in Herefordshire, this modern-rustic farmhouse commands soul-stirring views to the Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains on one side, and rolling Hereford countryside to the other. Strike a match to the wood-fired hot tub, mix cocktails in the snooker room and make yourself truly at home.

Book

Introduction

Dating back to the 15th century, Charity’s scattering of tumbledown farm buildings lay untouched for decades. It wasn’t until the swinging sixties that a man discovered the humble old farmhouse and barns hidden beneath a blanket of wild nettles and, with the help of his son, tenderly transformed Charity into the magnificent family home as it stands today. Self-catering groups can look forward to three open fires, bathtubs in bedrooms, a croquet lawn, wooden sauna, disco ball, home cinema and sheltered courtyard with fire pit and hot tub, all set under the starriest night sky imaginable.

Inside

However Charity speaks to you most, as a holistic country retreat, artists' studio or secret mountain hideaway, it won’t be long until it’s stone walls and stories nestle their way into your heart. Sowing contemporary flare into an authentic farmhouse frame, Charity offers something for every generation at every turn. From the Welsh blankets by the open fire to bookshelves stuffed with compelling reads and chef's kitchen overlooking the front lawn, children can play whilst grown-ups recline in peaceful solitude. Completing the picture, six unique bedrooms await at the end of the day, each with green views and French linens.

Outside

Charity’s ensemble of stone buildings, sat amidst 20 acres of its own land and woods, wrap around a central courtyard which is accessible from six doors throughout the house. The courtyard is the ultimate grown-up’s playground; comprising a hot tub, stone island barbecue station and fire pit. Tempting though it may be to stay at home, a whole host of activities await nearby. Take the party on an outdoor adventure to explore the Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains. Some of the best views can be enjoyed from Sugar Loaf, Table Mountain and Pen y Fan. Using the hot tub as a spring water plunge pool is the perfect antidote after a run down the mountains.

The Facts

  • SleepsUp to 12 guests
    From £3,850 per week, £2,895 per short break
    Day hire options are available
  • Alternative group optionUp to 6 guests
  • Bedrooms and bathroomsOn the ground floor are three zip-and-link bedrooms (which can be set up as either super king-size doubles or twins), two with en suite shower rooms and one with an en suite wet room. On the first floor is the zip-and-link master bedroom (whose bed can be set up as either a super king-size double or a twin) with en suite bathroom and separate shower, and two double bedrooms each with a bath in the room.
    View bedrooms
  • FeaturesWood-fired hot tub, sauna, outdoor shower, outdoor pizza oven, table tennis, snooker room, cinema barn and badminton lawn
  • PetsTwo well-behaved dogs are welcome
    Each pet is charged at £60 per week or part thereof
  • Arrivals and departuresArrival Time: 4pmDeparture Time: 10am
  • FamilyYes, children are very welcome, one travel cot and one highchair are available. Please note there is a drop at the edge of the lawn so young children should be supervised.
  • PracticalitiesThere is ample parking for eight cars. There is underfloor heating to keep you cosy, and WiFi internet (please note that mobile reception can be patchy due to the secluded location), the kitchen has a cooking range by Bertazzon including two electric ovens, a hob with electric Teppanyaki griddle, six gas burners and a dual-ring power burner. There is also an Artisan Stand mixer, Magimix, toaster, Le Creuset stove-top kettle, Tefal rice cooker, NutriBullet and fridge-freezer with wine cooler.
  • Homestay includesSurround-sound cinema with 7-metre projector screen and Blu-ray DVD player, Sonos multi-room sound system, luxury welcome hamper, TV, three barbecues, linen, towels, logs and kindling to get you started...House book - your property and destination guideDiscover more
  • Private cateringWhether you're looking for a fully catered stay or a one-off meal for a special occasion, discover your bespoke catering options.
    Explore private dining
  • RestrictionsParties considered on prior permission from the owner
  • Other informationProperty terms and conditionsFrequently asked questionsView floor plan

Get in touch

Enquire Book

Laid-back suppers are encouraged at Charity
From rustic to disco barn
End of day gatherings fireside

Weddings at Charity

An authentic farmhouse full of character and style, with enough rooms to cater for a close family gathering, Charity´s bohemian soul and awe-inspiring mountainside location create an elopement wedding venue like none before it.

Find out more

Prices & Availability

The Black Mountains

Well placed on the border of England and Wales, this stunning hilly region attracts hikers, mountain bikers and horse riders. There are pretty towns and villages to explore too, if you can take your eyes off the amazing mountain views.

View property location Destination guide

The Black Mountains
View nearby properties
Close

Getting there

  • On the Map Charity has a secluded mountain position in the Olchon Valley in Herefordshire near the Brecon Beacons, on the England-Wales border.
  • By Car Charity is three hours drive from London.
  • By Train Abergavenny train station is around half an hour's drive away, with regular routes to London via Cardiff .
  • By Air Cardiff and Bristol airports are both one and a half hour's away by car.

