Review of Grove of Narberth

Nestled in the heart of Pembrokeshire, Grove of Narberth is a prestigious 25-room country retreat, renowned for its exceptional hospitality and exquisite setting. This historic Welsh manor, originally constructed in the 15th century, was meticulously revived by Zoe and Neil Kedward after decades of neglect. Today, the estate spans 26 lush acres of private woodland, gardens, and wildflower meadows, offering guests an oasis of calm and natural beauty.

The property features a selection of 12 beautifully appointed cottages and the storied Longhouse, a mere stroll from the main residence, which itself houses an additional 13 elegant rooms and suites. 

Immersing yourself in the serene Welsh landscape is just one highlight of a stay here. Gastronomy is front and centre, with Grove’s Fernery restaurant—helmed by the award-winning Executive Chef Douglas Balish—consistently ranked among the best fine-dining destinations in Wales. The more relaxed Artisan Brasserie complements the offering with its approachable yet refined menu, all showcasing the finest local produce from Pembrokeshire’s abundant larder.

While Grove of Narberth forgoes the typical spa, pool, and fitness amenities found at many luxury properties, its focus is on curated experiences: exceptional cuisine, attentive and intuitive service, and access to its enchanting grounds—including a walled kitchen garden and tranquil walking trails. The estate serves as an ideal base for exploring Pembrokeshire’s dramatic coastlines, castles, and charming villages.

As the flagship of the Seren Collection, Grove of Narberth sets the standard for authentic Welsh hospitality. Sister properties include Penmaenuchaf in Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, the Michelin-starred Beach House in Oxwich, and Lan y Môr in Saundersfoot—each offering a unique taste of Wales’ culinary and natural riches.

Situated a short drive from the bustling market town of Narberth, Grove of Narberth enjoys a privileged position in southwest Wales. Pembrokeshire—known in Welsh as Sir Benfro—boasts one of the most spectacular coastlines in Europe, stretching over 186 miles of dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and hidden coves. While Haverfordwest is the county’s commercial hub, visitors are often drawn to the historic city of St Davids (the UK’s smallest city by population) and the colourful seaside haven of Tenby.

Narberth is easily accessible by rail, with direct connections west to Pembroke Dock and east toward Carmarthen and Swansea. For those seeking a touch of adventure, Narberth’s station operates as a request stop, adding a whimsical twist to the journey.

Cardiff Airport is the nearest major international gateway, approximately 65 miles (108 km) away. Private aviation is well-supported at Haverfordwest Aerodrome, with its 1,500-metre runway and bespoke flight experiences available on request—contact the hotel for tailored aerial tours or lessons.

Most guests arrive by car, with a scenic five-hour drive from London via the M4 motorway, traversing the iconic Severn Bridge and passing through Wales’ vibrant cities before reaching the rolling hills of Narberth. The final stretch offers picturesque views and a sense of anticipation as you approach the estate. 

Pembrokeshire is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering everything from castle visits (Cardigan and Pembroke are local standouts), freshwater and sea fishing, championship golf, surfing, coastal cycling, and miles of hiking trails along the world-class Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

Culinary adventurers will revel in the region’s acclaimed food scene, with fresh seafood at the forefront. Notable options include LOBSTER AND MôR in Little Haven and the ever-popular fish and chips in Tenby—unmissable for any gourmet itinerary.

Grove of Narberth features 25 individually styled rooms and suites, split between the main manor house and an array of charming cottages just steps away. The ongoing refurbishment program ensures every guestroom feels impeccably fresh and thoughtfully designed, blending heritage with modern convenience.

Each room is named in tribute to figures or features connected to the estate’s history. In the main house, you’ll find 13 accommodations ranging from Classic Rooms (27 sqm) to Superior and Deluxe categories, through to spacious Junior and Signature Suites (up to 48 sqm), including Fenton, Awel, Beca, and Henry. These rooms span the upper floors and provide enchanting views across manicured gardens or the Preseli Hills.

The estate’s Longhouse hosts four luxurious suites, while Poyer’s Cottage offers two, and the collection of six Herb Cottages—four with private gardens—includes the sought-after Lovage suite.

Interiors are inspired by traditional Welsh country homes, with vibrant textiles, bespoke furnishings, and an inviting sense of comfort. Beds are superking or twin, and features may include underfloor heating or open fireplaces, depending on the room. Some cottages combine central heating with wood-burning stoves for a truly cosy atmosphere. Bathrooms impress with deep, freestanding tubs and spacious rainfall showers, always stocked with hot water—ideal after a bracing walk in the Welsh air.

In-room amenities stand out for their quality and local provenance: Nespresso machines, Jing teas, and Welsh hot chocolate, plus a minibar featuring fresh milk, soft drinks, Welsh lager, Penderyn whisky, and Brecon gin and vodka miniatures. The kitchen’s homemade fruit bar caters to a variety of dietary needs, making for a healthy, plant-based snack.

