Castroggi at Penhein
Monmouthshire, United Kingdom
Penhein Glamping
- Our low price promise from £134 €153 p/n
-
Tent
Sleeps 4 /
Extra space for 1 adult
- 1 king-size (splits into 2 singles), 2 truckle beds, sofa bed for extras
Suitable for children of all ages
Not suitable for pets
Overview
Toasting marshmallows over the blazing firepit and listening to the sheep bleating in the distance, you'd be forgiven for forgetting this pocket of unspoilt countryside is just 45 min from the centre of Bristol and half an hour from Newport.
Penhein is the project of Helen who chose to leave London in 2011 to return to the farm which has been in her family for five generations. She wanted to share her family's little Welsh haven with the world. Near the Wye Valley, nestled in a three-acre ancient woodland over 600 metres from the farmhouse, you'll find eight wildflower meadow-dwelling alachighs (pronounced al-la-cheegs). Persian in design but Welsh in spirit, each one has an individual colour scheme and its own unique charm.
While at Penhein, you can indulge in one of the many relaxing treatments on offer (think reflexology, massages, reflexology, manis & pedis and facials) and let the kids run wild in the woodland playground and wildflower meadow and discover the Hearn Hideaway while you relax and unwind.
If you’re feeling more adventurous Penhein has a superb and extensive selection of activities run on the farm. Forage for botanicals (you can even make your own gin and perfume!), learn bushcraft skills from serving and ex-army personnel, discover the meditative benefits of forest bathing, practice your yoga in the meadow or take a class in campfire cookery or make a basket in willow weaving to name a few. Or simply head off and explore the farm and the ancient woodland of Wentwood which adjoins the farm. If you want to venture further afield there are walks and activities galore in and around the Wye and Severn Valleys, safe in the knowledge that your Persian paradise will be waiting for you when you return.
Planning a big celebration? Book Group Bookings at Penhein and have all eight spaces, the oh so comfortable Petro (the communal tent) and the magical Chehel Souton outdoor gathering area.
Read more
Essentials
The important stuff
- Check in from 4pm
- Check out by 11am
- The camp consists of 8 accommodation tents, 2 communal tents, a luxurious showerblock and useful communal kitchen all set within a 3 acre woodland opening onto a wildflower meadow
- Each accommodation tent can sleep up to 5 adults or 4 adults + 2 children in 1 kingsize double (splits into 2 singles), 2 truckle beds and 1 sofa bed for 1 adult or 2 children
- Please bring slippers/thick socks to wear in the alachigh and bring a torch (there is no outdoor lighting at the site)
- Scroll to the bottom of the 'Location' tab for full site map
- Mobile phone signal (dependent on network)
- No WiFi
- Please note that the alachigh is made of canvas and so it gets warm inside during the day in sunny days - great excuse to be outside exploring or shade under Chehal Sotoun, the stretch marquee!
Sleeping arrangements
- 1 king-size (splits into 2 singles), 2 truckle beds, sofa bed for extras
Extra space available
Space for 1 baby no charge. Cot available at no charge. Highchair and stepstool available on request.
Space for 1 adult from £10 per adult per night - or £10/night for up to 2 children sleeping on sofa bed. Bedding provided.
Kids & Pets
Children very welcome. Sorry no pets.
