Llangammarch Wells Cottages with Hot Tubs
Llangammarch Wells Guide
Llangammarch Wells, a small spa town in Powys, Wales, offers a range of cottages with hot tubs for those seeking a peaceful countryside break. The area sits in the Irfon Valley and was once famous for its barium-rich mineral waters that attracted Victorian visitors including Queen Victoria herself.
Nearby attractions include the Red Kite Feeding Station at Gigrin Farm (4.5/5 on TripAdvisor), the Elan Valley reservoirs and the literary town of Hay-on-Wye. The area's most famous resident was Augustus John, the Welsh portrait artist who frequently painted in the region during the early 20th century.
Staying in a cottage gives you freedom to explore at your own pace with all the comforts of home plus that essential hot tub for evening relaxation. Properties range from snug one-bedroom conversions to large farmhouses that can accommodate groups of 10+.
The area offers several glamping options too, including shepherd's huts and wooden lodges, many featuring private hot tubs overlooking the stunning Welsh countryside. Perfect for walkers, bird watchers and anyone wanting to escape busy city life.
Get More From Your Llangammarch Wells Hot Tub Cottage Break
Sightseeing
Llangammarch Wells might be small, but there's plenty to see nearby. The town itself has an interesting railway heritage - check out the old station building that's now been converted into a house. I love how the original platform is still visible!
The Irfon Valley offers spectacular walking routes with views that'll have you reaching for your camera every five minutes. The River Irfon is great for fishing too - local permits are available from the post office.
Builth Wells (just 7 miles away) hosts the Royal Welsh Show each July. Even if you're not visiting during the show, the showground often has smaller events throughout the year worth checking out.
Don't miss Llanwrtyd Wells (4.5/5 on TripAdvisor), the smallest town in Britain just 5 miles away. It's famous for bizarre events like bog snorkelling and the Man vs Horse Marathon. The town's Heritage Centre (LD5 4SS, open Tues-Sat 10am-4pm) tells the story of these weird and wonderful competitions.
Pet Friendly
Dogs love Llangammarch Wells! The open countryside and numerous footpaths make it perfect for walkies. We've found most cottages in the area welcome pets - many without charging extra fees.
The Cammarch Hotel in town has a bar that allows dogs, so you can enjoy a pint without leaving your four-legged friend behind. They even keep dog treats behind the bar!
For longer walks, try the Epynt Way, a 40-mile route that circles the Mynydd Epynt. You can tackle sections of it depending on your energy levels. The terrain is mostly gentle and there's minimal livestock to worry about on most stretches.
If your dog enjoys water, the River Irfon has several spots with gentle banks where they can splash about. Just watch out after heavy rain as the current can get strong.
Top 3 attractions you have to see in Llangammarch Wells
1. Gigrin Farm Red Kite Feeding Station (LD6 5BN) - Open daily at 2pm winter, 3pm summer. This place is amazing! Hundreds of red kites swoop down when feeding begins. The spectacle lasts about an hour and there are various hides for photographers. TripAdvisor gives it 4.5/5 from over 500 reviews. One visitor wrote: "Absolutely breathtaking to see so many of these magnificent birds so close." Entry is £7 for adults, £5 for kids. Take binoculars if you have them, though the birds come incredibly close.
2. Elan Valley Visitor Centre (LD6 5HP) - Open daily 10am-5pm. The Victorian dams and reservoirs here are an engineering marvel. The visitor centre explains how they were built to supply Birmingham with water. There's a 10-mile scenic drive around the reservoirs with stunning views. TripAdvisor score 4.5/5. The café does a cracking Welsh rarebit that I'd highly recommend after a morning exploring. Free entry to the centre, though parking costs £3 all day.
3. Llandrindod Wells Lake Park (LD1 5HS) - Open 24/7. This Victorian boating lake and park is perfect for a relaxed afternoon. There's a good playground for kids, a café and you can hire rowing boats in summer. The 13-acre lake is home to lots of waterfowl. TripAdvisor score 4/5. One visitor noted: "A peaceful spot for a picnic with well-maintained gardens." After all that sightseeing, you'll appreciate that hot tub back at your cottage!
Is Llangammarch Wells good for walking holidays?
Yes! The area offers walks for all abilities. The Epynt Way provides 40 miles of paths with spectacular views. For gentler strolls, try the riverside walk along the Irfon. The Cambrian Mountains are nearby for more challenging hikes. Most cottages provide OS maps for guests.
When is the best time to visit Llangammarch Wells?
Spring and early autumn are ideal. May brings lush greenery and wildflowers, while September offers golden colours and fewer tourists. Summer is lovely but busier during school holidays. Winter can be magical with frosty landscapes and your hot tub experience becomes even more special when it's chilly outside!
Are there any good places to eat in Llangammarch Wells?
The Cammarch Hotel serves good pub grub with local ingredients. For more options, head to Builth Wells (7 miles) where The Greyhound and The Lion offer excellent meals. The farmers' market in Builth (first Monday monthly) is great for stocking up on local produce to cook at your cottage.
Can I go fishing near Llangammarch Wells?
Absolutely! The River Irfon is known for brown trout, grayling and salmon. Day tickets are available from the post office. The Wye and Usk Foundation also offers "passport" schemes giving access to private stretches of river. Remember to check fishing seasons - salmon season runs from 3rd March to 17th October.
Is there public transport in Llangammarch Wells?
Limited. The Heart of Wales railway line stops at Llangammarch station with services to Shrewsbury and Swansea (4 trains daily). Bus services are infrequent, so a car is recommended for exploring. Taxis can be booked from Builth Wells if needed.
What should I pack for a hot tub cottage break in Llangammarch Wells?
Besides swimwear for the hot tub, bring walking boots, waterproofs (Welsh weather is unpredictable!), binoculars for wildlife spotting and a torch for country lanes at night. Most cottages provide towels but check if you need extra for hot tub use. Don't forget a good book - the peace and quiet is perfect for reading.
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