Llwyn Celyn was built in 1420 and is regarded as one of the most important surviving late medieval houses in Wales.

The valley in which it sits was devastated in the Prince of Wales, Owain Glyn Dŵr’s, uprising against the English crown (1399-1415), and it is believed the building of the house may have been part of the reconstruction effort that followed.

However, the building was in such a dilapidated state when acquired by the Landmark Trust that it was feared it may be beyond saving.

[quote]The building was in such a dilapidated state when acquired by the Landmark Trust that it was feared it may be beyond saving.[/quote]

But thanks to £2.5million raised by National Lottery ticket sales, the building has undergone extensive restoration over the last few years.

It is now ready to welcome visitors to Wales this autumn in its new role as unique self-catering holiday accommodation, while those living in the Brecon Beacons will benefit from a new community centre on their doorsteps. The restoration project has itself been a catalyst for wider inspiration – five craft training ‘heritage at work’ weeks were attended by over 100 people, a thriving local history group produced a book on the history of their valley, schools have visited and five artists-in-residence developed creative responses to the project.

A two-part documentary commissioned by Channel 4 to air in November will also bring to life the restoration of Llwyn Celyn made possible by National Lottery players, including many unexpected discoveries and significant challenges along the way.