Cooking
- Wood-burning stove (wood provided) in each alachigh
- Bespoke kitchen unit with (cold) running water in each alachigh tent
- Extra large cool box with frozen hot water bottles in each tent
- Each tent is amply stocked with cooking and BBQ equipment plus crockery cutlery etc
- Private fire pit outside each tent
- 3 extra large fire pits ideal for larger groups
- Communal cooking area in the centre of the site know as the ‘Cheat’s Kitchen’ equipped with familiar mod-cons like microwave, toaster, kettle, halogen hobs, fridge and freezer
Washing
- Private ensuite flushing loo off main living area
- Castroggi has its own personal enclosed hot shower just outside their door
Heating, lighting & bedding
- All bed linen and towels provided
- Cot, step stool and highchair provided on request (no charge)
- Wood-burner in each alachigh, firepit outside each alachigh
- Accommodation tents lit by candles, hurricane lamps, solar lamps and tealights – all provided
- Electric lighting and several plug sockets in Petro and Chehal Sotoun (the two communal spaces), in the shower block and Cheat’s Kitchen (communal kitchen)
Entertainment
- Adventure playground, swings, rustic football pitch and Hearn Hideaway
- Shared use of Petro, one of the communal tents, which has dining tables, soft chairs and a big box full of kit for board games, outdoor games (including cricket, 'kick the can' and 'blind man's bluff') and a children's book corner
- Shared use of Chehal Sotoun, a large stretch marquee nestled in the middle of the camp providing shade when it’s hot and shelter when it’s wet. It has seating for up to 48 for dining, next to a huge firepit with fabulous circular seating area called The Cwtch
- Wide range of activities and courses that can be pre-booked, including bushcraft, foraging, forest bathing, campfire cookery, archery and much more (check Activities tab for more information)
- Relaxation treatments can be pre-booked to take place in the comfort of an accommodation alachigh or Petro including massages, reflexology, facials, manicures and pedicures
Read more
Getting there
Penhein Glamping, Llanvair Discoed, Chepstow, Monmouthshire, NP16 6RB
What3Words: ///decisions.listening.smiling - What3Words is a new more accurate version of a postcode. This will take you directly to the entrance of the estate so we recommend using this in your Sat Nav, but always remember to look at the owners’ directions too!
By public transport
The nearest train station is Newport, 11 miles away.
By car
From the A48 between Chepstow and Newport:
Take turning to Llanvair Discoed. A single track road to the village. Take the first turning to the right, signposted to Chepstow and go down here for about 500 yards. The last house on the left has small black railings and gate and there will be a low square wooden box surrounded by herbs on the verge in front of you. Turn left after the house and then immediately left again. There is a sign saying "Penhein Estate" and this is our driveway. Keep going as it's about a mile long. Once at the top of the drive follow the signs to the glampsite.

Read more
Food & Drink
At Penhein
Penhein is fully self-catering, but the basics (coffee, tea, sugar, dried herbs, spices, salt and pepper) are provided for you
The Penhein Pantry (honesty shop) offers a selection of delicious food and drink for guests to enjoy. Stock up on ready-to-go goods, treat yourself to something sweet, or take something home with you
Local shops
A&H Jones Butchers (9.2 miles) - a lovely family run business with an array of good quality, locally sourced meat, poultry and fish
Caerwent Post Office & Stores (1.5 miles) - the closest shop, which stocks most of the basics including bread, milk, cakes, bacon, eggs, sauces, toiletries and drinks
Newall Farm Shop, Chepstow Garden Centre (5.7 miles) - offers a wide range of locally sourced food, such as bread, fruit, veg, cheeses, cakes, and an award winning butcher and fishmonger
Aldi & Asda in Caldicot (5.7 miles)
M&S & Tesco in Chepstow (6.2 miles)
Pubs & Restaurants
The Woodlands Tavern (24 min walk) - the local pub located in the village and within walking distance. Booking essential
Ego at The Groes Wen (5 miles) – just a few minutes drive from Penhein, Ego is extremely popular and booking is essential
The Rock & Fountain, Penhow (3.9 miles) - serving hearty Sunday lunches to light meals
The Walnut Tree (25.9 miles) - Michelin starred, definitely worth a visit if you fancy a treat!
The Angel Hotel (23.5 miles) - a dining room and bar serving fresh, fine ingredients
The Ostrich Inn (20.4 miles) - locally sourced ingredients with veggie, vegan and gluten free options
Read more
Activities
At Penhein
Penhein has a huge range of activities, courses and relaxation treatments that take place on the farm exclusively for Penhein guests and are ideal for groups. They are run by expert instructors who will ensure you have a top-quality experience without needing to leave the site.
Just some of our adventures at Penhein:
Bushcraft - for adults, juniors and families: build a shelter and light fires without matches, cooking over the results!
