Community
Preserving Penrhos Cottage: A Glimpse into Wales’ Rich Architectural Heritage
Nestled along a secluded country road near the picturesque village of Llanycefn stands Penrhos Cottage, a remarkable testament to Wales’ ancient home-building traditions. Stepping over its threshold is akin to a journey through time, immersing visitors in a bygone era. This whitewashed thatched property, more than two centuries old, serves as a living relic of a unique Welsh practice known as tŷ unnos, or “house in one night”.
In centuries past, the legality of land ownership was determined by a simple yet challenging rule: if someone could construct a dwelling on common land between dusk and dawn and have a fire lit in the hearth by first light, the land and the house became legally theirs. Moreover, all land within an axe throw of the front door became their rightful possession. Penrhos Cottage stands as a rare survivor of this intriguing tradition, showcasing the resilience and craftsmanship of Welsh builders from the 17th to the 19th centuries.
Built around 1800 and later reconstructed with a blend of stone and clom (a mixture of clay, mud, and straw) in 1849, Penrhos Cottage defied the passage of time, housing families despite its modest two-room structure consisting of a kitchen/living area and sleeping quarters. The cottage, now owned by Pembrokeshire County Council, was last occupied by the kind-hearted Williams sisters, Maria and Rachel, until 1968. These sisters, whose generosity and simplicity endeared them to the community, turned Penrhos into a cherished local landmark. Visitors, young and old, were welcomed with sweets and warm smiles, creating cherished memories for generations.
Eifion Evans, a former neighbour, reminisced about the sisters’ kindness and the idyllic simplicity of their lives. “It was a very simple life,” he recalled, his voice laden with nostalgia. Now, the locals, stirred by a collective determination to preserve this historical gem, are mobilising. A new group, named Friends of Penrhos, is set to emerge, comprising passionate individuals eager to safeguard the cottage’s legacy.
The future of Penrhos Cottage hangs in the balance, but hope and determination fill the air. Local author and journalist Hefin Wyn sees Penrhos Cottage not just as a building but as an invaluable treasure. He advocates for its preservation, envisioning it as a museum where visitors can step into the past, learning about the struggles and triumphs of those who once called this humble abode home. Wyn’s optimism resonates within the community, sparking conversations about Penrhos’ potential revival.
Pembrokeshire County Council, recognising the significance of Penrhos Cottage, has expressed openness to collaborating with the newly formed Friends of Penrhos. The council, acknowledging the importance of preserving this historic building, aims to facilitate accessibility and ensure its conservation for future generations.
As the community rallies together, Penrhos Cottage stands not just as a structure but as a testament to resilience, community spirit, and the enduring legacy of Welsh traditions. The cottage’s future may be uncertain, but the determination of the people of Llanycefn to safeguard their heritage ensures that the flickering flame of Penrhos’ story will continue to illuminate the hearts and minds of generations to come.
A BEAUTIFUL and affectionate four-year-old British Shorthair cat is looking for a calm and loving home through Greenacres Rescue in Pembrokeshire.
Maple, described by staff as having a “luxurious plush coat” and a “gentle, affectionate nature,” came into the charity’s care through no fault of her own. With her classic round face, soulful eyes, and teddy bear-like fur, she is proving popular with volunteers at the centre.
Greenacres said Maple would make an ideal companion for someone seeking a calm and elegant feline friend. She enjoys gentle fuss and quiet company and has previously lived harmoniously with other cats.
A spokesperson for the charity said: “Maple would thrive in a peaceful environment where she can settle in at her own pace and be treated with the patience and love she deserves. She may be happy to share her home with another gentle-natured feline.”
The rescue centre is based in Pembrokeshire, but rehomes animals across the UK. However, potential adopters are reminded that visits to the centre are essential, and priority may be given to homes closer to the charity’s location.
Anyone interested in adopting Maple is asked to complete an online application form, clearly stating her name:
Cat Adoption Form – Greenacres Rescue
Applications are processed Monday to Thursday and are subject to home and vet checks. For more information on the adoption process, visit:
Adoption Procedure – Greenacres Rescue
Greenacres thanked all potential adopters for supporting their mission to find loving homes for animals in need.
Could you be the one to give Maple the home she deserves?
Joy for royal-linked family as baby boy is born
A NEW member of a family with strong historic ties to West Wales has been welcomed into the world, as Lady Tatiana Mountbatten, the daughter of the Marquess of Milford Haven, announced the birth of her son.
