Bettws Court Retreats

Frequently Asked Questions

Bettws Court Retreats

What type of break is the property best suited to?

Bettws Court Retreats are designed for couples looking to slow down, switch off and spend quality time together. Perfect for anniversaries, birthdays, mini-moons, proposals, babymoons or simply a relaxing countryside escape, the lodges combine privacy, comfort and beautiful views to create a memorable getaway.

What is the difference between Barn Owl Retreat, Peregrine Retreat and Kestrel Retreat?

Each lodge offers the same layout, facilities and level of luxury, with everything exclusively for your own private use, including the double spa bath, enclosed decking and panoramic countryside views.

The main differences are the interior design and pet policy.

  • Barn Owl Retreat: cosy country-cottage style and is dog friendly.
  • Peregrine Retreat: an industrial-chic theme and is dog friendly.
  • Kestrel Retreat: warm Scandinavian-inspired design and is pet free.

Do you offer Blue Light, or any other types of discount?

As a small family-run business, we aim to offer the best value to all guests from the outset, rather than inflating prices and offering discount codes. For this reason, we do not currently offer Blue Light, NHS or other membership-based discounts.

How private are the lodges?

Barn Owl Retreat, Peregrine Retreat and Kestrel Retreat are located on the same site but have been carefully designed to maximise privacy. Thoughtful positioning, privacy screening, landscaping and planting ensure that once guests are inside the lodge and on the private decking area you will not be able to see another guest.

Many guests comment on the peaceful, secluded and private feel of the retreats and this can be seen within our reviews.

Is the spa bath the same as a hot tub?

The double spa bath offers many of the same features as a traditional hot tub, including hydrotherapy jets, turbo air massage, chromotherapy lighting and an in-line heater to maintain water temperature.

The key difference is that the spa bath is filled with fresh, clean water for every use, providing a more luxurious bathing experience whilst enjoying the surrounding countryside views.

Is the spa bath available all year?

Yes. The double spa bath is available throughout the year and is located on your private decking area, making it perfect for relaxing, stargazing and enjoying the views in every season.

How does the spa bath work?

Simply fill the spa bath with fresh water, which takes approximately 15-20 minutes, switch on the jets and enjoy. Full operating instructions are provided beside the spa bath and within the Property Guide.

Do you have EV chargers?

No. EV charging is not currently available at Bettws Court Retreats.

Where can I charge my electric car?

The nearest public charging points can be found in Ross-on-Wye and Hereford.

Can we stay for one night?

Our standard minimum stay is two nights. Due to the fixed costs associated with preparing each lodge, including housekeeping, laundry and welcome provisions, one-night stays do not usually represent good value for guests.

However, if you are only able to stay for one night, perhaps due to work commitments or childcare arrangements, please get in touch and we would be happy to provide a price where availability allows.

Pre-arrival and Celebrations

Can we arrange a private chef?

Yes. We work with a trusted private chef who can provide either chef-prepared meals delivered before your arrival or a private dining experience within your lodge (minimum spend applies). Please see our Dining In page for recommended suppliers.

Can we arrange treatments at the property?

Absolutely. Many guests choose to enhance their stay with in-lodge treatments, enjoying a massage or facial whilst taking in the stunning countryside views.

Please explore the Activities section within Property Services for inspiration.

Can we bring our own supplier?

If you wish to use a supplier not listed on our recommended pages, this must be agreed in writing in advance. Third-party suppliers must hold appropriate public liability insurance, and we must hold a copy of their insurance certificate before they attend the property. Suppliers without prior approval will be refused access.

Can groceries be delivered to the property?

Yes. All major supermarkets deliver to Bettws Court Retreats. Please ensure you select the correct lodge when arranging your delivery. Most guests arrange deliveries for shortly after check-in on arrival day. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept or unpack grocery deliveries before your arrival.

Can we decorate the property?

