The Memory Jar in Brecon Beacons National Park, Powys

The Memory Jar Self-Catering

With the flexibility to sleep up to 24 people, this magical country house is all set up for special events, gatherings of friends and family, activity holidays and more. With views across the Wye Valley, it's set on five acres of pristine land and has nine bedrooms for you to choose between – either in the beautifully restored and extended 17th-Century farmhouse or the stunning new guest annexe.

Lovers of interior design will have a field day here. It's been impeccably put together by its owner Kari, a professional designer, with nods to traditional country chic, contemporary cool and even Antipodean modern rustic – Kari grew up in Australia. The main house having been extended, the old stable unit was transformed into an architect-designed annexe with a series of split-level suites that wouldn't look out of place in a boutique hotel in Shoreditch.

The huge, 40ft kitchen is equipped with everything you'll need to cook for your group, with an incredible four ovens, five hobs and two dishwashers, or you can take the hard work out of it by hiring a private chef. You'll have four main living spaces with enough room to get together as a large group or enjoy a bit of privacy, and there are all sorts of outdoor seating spots – including a fire pit area, dining terrace and an Aussie-style shack enjoying views across the valley.

Built for entertaining, you'll have a games barn where you can play table tennis, work out on the gym equipment and grab some garden games, as well as a room perfect for group activities. There's even a wood-fired hot tub, a children's natural play area and private fields for you to explore.

Just a few miles from the book town of Hay-on-Wye, it's easy to explore the Welsh border from here, and hiking, cycling and canoeing are all popular local attractions. And if you fancy an action-packed break, your host can put together a unique itinerary for your group. You're bound to make memories that last a lifetime.

Home truths:
*This home can sleep a maximum of 19 adults plus 5 children (on blow up camp beds) and 1 infant (in a cot) – get in touch with the host for details
*A cot, high chair and stair gates can be provided on request
*The accommodation is split, with four bedrooms (three kings, one double) in the main farmhouse and five split-level en-suite rooms (all king size plus a large single sofa bed) in the guest annexe
*Events for up to 20 people are welcome – your host can put you in touch with local caterers and cake makers
*There's a separate office space with a two-person desk and a printer
*You'll need your own towels for the hot tub
*Please note there's no heating in the craft room
*You'll have parking for 10 cars