💬 Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve gathered answers to the most common questions to help you plan your stay with ease — whether you’re booking through Airbnb or arranging a direct stay with us. From booking details to local food tips, you’ll find everything here.

If you still have questions, Charlotte is always happy to help — just send a message. I’m available remotely before and during your stay, and Robert will be your friendly on‑site host, ready to assist in person.

📖 Booking Your Stay

You’re welcome to book your stay with us directly — whether it’s your first visit or a return trip.

Booking direct means you’ll enjoy:

  • Best available rates with no extra platform fees

  • Personal service from enquiry to check‑out

  • A smooth, friendly booking process handled by Charlotte from start to finish

Once we’ve confirmed your dates, we’ll send you our bank details for payment by secure bank transfer. It’s quick, safe, and keeps things simple for both of us.

📅 If Your Plans Change

We know that sometimes life takes an unexpected turn, and we’ll always do our best to help.

What is your cancellation policy?

More than 14 days before arrival – Your 25% booking deposit is normally non‑refundable. However, if we are able to re‑let your original dates, we’ll refund your deposit in full.

Within 14 days of arrival – Your 25% booking deposit is non‑refundable, but we’ll always do our best to re‑let the dates. If we’re successful, we’ll refund 75% of your remaining balance (the part due 14 days before arrival), as late‑notice bookings are often taken at a lower rate.

Security deposits – Always refunded in full if your stay is cancelled.

For extra peace of mind, we recommend travel insurance — it’s a small step that can make all the difference if plans have to change.

🔞 Minimum Age & Deposit Policy

We welcome families, children and babies at Reddings Retreat. Our age policy applies only to the adults making the booking and staying in the accommodation, not to children in their care.

Lead guest aged 21 or over – You’re welcome to book as normal with our standard £50 security deposit.

Lead guest aged 18–20 – You’re also welcome to stay, but we’ll need a £100 security deposit and valid photo ID before we can confirm your booking.

Guests under 18 cannot book or stay without an adult – Children and babies are very welcome when accompanied by an adult who meets the age requirements above.

These steps help us protect the retreat and ensure it remains a calm, respectful space for everyone who visits.

Why is there a higher deposit for guests under 21?

Younger guests can sometimes present a higher risk of accidental damage, especially in a rural setting. The £100 deposit helps protect the retreat and ensures we can continue offering a peaceful, well‑maintained space for everyone.

What happens if I can’t provide ID or the required deposit?

We won’t be able to confirm the booking, and your dates will be released for other guests.

⏰ Arrival & Check‑In

What time can I check in and out? Self check‑in is available anytime after 3:00 pm to suit your plans. If you expect to arrive earlier, please let Charlotte know — we can sometimes accommodate early check‑in if the accommodation is ready.

Returning guests enjoy priority early check‑in from 1:00 pm and later check‑out until 12:00 noon whenever possible, as a thank‑you for staying with us again.

Check‑out for first‑time guests is by 10:00 am so we have time to prepare for our next arrivals. Late check‑out may be possible by prior arrangement.

Where do I park?

  • Shepherds Huts: Parking is at the edge of the paddock, just a short stroll from your hut.

  • Private Guest Room Suite: Parking is to the left of the farmhouse garage.

There is free on‑site parking for all guests. Check‑in is self‑service, but Robert is usually nearby during the day if you need a hand once you’ve settled in, and Charlotte is always available remotely for any questions.

🚐 Getting Here & Around

Can I arrange luggage transfers if I’m walking or cycling?
Yes — if you’re walking the Wye Valley Walk or cycling through the area, we can help make your journey lighter. If you’ve booked a luggage transfer service, Charlotte can liaise directly with the company to confirm drop‑off and pick‑up times. This is subject to availability and may involve a small additional charge, so please mention it when booking.

Do you offer transport to or from Chepstow?
When available, Robert — your on‑site host — can offer local lifts such as:

  • 🚉 Pick‑up from Chepstow railway or bus station

  • 🛒 Stop‑off at Tesco Chepstow if you’d like to shop before arriving

  • 🚗 Drop‑back to Chepstow after check‑out

  • 🎟️ Pick‑up/drop‑off for events at Chepstow Racecourse

These need to be arranged in advance through Charlotte when booking, as Robert doesn’t use email or the internet. I’ll confirm the details with you directly, and Robert will handle the driving on the day.

Is there public transport nearby?
Yes — the 69 bus between Chepstow and Monmouth stops right at the bottom of Reddings Farm driveway on certain services. It’s the most convenient option if the timetable matches your arrival or departure.

