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 Built in 1725, the
Grade II listed, 3-storey Georgian townhouse, Penygawse, is situated on the A40
in Llandovery. In the past the property has housed many businesses over its
c.300 year history included running as a drapery store and most recently a
butchery. The property was purchased in a run-down state by Allan & Lynne
Stather in March 2004 and after undertaking a huge, twelve month restoration
project, they now run a very successful 4* guest house and Victorian tea rooms.
On our way back
from a weekend spent in the Brecon Beacons we decided on driving through
Llandovery to stop for afternoon tea at Penygawse Victorian Tearooms.
Disappointed not to be able to sit outside under the canopy area as all tables
were busy, we were soon happily settled in beautiful, big, squashy leather
sofas inside. The owners have been mindful of how they have to combine modern
technology with 19th century dining – in our view they seem to have got the mix
just right. Service was prompt and pleasant but we certainly had a problem
deciding what to order from their great menu, which offers a wide range of
beverages and light snacks. We had been walking all weekend which was my excuse
for going for the banoffi meringue roulade, but my resolve just held to decline
the cream! My friend couldn’t resist having the spicy Piri Piri chicken panini,
her verdict – scrumptious. She then promptly ordered the chocolate fudge cake
and a scoop of Llanfaes dairy ice-cream which she thoroughly enjoyed. A mocha coffee
and a marsaccino – coffee and Mars bar pieces and chocolate – made us feel
terribly greedy, but we certainly enjoyed it. Our promise to work off those
calories at the gym later in the week sadly didn’t happen due to lack of
enthusiasm!
This is an ideal base to
stay and tour from or just to stay overnight on your way to west Wales. Business
is really booming as the accommodation is now completed. The guest house has
three rooms completed at present, including a family room which sleeps up to
six people with full en-suite, a super king size or twin room with full ensuite
and also a double with shower ensuite. Four more rooms are planned for next
year. Rooms are spacious and have been tastefully restored and decorated.
Breakfast is served in the Victorian tea rooms. A cooked breakfast is offered
or a healthy fresh fruit alternative. Couple this with cereals, yogurts and
breads, all of which are locally produced. What more could you want?
We
were amazed to find such a splendid tearoom open on a Sunday, especially as
there was so little else open on this occasion in Llandovery and it ended our
Brecon Beacon weekend in great style. We look forward to uncovering more of
these gems as we tour Wales
in the future. Our congratulations go to Allan, Lynne and their team for having
the foresight, energy and determination to set up such a superb business.
Fact file:
Owners:
Allan & Lynne Stather
Situated: On the
A40 in Llandovery
Tel:
01550 721727
Email:
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Website: www.penygawse.co.uk
Open: seven days a week with a Take Away Service on most items.
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