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BOOKINGS

How do I book?

TERMS & CONDITIONS

What are your Terms & Conditions?

You can find all our Terms here.

SELF CATERING ACCOMMODATION

How do I book a cottage?

Just click here to book securely online or call us on (01792) 403333. We take a 25% deposit on booking and the balance is due 6 weeks before arrival. Full terms can be found here.

How do I get the best price?

Simple. Book direct on this website. We guarantee it will be the lowest price available anywhere.

We sometimes utilise OTAs (Online Travel Agents) such as Airbnb to fill some gaps. You will always pay more if you don’t book direct. The price you will pay on Airbnb for example is at least 21% more than if you had booked direct. This is to account for the fees that they charge.

In addition, as there is a third party involved we have much less flexibility if you wish to make changes to your booking.

Be reassured that you are covered by our extensive Terms & Conditions, we offer free cancellation up to 28 days before arrival, we have been in business since 1989, & we are active members of The Professional Association of Self-Caterers (PASC UK).

So always book direct!

Can I bring my dog or cat?

Yes! We welcome dogs and cats at Clyne. All of our cottages are pet-friendly. Most have hard flooring to make things easier. If you are staying in our cottages there is a supplement of £5 per night per animal. There are lots of lovely local walks nearby and many of the beaches on Gower are dog friendly.

A condition of booking is that pets are not left unattended in the property. Exception: Well behaved dogs can be left in a crate for short periods of time, as long as they are fully crate trained, and will not bark if left alone.

Pets are not allowed onto beds, sofas or other furniture. As a family and animal friendly farm, we ask that you please keep your dog on a lead around the main farm site.

Digital Guidebook

Once you have booked we will send you a link to your property’s Digital Guidebook. It will contain everything you need to know about your property, and how to make the most of your stay with us, and the local area.

Do you have good Wi-Fi?

Yes! We have free and fast Wi-Fi internet. If you are a digital nomad you can easily work while you are staying with us. Or just add a few days of work to your holiday.

You can be on a stunning Gower beach 10 minutes after closing your laptop! Perfect.

Do you provide stair gates, cots & highchairs?

We provide stair gates, travel cots and highchairs for free on request. The travel cots, are left in the property ready for you to assemble & to move them to where you want them in the cottage. We do not provide linen. The cots are travel cot style so the mattress is built in.

The stair gates will be left for you to place where you would like. Please let us know in advance if you would like us to put the stairgate up for you.

We only have a limited number of each item so reserve them early.

Do you provide towels?

We provide a hand towel (approx 50 x 90 cm) and a bath towel (approx 67 x 135 cm) for each guest. We ask that you don’t take these to the beach or use them to bath the dog!

What time is check-in & check-out?

Check-in time is from 4pm (might be later if you have booked via third party like Airbnb, check your confirmation). Your keys will be left in a key safe at your property. Full details will be provided. You will receive your key safe code by email 2 days before arrival.

Check-out time is 10am.

What else is included?

We also provide a ‘starter pack’ of essentials like toilet paper, black bags, dishwasher tablets, and washing up liquid.

These will last one, maybe two days. Once these have been used up you will need to provide your own.

Can we wash clothes during our stay?

All properties apart from Byron’s Barn have combined washer-driers in the kitchen, and a clothes dryer rack. For guests staying in Byron’s Barn; we have a laundry room you can use which has a washing machine and tumble drier.

Do you provide bed linen?

All beds are fully made up with duvets. Each single bed has two pillows, and each double has four pillows. We don’t have alternative pillow types available. None of our duvets or pillow are feather or down-filled.

What cooking facilities are provided?

Each cottage has a gas cooker with a four ring hob and oven, apart from Barn Owl Lodge which has an electric cooker. They each also have a microwave, a kettle, and a toaster. Each cottage is fully equipped with all standard cooking utensils. If you want to check if a cottage has a particular utensil please ask.