Treasure hunt: a classic blend of general knowledge clues and creative tasks are designed to get you thinking out of the box and off the wall
Foraging days: these include Feast & Forage, as well as specialised gin, perfume and mushroom forages
Clay pigeon shooting: 30 clays per person or 50 clays per person
Relaxation Treatments: range from massages, facials, reflexology, aromatherapy
Places to visit
Beechenhurst in the Forest of Dean (22.9 miles) - here you'll find walking and cycling trails, play areas, a café and more. Suitable for the whole family
Chepstow (6.2 miles) - a town which blends modern and medieval. The castle is a must see
Dean Forest Railway (16.7 miles) - the rail line runs through beautiful woodland and countryside, with five stations along the way
Tintern Abbey and Tintern Railway (9.7 miles) - the railway no longer operates but has been converted into an amazing tea shop and museum
Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo (20.2 miles) - an indoor attraction where you can get close to exotic butterflies
St Fagans National Museum of History (28.6 miles) - explore the stories of the people of Wales
Outdoor & Active
Wye Valley (AONB) – fabulous walks starting in Chepstow and going all the way up the Wye Valley
Canoeing / kayaking / stand up paddle boarding on the River Wye
Puzzlewood (19.8 miles)
Mountain biking in the Forest of Dean (22.5 miles)
Go Ape in the Forest of Dean (22.9 miles)
The Royal Mint (34.4 miles)
Read more
Meet your hosts
Helen grew up at Penhein and the farm has been in her family for 5 generations, since 1867. Since Helen and her family decided to leave London and return home, she has worked hard to make the farm a going concern. She also wanted to share the beauty of Penhein with more people, and glamping seemed the ideal way to achieve that aim. The Persian theme of the glampsite itself comes from the children's heritage via their grandfather, who is Iranian.
Wildlife & Environment
Penhein is wonderfully unspoilt having been managed firstly by Helen's father and then, since 2011, by Helen. For over 25 years both have made sure that conservation has been a paramount concern. So whilst there are cows and sheep, the 100 acres of woodland have been improved by the creation of 10 miles of woodland corridors running along the edge of most fields, allowing wildlife to move freely across the farm. Consequently, there is an abundance of animal wildlife including wild deer, dormice, foxes, hedgehogs and numerous breeds of bird. One of the woods is an SSSI and the field through which you drive to approach the house and the glampsite is a registered Historic Park and Garden.
Read more
-
Overview
Toasting marshmallows over the blazing firepit and listening to the sheep bleating in the distance, you'd be forgiven for forgetting this pocket of unspoilt countryside is just 45 min from the centre of Bristol and half an hour from Newport.
Penhein is the project of Helen who chose to leave London in 2011 to return to the farm which has been in her family for five generations. She wanted to share her family's little Welsh haven with the world. Near the Wye Valley, nestled in a three-acre ancient woodland over 600 metres from the farmhouse, you'll find eight wildflower meadow-dwelling alachighs (pronounced al-la-cheegs). Persian in design but Welsh in spirit, each one has an individual colour scheme and its own unique charm.
While at Penhein, you can indulge in one of the many relaxing treatments on offer (think reflexology, massages, reflexology, manis & pedis and facials) and let the kids run wild in the woodland playground and wildflower meadow and discover the Hearn Hideaway while you relax and unwind.
If you’re feeling more adventurous Penhein has a superb and extensive selection of activities run on the farm. Forage for botanicals (you can even make your own gin and perfume!), learn bushcraft skills from serving and ex-army personnel, discover the meditative benefits of forest bathing, practice your yoga in the meadow or take a class in campfire cookery or make a basket in willow weaving to name a few. Or simply head off and explore the farm and the ancient woodland of Wentwood which adjoins the farm. If you want to venture further afield there are walks and activities galore in and around the Wye and Severn Valleys, safe in the knowledge that your Persian paradise will be waiting for you when you return.
Planning a big celebration? Book Group Bookings at Penhein and have all eight spaces, the oh so comfortable Petro (the communal tent) and the magical Chehel Souton outdoor gathering area.
Read more
-
Essentials
The important stuff
- Check in from 4pm
- Check out by 11am
- The camp consists of 8 accommodation tents, 2 communal tents, a luxurious showerblock and useful communal kitchen all set within a 3 acre woodland opening onto a wildflower meadow
- Each accommodation tent can sleep up to 5 adults or 4 adults + 2 children in 1 kingsize double (splits into 2 singles), 2 truckle beds and 1 sofa bed for 1 adult or 2 children
- Please bring slippers/thick socks to wear in the alachigh and bring a torch (there is no outdoor lighting at the site)
- Scroll to the bottom of the 'Location' tab for full site map
- Mobile phone signal (dependent on network)
- No WiFi
- Please note that the alachigh is made of canvas and so it gets warm inside during the day in sunny days - great excuse to be outside exploring or shade under Chehal Sotoun, the stretch marquee!
