Beautifully converted stone barn with amazing views towards the black mountains
House in Forest of Dean
5 guests · 3 bedrooms · 1 bath
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Great for petsBring all your friends and family, even the furry ones
Includes essentialsGarden, Pets allowed, Kitchen or Kitchenette and more
About this house rental
Top Barn is a beautifully converted stone barn with amazing views in a secluded setting. The property is detached with its own access and picturesque views over the Black Mountains and beyond. Situated in Wales on the Welsh English borders the property has 2 bedrooms and sleeps 4/5. We welcome well behaved pets.
Top Barn is in an ideal location for exploring this 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty', unearthing its wonderful heritage or enjoying the many outdoor activities that Monmouthshire, Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean have to offer. From canoeing or abseiling for the adventurous visitors to more leisurely dog walking or cycling along its scenic routes straight from our doorstep into the beautiful countryside, we offer the perfect place to stay and explore.
The Space
Original stone features are retained in the barn whilst also offering modern facilities. The log burner makes your stay cosy and warm in the colder weather, while the south facing patio with barbeque opens up onto this scenic yet tranquil setting.
We are proud to have been awarded a 4* rating by Visit Wales. This reflects the quality and service that we provide for our guests.
The Top Barn was described by a recent guest as "honestly the best Airbnb we have been to".
Living Area
The light and airy, open plan living space looks out on an ever-changing view through the patio doors. Many of our previous guests have commented on the authentic feel of the barn which has been tastefully renovated with wood flooring throughout and stone features retained.
You will love the kitchen which is fully equipped for your stay with oven, hob and microwave. Top Barn provides a great setting for a romantic few days away or for a get together with friends or family. The space is ideal for that special occasion or for just for chilling in front of the log burner.
We provide a welcome pack which usually includes Welsh cakes and local Kymin honey. At times, other local produce such as eggs from our chickens and apples are also available.
Bedrooms and Bathroom
Take a walk into bedroom 1, which enjoys panoramic views towards the Black Mountains and beyond. Enjoy your morning cup of tea in the comfortable double bed, or in the hotter weather, take a chair and relax outside in the sun on the patio as nature wakes up around you.
At the other end of the lounge are bedroom 2 and the fully tiled wet room. The bedroom has original stone walls and you will enjoy looking at the wildlife prints on the walls whilst enjoying the view of the garden. Bedroom 2 has a single bed with a full-size pull-out trundle single providing flexibility in the accommodation to suit our guests.
We can provide a travel cot and highchair if required. Please ask on booking.
Outdoors
Outside, the south facing patio is ideal for a relaxing drink any time of the day, a barbeque on a warm evening, or you can wrap up in the winter and feast your eyes on the stunning star-filled night skies. The Kymin benefits from minimal light pollution, so is an ideal vantage point.
We are close to nature at the Top Barn, and it is not unusual to see rabbits, badgers, foxes, deer and bats in the vicinity or even venturing into the garden in a quiet period for a munch on the grass or hedgerows.
We also offer the option for guests to hire a hot tub which can be located on the patio during their stay for that extra special addition to experiencing the view. Please ask for details prior to booking as availability may vary particularly if booking at short notice.
We welcome well behaved pets, and you can walk straight out from the Top Barn into the Forest of Dean or Wye Valley where there are plenty of trails supported by pet friendly watering holes.
There are normally animals in the field adjacent to the Top Barn and we offer the opportunity to feed the sheep and chickens when we are able to. This has proved very popular with guests, particularly our younger guests. Please ask on booking.
Bikes can be safely kept behind the barn, and you are welcome to use the hosepipe and outside tap to clean the mud off your cycle when you return from exploring the trails in the Forest or along the river. Please ask about under cover storage which can normally be provided a short distance from the barn.
Access
The access to the property is along a single track lane. Private parking is provided approximately 75 metres from the Top Barn along a public footpath with parking for 2 cars although more parking can normally be made available on request. Be aware that this is a rural location on a hill and although the lanes can be narrow and the access is relatively steep, you are rewarded on arrival by the stunning scenery and views from the property.