Electric Vehicle Charging

We do not have on-site charging facilities (not yet, we are working on it!). So you must make your own arrangements for EV charging. Use of domestic chargers, commonly known as ‘granny chargers’ or ‘trickle chargers’ are strictly forbidden. See our terms. Link to closest charging points

Are your properties inspected?

We are inspected by the Wales Tourist Board. Our Cottages have all achieved a 4 Star rating, apart from Byron’s Barn which has achieved a 3-star rating, it has similar facilities to all the others but is smaller. We are an active member of the Professional Association of Self-Caterers UK (PASC).

Can I bring my horse or other pets?

Yes we are very pet friendly! Just ask! We take each type of animal request on a case by case basis. As per dogs and cats, there will be a supplement per night per animal to pay.

Horses: There is a paddock next to The Keepers Cottage or Barn Owl Lodge so you have the option to bring your horse or pony on holiday with you. Subject to availability. This paddock (approx 35m x 35m) can be booked in advance by cottage guests to bring their horse(s) on holiday with them. If this is the case then only the cottage guests (and their horses!) who have reserved it may use it. We may also use it for grazing for our own horses. In this scenario the paddock will not be accessible for cottage guests.

Proof of up-to-date vaccinations and worming will be required. Guests are responsible for ensuring the track to the cottage is suitable for their horsebox and trailer, that the grazing is suitable, and that the fencing is adequate (we suggest you bring electric fencing, water buckets and hay). See our terms.

Are any of your cottages accessible for disabled users?

Most of our properties are converted farm buildings so are not all perfectly suited to everyone’s mobility needs. And be aware that the area around the properties may not be completely smooth and level. However we do have a few cottages which may be more suitable for those with some mobility restrictions. Please check with us that the property meets all your requirements before booking. We would be happy to show you around, or to take videos to help show you the property layouts. All doorways are standard width. We suggest the 4 cottages to look at first are The Old Schoolroom, The Keeper’s Cottage, Horseshoe Cottage & Chapel Barn.

The Old Schoolroom: This cottage has a mainly level access ground floor. There is a single step into the property. The kitchen, lounge and dining area are all on the ground floor. There is a double bedroom and a twin bedroom downstairs. It also has a shower ‘wet room’, and the toilet in this bathroom has a grab rail.

The Keeper’s Cottage also has a ground floor shower ‘wet room’. This is the ensuite bathroom of the twin bedroom. There is a small step into the property. And there are single internal steps linking the TV room, lounge, and the ensuite twin bedroom mentioned.

Horseshoe Cottage has two steps into the property. The open plan kitchen/lounge/dining area, and double bedroom (with ensuite) are all on one level. The ensuite shower cubicle has a step up into it.

Chapel Barn has complete level access. There is a small step out into the garden. As one of our smaller properties maneuvering space should be considered.

Barn Owl Lodge has a step into the property. There is a twin and double bedroom downstairs, as well as the lounge, kitchen & dining area. There are two bathrooms both with over bath showers. Plus a shower room which has a cubicle with a step up into it.

Byron’s Barn: The lounge kitchen and double bedroom are all on the ground floor. The bathroom has a shower over the bath. As our smallest property, the passageway may be narrow for some guests with mobility concerns.

Stables Cottage: The property is accessed on the ground floor, with the lounge and kitchen upstairs so may not be suitable for those with have difficulty with stairs.

The Dairy and Hayloft are both accessed on the 1st floor via external staircases. So again may not be suitable for those with have difficulty managing stairs.

Noise Policy 11pm to 7am

As a family friendly holiday venue, we want everyone to enjoy their time staying with us. Our noise policy is in place 11pm to 7am.
Please remember that there may be other guests & families staying in the cottages nearby. On the main farm site there is also staff accommodation, and noise can carry easily to our neighbours on Westport Avenue.

If you are up past 11pm we recommend that you move inside and close all doors and windows, and be respectful and keep the noise down. That way any noise is less likely to be carried to other properties.

