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Our Story
About Us
A working estate in South Wales, in the same family's care since 1804.
An estate of
land and history
Where the Ogmore and Ewenny rivers converge.
Merthyr Mawr is a historic village located in the Vale of Glamorgan. Characterised by its centuries-old thatched cottages, the village sits along quiet lanes enclosed by traditional stone walls.
The estate encompasses river meadows, ancient woodland, and the 840-acre Warren — a National Nature Reserve home to some of Europe's highest coastal sand dunes.
St Teilo’s Church, designed by Benjamin Ferry, 1850s
Two centuries
of stewardship
Sir John Nicholl
An eminent lawyer and politician, Sir John purchased the estate and set about replacing the old Tudor manor with a Georgian mansion on a new site east of the village.
Repton's parkland
With advice from renowned landscape architect Humphry Repton, a picturesque parkland was created around the house — extensive planting framing views of the Ogmore River and Ogmore Castle.
Benjamin Ferry's church
The estate commissioned Ferry, a pupil of Augustus Pugin, to design a new church on the site of the medieval building. New cottages, a village school, and farm improvements followed.
Continuing stewardship
The estate remains in the care of Sir John's descendants — a continuous legacy of careful management across more than two centuries.
Conservation &
Management
As custodians of a National Nature Reserve spanning 840 acres, we take our responsibility to the natural environment seriously. We work closely with Natural Resources Wales and conservation bodies to manage grazing regimes, control invasive species, and maintain the delicate balance of the dune system.
Stewarding
the landscape
Merthyr Mawr operates as a working estate. We focus on active stewardship — maintaining historic buildings and supporting traditional land management practices to ensure the estate’s heritage is preserved.
“Whether hosting charity events, or simply keeping the footpaths open — we believe in being a good neighbour.”
Part of the community
The estate serves as a venue for events such as the annual Between The Trees Festival in Candleston Woods, which brings independent music and arts to the landscape.
Beyond festivals, we work with local schools, community groups, and nature organisations to provide educational visits and guided walks.
Responsible management for future generations
Our long-term approach focuses on sustainable infrastructure and renewable energy. As we introduce new accommodation and wellness offerings, our priority remains the responsible management of the landscape — the same principle that has guided the estate since 1804.