Larger Bookings
This property can also be booked with Long Barn (10157131), a larger 3 bed property close by providing accommodation for up to 12 guests across the two separate properties. Please see separate listing or enquire for details.
The whole property plus the garden is available for our guests.
Well behaved pets are welcome. A one off fee of £20 per pet is charged.
Activities and Travel
The cottage is only metres from Offa's Dyke footpath situated in an area of 'Outstanding Natural Beauty' and there are numerous activities in the adjacent Forest of Dean including cycling, canoeing and rock climbing. In addition, we are close to other points of interest including Tintern Abbey, Symonds Yat, numerous castles including Chepstow and Raglan and only an hour's drive away from the tallest mountain in South Wales, Pen Y Fan, located in the Brecon Beacons National Park.
There are several excellent golf courses within 30 minutes drive of the property including The Celtic Manor Resort, St Pierre and Rolls if Monmouth.
Top Barn is in an ideal location for exploring this 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty', unearthing its wonderful heritage or enjoying the many outdoor activities that Monmouthshire, Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean have to offer. From canoeing or abseiling for the adventurous visitors to more leisurely dog walking or cycling along its scenic routes straight from our doorstep into the beautiful countryside, we offer the perfect place to stay and explore.
The Space
Original stone features are retained in the barn whilst also offering modern facilities. The log burner makes your stay cosy and warm in the colder weather, while the south facing patio with barbeque opens up onto this scenic yet tranquil setting.
We are proud to have been awarded a 4* rating by Visit Wales. This reflects the quality and service that we provide for our guests.
The Top Barn was described by a recent guest as "honestly the best Airbnb we have been to".
Living Area
The light and airy, open plan living space looks out on an ever-changing view through the patio doors. Many of our previous guests have commented on the authentic feel of the barn which has been tastefully renovated with wood flooring throughout and stone features retained.
You will love the kitchen which is fully equipped for your stay with oven, hob and microwave. Top Barn provides a great setting for a romantic few days away or for a get together with friends or family. The space is ideal for that special occasion or for just for chilling in front of the log burner.
We provide a welcome pack which usually includes Welsh cakes and local Kymin honey. At times, other local produce such as eggs from our chickens and apples are also available.
Bedrooms and Bathroom
Take a walk into bedroom 1, which enjoys panoramic views towards the Black Mountains and beyond. Enjoy your morning cup of tea in the comfortable double bed, or in the hotter weather, take a chair and relax outside in the sun on the patio as nature wakes up around you.
At the other end of the lounge are bedroom 2 and the fully tiled wet room. The bedroom has original stone walls and you will enjoy looking at the wildlife prints on the walls whilst enjoying the view of the garden. Bedroom 2 has a single bed with a full-size pull-out trundle single providing flexibility in the accommodation to suit our guests.
We can provide a travel cot and highchair if required. Please ask on booking.
Outdoors
Outside, the south facing patio is ideal for a relaxing drink any time of the day, a barbeque on a warm evening, or you can wrap up in the winter and feast your eyes on the stunning star-filled night skies. The Kymin benefits from minimal light pollution, so is an ideal vantage point.
We are close to nature at the Top Barn, and it is not unusual to see rabbits, badgers, foxes, deer and bats in the vicinity or even venturing into the garden in a quiet period for a munch on the grass or hedgerows.
We also offer the option for guests to hire a hot tub which can be located on the patio during their stay for that extra special addition to experiencing the view. Please ask for details prior to booking as availability may vary particularly if booking at short notice.
We welcome well behaved pets, and you can walk straight out from the Top Barn into the Forest of Dean or Wye Valley where there are plenty of trails supported by pet friendly watering holes.
There are normally animals in the field adjacent to the Top Barn and we offer the opportunity to feed the sheep and chickens when we are able to. This has proved very popular with guests, particularly our younger guests. Please ask on booking.
Bikes can be safely kept behind the barn, and you are welcome to use the hosepipe and outside tap to clean the mud off your cycle when you return from exploring the trails in the Forest or along the river. Please ask about under cover storage which can normally be provided a short distance from the barn.