For more info please see our Terms & Conditions

Do you allow Hen, Stag & Birthday parties to stay?

Unlike many other accommodation venues yes we do! Our cottages can make the perfect base for celebratory groups. With amazing watersports, beaches, restaurants and pubs nearby you can make a fun, action-packed weekend of it. Plus of course our own onsite activities are available such as horse riding, indoor climbing and archery. Our assault course Challenge Valley is the perfect hangover cure! Or you can relax and make the most of the cosy cottages.

Feel free to request permission to book services such as outside caterers, beauty makeovers, life drawing classes, food trucks etc. Just run it by us before you book anything. We will need details of anyone you book including their insurance.

However: Even though we welcome celebratory weekends we won’t be the right venue for all groups. Bear in mind that first and foremost we are a family venue. For large groups we recommend you book all cottages at your chosen site; so all 7 cottages at the main farm site, or both The Keeper’s Cottage & Barn Owl Lodge at our woodland site. On the main farm site we have neighbours close by in Westport Avenue, there is staff accommodation onsite, and of course we need to consider our animals to ensure they are not disturbed. Therefore is a strict no noise policy in place 11pm to 7am. Noise in particular from the cottage gardens can carry a long way. We are very aware that after a few drinks noise levels can sometimes get out of hand, and that will not be tolerated. Don’t make us break up your party! And talking of breakages – as with any booking breakages will be charged for. But we would rather you didn’t break anything to begin with! Just respect our rules and our properties and you will have a great time at Clyne! See our Terms for more. And view our full noise policy below.

What should I know before I book?

Make sure you have read our Terms & Conditions.

Can you walk between the main Farm site and the Woodland Cottages?

Yes, the drive takes approximately 15 mins. If you would prefer to walk it will take around 30 to 40 minutes, or around 20 minutes to cycle. We can give you directions or you can find them in the Guidebook after you book. There is strictly NO access across the fields & farmland.

What do you offer and how much are the riding sessions?

To view the types of riding sessions that we offer click here.

To view the prices click here.

HORSE RIDING

Why hasn’t my Rider been graded yet?

We have to manually grade each Rider. Grading can only be done during office hours so please allow up to 24 hours. If we need to clarify any details in order to grade your Rider correctly we will give you a ring/email. Once your Rider has been graded you will be able to see the sessions appropriate for that Rider to book.

How do I book a riding session?

Online bookings only. You cannot book (or make changes to bookings) via email or over the phone. Please note we cannot amend or make bookings on your behalf. You must register and manage your own online account.

Complete the following easy steps to register:

  • Click on this link: BOOK HORSE RIDING
  • Click to ‘Register’ and complete your account details. Note: you need to register. Don’t try to make a booking as a ‘guest’.
  • ‘Verify Your Email’ by clicking the automated link sent to you by email (check your spam if not received instantly).
  • ‘Login’ with your email & password details.
  • ‘Add Riders to Your Account’ by following the instructions to click on the link to rider registration.
  • ‘Rider Registration’ to be completed with up-to-date details of rider.
  • ‘Submit’ your rider registration details by clicking the submit button.
  • Click ‘Add Riders’ if there are more than one individual under the same account for payment/guardian purposes. So for example, if as a family you all ride, then you can add yourself as a Rider, and then also your children.
  • We will manually grade each Rider to the appropriate riding skill level. Grading can take up to 24 hours and will be completed during working hours. You will be emailed when this is complete.
  • Once the Rider has been graded you will be able to view session availability and book riding sessions. Remember: You won’t be able to see ANY availability until your riders are graded!
  • You will only be able to see sessions that are suitable for your Riders. If for example your Rider is graded as ‘Beginner – Lead Rein’ you will not be able to view ‘Advanced’ sessions.

For ease you can also book on your mobile device via the App. Search for EC Pro on your app store (Direct link: Google Play or Apple App Store) and then log in with your email address and password.

