Landscape view across Merthyr Mawr Estate, showing the 840-acre National Nature Reserve with rolling green fields, ancient woodland, and the historic village

Welcome to Merthyr Mawr Estate

A seventh-generation family-run estate in South Wales, centred around the picturesque village of Merthyr Mawr and set within a remarkable natural landscape. For over two centuries, the Estate has cared for this special place, balancing its rich history with a long-standing commitment to the land, its wildlife and the people who call it home.

The American Barn at Merthyr Mawr Estate

Property Lettings

A diverse portfolio of residential, commercial and agricultural properties that support the long-term future of the Estate and its community.

  • Residential

    We have a number of residential properties to let located around the estate, including many within Merthyr Mawr village.

  • Commercial

    A range of commercial premises to let. The majority are set within exceptional surroundings including office and hospitality spaces, light industrial units and workshops.

  • Farms and Grazing

    Agricultural land, tenant farms and horse grazing across the estate are available to let from time to time.

  • Holiday Cottages

    Self-catering cottages offering an ideal base to relax, unwind and discover the Heritage Coast and the best of South Wales.

The Forest Barn at Candleston Woods

Candleston Woods

A unique woodland destination for weddings, celebrations, events and outdoor experiences, surrounded by nature and welcoming guests throughout the year.

  • Candleston Woods

    A woodland venue hosting weddings, private events, retreats and seasonal experiences throughout the year.

  • Weddings

    A natural setting for woodland weddings and celebrations, with the venue reserved entirely for you and your guests.

  • Private Hire

    Hire Candleston Woods for celebrations, corporate events, retreats and bespoke gatherings, with sole use of the venue.

  • The Hut

    A former Girl Guides hut, thoughtfully restored as an intimate space for smaller gatherings, workshops and private events.

Outdoor wood-fired sauna at Candleston Woods

The Outdoor Sauna

Nestled within our woodland, The Outdoor Sauna offers a peaceful outdoor wellness experience throughout the year. Combining wood-fired heat, contrast therapy and time spent in nature, it’s a place to slow down, unwind and reconnect with the outdoors.

  • Wood-fired Sauna & Contrast Therapy

    Experience the benefits of traditional wood-fired heat alongside cold water therapy, with a cold shower, drench bucket and two chilled plunge pools designed to leave you feeling refreshed, restored and re-energised.

  • Wood-fired Hot Tub

    Relax in our wood-fired hot tub and enjoy the tranquillity of the surrounding woodland. A peaceful space to pause, unwind and simply enjoy being immersed in nature.

  • Woodland Relaxation

    Take time to unwind on our woodland relaxation deck, where comfortable loungers and the sounds of the forest provide the perfect place to pause between experiences.

  • Private & Communal Sessions

    Whether you join a communal session or book the spa exclusively for your own group, every visit is hosted by our friendly team, creating a welcoming experience throughout the year.

About the Outdoor Sauna
Film set in the snow at Merthyr Mawr Estate

Location Filming

The Estate brings together an exceptional variety of filming locations, practical infrastructure and an experienced estate team, providing productions with everything they need in one place.

  • A range of buildings

    Our diverse collection of historic buildings includes a large Georgian manor house, estate cottages, traditional stone barns, a ruined castle, an ancient chapel, and more.

  • Variety of landscapes

    A wide variety of accessible landscapes including an historic village, farms and parkland, woodland, rivers and extensive coastal dunes.

  • Dedicated film sets

    Within a fully accessible area of woodland we have two popular dedicated film sets, a large American-style barn, and an American ‘cabin in the woods’

  • Facilities and infrastructure

    We can accommodate unit bases and associated parking on two all-weather fields in the heart of the estate, with Wi‑Fi and renewable powered electric hook-ups.

More Information
Panoramic view across Merthyr Mawr Warren National Nature Reserve

Merthyr Mawr Warren

National Nature Reserve

Covering 840 acres, Merthyr Mawr Warren National Nature Reserve is one of Wales’s most important dune landscapes.

Designated as both a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), the Reserve is home to rare wildlife, internationally important habitats, and the iconic ‘Big Dipper’ dune.

Learn more
  • Permits and Consents

    As custodians of the Reserve, we are committed to looking after this unique landscape while encouraging responsible public access.

    To help protect sensitive dune species and habitats, certain activities require a permit or prior consent from the Estate Office.

    Please ensure that you have the appropriate permit or consent before arriving.


  • Horse Riding

    Horse riding is welcomed on the Reserve with a valid annual permit. Permits can be purchased online using the link below, and can be collected from the Estate Office, or posted to you before your visit.

    Horse Riding Permit
  • Professional Dog Walkers

    Professional dog walkers must have a permit to operate on the Reserve. Follow the link to fill in an application form.

    Dog Walking Application
  • Commercial Activities & Events

    Commercial activities, organised events, and any activities undertaken for commercial gain on the Reserve require prior consent from the Estate Office.

    Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

Visitors gathered in Candleston Woods for the Between The Trees festival

What’s On

Throughout the year, we host a changing programme of events and experiences. From established festivals and sporting events to seasonal activities, wellness experiences and guided walks, there is always something happening across the Estate.

View all events