Projects
Re-Foresting the Land
We've planted over 200 trees, and are aiming to plant a 1000 more in the next 4 years. Native fruit and nut varieties, Welsh oak and hazel and other hardwoods are our primary aims. We always want help with planting saplings, and this is a great thing to do with the family, to educate youngsters and adults alike that environmental thinking is forward-thinking.
The Eco-Folly
A building set around 3 silver birches. Of no particular purpose, with a wood-burner and a bed just in case. This was first built as a floating meditation platform, high up in the trees, a place to be still while the winds move you. Then it evolved down to earth, as a good folly should. Built almost entirely from materials taken from the local recycling centre, a true eco-build, a nearly no-cost construction. The ground floor of the structure has a communial kitchen area (cooker, sink and running water) It has a staircase made of pallets, and each part is independently and integrally secure, only attached to the rest for the added stability. This folly moves as the wind moves the trees, a unique and restorative experience for a night's sleep. As a folly, it is perpetually unfinished, so improvements and extensions are always welcome.
The Yurt
This shelter is handmade in the Mongolian tradition, right here in Radnorshire. It stands dry on a wooden platform, and is made from local steam-bent ash. This summer we'd like to source enough wool from local farmers to make a felt lining for the yurt, for winter insultation. Experienced felters are very welcome to get involved with this...
The Classroom
An ongoing project set in the pinewoods, this is going to be a covered space for creative use. Workshops (tai chi, yoga, reiki etc.), recording and performing music, artists and literature groups, outdoor enthusiasts and skill-sharers - the classroom covers it all. Outlooking the stunning Llandegley Rock, this hexagonal build will be surrounded with Yemenese stained glass windows, and will be a beautiful and inexpensive way for groups to hold small events in a stunning and secluded location. We hope the Classroom will give local and community education groups an excellent low-cost venue, and are particularly hoping to attract peer-to-peer skill-sharing groups. In all, we want the Classroom at Mellowcroft to be a vital hub for alternative community education in Radnorshire and Wales.
Drovers' Cabin
For people seeking shelter from the elements, the drover's cabin is a perfect retreat. It is built in the historic simplicity of the original drovers' cabins, which were once dotted all over this landscape. Their purpose was to give a night's sleep to those herding flocks to field or market. Our cabin has a log burner, double-bed, a sink and toilet, and is the perfect self-contained hideaway, a fine place to wake up.
Events
Mellowcroft has been privileged to host Cwmbach 09, a gathering of artists and musicians organized by Utrophia, a London-based collective. We have also had horse-drawn events, and various acoustic musical events. We've had drumming workshops, celebrations, visiting poets and bards, a steady stream of WWWoofers and volunteers, and we hope for more such events in the future.
If you have an idea, and hope to run a memorable workshop or event, please contact us.
Renewable Energy
Mellowcroft is an 'off-grid' location, and will remain so. We produce our own electricity, harvested from wind and sun, with backup generators. Future projects include more solar panels and a bicycle generator. The fundamental key to Mellowcroft's energy policy is sensible and appropriate usage.
The Free Allotments
Originally a controversial issue in the local area, farmers could not understand the logic of giving away land without financial profit. But here at Mellowcroft, with simple rules set, (all organic, no chemicals), this project has been a tremendous success. Many local families have seized the opportunity to learn about growing their own good food, without having to dig up their lawns, and the benefits for families, in terms of education, healthy exercise, and improved diet, are obvious. We have also seen community benefits, with knowledge pooling, vehicle and tool sharing, as this small vegetable growing project has become a productive and educational success for all involved. We are always open to ideas and efforts of new and better farming, and those with the commitment for such things are welcome to come visit and talk.
The Woodland Campsite
No longer grazed by sheep, various wildflowers have reappeared throughout the silver-birch woodland, and camping here is a truly grounding experience. Perfect for summer gatherings, outdoor seminars and workshops.
The "Great Space" Canvas Structure
Handmade in Radnorshire, this canvas structure is perfect for any small event, with space for up to 100 people. It can be erected in a number of ways, to suit its purpose and the weather. With room for a stage, a bar, and a firepit, this space is the ideal venue for any small gathering or workshop.
The Freshwater Pools
Fed by a freshwater spring, these two pools have two purposes - one for the people and fish, the other for native wetland species. This division of waters is already a success, the lower pond being home to Great Crested Newts and Brown Newts, and a laying ground for Wild Ducks. Various frogs and dragonflies also breed and thrive here.
The Ridged Wildflower Meadows
Ancient Welsh farmers ridged the land, to give different elevations for different crops, for water capture and irrigation. Removed by modern ploughing, we are seeking to reinstate the Cultivation Ridges of Wales. Today, the meadows are full of various grasses and rare orchids, and other returning wildflowers. The speed of the land's transformation, from scrubby wasteland to lush meadows, has been miraculous. The meadows are a crucial habitat and food resource for bees, insects and moths, and many other species.
The Wood-Fired Outdoor Bath(s)
The outdoor bathing experience is a rare treat. Our twin-baths use hand-pumped mountain spring water, heated by wood-fire. This water is living, and nutrient rich. Naturally mixed with the clay of the Welsh hills, over a good fire, you'll have never had a bath like it.
The Wildlife
Mellowcroft is not just for humans. We are definitely a minority species here, and well aware of that. Varied wildlife has colonized the land, made it their home and breeding grounds. The photographing, identifying and monitoring of all species, flora and fauna, is especially welcomed.
Domestic Animals
Mellowcroft is a smallholding, with grazing across extensive moorlands. Our Welsh Mountain Pony, called Fudge, is now a half-wild stallion, proud on the moors. People with experience of young horses are welcome to help with his training, and horses are always welcome guests. We also have two friendly dogs here, soon to be joined by rescued battery hens. Mellowcroft is always looking for useful animals, but awaits those with the knowledge and experience to make this happen in a responsible way.