🛏 Comfort & Essentials

What’s included in the huts and farmhouse suite?
All spaces come with fresh bedding, towels, tea & coffee, and thoughtful extras like cosy throws. Each listing has a full amenity breakdown.

Is there heating?
Yes — each hut and farmhouse suite is heated for year‑round comfort. The Warren and Burrow huts also have extra insulation for chilly nights.

Do I need to bring toilet rolls or washing‑up liquid?
No need! We provide all the essentials, including loo rolls, washing‑up bits, and even a few surprises.

How is the toilet managed in the shepherds huts?
Each hut has its own private cassette‑style toilet. The cassette is emptied and refreshed daily from outside, so you won’t be disturbed — and you won’t need to lift a finger.

“We didn’t even notice it being done — it was just always clean and fresh.” — Guest Review

Do you refresh towels or bins during longer stays?
For stays of 4 nights or more, we offer a mid‑stay refresh of towels and bins. Just let us know what you’d prefer — some guests love the privacy, others appreciate the extra care.

Are the huts or farmhouse suite cleaned during my stay?
We don’t enter the accommodation during your stay unless requested, but we’re always nearby if you need anything topped up or tidied. The Shepherds Hut's toilet cassette is refreshed daily via outside access without entering your space.

🐝 Countryside Setting

We’re in the heart of the Wye Valley countryside, surrounded by wildlife and fresh country air. That means you may occasionally notice:

  • Natural farm smells — part of the charm of staying on a working farm

  • Insects — especially in warmer months, even though we keep spaces well‑sealed and clean

    If insects enter the hut due to lights being left on with windows or doors open:

    • Open windows and doors

    • Close blinds and turn off indoor lights

    • Turn on the outdoor light for 10 minutes

    • Use the dust buster under the sink to remove any remaining insects

Most guests find these part of the authentic rural experience, but we like to mention them so you can come prepared.

🌡️ Extreme Weather

Cold Weather If temperatures drop below freezing, we’ll turn off the hut’s water to protect the pipes. Drinking water will be provided, and full service will resume once it’s safe. If this is likely during your stay, we’ll let you know in advance and offer the option to change your dates.

Hot Weather When it’s hot (above 27°C), the huts can warm up quickly. To stay cool:

  • Close blackout blinds when you’re out

  • Keep windows and the top stable door open for airflow

  • As the day heats up, close windows/blinds to keep heat out

  • Consider bringing a fan or cooling towel

In the evening, open windows or doors to let cooler air in.

🚪 Gate Information

The gate at the entrance to Reddings Farm driveway is usually open but occasionally can be closed overnight between 11 pm and 5 am. If it’s shut at any time, after you open it please close it behind you or let us know and we’ll close it for you.

🏘️ Tintern & Local Area

Tintern and the Wye Valley are popular tourist destinations and can be busy during peak times.

📶 Connectivity

Is there Wi‑Fi?
Yes — complimentary Wi‑Fi is available in the private guest room suite. While there’s no Wi‑Fi coverage across the wider farm, 4G mobile signal is available throughout Reddings Farm, so you can stay connected when out and about.

♿ Accessibility

Is Reddings Retreat accessible?
Our accommodation is set within a working farm environment, and access involves uneven ground, steps, and some slopes. This means it may not be suitable for all guests with limited mobility. If you have specific accessibility needs, please contact Charlotte before booking so we can discuss the best options and provide detailed information.

🐾 Pets

Can I bring my pet?
We’re unable to accommodate pets at Reddings Retreat. Our farm is home to an abundance of wildlife and free‑roaming birds, and we want to ensure they remain safe and undisturbed. If you’re travelling with a dog, Charlotte can recommend nearby pet‑friendly accommodation in Chepstow or local kennels so you can still enjoy exploring the Wye Valley.

🚭 Smoking & Vaping

Is smoking or vaping allowed? Reddings Retreat is a non‑smoking, non‑vaping, and e‑cigarette‑free accommodation.

🛍 Local Amenities

What shops and places to eat are nearby?
Tintern has a selection of pubs, tearooms, and small shops within walking distance. Chepstow (around 10 minutes by car) offers supermarkets, banks, pharmacies, and a wider choice of restaurants and shops. We also highlight our favourite local food producers and shops on our Location page — from artisan treats to everyday essentials.

🌿 Did You Know?

Reddings Retreat is part of a working farm that’s been lovingly cared for by Robert, your on-site host, who’s lived in the Wye Valley for over 70 years.