From the owner

“The 1960s saw my father Ben John start coming to the Olchon Valley, the last valley in the Brecon Beacons on the border of Wales. In 1967 he discovered Charity Farm, then approached by a dirt track, and thus began my dad´s love affair with this house and the remoteness of the valley.”

From the owner

Slowly transforming from a dilapidated cottage, for many years Charity was basic, draughty and cold. On family holidays as children, we huddled around a roaring fire waiting as our bath water heated up, refilled from a metal bucket that hung over the grate. In 1989, after an early retirement from the design world, Dad then bought the surrounding buildings and began what he called 'The Grand Design'.

A radical scheme connecting medieval architecture through modernist design, he created an annexe between the barn and the cottage. Oak joinery, stone walls and flagstone floors continued to be the defining features of Charity. When my father died, the prospect of losing the house was unbearable. My siblings decided to sell, but I moved heaven and earth to be able to buy Charity.

The changes my Dad made over the years inspired me to make more. I now had the opportunity of looking at the house as a whole with a view to resolving the tensions between the old and new.

With the help of brilliant teams, this new Charity has taken me over three years and many new skills along the way. It has been a challenging process trying to maintain the soul whilst delivering ergonomic functionality. Of course, this has been very exciting too and immensely rewarding. I hope you find Charity and this valley as inspiring as we do.

Henry John

Owner recommendations

Live like a local, discovering the best hidden gem restaurants, walks and attractions during your holiday in The Black Mountains with an insider's perspective.

The Walnut Tree, Abergavenny

To Eat

The Walnut Tree, Abergavenny

Attracting foodies from all over the world, this Michelin-starred restaurant is a must-visit. Offering a superb dining experience, booking in advance at the Walnut Tree is definitely recommended to avoid disappointment.

Wye Valley Canoes

To Do

Wye Valley Canoes

This beautiful stretch of river is the perfect haven for a day´s adventure; quietly cut through the water in your canoe and enjoy a novel way to spend time with friends and family as beautiful scenes unfold and peace and tranquility reign.

Llama Trekking

To Do

Llama Trekking

What could be better than trekking through gorgeous countryside with a herd of llamas? With Golden Valley Llamas, you can enjoy half day treks, including haltering, grooming and walking your llamas through verdant fields.

The Black Mountains

To See

The Black Mountains

The north-east part of the Brecon Beacons National Park is dominated by the Black Mountains, a group of old red sandstone hills, the highest of which is Waun Fach. They´re cloaked in grass and heather and laced with rivers.

Guest Testimonials

Read reviews on TrustPilot and Google

The whole gang (5-70 years old!) came to celebrate a 60th, 40th, and 18th and had a wonderful time we´ve had. Lots of games of pool and fireside chats and a lovely Sunday lunch at The Bulls Head. Charity is a tiny piece of heaven, beautifully designed and thoughtfully restored. We didn´t want for anything during our stay and left completely contented! Here´s to the next stay!

Thank you for a fantastic stay in a beautiful house. We´re all sad to be saying goodbye to Charity. We´ll miss the stunning view and the peace and quiet as we head back to London!

Thank you for a wonderful stay. Charity really feels like a home from home and was a fantastic place to batten down the hatches during a dramatic New Years storm. You have created a real gem - the books, art, lighting, kitchen, and of course the location! I hope we can come back for more of the same.

Tricked the ´birthday boys´ into thinking a few of us were staying for the weekend and then the rest of the family arrived to celebrate their 60th birthday. What a perfect home that blew everyone´s mind. We had a fantastic celebration meal cooked by James Nathan. A night to remember. What a wonderful place to kick back and relax, we enjoyed the sauna, old movies, wine and amazing blue skies. So many memories made and a little bit of our hearts will remain at Charity. You have a unique and wonderful home. Thank you for sharing it

What a place! It would not be possible to tire of the views from this gorgeous house. The style, art, and books make it totally unique. It is so beautifully furnished - it really is a "home" not a house. We have particularly loved all the outside cooking areas and the hot tub has been put to great use after 3-4 hour hikes every day. We will be back! Thank you so much.

Best birthday ever and the peaceful break we needed from our busy lives! What a gorgeous place it is. Transported us all back to our ten years off-grid in the Brecon Beacons – only a lot more comfortable! The walls seem to hold years of happy times and wonderful memories and we have added ours to those. Thank you!

An incredible stay we will always treasure. An amazing house with even better views, nestled in the most gorgeous countryside. The house had something for everybody while remaining cosy and homey. We loved every moment and wish we could stay longer. We loved the pizza oven which was inspired all of us to either buy or build our own. The walks to the waterfalls and the priory were a definite highlight. Would definitely recommend a meal prepared by the outstanding James Nathan. The food was a religious experience and he was an incredible cook. We loved every second. Thank you so much!