Bathrooms are stocked with locally made Goodwash toiletries, plush towels, and signature robes. Practical touches abound—hidden reading lights, heated bathroom mirrors, dedicated face towels for makeup removal, and the ingenious “Bobbin Bowls” for quick clothing repairs.

High-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, and many rooms include USB charging points. The family suite atop the main house is perfect for groups, and canine companions are warmly welcomed with dedicated amenities—including Goodwash dog shampoo.

The harmonious blend of historic character and modern luxury makes each stay memorable. Standout features like the Longhouse’s glass-enclosed lounge and custom art installations add contemporary flair to this timeless escape.

Though Grove of Narberth does not feature a traditional spa, guests can indulge in private in-room wellness treatments including massages, reflexology, and facials—perfect for unwinding in the privacy of your suite.

Recreational facilities include a pétanque court and a picturesque lake set before the main house—more suited to contemplation than swimming.

The estate’s walled garden is a horticultural delight, tended by knowledgeable staff who are always eager to share insights. During our visit, we discovered rare edible plants and learned about the estate’s ongoing commitment to heritage gardening. The kitchen garden, fruit orchard, and polytunnels supply the restaurants with ultra-fresh, seasonal produce—emphasising Grove’s farm-to-table ethos.

With 26 acres to explore, guests can lose themselves among ancient woodlands, wild meadows, and curated gardens. The hotel offers gourmet picnic hampers for all-day excursions, making al fresco dining a highlight of the experience.

Seasonal events such as live jazz evenings, guided garden tours, summer barbecues, and floristry workshops add cultural richness to each stay.

The surrounding countryside is a treasure trove for explorers. The Narberth Valley, local estuaries, and Canaston Woods are within walking distance, while the ancient standing stones at Waun Mawn offer a glimpse into Pembrokeshire’s prehistoric past—with panoramic views stretching, on clear days, all the way to Ireland.

For botany enthusiasts, the renowned Picton Castle Arboretum—just 20 minutes away—provides a spectacular collection of rare trees and plants.

Narberth itself is steeped in history, featuring Iron Age roots, a ruined castle, and an eclectic mix of independent shops, artisan bakeries, and a vibrant local arts scene. Tenby, famed for its golden beaches and historic charm, is only 10 miles away and promises classic seaside fun.

Other nearby highlights include Pembroke Castle, St Davids Cathedral, and the rugged beauty of Strumble Head Lighthouse. Aviation aficionados will appreciate the Welsh Spitfire Museum in Haverfordwest—a must for history buffs.

Grove’s location makes it an ideal launchpad for discovering the best of Pembrokeshire’s natural and cultural attractions.

When Neil and Zoe Kedward acquired Grove of Narberth in 2007, the estate was in a state of near ruin after years of abandonment. Their vision and perseverance have transformed it into one of the UK’s most beautifully restored country house hotels. Today, the restoration is so seamless that guests often assume the property is entirely new, testament to the quality of craftsmanship and ongoing refurbishments.

The Longhouse, the estate’s oldest structure, dates back to the 15th century and once housed both its original inhabitants and their livestock. The Poyer family were prominent early residents, with Philip Poyer serving as Bailiff of Tenby in the 1400s. The main house, expanded in the late 17th and 18th centuries, saw further enhancements in 1874 by celebrated architect John Pollard Seddon, including the addition of a third floor and grand public spaces.

By the late 20th century, the estate had fallen into disuse, but the Kedwards’ restoration has revived its grandeur and authenticity, now recognised on an international stage.

What distinguishes Grove from other luxury country retreats is its commitment to Welsh identity—from the local materials and artisans used in its restoration to the provenance of ingredients and amenities. The property’s sense of place is palpable in every detail.

Renowned designer Martin Hulbert—whose credits include Chewton Glen and Coworth Park—has overseen several recent renovations, most notably updating eight guestrooms in 2022. Hulbert’s touch ensures a harmonious balance of heritage and contemporary comfort throughout the estate.

Modern features such as USB charging ports and EV charging stations blend effortlessly with period details: roaring log fires, underfloor heating, statement bathtubs, curated Welsh art, and hand-crafted fences. The hotel’s bar is a particular highlight, displaying original photographs of local miners and a bespoke table encasing Welsh coal—a tribute to the region’s industrial legacy.

Grove’s interiors double as a living museum, narrating the story of Pembrokeshire’s people and landscape, and offering guests a deeply immersive sense of Welsh culture and history.

Grove of Narberth is a true culinary destination, boasting two acclaimed restaurants: the sophisticated, fine-dining Fernery and the relaxed, welcoming Artisan Brasserie.

From breakfast through dinner, the hotel’s gastronomic offering is exceptional. The Fernery, under the guidance of Executive Chef Douglas Balish, is a perennial contender for national dining awards and is widely recognised as one of Wales’ top gourmet venues—even without a Michelin star as of 2025. The Artisan Brasserie delivers a more informal, yet equally high-quality, experience.

