Peterstone Court Hotel

Peterstone Court Country House & Spa sits on land that has seen people come and go for centuries, long before the house became what it is today. Originally, there was an older home on the site called Llanhamlach. It belonged to the Walbeoffe family, a well-known local family who held the role of High Sheriff four times between 1627 and 1707. This wasn’t just a quiet country spot even back then. It was already tied to power, land, and local influence. Eventually, the Walbeoffe family sold the property, and that is when the story of the current house really begins.

In 1741, John Powell, a barrister, built the country house that later became Peterstone Court. It was meant to be a proper family home, solid and practical, not overly grand but confident in its design. In the early 19th century, the house was raised by an extra storey, giving it more space and a stronger presence. Ownership stayed within the Powell family for a time, including Thomas Harcourt Powell and the Reverend Thomas Powell. By the mid-19th century, the house was sold to Sir Joseph Bailey and became part of the larger Glanusk Estate. An extension was added in 1901, showing how the house continued to adapt. Today, it lives on as Peterstone Court Country House Restaurant & Spa, but it still carries the weight of its past.

Peterstone Court is a beautiful example of Georgian architecture, with a calm, balanced look that feels timeless. You see this right away in the stone exterior, the slate roof, and the way the front of the house is laid out evenly. The building has three floors and five main sections across the front, with the middle part set slightly forward to give it importance. The sash windows are a key Georgian feature too, neatly lined up and getting smaller as you go higher. The main entrance sits right in the center, finished with a fanlight and subtle stone detailing.

Later additions were added carefully and match the original style, so the house still feels like one complete whole. Inside, the design is all about space and proportion. Rooms are large, ceilings are high, and there’s plenty of natural light. A wide entrance hall leads to an original 18th-century staircase with turned wooden balusters and a tall arched window that lights the stairway. Many original details are still in place, like panelled doors, decorative cornices, and marble fireplaces. Even the ballroom keeps this traditional look, making the whole place feel historic yet comfortable and easy to enjoy.

Dining at Peterstone Court is relaxed but feels thoughtfully done. The focus is on seasonal cooking and local produce, with food that’s comforting and easy to enjoy. Lunch is casual, with soups, salads, fresh pasta, pies, fish and chips, and a few good vegetarian options. You can eat outside on the terrace when the weather’s nice or settle into the bright dining rooms that feel welcoming for both locals and hotel guests.

Dinner is a bit more refined. Expect well-cooked meat, fish, and vegetarian dishes, along with a strong grill section. Steaks are a big part of the evening menu, served with classic sides like triple-cooked chips and onion rings. There are also simple desserts to round things off. Families are well looked after too. Kids under 12 can order smaller portions of the main dishes or choose from a dedicated children’s menu. Steak night runs every Wednesday from 6 pm, and it’s a popular one. You get a choice of rump, ribeye, or sirloin, served with sides and a drink, plus optional sauces and extra sides if you want to add a little more.

Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea at Peterstone Court is an easygoing affair, and it’s really about slowing down and enjoying the setting. You can sit inside or outside and take in the views. There are a few options to choose from. The cream tea is simple and classic, with a fruit scone, clotted cream, jam, and tea or coffee. The full afternoon tea is more indulgent, with finger sandwiches, savories, scones, Welsh cakes, and a selection of cakes. Vegan and gluten-free versions are available, too, so no one misses out. If you want to make it feel more like a treat, there’s also a prosecco afternoon tea with a glass of bubbly. Kids under ten have their own smaller afternoon tea with cake, simple sandwiches, and a soft drink, which makes it easy for families to enjoy it together.

Opening hours:
Monday – Friday: 3 pm to 5.30 pm
Sunday: 3.30 pm to 5.30 pm

Sunday Lunch

Sunday lunch here is all about good, comforting food. To start, there’s usually a soup of the day, along with a few lighter options like tagliatelle with brisket ragout, grilled goat’s cheese, prawn cocktail, or crispy halloumi fries. The main event is the roast. You can choose from traditional roast beef, slow cooked lamb shoulder, crispy chicken, or a mushroom and walnut roast for vegetarians. Everything comes with all the Sunday essentials, seasonal vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, cauliflower cheese, and plenty of rich gravy. If you’re not in the mood for a roast, there’s also pan fried cod served with new season potatoes and a light caper and dill sauce. Desserts bring things to a comforting close, with familiar favorites like sticky toffee pudding or a rich chocolate brownie.

Peterstone Court hosts weddings in a quiet countryside setting within the Brecon Beacons National Park. The Grade II listed house sits above the River Usk and looks out across the valley towards Pen y Fan, giving the property a strong connection to its surroundings. Weddings at the property are offered on an exclusive use basis, so guests have access to the main house and grounds for the day. The venue can accommodate smaller weddings of around 25 guests as well as larger celebrations that make use of the outdoor areas. Ceremonies can be held in licensed indoor rooms or outside, depending on the weather and preference.

There are also churches nearby for those planning a traditional service. Reception spaces include a mix of formal and informal rooms, allowing couples to plan different styles of celebrations. Food is prepared in-house, with menus ranging from simple, relaxed dishes to more structured multi-course meals. Evening celebrations usually take place within the house, with space for dancing as well as quieter areas for guests to step away. A dedicated team assists with planning and logistics, which helps keep the day running smoothly.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

There’s plenty to do at Peterstone Court itself, especially if slowing down is part of the plan. The on-site spa is tucked away in the old vaulted cellars, which were once used for storage and orchards. It’s quiet, secluded, and feels very removed from everyday life. Inside, you’ll find warm pools, jacuzzis, saunas, and hot and cold treatments. Treatments use natural and organic products, and there’s also a relaxation cave where you can sit with a book, try some light colouring, sip lemon water, and just enjoy the calm. In warmer months, the outdoor swimming pool adds another easy way to unwind.

Once you step outside the grounds of Peterstone Court, the Brecon Beacons start to open up in every direction. Just a short drive away is Cantref Riding Centre, where you can head out on horseback through open countryside. It works just as well for beginners as it does for more confident riders. Right next door, Cantref Adventure Farm is an easy option for families, with animals, tractor rides, and space for kids to get active.

Llangorse Lake is another nearby highlight and a lovely place to spend a slow afternoon. It’s the largest natural lake in South Wales, with gentle walking paths, wide open views, and boat hire if you feel like getting out on the water. You can row, paddle, or just sit by the shore and take it all in. For something more hands-on, Llangorse Multi Activity Centre offers climbing, zip lines, rope courses, and group activities that suit both adults and older kids.

If you’re looking for more of an adrenaline hit, Black Mountain Activities in Brecon runs things like gorge walking, abseiling, and rock climbing, all led by experienced guides. Brecon also gives access to the canal, where Beacon Park Day Boats let you cruise slowly along the water, passing bridges and greenery. For a completely different view of the landscape, the Black Mountains Gliding Club offers flights that let you see the Beacons from above. Further out, Bike Park Wales and guided trike tours add more adventure, while Brecon Cathedral and the Big Pit mining museum bring in history and local stories to round off a stay.

Peterstone Court isn’t just used for weddings. The house is also a popular spot for corporate events and private celebrations. People host everything from meetings, conferences, and team building stays to product launches and company getaways. On the private side, it works really well for birthdays, anniversaries, and family gatherings. There are several different rooms that can be set up depending on what you need, whether that’s a boardroom style meeting, a dinner, or a more informal get together. Food is cooked in-house, and longer stays can include time in the spa or outdoor activities. It’s the kind of place where work, celebration, and downtime all fit together.