Pen Pynfarch Centre for Workshops, Retreats and Green Holidays in West Wales

More About Pen Pynfarch

Site & Surroundings

buildings from paddock around the fire moss covered tree snow storm

The site consists of an old stone-built farmhouse, converted barns across the yard (including the studio and a practice/therapy room) and other farm outbuildings. There is 40 acres of land which visitors are free to explore. It includes woods, open pasture, a lake and the Gwyddil stream the banks of which are a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). There is a wealth of wildflowers, birdlife and other wildlife in the valley.

wood sorrel

Accommodation & Studio

winter warmth twin room lime plaster and vase

In both working spaces and accommodation we have tried to create environments that are clear and uncluttered but at the same time help visitors to feel comfortable and relaxed. Natural materials, earth pigments and old furniture show plenty of grain and invite a sense of connection to the natural world around us and the lives of those who have lived and worked in these buildings and on this land in the past.The living room has a log burner and the dining room an open fire which add warmth, good cheer and help the evenings to unwind. We burn logs from our own woodland.

Food at Pen Pynfarch

Food is an important part of what we do at Pen Pynfarch. We believe it helps greatly in creating a welcoming and convivial atmosphere for visitors. We cook cheerful, wholesome vegetarian food.Our style of cooking draws on the rich tradition of classic dishes from Europe, The Middle East and beyond. Real food for family and friends using good ingredients, simply presented. Vegetables are usually organic and sometimes from our own garden.

Sustainability

Woodpile

At Pen Pynfarch we are working towards sustainability. So far we have been able to build a compost toilet, use as much wood as possible from our own woodland for heating, begin to grow our own vegetables (collecting rain- and gray water for the garden) and use ecologically friendly building and decorating materials wherever possible. The cottage kitchen area has been extensively renovated and we have used lime plaster, limewash, earth pigments and other eco paints. Electricity is supplied by Ecotricity from renewable sources

The Local Area

penbryn beach

Pen Pynfarch is located in the beautiful rural landscape of South West Wales. It is about half an hour's drive from Carmarthen and from the market towns of Newcastle Emlyn and Lampeter. The coast, with some excellent beaches and clifftop walks (including the National Trust beach at Penbryn) is within easy reach.

West Wales Map

Pen Pynfarch is the home of Andy Paget, Eeva-Maria Mutka, their son Angus and daughter Meriel - as well as Molly the the dog, Twmi and April the cats, 4 runner ducks, chickens and honey bees in the garden.

Eeva-Maria Andy Angus Meriel Ducks Molly Twmi & April

Pen Pynfarch means "Head of the Mill Race" in an old local dialect.

Home

The photographs on this website were taken by Malcolm Manning,James Lockley, Jeff Higley, Juha Korhonen & Andy Paget.