The rectory was built in 1854 and was owned by the church authorities until the beginning of the 70s when it was sold to a local family. It was bought by Susannah and Peter Woods in 2002, and they undertook a programme of renovation.

“The first room we tackled was the kitchen,” explains Susannah, “which I believe is the heart of the house.” The cream Aga and cream and neutral scheme in the kitchen is reflected in other parts of the house. “I’m drawn to subtle, natural colours,” says Susannah, “and use splashes of colour here and there.”

Every room in the house has been planned carefully and the little details haven’t been forgotten. Half of the house is the domain of the Woods family, whilst the other half is given over to their guests. “The house is large enough to ensure that we’re not on top of each other. This is a house which needs people to live in it,” says Susannah.

Aled Samuel made full use of the facilities on offer including the luxury bathrobe! After snooping in every nook and cranny in the house he was last seen philosophising about a stunning French bed. “There’s nothing better than being swallowed by the luxury of such a wonderful bed!,” he muses whilst laying back amidst the fluffy pillows.

The family have maximised the impact of the house’s wonderful views by fitting new windows crafted by local craftsmen, and ensuring that the decoration of each room doesn’t fight against the view. The rooms are luxurious but subtle. They haven’t gone over the top, thereby detracting from the mountains on the horizon.