Breakfast is a celebration of Welsh produce, with à la carte options ranging from the traditional full Welsh breakfast to superfood porridges and freshly baked pastries. Do not miss the local Caws Preseli cheese, which delivers a memorable tang. Morning service is warm and attentive, setting the tone for the day.

Lunch and casual evening meals are served in the light-filled Brasserie, where the menu features innovative starters (think pork terrine or duck wontons), hearty mains such as seafood or ravioli, and indulgent desserts including house-made ice creams and chocolate cake. Sunday roasts are a highlight, complete with all the trimmings. Plant-based and gluten-free diners are thoughtfully catered for, and in summer, al fresco dining is a popular choice.

Classic afternoon tea is available Wednesday to Sunday, pairing savoury and sweet treats—finger sandwiches, scones, cakes, and macarons—with a curated selection of teas, coffee, and Welsh gin or sparkling wine. Picnics are also available for guests wishing to dine in the gardens or on nearby walking trails.

The hotel hosts occasional outdoor barbecues, making the most of Pembrokeshire’s sunny days.

Evenings at the Fernery are a special occasion. The bar offers a sophisticated selection of Welsh spirits and cocktails, including sparkling wines from the nearby Velfrey Vineyard and Wrexham lager. The restaurant’s décor is striking, with walls adorned by real, pressed fern fronds sourced from the estate—a living reflection of the Grove’s culinary philosophy: celebrate nature, honour the land.

Chef Balish’s menus are strictly seasonal, with ingredients sourced from the estate’s gardens and local producers—lobster from St Davids, sea bass from Saundersfoot, eggs from Haverfordwest, and a range of artisanal Welsh cheeses. Tasting menus (5- or 7-course) are available, with expert wine or non-alcoholic pairings curated by head sommelier Cathryn Bell, whose encyclopedic knowledge enhances the experience. Her beverage pairings draw from both local vineyards and global cellars, and she delights in sharing the stories behind each bottle.

During our tasting menu experience, every course was a revelation—standouts included a taramasalata, wasabi, and seaweed canapé, and a sublime venison main. The Fernery is refreshingly accessible, welcoming families and younger diners with imaginative non-alcoholic pairings and a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere.

Grove of Narberth’s dining program sets a benchmark for luxury hotels in Wales, blending innovation, provenance, and a genuine sense of place into every meal.

Grove of Narberth is at the forefront of sustainable luxury in Wales, drawing all its electricity from renewable sources and utilising a biomass boiler and solar panels for heating needs. The hotel’s commitment to eco-friendly practices is evident in every detail: from LED lighting and induction cooking to spring-fed boreholes supplying pure water throughout the property.

Dining at Grove is a celebration of ethical, local sourcing, with much of the produce grown in the estate’s own gardens or sourced from trusted Pembrokeshire suppliers. The culinary team prioritises seasonal, organic ingredients, supporting biodiversity and minimising food miles.

Wildlife conservation is a central pillar of the estate’s ethos. The hotel’s extensive rewilding initiatives include planting over 5,000 native trees and maintaining habitats for local fauna. Electric vehicle charging points are available for guests, reflecting Grove’s forward-thinking approach to sustainability.

Guests can savour honey produced by the estate’s thriving beehives, which not only enhances breakfast but also supports local pollinators and the broader ecosystem. Breathing the crisp Welsh air at Grove, you’ll experience first-hand the harmony between luxury hospitality and environmental stewardship.

• Dedication – The unwavering passion of Neil and Zoe for transforming Grove into a Welsh hospitality icon, Chef Dougie’s inventive culinary artistry, Karen’s exemplary operational leadership, Victoria’s encyclopedic knowledge of both Narberth and Wales, Cathryn’s masterful wine curation, Mourad’s warm and seamless restaurant service, Karl’s irresistible breads and pastries, Kim’s meticulous approach to guestroom presentation, Ollie’s heartfelt service, and Amelia’s botanical expertise all combine to create an atmosphere of genuine care and excellence. Every guest encounter is infused with this spirit.

• Welcoming Spirit – Our team at Grove of Narberth is united by a genuine warmth and commitment to creating a home-away-from-home experience for every guest. Working alongside such a dedicated group brings daily joy, and our hospitality is rooted in authentic smiles and a passion for making memories.
• Soulful Setting – From the moment you enter our gates, the magic of Grove’s hillside location envelops you. It’s an idyllic sanctuary to escape the everyday, savour Welsh hospitality, sample local flavours, and discover the unspoiled Pembrokeshire coastline.
• Sustainable Vision – Championing environmental responsibility has been integral to our philosophy from the outset. Our green initiatives are not an afterthought, but the foundation of how we operate—ensuring Grove remains a leader in responsible luxury for years to come.Karen WeisheitGeneral ManagerGrove of Narberth