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Set in the foothills on the edge of the Cambrian Mountains on the western coast of Wales, this converted Victorian schoolhouse takes in sweeping views of the tree-lined valley and Cardigan Bay beyond. Dating back to the mid-19th century, the house overlooks the renowned Llangrannog Beach and its captivating wild coastline, dotted with coves, rock formations, and cliff walks. The home spans 1,017 sq ft across two floors, has three bedrooms and has undergone a loving renovation by its current owners. Despite its rural coastal setting, the house is close to the popular towns of New Quay, Aberaeron, and Aberporth, as well as some charming nearby villages and beaches.
Setting the Scene
Built in 1846, this remarkable house holds historical significance, as it was initially conceived as a navigation school for Sarah Jane Rees, a prominent figure in the 19th century. Rees, also known by her bardic name Cranogwen, was a celebrated writer, reformer, and master mariner. Her certification as a master mariner, a rare achievement for a woman at the time, granted her the authority to command a ship anywhere in the world. In addition to her maritime pursuits, she contributed significantly to Welsh literature and served as an editor for a Welsh-language journal. To honour her extraordinary life, a statue commemorating her achievements stands in a nearby village close to her former Llangrannog schoolhouse.
The notable Carreg Bica, an impressive Ordovician stone that protrudes from the beach, is visible from the house. This stone holds a place in local folklore, believed to be the lost tooth of the Welsh giant, Bica, who supposedly inhabited the nearby caves of Llangrannog. Today, the peaceful cottage and its idyllic surroundings are a tranquil retreat unaffected by the mythical giants of Mabinogian fame. For more information, please see the History section.
The Grand Tour
Nestled into the hillside, the house is tucked into a wooded vale facing the seafront. A paved parking area and terrace have been carefully designed to maximise the astounding views. The rendered cream façade of the house peeks charmingly through the surrounding ash and oak woodland.
Entry is immediately to a useful boot room, strategically placed to handle sandy beach trips and woodland adventures. This leads to the wonderful L-shaped open-plan living area, which is full of natural light that streams in through a multitude of windows that capture sweeping vistas of the lush valley and the sea beyond. Originally the site of the schoolroom, most of the room has double-height vaulted ceilings. First-floor windows flood the space with light. The walls are lined with traditional tongue and groove panelling, creating a timeless backdrop. The original slate fireplace surround remains intact, and features faintly etched 19th-century student graffiti. Sliding glazed doors, a later addition, grant access to a patio terrace that has its own breathtaking views. During warmer months, when fully opened, this space seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living.
A neat kitchen, with a breakfast bar tucked alongside, allows for easy entertaining. Deep windows set into the thick stonework frame views of the mossy hillside. Towards the rear of the plan on this level, a peaceful bedroom provides the perfect guest accommodation.
An open-flight staircase leads to the first floor. Here, a gallery level creates a lovely reading nook with some of the best views in the house. Two airy bedrooms extend along the central hall, both with sea views through deep-set cottage windows adorned with whitewashed internal shutters. The rooms are painted in creamy tones, contrasting beautifully with the original darkened pine floorboards underfoot. A charming family bathroom is complete with a Tubby Tub, perfect for a languid bath accompanied by a good book.
The Great Outdoors
Perched above a tree-lined road that winds its way down to the beach, the house has a terraced, multi-level garden. A spacious patio stretches along the front of the house, creating the perfect spot for entertaining. From the patio, a short flight of stone stairs leads up to an enchanting area dedicated to meadow lawns and native borders. During the summer, the space comes alive with vibrant purple foxglove spires intermingled with yellow cowslip flowers. Ascending a further set of stone steps is a larger area above the house. This section of the garden has been allowed to rewild, supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna, adding to the natural beauty and ecological value of the space.
Out and About
Llangrannog, once known for shipbuilding and fishing, is a charming village steeped in history. Today, it caters to a more leisurely crowd, with a range of options for beachgoers and walkers. The seashore is dotted with establishments such as the Pentre Arms, Y Caban café, and Tafell a Tân pizzeria, all excellent spots for eating and drinking.
Llangrannog Beach itself is a stunning stretch of sand flanked by dramatic cliffs, with a hidden cove called Cilborth that can only be accessed during low tide. The village has immediate access to the spectacular Ceredigion coastal path. To the north is the distinctive hill fort of Pen Dinas Lochtyn, with its panoramic views from Cardigan Island to the Llyn Peninsula. To the south, a fern-clad valley leads to the secluded National Trust cove of Penbryn, accompanied by the excellent Plwmp Tart café.
Stretching from Aberaeron to Cardigan, this section of coastline has some of Wales' most distinctive and romantic beaches. From the dramatic Tresaith waterfall to the serene seclusion of Mwnt, the coastline has a range of natural wonders to explore. Llangrannog's sheltered west-facing cove is perfect for swimming and surfing, and hopping in a kayak gives an alternative view of the coastline, revealing the hidden coves and thriving wildlife along the shore.
Inland, the expansive Cambrian Mountains lie to the east, Snowdonia to the north, and the intimate Preseli Hills and deep Gwaun Valley to the south. These areas are known for a slower pace of life, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquillity of nature. Nearby, the Dyffryn Arms pub pours Bass bitter from a jug.
Pontgarreg and Aberporth, situated close by, have further amenities, including primary schools. Cardigan, a 25-minute drive away, has a range of shops, cafes, and the well-preserved Cardigan Castle. The Fforest team have two restaurants in the area, the relaxed Pizza Tipi and the recently renovated Albion Aberteifi, both situated by the River Teifi.
The Victorian university town of Aberystwyth can be reached within an hour's drive, while the cities of Swansea and Cardiff are accessible within two hours. The closest train station is Carmarthen, with direct connections to London in approximately four hours. It also provides services north to Aberystwyth and Manchester, as well as southeast to Swansea, Cardiff, and Bristol.
Council Tax Band: Awaiting Council Assessment