Sleeping arrangements
- 1 king-size (splits into 2 singles), 2 truckle beds, sofa bed for extras
Extra space available
Space for 1 baby no charge. Cot available at no charge. Highchair and stepstool available on request.
Space for 1 adult from £10 per adult per night - or £10/night for up to 2 children sleeping on sofa bed. Bedding provided.
Kids & Pets
Children very welcome. Sorry no pets.
Cooking
- Wood-burning stove (wood provided) in each alachigh
- Bespoke kitchen unit with (cold) running water in each alachigh tent
- Extra large cool box with frozen hot water bottles in each tent
- Each tent is amply stocked with cooking and BBQ equipment plus crockery cutlery etc
- Private fire pit outside each tent
- 3 extra large fire pits ideal for larger groups
- Communal cooking area in the centre of the site know as the ‘Cheat’s Kitchen’ equipped with familiar mod-cons like microwave, toaster, kettle, halogen hobs, fridge and freezer
Washing
- Private ensuite flushing loo off main living area
- Castroggi has its own personal enclosed hot shower just outside their door
Heating, lighting & bedding
- All bed linen and towels provided
- Cot, step stool and highchair provided on request (no charge)
- Wood-burner in each alachigh, firepit outside each alachigh
- Accommodation tents lit by candles, hurricane lamps, solar lamps and tealights – all provided
- Electric lighting and several plug sockets in Petro and Chehal Sotoun (the two communal spaces), in the shower block and Cheat’s Kitchen (communal kitchen)
Entertainment
- Adventure playground, swings, rustic football pitch and Hearn Hideaway
- Shared use of Petro, one of the communal tents, which has dining tables, soft chairs and a big box full of kit for board games, outdoor games (including cricket, 'kick the can' and 'blind man's bluff') and a children's book corner
- Shared use of Chehal Sotoun, a large stretch marquee nestled in the middle of the camp providing shade when it’s hot and shelter when it’s wet. It has seating for up to 48 for dining, next to a huge firepit with fabulous circular seating area called The Cwtch
- Wide range of activities and courses that can be pre-booked, including bushcraft, foraging, forest bathing, campfire cookery, archery and much more (check Activities tab for more information)
- Relaxation treatments can be pre-booked to take place in the comfort of an accommodation alachigh or Petro including massages, reflexology, facials, manicures and pedicures
-
Location
Getting there
Penhein Glamping, Llanvair Discoed, Chepstow, Monmouthshire, NP16 6RB
What3Words: ///decisions.listening.smiling - What3Words is a new more accurate version of a postcode. This will take you directly to the entrance of the estate so we recommend using this in your Sat Nav, but always remember to look at the owners’ directions too!
By public transport
The nearest train station is Newport, 11 miles away.
By car
From the A48 between Chepstow and Newport:
Take turning to Llanvair Discoed. A single track road to the village. Take the first turning to the right, signposted to Chepstow and go down here for about 500 yards. The last house on the left has small black railings and gate and there will be a low square wooden box surrounded by herbs on the verge in front of you. Turn left after the house and then immediately left again. There is a sign saying "Penhein Estate" and this is our driveway. Keep going as it's about a mile long. Once at the top of the drive follow the signs to the glampsite.
-
Food & Drink
At Penhein
Penhein is fully self-catering, but the basics (coffee, tea, sugar, dried herbs, spices, salt and pepper) are provided for you
The Penhein Pantry (honesty shop) offers a selection of delicious food and drink for guests to enjoy. Stock up on ready-to-go goods, treat yourself to something sweet, or take something home with you
Local shops
A&H Jones Butchers (9.2 miles) - a lovely family run business with an array of good quality, locally sourced meat, poultry and fish
Caerwent Post Office & Stores (1.5 miles) - the closest shop, which stocks most of the basics including bread, milk, cakes, bacon, eggs, sauces, toiletries and drinks
Newall Farm Shop, Chepstow Garden Centre (5.7 miles) - offers a wide range of locally sourced food, such as bread, fruit, veg, cheeses, cakes, and an award winning butcher and fishmonger
Aldi & Asda in Caldicot (5.7 miles)
M&S & Tesco in Chepstow (6.2 miles)
Pubs & Restaurants
The Woodlands Tavern (24 min walk) - the local pub located in the village and within walking distance. Booking essential
Ego at The Groes Wen (5 miles) – just a few minutes drive from Penhein, Ego is extremely popular and booking is essential
The Rock & Fountain, Penhow (3.9 miles) - serving hearty Sunday lunches to light meals
The Walnut Tree (25.9 miles) - Michelin starred, definitely worth a visit if you fancy a treat!