We have spent a week together at Charity for a family celebration, and what a fantastic week we have had. The house is so lovely and really grew on us... We are sad to leave. The views are stunning and the valley is just so peaceful and still... such a break from busy life. The cinema room was especially good for us and we watched movies every day. The snooker table and sauna were also used every day and the pizza oven was great fun. Thank you for sharing your wonderful house with us, we hope to return some day!

Charity has been an amazing place to celebrate our Ruby Wedding anniversary with our family. We have enjoyed such a fun weekend playing table tennis, pool, croquet, etc. and just looking at the fantastic views all around us. We have made some wonderful memories. Thank you.

Thank you for sharing this home. The heart beats strong in this house!

We absolutely loved Charity, all the beds were cosy, the layout created loads of different spaces to settle in and we loved the spa facilities and cosy courtyard. The pizza night we had was amazing. Having all the fires burning made it feel cosy especially with the wind and rain. The owner clearly thought everything through in the design of how the space would be enjoyed. Thank you!!

Seven years of food, fires, and walks! These December weekends have become such a cherished tradition for us. May there be many more to come. Thank you for this beautiful home and the memories we’re making here. Charity holds a special place in our hearts. Until next time!

So happy to be able to return to Charity. This week, before Christmas, is the perfect respite from the rest of the hustle and bustle of life. We saw some glorious blue skies, some rain, and on our final morning, we were treated to a little snow. A glorious Christmas and a perfect time to spend a very special day with family, fires, food, and amazing memories made. Thank you and Merry Christmas!

Seven years of food, fires and walks. These December weekends have become such a cherished tradition for us. May there be many more to come. Thank you for this beautiful home and the memories we´ve made here. Charity holds a special place in our hearts. Until next time!

When I booked Charity, it was the artistic connection that drew me in. What a joy expressing our creativity was! We watched ´Ewetube´ through the window, danced, meditated and painted with such happiness. The scenery and weather was wild, windy and wonderful. Thank you, your house is perfect and we loved seeing the photos and reading your family´s story. We did tai chi first thing every morning on the lawn, giving gratitude and thanks for sharing time in your home.

We celebrated coming together here in Wales and were welcomed by the embrace of your wonderfully cosy home. You have paid such attention to detail in both the design, the inclusion of nature into each room, and incorporating all the elements here that celebrate the seasonal changes. It went from freezing cold to mild rainy days. We hiked the ridge, following the trail, made fabulous meals, played snooker, watched movies, enjoyed the sauna, and everything else to bring enormous smiles and deep sleeps every day and night!

We stayed at Charity for a 40th birthday celebration. We were all very excited about it for some time beforehand. Sometimes when you build something up in your mind for so long, it ends up not meeting your expectations. Charity, on the other hand, exceeded our expectations and we all had a beautiful time together building memories that will stay with us for a lifetime.

Charity was a magical place to spend a family Christmas and exceeded all expectations. This house has soul and we leave rested and inspired. Thank you to the owner for sharing your beautiful home.

We thoroughly enjoyed our family Christmas at Charity which is quite a magical place. The standard of accommodation is superb and there is plenty to keep everyone happy, both inside and out. Our dealings with Unique Homestays were always friendly, courteous and efficient. Many thanks.

We had a fabulous week at Charity. The farmhouse with its peaceful, hidden location and setting was just lovely. The layout of the house meant we all had our own space and privacy. We enjoyed the fantastic views and some of the best walking we´ve had - it was brilliant to be able to take our dog too. There was a great choice of indoor and outdoor dining spaces and well-equipped kitchen, sociable layout and we appreciated the unique and imaginative design and build. The beds were so comfortable. Thank you.

A beautifully presented property in a knockout location. Plenty of space to accommodate a group with a baby, dog, keen walkers, pool players, hot tub dippers, film critics and foodies! It was really good to learn a bit of the history of the place and the owners renovation. Thank you for a wonderful stay.

A Wonderful Weekend for our 50th wedding anniversary. Great location and the hot tub and pool table were so popular. The best location yet for a family break.

What an incredible place. We had the most amazing time and enjoyed every minute. The views, hot tub and tranquility and the space. Thank you.

We had a wonderful visit to celebrate our 40 years of marriage with the family. It was a great location and super relaxing with the fire and the hot tub. Great views! We had a fantastic family time!

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you're curious about pet policies, the nearest walkable pubs, or wild swimming spots, we have the answers to common property-specific queries here. For everything else, visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.

Press

Below are a selection of features in which Charity has appeared. If you would like to feature the property in an editorial capacity, please contact the marketing team on +44 (0)1637 882014.

Not quite what you're looking for?

Find properties:

Collections > Holiday homes within 3 hours of London > UK > Herefordshire > Black Mountains > Charity

Related Collections

Disclaimer: These particulars, whilst believed to be accurate, are set as a guideline so should not be relied upon as a statement of fact. The photographs show aspects of the property at the time they were taken and it should not be assumed that the property remains precisely as displayed. If there are points of particular importance that need clarifying before you book, please contact us.