The 34-year-old, who is a second cousin to King Charles III, shared the joyful news with her followers on Instagram on Sunday (Apr 13), posting tender photographs with her newborn, husband Alexander ‘Alick’ Dru, and daughter Elodie, who was born in September 2023.
Lady Tatiana is the daughter of George Mountbatten, 4th Marquess of Milford Haven.
The title “Marquess of Milford Haven” was created in 1917 for Prince Louis of Battenberg, who had previously served as First Sea Lord of the Royal Navy.
Amidst the anti-German sentiment during World War I, he relinquished his German titles and adopted the anglicised surname “Mountbatten.”
The Milford Haven waterway, with its rich maritime history and has been home to a significant naval base and commercial fishing port. The town’s deep natural harbour has been used for naval purposes since the late 18th century, and it played a crucial role during both World Wars.
The naming of the marquessate after Milford Haven reflects the town’s importance in British naval history.
In her post, Tatiana revealed her son’s name – Auberon, affectionately known as ‘Albie’. “March might just have been the best month of my life,” she wrote, reflecting on a peaceful period spent with her young family in the Hampshire countryside, away from the bustle of London.
She described her daughter’s excitement at becoming a big sister and shared a touching image of baby Auberon clutching her finger, alongside family scenes of daisy-picking and garden play.
Tatiana said: “We’ve played, rested, nourished, slept a little, loved a lot and enjoyed every minute of the glorious spring weather… Now it’s time to head back to London and discover what our new normal looks like.”
Local interest in the royal-connected family remains strong, particularly due to the Mountbattens’ association with Milford Haven and their lineage linked to Queen Victoria and Prince Louis of Battenberg.
Followers flooded her post with messages of congratulations. One wrote: “Oh my goodness, my heart is absolutely exploding for you!” Another joked: “When are you buying the first pony?!”
The happy news comes not long after another royal birth, with Princess Beatrice welcoming a baby girl, Athena Elizabeth Rose, in January. Despite being born prematurely, Athena is said to be healthy and thriving.
WITH the cost of living still putting pressure on many Pembrokeshire families, it’s good to see some local businesses stepping up this Easter to make eating out a little easier.
From cafes to pubs, a number of places across Mid and South Pembrokeshire are offering free or discounted meals for children during the school holidays. Here’s our Herald guide to where kids can eat free – or for just £1 – this Easter break:
MORRISONS CAFÉ – HAVERFORDWEST
Offer: One free kids’ meal with every adult meal purchased for £4.49 or more.
Availability: All day, every day, including during the Easter holidays.
Bonus: Free Kellogg’s breakfast (cereal, milk, fruit) when you ask for a “Kellogg’s Breakfast” at the counter.
TESCO CAFÉ – HAVERFORDWEST, PEMBROKE DOCK, MILFORD HAVEN
Offer: Kids eat free with any adult purchase during the Easter holidays.
Highlight: Pick ‘N’ Mix lunch deal includes a sandwich, fruit, two snacks, and a drink.
TRAVELODGE – PEMBROKE DOCK
Offer: Up to two children (15 or under) eat breakfast for free with every paying adult.
Availability: Every day, including Easter.
PREMIER INN – HAVERFORDWEST AND ST DAVIDS
Offer: Up to two children (15 or under) eat breakfast for free with every paying adult.
Availability: Every day, including Easter.
SA BRAINS PUBS
Offer: Kids eat for £1 with the purchase of an adult main meal.
Availability: All day every Wednesday.
Pembrokeshire Locations: Check your local Brains pub for participation.
NAUTICO’S RESTAURANT – MILFORD WATERFRONT
Offer: Kids eat for just £1 with every paying adult this Easter.
Availability: Throughout the Easter holidays.
Details: Enjoy a family meal by the coast – booking recommended. Call 01646 278060.
CAFÉ VINCENT – VINCENT DAVIES, HAVERFORDWEST
Offer: Kids eat free from the Little Pantry Children’s Menu with every adult main meal.
When: Monday to Friday, 12:00pm to 3:00pm, until Friday 25th April.
Note: Excludes breakfast items and sides.
WALDO LOUNGE – HAVERFORDWEST
Offer: Free healthy breakfast for children including cereal, fresh fruit and juice.
When: Easter holidays, daily from 9:00am to 10:30am.
Details: A relaxed morning offering for “little loungers” to start their day the healthy way.
Know of more local offers? Let us know and we’ll add them. Message us on Facebook.
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