The Grounds
A riverside retreat in Monmouthshire — nine acres of meadow, woodland and river to roam.
Ruthlin is surrounded by meadows and a small area of woodland. Oaks, alders, hazels and an almost infinite number of willow trees have sprung up along the river.
Guests will walk out of Ruthlin and be immersed in rural Welsh beauty. You’ll find a picnic table outside for meals al fresco and a bench overlooking the valley for the evening sun.
If you want to venture deeper into the grounds follow the circular path through the meadow, down to the beach and back along the river (Sarah’s favourite stretch).
Picnic in the woods
If you ever feel like rolling the dice on the weather and want to hold a large dinner al fresco, do get in touch. It is remarkable how many people the garden absorbs.
On the other hand, if you are staying at Ruthlin, you’ll discover all sorts of nooks and crannies to read, drink and relax.
A blissfully wonderful stay. It immediately felt like home to us.
John, UK
In bloom
Every season at Ruthlin is special but there is something magical when the first spring bulbs begin to appear. David Austin roses climb the old stone walls and all sorts of wild flowers appear.
Sarah and James look after the garden themselves with varying success, balancing the need for some semblance of control against nature’s desire to run wild.
In the valley and beyond
There are a number of walks in the area. Probably the most famous is the Three Castles Walk, taking in Skenfrith, Grosmont and White Castle. Ruthlin is only a mile from Skenfrith with its medieval castle and church.
-
Originally established by the Normans following the invasion of England in 1066, the castle was rebuilt in stone towards the end of the 12th Century. What you see today is Hubert de Burgh’s grand design, dating from the early 13th Century.
The Monnow River was the source for the now filled in moat. In the summer months it has become a popular wild swimming spot.
-
© Andrew LihThis extraordinary event is one of the biggest and best known literature festivals in the world, held every year in Hay-on-Wye. We have loved visiting the festival over the years, pottering around the town and listening to some fantastic speakers.
The 2027 Hay Festival is taking place from 27th May to 6th June. If you would like to go, we recommend booking early.
-
Three Castles Walk
The Three Castles Walk is a nineteen-mile circular route through north-east Monmouthshire, linking the three Norman castles at Skenfrith, Grosmont and White Castle. The path follows public rights of way through wooded hills, valleys, lanes, farms and small villages.
From Ruthlin, Skenfrith is only a mile away. You could wander down to the village, join the route for a while and be back in time for supper.
-
Llanthony Priory
Llanthony Priory is the spectacular ruin of a medieval Augustinian priory, surrounded by the majesty of the Black Mountains. It is a must.
Walk along the ridge and you can reward yourself with a pint of the local good stuff in the priory’s cellar bar. If you wanted to make a day of it, follow the valley road towards Hay-on-Wye and be awed by the views from the top of Gospel Pass.
-
Abergavenny Food Festival
The Abergavenny Food Festival takes place every September and turns the whole town into a celebration of food and culture. The great and good of the culinary world descend on Abergavenny to talk, demonstrate and cook.
It is a wonderful weekend for anyone who loves food and a very good excuse to come and stay with us.
-
Eating & drinking
For superb food some of our favourites are The Gaff in Abergavenny and The Hunters Moon Inn in Llangattock Lingoed.
The Garway Moon is our proper locals’ pub where the beer is good and the language bad.
Skenfrith hosts a pub night usually on the last Friday of the month in the village hall where you’ll meet friendly and welcoming Skenfrithians.