There is a £1 non-refundable booking fee per basket. Retained by ECPro booking system. The booking fee is only charged when a payment transaction is made. The booking fee is per basket, not per session. So if you book & pay for multiple sessions in one transaction you will only pay a £1 booking fee. The fee is not applied when existing account credit is used to secure a riding session (as it would have already been paid when you paid for the original session).

What are your Rider Grades?

1) Beginner – Lead Rein
Beginner rider, learning the basics. Need to be led by a person on foot using a lead rein/rope.

2) Beginner – Off-Lead Rein
Are able to walk, stop & steer independently, and have mastered rising trot. May need a little assistance with steering whilst trotting from a person leading on foot.

3) Intermediate
Can walk & trot independently without any assistance.

4) Intermediate + Hacking
Can walk & trot independently, with the competence to go hacking.

5) Advanced
Can walk, trot & canter independently, with the competence to go hacking.

6) Advanced + Jumping
Can walk, trot & canter independently, with the competence to go hacking. Plus has the ability to jump competently.

What if I need to cancel?

We operate a 48 hour cancellation policy. If you wish to cancel a session log onto your online account and cancel. If you do this more than 48 hours before your session start time a credit will be applied to your account automatically which you can use to book future sessions. Please note you cannot ‘edit’ a session, you must cancel and rebook. If you cancel 48 hours or less before your session start time then no refund or credit is due.

Full payment is required at the time of booking. All payments are non refundable. Refunds may only be considered under exceptional circumstances, and are at the discretion of Clyne Farm Centre.

Some sessions (such as Adopt A Pony) have minimum booking numbers to run. Therefore bookings may be cancelled by us if these minimum numbers are not reached.

You can find our Terms here. Please note the ECPro booking fee is non-refundable.

The weather forecast is not looking good, will the session still go ahead?

We go out in all weather and have no indoor riding facilities. Please dress appropriately.

We reserve the right to change sessions due to extreme adverse weather & other circumstances beyond our control. For example, we may change a mounted session (such as a Led Walk) to a non-mounted session (for example a Horse & Pony Care session). Customers will only be notified of a session change upon arrival at the Centre. No refund or credit will be due in these circumstances.

Remember you can cancel and rebook. However you must do so more than 48 hours in advance in line with our cancellation policy.

I don’t have my own riding hat, what do I do?

You can borrow one of our hats.
It is a requirement that you wear a hat that meets the current BHS Hat Standards (scroll down their page for pdf). If we cannot be certain that your hat is to the correct standard we will ask you to wear one of ours.

If you would like to purchase your own you should try it on before purchasing to ensure it fits correctly. We do not suggest that you go by the size hat you usually wear at Clyne as we have a range of different sizes. We suggest contacting Zoars in Neath.

What should I wear?

For your safety and comfort, we request that the following requirements are met:

Safety Equipment

  • Riding hats are provided if you do not have your own. Hats must meet current safety standards. See the separate FAQ question below.
  • Though not mandatory, we strongly recommend wearing a body protector, especially for Intermediate and Advanced rides. Please read the latest BHS Guidance.

Other Clothing

  • Weatherproof clothing. Waterproof tops and gloves are advised.
  • Long sleeve tops are recommended.
  • Please wear trousers, no shorts or skirts as stirrup leathers can pinch and rub. Thick jeans are not ideal as sometimes the seams can rub and they are uncomfortable when wet. Jodphurs or leggings are a good option.
  • Ideally, you should wear riding boots, or shoes/boots with a small heel. If that is not possible then you can wear wellies. No open toes or sandals.
  • No jewellery, with the exception of medical bracelets. If you wish to wear piercings, they should be studs only and should be secured/covered with tape or a plaster.
  • Hair must be tied back securely.
  • Spectators should be prepared for muddy paths all year round.
  • Riders who fail to meet these safety standards may have to forfeit their session.

For Adopt A Pony Days you can download a copy of our Kit List by clicking here: CFC Activity Kit List

For more information on what to wear riding please read the latest BHS Guidance.

