In a heartwarming twist to their royal itinerary, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William and Kate Middleton, opted for an unconventional stay during their visit to Wales last year. Instead of grand castles and palaces, the couple chose to spend a night at the picturesque Duffryn Mawr Country House, nestled on the edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park.
The Surprise Stay
During their two-day Welsh tour in April 2023, William and Kate embarked on a memorable adventure. Their visit included a stop at the Central Beacons Mountain Rescue Team headquarters in Merthyr Tydfil, where they participated in abseiling and mock rescue operations. The demanding schedule required an overnight stay, and the royal couple decided to experience the warmth and hospitality of a local B&B.
Duffryn Mawr Country House: A Hidden Gem
Duffryn Mawr, a 500-year-old house, welcomed the Prince and Princess of Wales with open arms. The historic property, available for rent on Airbnb, boasts seven en-suite bedrooms and can accommodate up to 16 guests. Here are some highlights of their charming stay:
Secluded Splendor: Tucked away on 16 acres of land, Duffryn Mawr offers breathtaking views of the Sugarloaf, Blorenge, and the River Usk. The mountain range beckons with walking trails, cycle paths, and horse riding routes.
Regal Comfort: The master suite, overlooking the Brecon Beacons, provided the perfect retreat for the royal couple. The house features a 40ft kitchen, a billiard room, a bar, a gym, and even a spa with a steam room and hot tub.
Warm Welcome: Superhost Kimberley Fry, the owner of Duffryn Mawr, described their visit as a whirlwind of excitement. William and Kate appreciated the house’s rich history and its secluded, homely ambiance.
A Year Later: Commemorating Their Stay
To mark the one-year anniversary of their visit, Duffryn Mawr shared an unseen photograph on social media. The image captured the royal couple smiling alongside staff members outside the stunning property. The B&B’s Facebook post read, “It’s been 1 year since we welcomed William and Kate, the Prince and Princess of Wales, to Duffryn Mawr! So kind and friendly, it was a pleasure to have them stay here.”
Kate’s Courageous Journey
Kate Middleton’s absence from royal duties since the beginning of the year was due to major abdominal surgery and a subsequent cancer diagnosis. In a heartfelt message, she expressed her determination to focus on recovery while asking for privacy during her treatment.
