Tag Archives: afonwen

News

Hidden Gem Maes Mynan Park Opens Its Gates for Charity Garden Day

A luxury holiday park tucked away in one of the UK’s most breathtaking landscapes is set to unveil the splendour of its 120-acre estate for a charitable cause.

Maes Mynan Park, situated in the peaceful village of Afonwen near Caerwys in Flintshire, will welcome visitors on Saturday, July 12 as part of the National Open Garden Scheme (NGS)—an initiative that has raised millions of pounds for nursing and health charities over the years.

Guests will have the rare chance to explore this privately-owned haven within the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape (AONB).

The multi-million-pound development offers a captivating experience, boasting expansive panoramic views, woodlands, a secluded Sequoia grove, freshwater lakes, and a flourishing array of wildflowers, birds, and native wildlife.

Owners Peter and Louise Barlow of Acorn Leisure hope the event will increase awareness of their efforts and raise vital funds for charity. To enhance the experience, 32 stalls featuring local artisans and businesses will be showcased throughout the day.

“This is a truly magical place that harmoniously blends luxury and nature,” said Louise.

“With its tranquil parkland, amazing panoramic views, lakes and woodland and a history steeped in legends of Welsh princes, Tudor royalty, and local industry, Maes Mynan Park offers a setting unlike any other, so we are delighted to share that with the public in support of such worthy causes.”

Peter added:

“Alongside the beauty of the estate and the significant investment we’ve made into its development, we believe in sharing this special place with second homeowners who want to be part of a naturally beautiful landscape.

“Opening up the park to the public for charity, so that everyone can enjoy the benefits of the hard work we, as a small team, have undertaken to change this old sand and gravel quarry into a hidden gem, that some call ‘Little Switzerland’, will be a great experience day for everyone who attends.”

The event will also shine a spotlight on sustainability and local craftsmanship, with over 30 independent producers from North Wales and the North West. Visitors can browse handcrafted goods and enjoy culinary treats from names such as Wernog Wood, Little Welsh Aromas, SheepFloof, Karen’s Kakes and Confections, Kirsty Williams Ceramics, Cariad Gin, and Griff’s Big Ribs BBQ.

Louise added: “Guests will have the chance to engage with some of the region’s finest producers. With handcrafted items, gourmet treats, and seating to admire the views and walks, it promises to be an inspiring and unforgettable day for everyone.”

Attendees can meander along curated walking trails, admire a diverse range of plants and trees, and experience the tranquil beauty of the private Sequoia woodland. From birdsong to deer sightings, the park offers a peaceful retreat for families, garden lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

All proceeds will support various UK charities through the NGS, including Hospice UK, Macmillan Cancer Support, and Parkinson’s UK.

Event Details:

  • Date: Saturday, July 12

  • Time: 10:30am – 4:30pm

  • Entry: £4 for adults (donated to NGS charities), free for children

  • Parking: On-site parking available

  • Accessibility: Limited wheelchair access via tarmac roads behind the lodge holiday homes

For more details, visit the official NGS listing: Maes Mynan Park – Mold | NGS Gardens.

Stay updated at www.acornleisure.com, or contact info@acornleisure.com / 01352 720808 for further information.

Holidays, Tourism

Lockdown progress grows interest in new luxury lodge park

OWNERS of an exclusive luxury holiday park have made huge strides with the development in lockdown.

The first phase of Maes Mynan Park, in Afonwen near Caerwys, was launched by Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism, Lord Dafydd-Elis Thomas last autumn, but, as with many businesses, the Coronavirus outbreak prevented prospective holiday homeowners from visiting the picturesque site.

While restrictions have lifted in past weeks interest has started to grow and Acorn Leisure directors Peter and Louise Barlow have been working hard behind the scenes to lay 23 luxury lodge bases and the foundation for new access roads.

The whole team has spent countless hours maintaining and improving the park, supported by local businesses and trades along the way, when supply chains were strained due to the pandemic.

The first lodge arrives next/this month (September), they have taken on two team members and planted over 2,000 plants and trees.

“The Coronavirus hasn’t stopped us from getting the site ready and prepared for visitors and the next phase of development,” said Louise.

“The lodge park is nearing completion and as we prefer to work with customers on a bespoke basis, we can offer a selection of plots before they choose their dream holiday home.

“We have also laid the first nine static caravan bases as part of Phase 2 in a different area of the Park, with another 25 planned for the end of the year. We are delighted to share this special place with others who appreciate its abundant natural beauty.”

A new website has also been unveiled for Acorn Leisure, in addition to Maes Mynan Park, and they are planning to recruit further in the months ahead.

Louise added: “Before lockdown we had so much interest from all over the country, but Coronavirus meant we had to put all viewings on hold and shut the gates.

“Because of the size of the park we could social distance during lockdown and thanks to our positive team we managed to keep things moving with the development, even though the public were not able to visit. It’s been challenging, but it’s been that way for all businesses.”

They will continue to work in collaboration with other local firms, especially in the food and hospitality sector, and neighbouring attractions, to promote the area and welcome visitors.

Although Maes Mynan Park has planning for 47 lodges around two lakes, 25 lodges will be developed in the initial stages, with a further 63 static caravans becoming available over the next 12 months. Another area of the Park will see the development of a touring park for 70 caravans from 2023 and a wooded area has been set aside for boutique eco-glamping.

“We have come so far to this point, it’s been a real committed labour of love,” said Peter.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has been tough for everybody, but it also gave us an opportunity to take things on and complete key areas of the site. This has been possible because we are undertaking the development ourselves.

“As businesses and attractions reopen, we look forward to welcoming people to Maes Mynan Park and this incredible part of North Wales, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and a place very close to our hearts.”

For more information on Maes Mynan Park and to book a viewing, visit the website: www.maesmynanpark.com

Visit www.acornleisure.com for the latest news and information from Acorn Leisure.