* Freehold
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

Property location on the map: Use mouse double click to (Zoom IN: LEFT button; Zoom OUT: RIGHT button)

Similar properties: