Step Back in Time: The Rich History of Croes Vaen
Nestled in the heart of Monmouthshire, Croes Vaen is so much more than a luxury rental. This Grade II-listed farmhouse property is packed with hosts of history just waiting for you to explore.
The History Of Croes Vaen
A Legacy of Luxury: The Story of Croes Vaen
As you step through the entrance halls of this spectacular property, prepare to be transported to a picturesque bygone era of elegance and splendour. The story of Croes Vaen starts long before becoming a modern-day luxury hideaway.
the history of Croes Vaen
Architectural Significance: Designed by Sir Aston Webb
This beautiful farmhouse was designed by the renowned Sir Aston Webb.
Webb is responsible for some of the nation’s most recognisable landmarks, including the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Admiralty Arch, and Buckingham Palace.
Master of Grand Designs
Sir Aston Webb is considered a master of grandiose designs, having created such London structures as Buckingham Palace, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and Admiralty Arch – but his talent was not limited to famous city structures.
Croes Vaen: A Legacy
Built around 1890, in theTudor style, Croes Vaen is distinct with its stone facade, elegant features, and the holistic approach to blending the house with the country setting it stands in. This combination of architecture and nature was a defining feature of the artistic movement of the time.
A Connection to the Rolls Family
Croes Vaen has historical connections to the Rolls family, known for manufacturing Rolls-Royce cars. The house was originally built as a home for the Estate Manager of the nearby Hendre Estate (where Mr. Webb also made a significant creative contribution), which was owned by the famous car family. The house was built as part of the Roll’s family estate and is situated very close to the world famous Rolls of Monmouth Golf Club.
A Lasting Legacy
Sir Aston Webb passed in 1930, but his legacy lives at Croes Vaen. The house was carefully renovated and restored so that the architectural features and splendid beauty of the design could be admired for years to come.
“Aston Webb’s residential commissions included Nos 2 (The Gables) and 4 (Windermere) Blackheath Park, in Blackheath, south-east London.
He also designed (1895–96) a library wing, including the Cedar Library, at The Hendre, a large Victorian mansion in Monmouthshire, for John Allan Rolls, first Lord Llangattock Llangattock of the Hendre, 1892.
John Allan Rolls’s ennoblement brought the family and the house to their social apogee, culminating in a visit from the Duke and Duchess of York (later King George V and Queen Mary), who stayed with Lord and Lady Llangattock at the Hendre from late October to early November 1900.
The Duke and Duchess were taken on motor car excursions by Charles Rolls, probably the first time that the royal couple had been in a car. This was an important event in the family’s social history, confirming their elevation to the upper echelons of society. George must have travelled past Croes Vaen in a carriage in November.
His mother Queen Victoria, died a few months later, in January 1901 “
– Robert Williams – TDW Owner and Practising Historian