Why can’t I see the dates I want to book?

We release dates ahead in approx 3 month blocks. We usually have the most availability on weekdays, rather than weekends or school holidays.

If you are unable to find the session you would like, please contact us to see if we can change the advertised session. You can also join the Waiting List for fully booked sessions, just click on the session within the online booking system. You will get alerted if the booking is cancelled and a space becomes available.

Also, remember you will not be able to see ANY availability until we have graded your Rider.

How do I find Adopt A Pony sessions?

These usually run during the school holidays only. The easiest way to find them is to view the What’s On Calendar from your Account homepage.

For Adopt A Pony Days you can download a copy of our Kit List by clicking here: CFC Activity Kit List

Can I ride on the beach?

No, we do not offer beach rides. Our hacks go out across Clyne Common with glorious views over Swansea Bay, or into Clyne Valley Country Park.

I want to book a 60 mins private session but can only see a 30 min option?

60 min private sessions can be booked on request. Contact us and we can see if we have space. They are usually only available for morning slots.

What about Unicorn Experiences and Birthday Celebrations?

Contact us and we can arrange a special session for you. These usually run during the school holidays only.

View Birthday Party options.

Do you have an indoor riding arena?

No, all our lessons are outdoors in our 20m x45m all-weather arena which means you have to wrap up warm in winter. The arena has a sand and rubber chip surface. The sand is a special quarried sand which remains firm and doesn’t blow around in the wind.

Can I choose my Instructor or Horse?

No. There are so many factors involved in allocating an instructor or horse to a riding session that it is impossible for us to accommodate specific requests. When you book there is a note section where you can outline any requests you may have. We will do what we can, but sorry we cannot guarantee any of these requests.

At what age can children start riding?

Suitable sessions for children 2 years & older are 15 led walks. Children 3 years & older can take part in a 30 mins led walk, or a 30 mins Introduction to Ponies Session. Lessons are available for children 5 years & older.

I have never ridden at Clyne before and I want to book a hack?

If you wish to book a ride at a more advanced level than lead rein then you will need to book an assessment lesson. Just book either a 30 mins or 60 mins Private Lesson. During this session, we will assess your ability and then grade you on the online system. Once graded you will be able to book riding sessions appropriate to your ability. So if you are graded Advanced you can book Advanced Hacks & Lessons.

What time should I arrive?

Riders need to arrive at least fifteen minutes before their session time so there is time for them to check in at the stables, and be fitted for hats. If you arrive after your booking slot you will miss your ride with no refund available.

What if I am late?

If you are late the ride will not wait for you. Our rides are carefully timed. Any deviation from the set ride times will mean that sessions will have to be cut short. This is not fair on other riders on your session, or for the sessions that will follow later that day. Make sure you allow for traffic, and if it is your first time travelling to us then check your directions.

Why do you need my height and weight?

We need to know your height and weight so that we can match you to the most appropriate horse or pony for your size. Please be honest – we don’t care if you have put on a few extra pounds over Christmas!

Do you have to be experienced to ride at Clyne Farm?

No at all, we cater for riders of all standards – after all, everyone has to start somewhere. Lots have riders have had their very first experience of riding a horse or pony at a birthday celebration at Clyne Farm Centre, and have gone on to take riding qualifications at college and university.

When you register to book you will be asked your level of experience. Please be completely honest at all stages, as exaggerating any aspect of riding competence will not only put yourself but other riders at risk too.

What is the difference between a hack and a trek?

A lot! We do not offer treks, we only offer hacks.

A trek is a ride where horses walk at a steady pace, the horse is in control and the ride follows a set route. The rider does not control the horse but just enjoys the scenery.

A hack allows control of the ride by the rider and the ride will proceed as fast as the least competent rider in the group. Depending on the experience of the riders hacks can range from led walks to fast rides with trots and canters.

What’s the difference between a Private & a Group ride?