Access
The access to the property is along a single track lane. Private parking is provided approximately 75 metres from the Top Barn along a public footpath with parking for 2 cars although more parking can normally be made available on request. Be aware that this is a rural location on a hill and although the lanes can be narrow and the access is relatively steep, you are rewarded on arrival by the stunning scenery and views from the property.
Larger Bookings
This property can also be booked with Long Barn (10157131), a larger 3 bed property close by providing accommodation for up to 12 guests across the two separate properties. Please see separate listing or enquire for details.
The whole property plus the garden is available for our guests.
Well behaved pets are welcome. A one off fee of £20 per pet is charged.
Activities and Travel
The cottage is only metres from Offa's Dyke footpath situated in an area of 'Outstanding Natural Beauty' and there are numerous activities in the adjacent Forest of Dean including cycling, canoeing and rock climbing. In addition, we are close to other points of interest including Tintern Abbey, Symonds Yat, numerous castles including Chepstow and Raglan and only an hour's drive away from the tallest mountain in South Wales, Pen Y Fan, located in the Brecon Beacons National Park.
There are several excellent golf courses within 30 minutes drive of the property including The Celtic Manor Resort, St Pierre and Rolls if Monmouth.
Amenities
Pets allowed
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Hot tub or spa
TV
Garden
Family friendly
Map of Forest of Dean
$$$$
Ratings and reviews
5.0 / 5.0
A wonderful location for a last minute short break. The Barn was exactly what we needed and as described. We could happily sit and look at the Views and sunset from the garden / patio, whilst relaxing. Walking possible direct from the Barn and easy access to loads of places to visit across the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean. Great communication from host. We highly recommend & I am sure we will rebook. Thank you.
5.0 / 5.0
Brilliant stay at Top Barn. Fantastic views and very enclosed for the dog. Very well equipped kitchen and beautiful bathroom. Cathy was a fantastic host and we would certainly stay again - highly recommend.
5.0 / 5.0
A wonderful location for walking, visiting Monmouth and Symonds Yak and just enjoying the garden and views.
Really comfortable accommodation. Had a wonderful 3 day break. Will return and can highly recommend.
5.0 / 5.0
We had a wonderful five nights in top barn! The views are incredible the barn is small but cosy. Cathy was great stayed in touch, and we loved the local gifts left as well.
We visited lots of castles, explored the beautiful Wye Valley and walked some of Offa's way too.
Highly recommend.
5.0 / 5.0
Has a lovely time at the cottage which is in a fantastic position overlooking Monmouth.
The cottage is very comfortable with all the facilities you need.
Overall an excellent place to spend some time chilling!
5.0 / 5.0
Really lovely property in a great location and stunning views, host was really helpful and would love to come back here again.
5.0 / 5.0
Great property in a beautiful location, plenty to do in the surrounding areas.
5.0 / 5.0
Lovely property, beautiful location to get away from it all. Dogs had a lovely time. Amazing walks to take dogs on. Homemade tea cakes and local honey were very much appreciated.
5.0 / 5.0
The view is incredible. You can watch sunset from living room. Very homely, quiet and private place. But the forest is so beautiful…
You have to see it.
5.0 / 5.0
Walking straight from the door and lovely clean property. Great communication from the host.
5.0 / 5.0
Had a wonderful stay. Stunning views, a cosy woodburner and a very helpful host. Close to many beautiful places in the Forest of Dean. Walks from the door.
4.0 / 5.0
The Top Barn was quiet, comfortable, and enjoyable. Well furnished. Everything was provided that was on the listing.
The hot air balloon in the distance at sunset was the best picture ever.
For those not used to driving, truly, single lane roads (like those of us from the States) - you are in for a treat. Nothing insurmountable, and often enjoyable.
Not as hard to find as one would imagine. Just look for the red post-drop box on the left on your way up to the National Trust's "The Kymin". And hang a left onto Good Neighbors Lane.
Monmouth proper is quite close by, once on the main road.
Courtyard entrance gate is a 100 yard hike down the footpath. Met and spoke with some hikers on the path.
Would stay here again when / if we return to this part of Wales.
