Cwtch Winnie Shepherds Hut, a traditional, single-storey holiday home is nestled amidst the serene countryside of Dolwen, near Old Colwyn, North Wales. The Shepherds Hut has the name of Cwtch Winnie for the following reasons.
Cwtch’ has no literal English translation, but is an emotionally significant embrace and an intrinsically Welsh word that evokes a sense of home, being a special sort of cuddle. And that it is: a ‘cwtch’ (pronounced ‘kutch’, to rhyme with ‘butch’) is the Welsh word for a cuddle or hug, but it’s also so much more than that.
Its second meaning is a cubbyhole or cupboard; a small space in which to store things safely. Blend those two meanings and you get a better idea of what the word means: it’s the wrapping of your arms around someone to make them feel safe in the world.
That is exactly how a cwtch ought to make you feel: safe, warm, comforted. Winnie our black Labrador is head of PR and always makes our guests welcome.
So naming our hut 'Cwtch Winnie' was an obvious choice when guests stay with us and remember the warm welcome we offer at Pen Cefn Farm Holiday. With a rural location, a toasty woodburning stove, and an open-plan layout, this property welcomes couples, solo travellers, and their furry friends, idyllic for a romantic escape to Conwy.
Step inside this charming single-storey retreat and be greeted by a homely studio-style living space. After a day of adventures, head back to your holiday hut and pop your feet up by the warmth of the woodburning stove.
Cosy up with your loved one as the evening grows darker and catch your favourite movie on the Smart TV. Rustle up a yummy breakfast in the kitchen area, while the dinner table awaits for a candlelit dinner for two.
While there'll be plenty to keep you entertained at
Cwtch Winnie Shepherds Hut itself, if you plan to get out and about and see some of what Denbighshire has to offer, here are some of the nearby attractions you can enjoy during your stay. Please note that some of these activities and days out are paid and it's always a good idea to book in advance to secure your place where applicable.
Found a special day out near your cottage? Please
let us know and we'll add it so that other visitors can enjoy it too!
Welsh Mountain Zoo - LL28 5UY
about 4 Miles
Located in the North of Wales with a spectacular setting high above Colwyn Bay this is a lovely zoo which makes an excellent family day out. Highlights include the Chimp Encounter, Penguin Parades, Bear Falls and the Children's Farm. The setting is perfect for walking around and you can take in the superb scenery, roam the wooded pathways and relax on the grassy slopes. There are many rare and endangered species to see and learn about including the Snow Leopards and the Red Pandas not to mention the Sumatran Tigers. You can also buy the experience of being a zoo keeper for a day, either for yourself or as a gift.
The Seaquarium - LL30 1BL
about 7 Miles
The Seaquarium in Rhyl is a fantastic choice for a family day trip offering the chance to meet strange and exotic marine life from all around the world. The sea animals here come from the depths of the Amazon, Pacific & Indian Oceans as well as from around UK shores. Slimy Eels, scary Sharks and creepy Piranhas are all there to be seen as well as beautiful and elegant Rays. The site also has a café and a gift shop where children can pick up a souvenir. A ticket for a family of 4 is just £27.00
Great Orme Ancient Mines - LL30 2XG
about 9 Miles
A visit to Great Orme Ancient Mines is offers a fun and educational daytrip for families. The amazing site allows visitors to explore the copper mines which are thought to date back to the Bronze Age but were only discovered in 1987 during a landscaping project. The tours provide an insight into the way of life for miners over 3,500 years ago. A family ticket is just £16.00
St Winefride's Well - CH8 7PN
about 17 Miles
St Winefride's Well in Flintshire is described at one of the 7 wonders of Wales and is shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Legend has it that the well first erupted at the spot where Caradog cut off the nuns head with his sword. The shrine was then erected in her memory in the first decade of the sixteenth century and remains one of the holiest places in Wales. The stunning temple and well attract visitors from all over the world. Water can be drawn from the spring basin within the crypt and is thought to be lucky.
Penrhyn Castle - LL57 4HT
about 18 Miles
Penrhyn Castle is a neo-Norman castle is located in the stunning Gwynedd region of Wales. The castle will appeal to those who enjoy sites of historical interest as well as to families looking to enjoy a fun day out. The Castle is in very good condition and guided tours are on offer. Don't miss a look at the grand hall with its exquisite collection of paintings or the Victorian Kitchen which gives amazing insight into the running of the Castle. Other highlights include the Servants Rooms and the one ton slate bed which was originally made for Queen Victoria.
Greenfield Valley Heritage Park - CH8 7GH
about 18 Miles
Greenfield Valley Heritage Park in Flintshire has something for everyone including a museum, gardens, play area, small petting farm and visitors centre. The beautiful areas of woodland around the site are abundant with wildlife and ideal for walking, cycling and nature trails. A family ticket is just £10.50 so this is the ideal outing if you are on a tight budget. Seasonal tickets are also available from just £28.00 for a family of 4 and allow unlimited entry.
Pen-Y-Ffrith Bird Garden - LL11 3AB
about 22 Miles
Pen-Y-Ffrith Bird Garden is an 18 acre site, filled with glorious woodland, dramatic gardens, streams, ponds and a 3 acre lake. As the seasons change so do the delights of the park. During springtime the bluebell woods are spectacular while in the summer the bog garden is a favourite attraction with some unusual displays of flora and fauna. In the autumn a walk through the ravine with its flowing waterfalls in not to be missed. There are also several yearly events to enjoy including the Bat walk in September.
Greenwood Forest Park - LL55 3AD
about 23 Miles
This attraction is really something special and has reached the finals of the "Best Family Day Out" category in the National Tourism Awards for Wales. It's actually the only attraction in North Wales to be shortlisted for this prestigious award. Located in the Snowdonia region there are many rides and activities including Jungle Boat Adventure, Den Building, Green Dragon Roller Caoster, Treetop Towers and the BareFoot Trail. Kids of all ages will love it here and we think it's excellent value as well.
Ribride - LL59 5DE
about 23 Miles
An adventure boat company in the heart of Wales. Whether it's adrenaline fueled fun, or a relaxing river tour, you and your family will want to book up with Rib Ride. Ride a 'RIB' boat on the Menai Strait or take a Bear Grylls adventure boat tour. Very highly reviewed on Trip Advisor. Tours for bridges and swells, puffin and seals, castle and islands and more.
Wepre Country Park - CH5 4HL
about 25 Miles
Wepre Country Park is home to one of the largest play areas in Wales and is perfect for a fun family day out during the summer months. The site has miles of attractive woodland to be explored and cycling and nature trails are very popular ways to see the best of the area. The grounds of the historic estate also have beautiful gardens with stunning floral displays and there is plenty of open space for children to play. An annual events programme ensures that seasonal activities take place regularly including spooky Halloween Walks, Christmas Carol Singing and Ranger led events. There is also a visitor's centre with a small shop.
Llangollen Boat Trips - LL20 8TA
about 28 Miles
Llangollen Wharf is one of the major attractions in North Wales and is an excellent place to spend the day as a family. The Wharf is situated in the peaceful market town of Llangollen - now part of a World Heritage Site. Horse Drawn Boat Trips are available along the feeder for the main canal and are a unique way to explore the area. Motorised Aqueduct Cruises are also on offer for those who prefer a slightly faster pace. Both trips allow visitors to take in all the magnificent sites of Llangollen Canal.