Kymin Round House

Monmouth, Monmouthshire

Based in Monmouth, Monmouthshire, The Kymin Round House is an alluring little castle designed for two, offering breathtaking views of Monmouth and the expansive Welsh landscape. This small, castellated Georgian structure is perched atop the Kymin hill, surrounded by lush woods and parkland. Its windows provide panoramic vistas across the picturesque Wye Valley, and it is conveniently situated near the Naval Temple, a monument honoring the British Navy.

The interior of The Round House features a classic Georgian decor, complete with original elements such as ornamental fireplaces. The ground floor comprises a welcoming hall, a cozy living and dining area, and a compact kitchen. The bedroom and bathroom are located upstairs, ensuring privacy and comfort. Guests can step outside directly onto grassy pleasure grounds and viewing points, which are accessible to the public, enhancing the experience of the natural beauty surrounding the property.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the ancient woodlands nearby, which offer numerous walking paths and seating areas. The area is home to diverse wildlife, including tawny owls, badgers, and various bat species such as pipistrelle and soprano bats. The Scots Pine trees provide habitat for the rare red wood ant, and visitors may even catch a glimpse of wild boar from the adjacent Forest of Dean, along with soaring buzzards and peregrine falcons. On clear days, the stunning views extend to Sugar Loaf Mountain and, potentially, to Pen y Fan, the highest peak in the Brecon Beacons.

The Kymin Round House has a rich history, having been constructed in 1794 by a group of local gentlemen who sought a weatherproof venue for their weekly picnic club. Originally, the building included a kitchen on the ground floor and a banqueting room above, with additional features like stables and a bowling green added later. Today, the stables have been transformed into a National Trust holiday cottage accommodating four guests, while the bowling green remains a favored spot for outdoor activities. The Naval Temple, built in 1800 by the same picnic club, commemorates significant naval victories, including the 1798 Battle of the Nile, and holds historical significance as Admiral Nelson visited the Kymin in 1802, enjoying a meal in the Round House’s banqueting hall.