Dark Skies at Wild Meadow

One of Wild Meadow’s most special features appears after dark.

In 2024 Presteigne and Norton became the first community in Wales to be designated as an International Dark Sky Community by DarkSky International.

Here the night sky is protected from unnecessary light pollution - meaning that means that on a clear night you can step outside at Wild Meadow, turn off the lights, look up and see a remarkable number of stars, constellations and planets — and, when conditions are right, the Milky Way stretching across the sky.

For many visitors, it is one of the unexpected pleasures of staying here. There is no need to drive anywhere or join an organised event: simply step outside the cottage or Shepherd’s Hut and look up.

And if you are particularly interested in astronomy, there is an added attraction nearby. The Spaceguard Centre at Knighton is the UK's National Near-Earth Objects Information Centre and a working observatory involved in detecting and monitoring asteroids and comets. Guided visits offer the chance to find out more about the night sky, space and planetary defence.

So whether you are an enthusiastic stargazer or simply enjoy sitting outside on a clear evening, Wild Meadow is a wonderful place to experience the night sky.

And you don't need a fancy camera to capture it — this photograph was taken on a phone!

Things to do in Presteigne

Discover the charm of Presteigne, voted by The Telegraph as one of Britain's top 10 small towns. It’s just a 2 minute drive from Wild Meadow, or 25 minutes if you join the footpath for the lovely 25 minute walk over the hills.

1.Workhouse Gallery

Located on the town's edge, the Workhouse Gallery is a treasure trove featuring stunning carpets, ethical goods, and ever-changing exhibitions. Enjoy mouth-watering lunches and scrumptious cakes at the family-friendly café.

2. Judges Lodgings

Explore this stunning building housing elegant judge's apartments, gas-lit servants' quarters, cells, and a courtroom. A museum with a difference, it offers an original decor and furniture, providing a hands-on experience of Victorian life. The tourist information office is also here.

3. The High Street

Presteigne's high street is a haven for independent shops. The Salty Dog offers fresh produce, Deli Tinto boasts an eclectic mix of continental and Welsh foods, and Carpets and Curtains is a must for original Welsh blankets.

4. Town Trail

Embark on a town trail revealing Presteigne's history and architectural splendor. With one part in Wales and the other in England, the trail offers insights into the town's unique past. Don't miss the peaceful Withybeds nature reserve and The Warden - both lovely places to walk. Presteigne also offers amenities for all the family such as a swimming pool, free tennis courts, riverside walks and a playground.

5. Courses & Workshops

Bet creative by taking a course with skilled local craftspeople - visit Creative Breaks or Craft Courses.

6. Wild Swimming

For wild swimming enthusiasts, we can let you know of some seculded local spots right by Wild Meadow or discover more popular swims like the Warren at Hay on Wye, by the bridge at Leintwardine, and next to the meadow at Pembridge. Each spot offers a unique experience, from shingle beaches to peaceful riverbanks.

7. Sydney Nolan Trust

Visit The Rodd, an organic 250-acre farm hosting the Sydney Nolan Trust. Explore exhibitions, events, and a newly created walk to delve into organic farmland and ancient woodland.

8. Mid Border Arts (MBA)

Visit the Assembly Rooms for a diverse cultural experience, with a program featuring performances by well-known international artists, musicians, and local professionals in classical, folk, and world music, theatre, puppet shows, lectures, literary talks, art exhibitions, and film

9. Stargazing and dark skies
At the end of the day, why not step outside and do a bit of stargazing? We’re lucky enough to be in the Presteigne and Norton International Dark Sky Community — the first community in Wales to receive this designation from DarkSky International.

On a clear night, you can see an amazing number of stars, along with planets and, if you’re lucky, the Milky Way. And the best bit? You don’t need to go anywhere — just step outside at Wild Meadow, turn off the lights and look up.

If you’re interested in finding out a little more about what’s up there, the Spaceguard Centre near Knighton has a working observatory, planetarium and guided tours exploring astronomy and near-Earth objects.

So bring a blanket, make a cup of tea, wrap up warm and see what you can spot. You might be surprised by just how much you can see!

Most Picturesque Rural Retreat Award 2022

We are delighted that Wild Meadow has won the award of the Most Picturesque Rural Retreat in Powys in this year's Best of British Getaways!

Many guests ask us about the cottage and when it was built. We built it from scratch and finished it in 2016. The frame was made by Castle Ring Oak Frame who are just down the road from us, and the timber used for the cladding was all from a local wood. Progress was slow with us both working our day jobs and three small boys in tow - but we got there in the end!

We have now been open for eight years and have loved welcoming guests to this special part of the Welsh Borders. Many guests come back time and time again - visiting in different seasons which are all special in different ways. The meadow is full of flowers in late spring and summer, the orchard full of apples in autumn….

'...an annual trip to Wild Meadow'

Our favourite part of running a holiday let is welcoming guests back across the different seasons and years. Sarah and Suzi have been packing their car and pootling down from Yorkshire since we first opened the doors of the cottage. They are both wonderful photographers and caught some beautiful moments of their stay here earlier this year. These shots were taken on film rather than digital and have such a warmth to them. To see more do pop to their blog. If, like me, you are interested in photography then sign up to their newsletter - The Monthly Brew. It’s a firm favourite to pop into our inbox!

Christmas sparkle at the cottage

If you take a peek in this month’s issue of Country Living Magazine you will see the cottage in full sparkle!

Feature in Country Homes and Interiors

Recently Wild Meadow has been used for a location for magazine shoots. Here is one feature that was in Country Homes and Interiors.