  • If you book a Group session then there will be other customers taking part in the session.
  • If you book a Private session then you will be the only customer taking part in the session.
  • If you would like to book another rider onto the Private session please contact us. The Private price will apply to each rider.

Can my friends & family spectate?

  • Spectators are welcome to watch riding sessions in the riding arena and yard.
  • Be mindful that loud noises and sudden movements can spook the horses.
  • For lessons in the riding arena, spectators must remain outside of the arena and stand quietly to the right of the arena gate.
  • For led walks, spectators are welcome to come along too.
  • The path can get narrow in places, so please keep a good distance between you and the horses.
  • Please dress appropriately for the weather and bring wellies for muddy paths (can be muddy all year round).
  • No umbrellas as the horses don’t like them!

I bought Pay it Forward Vouchers in your 2020 Crowdfunder appeal. Can I use them for riding?

Yes! You can use the monetary credit towards your payment. Just ask us how.

ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

What paperwork do I need to complete to take part in activities?

Everyone who takes part in our activities must complete a Registration Form. If you are a regular visitor to us the form will need to be updated annually. Please complete and submit the form online before your booked activity. Complete the form online here.

For horse riding the form is completed when you register a Rider on our online booking system.

Where do the activities take place?

Horse riding, archery, indoor climbing, Challenge Valley assault course, raft building, bushcraft, and most problem-solving challenges take place at the main Farm site. 

What do I need to bring & wear?

You can download a copy of the Activity Kit List by clicking here: CFC Activity Kit List

CHALLENGE VALLEY ASSAULT COURSE

Is Challenge Valley really muddy?

Yes, we have proclaimed since 1989 that Challenge Valley is the Muddiest Assault Course In The World! No one has ever disputed it! That is what makes it such good fun – it’s not too physically challenging – but great fun for all ages from 8 years upwards. It is muddy all year round, so although the sun may be shining in August you’re still going to get dirty!

What should I bring & wear?

Download a full kit list: CFC Activity Kit List

Do you have showers for afterwards?

Yes! We have two shower rooms. The shower area and changing area are open plan in each room – not in cubicles.

Due to the communal showers we suggest that participants wear a swimming costume underneath their clothes when they take part in the course, and to keep the swimming costume on during their shower. The costume is also useful as before you go into the shower block we ask you to remove as many of your muddy outer clothing as you can. We like to keep as much of the mud as possible outside of the building!

How long will the course last?

It depends on the group. Most groups take 60 to 90 mins. This includes shower time. 

What is the age limit for Challenge Valley?

The lower age limit is eight and there is no upper limit. We’ve had pensioners over eighty years old conquer the course! Because it is a team activity and not a race, all participants are helped by other members of their group.

Will I be able to complete the course?

Challenge Valley is not a race. The focus is on getting muddy! If you’re in a group everyone helps each other. Challenge Valley is nothing like a hardcore ‘Tough Mudder’, it is the original muddy assault course!

The course is suitable for ages 8 years and over.

If you have any questions then get in touch before booking.

SAFETY

Are your staff qualified & are you inspected?

Clyne Farm Centre is a member of the Wales Trekking and Riding Association (WTRA). We are also a member of the British Activity Providers Association (BAPA). We hold a Riding School Licence from the City & Council of Swansea. All our staff have experience and qualifications to meet all criteria under the Riding School Licence and membership of WTRA & BAPA. Farm owner Geoff Haden holds a WTRA Riding School Operators Diploma. We adhere to all relevant legislation and guidance and are inspected annually.

We hold Public and Employers Liability insurance.

Staff hold enhanced DBS checks which are checked on an annual basis. Staff are first aid trained, and have completed safeguarding training. In addition, staff undergo regular internal refresher training. All staff are encouraged to develop professionally and to undertake external training relevant to their role.

Our self-catering cottages are inspected and rated by Visit Wales. We are an active member of the Professional Association of Self-Caterers UK (PASC).