Forest Country House B&B, Newtown

History

The earliest deeds for the house date back to 1709 when it consisted of 2 small dwellings and was sold to John Griffiths. It remained in their family until 1791 when it was sold to John Herbert. It is believed that The Forest was the home of the Herberts, the owners of Dolforgan estate, prior to the erection of Dolforgan Hall in Kerry. During the mid 19th century the house along with the Dolforgan estate was owned by the Walton family.  It then became the property of the Willans family who purchased the Dolforgan estate from the Walton trustees.  

In 1912 The Forest was renovated and added to, and its amenities greatly improved. Electricity was added from a “Gilkes” turbine located at Kerry sawmills and an intricate scheme of drainage was installed at great expense.

The Forest was sold away from the Dolforgan Estate in 1922 and passed through various owners over the years who used it as a family home. The outbuildings were variously used for a pig farm and later for a poultry farm when 2 large new barns were added.

Food & beverage

The Forest B&B prides itself on the quality of its breakfast using locally sourced produce to give guests a real taste of Mid Wales. Offering both traditional freshly cooked breakfast and vegetarian alternatives all cooked to order and special dietary needs can be catered for. The hotel's own organically fed free-range hens provide beautiful golden yoked eggs. When in season, fresh tomatoes are grown in their greenhouse and seasonal fruits make up a delicious fruit salad.

The breakfast room is decorated in a traditional Victorian style which gives guests a touch of past elegance. The view from the window of sheep with their lambs grazing on the Kerry hills in springs provides a wonderful backdrop of life in Montgomeryshire as it has been for generations.

Grounds & Gardens

There is a tennis court in the gardens and guests are welcome to play at any time. A few rackets and balls are available, guests can bring their own if they can. In the corner of the court is a basketball net and swing ball on the lawn.

A play area is provided for younger children with a climbing frame den with slide and there is a separate swing for toddlers. There is also a playhouse with toys for young children. Football and other ball games may be played on the lawn.

Children will enjoy meeting the family of animals. Under Michelle's guidance, they may feed and pet the farm animals.

Forest Fort is a large timber fort for older children to enjoy. It has a climbing wall, a climbing net, a lookout tower, slide and hideaways and nearby is a small obstacle course.

An outdoor hot tub jacuzzi spa may be available to hire for exclusive use whenever Forest Cottage or Forest Lodge are vacant. Both hot tubs are not overlooked ensuring complete privacy.

Other facilities

Guests are welcome to use the Drawing Room where a TV, books, and board games are available. WIFI Internet access is also available free of charge. A restored antique Bechstein Grand Piano is a centrepiece and guests are invited to play it.

The Games Room is on the first floor above the stables and houses a number of games suitable for adults and children of all ages. Equipment includes Table Football, Table Tennis and a Pool table ideal for older children and adults. It is unheated and open from 10.00am to 9.00pm.