Tucked away in a private (and very bumpy) Road West Usk lighthouse sises above the trees as you approach. From the outside, the part with beautifully arranged flower beds flanking the gravel path to the door.
The bell and the welcome of our hosts (the charming Frank and the impetuous Archie) is warm and disarmed. A word of warning, if you are not a dog lover West Usk may not be for you. Frank may own lighthouse, but it belongs to Archie and he loves tickling belly! The interior of the lighthouse has a few interesting pieces of memorabilia concerning the history of buildings that contributes to the overall atmosphere as well as some other quirky pieces that give a nod to other local 'interests', you really can not miss the fun addition of a time capsule on the roof for example.
The lighthouse is an old building (198 years in fact) and is decorated in the style of its heritage, the attraction and charm of here is that this is not a tight, polished and anonymous hotel chain. Everything is clean and well maintained, but there are quirks about staying in a place like this that really add something to the experience and its quirky it in an old building on the edge of a river mouth.
Our room was large and spacious, with plenty of storage space for our belongings. There is free wifi (which could be a bit frustrating because of the thick stone inside walls), a very complicated power shower (which is nice), the TV has a built-in DVD player with a selection of DVDs to choose on the landing if you wish to watch a movie. There is also a fridge on the landing that you can use to keep track of everything cool if needed. Oh, and cookies are in the lighthouse shaped biscuit cylinder to go with your tea / coffee.
The bed was very comfortable and I slept well every night of our stay. Although it is at a remote spot by a tidal river, the local fauna can be a bit vocal at night.
On the roof there is a hot tub and facilities for a bbq, a bar (BYOB) and beautiful views of the Severn Estuary. A beautiful space. If the weather is not good you can still enjoy the view and keep the stairs dry to the old lamp room.
Breakfast the next morning is a hearty affair and an opportunity to meet your fellow guests. The 'full Frank' is an epic and delicious offer. Again, no anonymous, bland hotel chain kind offers here. This is a premium breakfast that is guaranteed to prepare you for the day.
Frank and Archie are 24 and center of life in West Usk. Must know how to get to the nearest pub? Archie can show you the way (seriously) as it is only a shortish walk. Need a recommendation for a meal in the area? Frank is very knowledgeable and on hand for good advice. He also has many good ideas for attractions and things to do, regardless of weather conditions. Regardless of our query, everything we needed, Frank was happy to help and very accommodating.
Would I be back in West Usk again? Absolutely. Not only because of the novelty of staying in a lighthouse, but the whole experience and atmosphere that is provided by Frank and Danielle (not to mention Archie), made it a wonderful and unforgettable stay.
Astonishing view over the sea