The Angel Hotel (23.5 miles) - a dining room and bar serving fresh, fine ingredients
The Ostrich Inn (20.4 miles) - locally sourced ingredients with veggie, vegan and gluten free options
-
Experiences
At Penhein
Penhein has a huge range of activities, courses and relaxation treatments that take place on the farm exclusively for Penhein guests and are ideal for groups. They are run by expert instructors who will ensure you have a top-quality experience without needing to leave the site.
Just some of our adventures at Penhein:
Bushcraft - for adults, juniors and families: build a shelter and light fires without matches, cooking over the results!
Treasure hunt: a classic blend of general knowledge clues and creative tasks are designed to get you thinking out of the box and off the wall
Foraging days: these include Feast & Forage, as well as specialised gin, perfume and mushroom forages
Clay pigeon shooting: 30 clays per person or 50 clays per person
Relaxation Treatments: range from massages, facials, reflexology, aromatherapy
Places to visit
Beechenhurst in the Forest of Dean (22.9 miles) - here you'll find walking and cycling trails, play areas, a café and more. Suitable for the whole family
Chepstow (6.2 miles) - a town which blends modern and medieval. The castle is a must see
Dean Forest Railway (16.7 miles) - the rail line runs through beautiful woodland and countryside, with five stations along the way
Tintern Abbey and Tintern Railway (9.7 miles) - the railway no longer operates but has been converted into an amazing tea shop and museum
Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo (20.2 miles) - an indoor attraction where you can get close to exotic butterflies
St Fagans National Museum of History (28.6 miles) - explore the stories of the people of Wales
Outdoor & Active
Wye Valley (AONB) – fabulous walks starting in Chepstow and going all the way up the Wye Valley
Canoeing / kayaking / stand up paddle boarding on the River Wye
Puzzlewood (19.8 miles)
Mountain biking in the Forest of Dean (22.5 miles)
Go Ape in the Forest of Dean (22.9 miles)
The Royal Mint (34.4 miles)
-
Your Hosts
Helen grew up at Penhein and the farm has been in her family for 5 generations, since 1867. Since Helen and her family decided to leave London and return home, she has worked hard to make the farm a going concern. She also wanted to share the beauty of Penhein with more people, and glamping seemed the ideal way to achieve that aim. The Persian theme of the glampsite itself comes from the children's heritage via their grandfather, who is Iranian.
Wildlife & Environment
Penhein is wonderfully unspoilt having been managed firstly by Helen's father and then, since 2011, by Helen. For over 25 years both have made sure that conservation has been a paramount concern. So whilst there are cows and sheep, the 100 acres of woodland have been improved by the creation of 10 miles of woodland corridors running along the edge of most fields, allowing wildlife to move freely across the farm. Consequently, there is an abundance of animal wildlife including wild deer, dormice, foxes, hedgehogs and numerous breeds of bird. One of the woods is an SSSI and the field through which you drive to approach the house and the glampsite is a registered Historic Park and Garden.
-
Reviews
Our guests say...
emily
We're super excited to be adding Helen's latest space. A wonderful addition to the collection. The feedback for The Oakes at Penhein should give you a good feel for what it will be like. Book a stay and be the first to write a review!
19/11/2021The Canopy & Stars Team
Reviews
Wonderful experience that totally exceeded my expectations. The tents were spotless and beautiful, so much attention to detail and in the most stunning setting. Will definitely be back! Thanks to all in the Penhein team!
24/07/2024emily
We're super excited to be adding Helen's latest space. A wonderful addition to the collection. The feedback for The Oakes at Penhein should give you a good feel for what it will be like. Book a stay and be the first to write a review!
19/11/2021The Canopy & Stars Team
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Wonderful experience that totally exceeded my expectations. The tents were spotless and beautiful, so much attention to detail and in the most stunning setting. Will definitely be back! Thanks to all in the Penhein team!
24/07/2024