Elm Grove Country House

Elm Grove is a grand house dating from the 1840s. There’s a sense of tradition and continuity here – in the same family for 70 years, it’s rich in period detail, including panelled doorways and floors fashioned from old ships’ timbers, chandeliers, marble fireplaces, big picture windows and high ceilings with exquisite mouldings. But there’s nothing dated about the accommodation. The latest members of the family, Jane and Alan Rees-Baynes, now welcome the guests. The spacious bedrooms, with a mix of contemporary and period antique furnishings, lack nothing in modern amenities and you’ll see paintings by Alan, an accomplished artist, in some. It’s a spotless place, popular for its location as well as its good value and comfort. Guests also appreciate the food: Elm Grove is noted for its use of fresh, locally produced ingredients, tasty, traditional dishes and award-winning breakfasts.

The house stands in a tranquil spot at the end of a long, tree-lined drive, surrounded by 20 acres of grounds and gardens that contain a croquet lawn and grass tennis court. Yet this peaceful haven, on the outskirts of the pretty little village of St Florence, is just three miles from the bustling medieval streets and Blue Flag beaches of Tenby, the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park’s prime resort. It is also close to numerous untouched sandy coves and the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, which combines spectacular walking with prolific wildlife (don’t forget to bring your binoculars). History buffs will want to visit a trio of outstanding medieval castles – handsome Carew, imposing Pembroke (which dominates its town-centre location) and the lovely beach-side fortress of Manorbier. Elm Grove is closed between December and Easter.