Bryngarw House

As we enjoyed Bryngarw so much the other day we decided to go back today to photograph the house.
The history of the house is vague, but architectural evidence appears to indicate that it was originally a farmhouse, possibly dating back to the 15th century.
Much has been altered throughout it's history and it is a mixture of period influence.It was renovated by a Victorian industrialist who had travelled extensivly in the Far East, bringing back rare and exotic plants and antiques.The farmhouse was altered and extended when Morgan Popkin Traherne married and undertook the 1830 renovation.The household was quite advanced for it's time in that it generated it's own electricity.
Orchestral and piano recitals were performed on the lawns, as OP ( Morgan's successor ) was a keen music lover.
Bryngarw House and Park came into public ownership in 1961 and for several years it served various functions including , council run accommodation, a caravan park and offices.Gradually wet and dry rot took effect and the house fell into a state of dereliction, although it's superb frontage was always a source of curiosity amongst members of the public.
In 1983, work commenced to create the country park as it exists today, and in 1987 the building was made completely watertight, and part of the first floor accommodation converted into a self contained flat to accommodate an assistant warden to the country park.
In 1993, European funding was gained to renovate the house to it's present condition.
At Bryngarw House you will find 4* accommodation. They have 19 individually decorated bedrooms. Their restaurant called Harlequin's has also won the Taste of Wales Fine Cuisine Award. I have dropped a few hints to J that I would like to go there for dinner, bed and breakfast for my birthday.