5.0 / 5.0
We had a wonderful stay at Top Barn - the scenery and views were beautiful and the barn was perfect for my partner and I and our two dogs who enjoyed the garden and watching the rabbits in the next field every evening. The woodland walks from the door step were perfect for early morning dog walks and we were spoilt for choice for walks with the Forest of Dean being a short drive away.
The barn was well equipped with everything we needed for our stay and Cathy was very responsive - even bringing over a sun umbrella during hot weather so we could sit out in the garden.
The barn is down a short track and some garden steps which would be tricky to navigate if you have limited mobility (or, like I was, heavily pregnant). However we were for-warned by the listing and the reviews and it was manageable (my partner carried most of our luggage).
We would definitely come back to stay again!
5.0 / 5.0
Cathy provided excellent information about the property with detailed directions and information about the local area. She even messaged the day we were coming with information about road closures which was really helpful. The barn was just as advertised and was clean and well-equipped. There were little extra touches such as fresh flowers, local honey, dog towels and treats. The setting is really peaceful and we had a lovely, relaxing stay. Would heartily recommend.
5.0 / 5.0
We had a wonderful stay at this little tucked away barn. The property is really comfortable and provides everything you need. It is a short drive from Monmouth and from various attractions including Forest of Dean and Tintern Abbey. It has a special atmosphere of calm and seclusion and the best views ever. Highly recommend.
I would add a few notes of caution. It is quite small - one main room encompassing kitchen, lounge, dining, perfect for a couple of people but I don't think it would be comfortable for the 4 or 5 it states unless they were very relaxed in each other's company. The drive up the Kymin consists of a few miles of single track, so worth thinking about size of the car. Smaller the better. The track to the cottage from the parking is rough underfoot so probably tricky for anyone with mobility issues or using wheels. Wifi came and went so suggest not a place for those using internet a lot.
There is a bit of road noise from the main road in the valley. We didn't mind this. Walks were great but being located on a hill means lots of down and up walking so people who struggle with hills might not appreciate this. Finally, Cathy was really on hand throughout so we were relaxed knowing any problems would be easily sorted. Recommend for two people and a dog ; )
5.0 / 5.0
Amazing property and great location. Shops weren't too far away either. Cathy was great with communication when we had questions. The views are amazing, you can see for miles around, and watching the sunset was magical. I would recommend taking a smaller car if you can, the roads are quite tight! We had a long estate car, and had a few bum clenching moments 😅. Would recommend this accommodation, it's a right gem! Will be booking another stay next year. Many thanks Cathy!
5.0 / 5.0
Beautful grounds and views. Not a fan of driving to the place, but I am not use to the roads in Wales. For Wales roads they are fine. Super quiet area with views for miles and sheep to talk to next door.
5.0 / 5.0
That moment we opened the gate will stay in our memory forever. It was just incredible.
The barn was fairly snug but not uncomfortable happy hours relaxing on the back porch or walking to the naval temple on the Kymin.
Our host predicted, many months prior, that we should see rain. This was her only error; it was unseasonably warm, which she quickly redeemed with the lending of a small fan. Perfect solution, perfect visit, excellent host.
5.0 / 5.0
Well equipped small barn conversion, ideal for a weekend break or short stay and in attractive scenery.
5.0 / 5.0
Wonderful few days - such a good place - really enjoyed the stay!
5.0 / 5.0
Quiet and lovely views
5.0 / 5.0
Really lovely place in a great location
5.0 / 5.0
It has been a pleasure to spend the weekend at Top Barn. The cottage is compact and nicely decorated. The views and the woodburner a real treat at this time of the year. We haven't met Cathy but she has been always in touch and we felt very well looked after. Thank you!
5.0 / 5.0
The situation and views were stunning. The walk down from the parking space was difficult for an old, arthritic person. The bathroom could do with a decent mirror.
