Unforgettable Moments at Ty Penbryn Manor: A Cosy Retreat Experience with Finest Retreats

Kelly
22 hours ago
4 min read

Updated: 3 hours ago

We were very kindly invited along to an exclusive media event, hosted by the fantastic Finest Retreats. For this visit it was a stay in the absolutely dreamy Ty Penbryn manor with a murder mystery dinner for our evening theme.

If you’ve been following North East Family Adventures for a while, you know we’re usually going for a local walk or checking out the best local attractions and events, but every so often, the soul needs a proper change of pace.

So, we traded the "digital hum" of home for the rolling greenery of Carmarthenshire. A first for us as we had never been to South Wales, we will most definitely be going back.

For our stay we were invited to a murder mystery dinner which was absolutely amazing, all of the actors were brilliant.(including the Geordie supporter) Our dinner was delicious, dietary needs were catered for and they were very attentive to my gluten free needs.

Various events are available to book through Ty Penbryn, and if this event was anything to go by, I highly recommend. On our visit we were treated to a murder mystery with just 4 actors, one murder to solve. I wont go into detail because I don't want to ruin it, however it was fantastic. Created by Rebecca after not being satisfied with games for larger crowds, she came up with Dying to meet you. She has done a wonderful job and I can see why it is award winning. Fantastic evening, everyone got swept away in the mystery and no one got it right! What I loved was the only part that was planned was the "who done it" the rest was made up on the spot.

Let’s just say, a stay at Ty Penbryn isn't your standard weekend away. It’s a 19th-century Georgian-style mansion that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a period drama (just with much better heating).

Grandeur Meets History: The First Impression

Pulling up to the private drive, the first thing that hits you is the sheer scale of the place. Set in 1.8 acres of landscaped gardens, Ty Penbryn has a pedigree to match its look, it was once the home of the renowned Welsh poet Sir Lewis Morris. It has that air of Victorian ambition and "stately" charm that makes you stand a little taller the moment you arrive.

But don't let the imposing exterior fool you. While it looks like a film set, it’s designed for big, noisy family life (it sleeps up to 24!). The moment we crossed the threshold, the atmosphere shifted from "grand museum" to "ultimate playground."

The Views: Massive windows looking out over the panoramic beauty of the Lower Towy Valley. We did see a spectacular sunset from the terrace. Each room has been really well thought out, with a music room, poker room there's even an outdoor playground and basket ball court.

Hanna and Ben Ballard have managed to keep the historic soul of the house while adding serious "wow" factor. We had the pleasure of meeting Hanna & Ben along with their son Jacob, honestly the work these guys have done is just outstanding. So a huge well done.

The best part about Ty Penbryn is that it doesn't just rely on its history. This place is packed with modern luxuries. We aren't just talking about the 11 en-suite bathrooms or the cloud-like linens; we’re talking about a full-blown leisure wing.

Instead of our usual muddy walks, we spent our afternoon in the 12-metre indoor swimming pool which has a brilliant "beach step" for younger kids and even a ramp for those who use a wheelchair, plus a 6-person jacuzzi. There’s even a sauna and steam room for when the parents need a 20-minute "tactical retreat" from the chaos. You can also find a mezzanine area with a large tv, ping pong table and even a soft play area.

In a world of constant notifications, Ty Penbryn gives you the best of both worlds. If you want "quiet," you can tuck yourself away in the elegant dining room that seats 24 or just sit and take in the views from the huge, private garden. But if you want a party? The entrance hall actually has a jukebox, karaoke system, and a disco ball. I have to say the chandelier was just amazing and I love how Hanna & Ben have tried to keep some of the original feel to the house.

Between the private cinema room (perfect for a rainy Welsh afternoon) and the games room with its own billiard table and arcade games, we barely looked at our phones the whole night.

"At Ty Penbryn, the modern world doesn't just feel far away—it feels like it hasn't happened yet, but you've brought all the best gadgets back in time with you."

Our Verdict

A stay at Ty Penbryn isn’t just about a bed for the night; it’s about inhabiting a piece of Welsh heritage. It’s grand without being cold, and historic without being "stuffy." We left feeling a little calmer, a little taller and very refreshed.

Planning a big family gathering soon? This one is definitely worth the drive down from the North East!