Yes, we welcome tasteful decorations for celebrations. However, to avoid damage, we do not allow tape, Blu Tack, drawing pins, nails or similar fixings on walls, doors, furniture or timberwork. We recommend using freestanding decorations or attaching decorations using White Tack or a similar removable adhesive.

Can we bring candles?

Battery-operated candles are welcome. For safety reasons, naked flames, including candles, tea lights and indoor fireworks, are not permitted inside the property.

Can we organise flowers, cakes or decorations?

Yes. We work with a number of trusted local suppliers who can provide celebration cakes, balloons, flowers, property decorations and other special touches before your arrival. Please see our Pre-Arrival section within Property Services for details.

Can you help us plan a special occasion?

Absolutely. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, babymoon, proposal or simply a special getaway together, our website is packed with ideas and trusted local suppliers to help make your stay memorable.

Please explore our Property Services pages, including Dining In and Activities, along with our Explore the Area section for inspiration, recommendations and useful planning information.

Accessibility, Children & Dogs

Is the property suitable for guests with limited mobility?

Bettws Court Retreats have not been specifically designed as accessible accommodation. However, all lodges are single-storey and may be suitable for some guests with limited mobility. Please see our Accessibility page for full details, including full Access Statements for each lodge, or contact us to discuss your specific requirements.

Do you provide accessibility equipment?

Yes. We can offer a range of complimentary accessibility aids, including items such as shower stools, toilet frames and raised toilet seats. Please see our Accessibility page for the full list and let us know your requirements before arrival.

Are children or infants permitted?

No. Barn Owl Retreat, Peregrine Retreat and Kestrel Retreat are adult-only lodges designed exclusively for guests aged 18 and over.

Which lodges are dog friendly?

Barn Owl Retreat and Peregrine Retreat are dog friendly and welcome one dog per lodge. Kestrel Retreat is pet free. Please see our Dog Friendly Breaks page for full details of the facilities provided and our dog-friendly policies.

Is the decking enclosed?

Yes. The decking areas are enclosed with privacy screening to the rear and glass balustrades to the front, allowing guests to enjoy the views whilst maintaining a sense of privacy.

For guests staying at Barn Owl Retreat or Peregrine Retreat, there is also a designated enclosed dog area nearby, featuring a few fun obstacles including a tree trunk, tyre and weaving posts. This is the designated area for dogs to exercise and toilet.

We ask that dogs are kept on a lead when walking between the lodge and the dog area. Please note that the dog area is enclosed with standard stock fencing, so it is not high fencing or dug into the ground.

Getting Here & The Local Area

What is the nearest pub and can I walk to a pub?

There are a wealth of excellent pubs and restaurants within a short drive of Bettws Court Retreats. Please explore our Plan Your Stay page for recommendations.

If you’re looking to walk to a pub directly from the lodges there are 3 pubs within walking distance, each offering a different countryside route and experience.

The closest is The Fountain Inn, a small and friendly village pub known for its authentic Thai food alongside traditional pub favourites. It typically opens from Thursday to Sunday, with service in the evenings and for Sunday lunch, so we recommend checking opening hours in advance.

The Black Swan can be reached via a scenic footpath (approximately 45–60 minutes one way), passing through the grounds of The Mynd. A historic 15th-century inn, it serves traditional home-cooked pub food and is particularly well suited to a relaxed lunch.

For a longer walk, The Kilpeck Inn is around 90 minutes on foot, also via countryside paths, forming a circular route with the pub roughly halfway. Known for its award-winning menu, locally sourced ingredients and recognition in both the Michelin Guide and Good Food Guide, it offers a more elevated dining experience.

Both The Black Swan and The Kilpeck Inn are particularly well suited for lunch when walking. We recommend suitable footwear, as paths can vary depending on recent weather, and checking opening times ahead of your visit.

Routes are provided in advance, within the guest book and also printed within the ‘walks folder’ and marked on maps provided.

What is the nearest shop or supermarket?

