Gileston Manor Estate

First impressions count. And what an impression. The stunning entrance and elegant facade of Gileston Manor Estate could make it easy to overlook the gorgeously warm welcome within. Rarebits Collection members are all about genuine Croeso.

With seven hundred years of delivering amazing hospitality, we loved that this beautiful house is, very much, a home with a heart, and is still very big on warm welcomes. Its latest meticulous reincarnation, lovingly crafted by present custodians, Lorraine and Josh, is self-evidently a genuine labour of love, and that flair shines through in every detail.

The manor is a perfect example of listed Grade II Georgian grandeur, but brought bang up to date with contemporary design touches, and original art. The nine acres of grounds have been carefully restored. We loved exploring the romantic summer house, peaceful walled garden, wandering the manicured lawns, seeing the maturing new formal borders spring to life, and meeting the resident alpacas, Bill and family.

The main house offers a choice of luxurious themed suites, including the dramatic and indulgent Bridal Suite with royal connections, but the new stylishly converted outbuildings manage to showcase the original 19th century features without compromise. Some have fully equipped kitchens, ideal for the longer stay, others boast roll top tubs or two bedrooms, but all have individual character and high-end interiors. Think exposed beams, considered designer fabrics, bespoke joinery, opulent wet rooms, and the best king size beds. It is no surprise that Gileston is a sought-after choice for weddings and grand celebrations, with plenty of configurations, the estate can easily accommodate forty guests in exceptional comfort.

The village of Gileston itself is picture postcard pretty, and just a 10-minute walk from the estate is Limpert Bay, attached to Breaksea Point which is the most southernly point in Wales. The epic beach is pebble with magnificent views across the Bristol Channel to Exmoor and Minehead. Dunraven Bay, on the protected Heritage Coast is a great place to fossil hunt, watch the sunsets, and has some of the best rock pools along the coast. The bright lights of capital city Cardiff are within easy reach, but we would rather be sipping a glass at Gileston, it does not get much better.