5.0 / 5.0
Tucked away down a little lane, the cottage was perfect for our weekend and we were exceptionally lucky to wake up to a stunning view of the hills around Monmouth. Will certainly return
2.5 / 5.0
This a beautiful place full of character, with stunning views and lovely walks within 5 mins walk of the barn. Cathy and David were very welcoming and took the children to feed the sheep and chickens, which made a lovely experience for them which they really enjoyed. Monmouth is a wonderful town full of history, with possibly the smallest cinema I have ever seen. We will definitely be back. :-)
2.5 / 5.0
The barn was perfect. The log burner made it really cosy. The view from the living space and the bedroom window was breathtaking. It was clean tidy and had everything we wanted. The location was great. Kymin is lovely to walk around. Cathy was really helpful through the whole process and her communication around rebooking at this tricky time was brilliant. We look forward to coming back for another visit.
2.5 / 5.0
Top Barn was ideal for a short break for the 2 of us. It was just the right size, and had everything we needed. Best of all was the wonderful view across the valley to the Black Mountains, enchanting in the early morning mist and mesmerising at sunset. We had a lovely week.
1.0 / 5.0
I would not go back again; very expensive for what it was in the end, for example only one tea towel and only four towels for the bathroom. One very small basket of wood for the burner, i had to get my own kindling and firelighters as well. As I have said above the pictures on the website are very misleading as they suggested that there is quite a large garden area but in reality it is only about the size of a small plot about 10M x 4M. Most of the pictures on the web site are in actual fact taken at a NT property a mile up the road. No direct car assess to the property either, the only way to get there is a rickety and unlit path. Finally constant traffic noise and light pollution from the A40 and Monmouth.
2.5 / 5.0
We stayed at Top Barn for a week and had the most relaxing holiday ever. The cottage is beautiful, very private, has its own separate lawn and outdoors sitting area with the most incredible views of the Wye valley. I can not recommend this place more! Cathy and David were just lovely and helpful - and we also got to meet the chickens on their farm! There is a great sense of privacy here and you are far from crowds and the cottage is nestled beautifully within natural surroundings - it’s a chance to feel one with nature. Monmouth is less than a 10 minute drive - so you are close to any amenities / groceries etc. We were sad to leave and we will definitely return someday! Highly recommend the cottage to anyone trying to get away for a peaceful / relaxing break.
2.5 / 5.0
We had a lovely 3 day break in Top Barn - our first time away from home after months of the anxiety that COVID has brought to us all. Perfect accommodation for our needs, especially the fantastic views of Monmouth and far beyond. We enjoyed 3 local walks, a pint in a pub garden (The Boat across the river from nearby Redbrook) and a couple of bbqs on Top Barn’s terrace. Recommended.
2.5 / 5.0
A much needed weekend spent relaxing in the cosy top barn. We will definitely be back. Loved it x thank you Cathy and David
2.5 / 5.0
Kitchen well equipped. Nicely decorated and nice touches candles, flowers, tea, coffee, milk and Welsh cakes. Very friendly owner. Lovely surroundings, views and nice walks from the house.
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Forest of Dean?
The average price for a rental in Forest of Dean is $155 per night. This rental is $61 above the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at Beautifully converted stone barn with amazing views towards the black mountains . For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this house?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this house. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is Beautifully converted stone barn with amazing views towards the black mountains pet friendly?
Yes! This house is pet-friendly. For more information, we recommend contacting the booking provider about animal policies.
What amenities are available at Beautifully converted stone barn with amazing views towards the black mountains ?
We found 11 amenities for this rental. This includes pets allowed, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, fireplace, and parking.
Explore similar vacation rentals in Forest of Dean
Explore all rentals in Forest of DeanForest of Dean travel inspiration
Read our blogGuides
Best East Coast Beaches and Getaway Locations You Can’t Miss
Budget Travel
7 Most Affordable Snowbird Destinations for 2025
Guides
Top Activities to Try in Panama City Beach, Florida
Guides
Top Things to Do in Gulf Shores, Alabama: Adventure and Fun Await
Local Culture
Exploring Miami’s Wynwood District: Street Art, Food, and More
Guides
Fun Things to Do in Ocean City, Maryland
Local Culture
A Foodie’s Guide to the Best Dining in Orlando, Florida
Guides
Top Things to Do in Oahu and Honolulu