The nearest shop is Carrot & Wine Store in Wormelow, located approximately 2.6 miles away (around a 5–10 minute drive). As the route is via main roads, it is not suitable for walking. The nearest larger supermarket is Tesco Belmont (approximately 8.5 miles / 20 minutes by car).

Full details of local shops can also be found within our Plan Your Stay page.

Is a car essential?

Bettws Court Retreats are in a rural location. If you search for “Bettws Court Retreats” on Google Maps, you will be able to see exactly where we are situated. That said, we have welcomed a number of guests who have travelled by train and taxi and thoroughly enjoyed a peaceful countryside getaway.

The nearest train station is Hereford. From there, Bettws Court Retreats is approximately 10 miles away, which is around a 20–25 minute taxi journey. If travelling by train, we would recommend bringing your food and drink supplies with you or arranging a grocery delivery to the lodge, as there are no shops within walking distance. There is a large Morrisons opposite the train station and a Lidl within walking distance of the station.

Recommended taxi companies, including a local registered taxi driver who offers good value and a reliable service, can be found on our Taxi page.

We recommend booking taxis in advance, particularly for your return journey.

Can I get a taxi?

Yes. Several local taxi companies operate in the area. We recommend booking in advance, particularly for evenings and return journeys. Please see our Taxi page for recommended providers.

What walks can we do directly from the property?

There are a number of walks available directly from Bettws Court Retreats, ranging from gentle countryside strolls to longer pub walks. We provide a selection of our favourite local routes within the digital Property Guide sent before your arrival and also provide a walks folder, which includes walking maps (both unmarked and marked with suggested routes).

Is there fishing nearby?

Complimentary fishing at Andy’s Fishing Lake is available for overnight guests throughout their stay. Please see our Fishing Breaks page for information on Andy’s Fishing Lake and fishing opportunities on the River Wye.

What can we do on a rainy day?

There is plenty to enjoy whatever the weather, including castles, museums, indoor attractions, escape rooms, food and drink experiences, shopping and cinemas. Please see our Explore the Area page and select the ‘Wet Weather Activities’ filter for inspiration.

During Your Stay

Is Wi-Fi available?

Yes. Bettws Court Retreats uses Starlink satellite broadband, providing fast Wi-Fi throughout each lodge.

Is there mobile signal?

Mobile signal varies depending on network provider, although most major networks have good coverage at Bettws Court Retreats.

Who do we contact if we need help during our stay?

We are always on hand and happy to help should you need assistance during your stay. Please use the contact details provided on our Contact Us page.

Can we arrange additional housekeeping?

Additional housekeeping may be available by prior arrangement, subject to availability. Please contact us before your stay to discuss your requirements.

What should I bring with me?

All you need is your food, drink and personal items. Bed linen, towels, toiletries and a wide range of kitchen essentials are provided. Please see our What’s Included page for full details.

Do we need to bring fuel for the BBQ?

No. Complimentary charcoal for one evening of BBQ cooking is provided (available April to October inclusive). Additional charcoal can be purchased in advance. Please see our What’s Included page for full details.

What type of coffee machine is provided?

Bettws Court Retreats are equipped with a Nespresso CitiZ & Milk coffee machine (Magimix 11317). Four coffee pods are provided within your welcome basket, and additional pods can be purchased in advance. A one-cup cafetière is also available.

Can we bring a fire pit or chiminea?

No. For safety reasons, guests are not permitted to bring fire pits, chimineas, outdoor heaters or similar items to the property. The property’s BBQ (available April to October inclusive) is available for outdoor cooking.

Can we set off fireworks or sky lanterns?

No. Fireworks, sky lanterns and similar items are not permitted.

Can we fly a drone at the property?

No. Drone use is not permitted in order to protect the privacy of neighbouring properties and avoid disturbance to livestock.

Can we play music outside?

Music may be enjoyed outdoors at a considerate volume. We simply ask that guests respect neighbouring lodges and that no outdoor noise continues after 10.00pm.