Former stargazing observatory in stunning part of Wales is going to auction

Wales Online

14-05-2025

Former stargazing observatory in stunning part of Wales is going to auction
If you want a stunning location and a unique property, this place can deliver
Definitely one of a kind property hiding somewhere in the Wye Valley
(Image: Paul Fosh Auctions )
Property auctions have become well-known for selling some of Wales' most unusual homes, buildings and land but surely not many can compete with this house going under the hammer that comes with an unexpected bonus.
The detached property in Monmouthshire, situated in a stunning historic rural setting and described as 'out of this world', is set to go under the hammer.
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The former observatory in Trellech village, once frequented by astronomers and sky-watchers, has been grounded by its current owners. This unique dwelling, which in the past lured stargazers worldwide to scan its clear skies for distant celestial bodies, has now been transformed into an ultra-luxurious abode that impresses from every angle. For more property stories sent to your inbox twice a week sign up to the property newsletter here.
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According to website BBC sky at night magazine in an article written by journalist Jon Powell in 2017 about his visit to the observatory in 1990, the observatory was under construction at the time.
How the building looked when it was an observatory before it was converted into a home
(Image: Paul Fosh Auctions )
It was considered to be in a perfect spot for stargazing, located about 1,000 feet above sea levels and enjoying amazing views of the Wye Valley as well as the Black Mountains in the Bannau Brycheiniog Brecon Beacons national park mountain range, now both certified International Dark Sky Reserves.
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Comes with about three acres of land
(Image: Paul Fosh Auctions )
At the time of construction the building's primary objective was to provide a 'not-for-profit observatory with access for all interested in the night sky' including school trips.
According to Jon Powell, the observatory showpiece comprised a 6-metre observatory dome housing a telescope as well as a camera obscura, which 'allowed an image of the surrounding countryside to be projected onto a circular table allowing many to see the spectacle all at once'.
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Entrance still has the observatory 'welcome' visitor sign
(Image: Paul Fosh Auctions )
The article goes on to state that the project at Trellech moved to Knighton, Powys and developed into The Spaceguard Centre. But back in Trellech in the present day, the former observatory has been wholly converted into a spacious five-bedroom, four bathroom home that is now going to auction.
Gemma Vaughan, from Paul Fosh Auctions who are handling the sale, commented: "The observatory is truly out of this world in terms of space, accommodation and luxurious finish to its rooms and its rural setting.
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The former observatory room is now a games room with a normal ceiling
(Image: Paul Fosh Auctions )
"The interior space of not just one but two dwellings is complemented by the simply superb grounds which have been meticulously cultivated over recent years into a quite awesome and remarkable expanse of outdoor space.
"The former observatory can only now be recognised as its former use by a sign, which has been retained on an inside wall, and the former observation cupola which has been converted into a comfortable lounge.
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The lounge is a unique shape too
(Image: Paul Fosh Auctions )
"The observatory, as a whole, offers extensive living accommodation all set in some three acres of fabulous gardens, lawns and woodland in the sought after location of Trellech, in the heart of rural Monmouthshire."
Due to its configuration, which is a horseshoe-type shape, the property could be used as two separate dwellings. In total the observatory currently offers five bedrooms, two bathrooms, two ensuites, two kitchens and two sizable reception rooms and a central courtyard. There are three storage sheds and a carport.
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Plenty of character in the kitchen diner
(Image: Paul Fosh Auctions )
Gemma goes on to say that the observatory, located within the famous Wye Valley National Landscape, has feature fireplaces and a wood burning stove, benefits from double glazing, oil fired central heating, three outbuildings and a carport and if that's still not enough, there is also further off-road parking for several vehicles.
Outside, the home sits within about three acres of gorgeous gardens and grounds enveloped in nature that includes woodland and a paddock that allows the observatory to become your own smallholding offering a home for animals, birds and pets too and, of course, a clear and mesmerising view up to the starry night sky.
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Five bedrooms and four bathrooms inside this spacious home that is still a perfect place to gaze up at the night sky
(Image: Paul Fosh Auctions )
The property is roughly five miles from Monmouth, known for its excellent schools, boutique shops and eateries as well as boasting the river Wye as a neighbour - a popular spot with residents and tourists for enjoying a myriad of outdoor activities on land and water including canoeing, kayaking, biking, hiking, riding and rowing.
The Observatory, near Trellech, Monmouthshire is up for sale with a guide price of £660,000-plus with bidding opening at noon on Tuesday, May 20 and ending 17:36 on Thursday, May 22, call 01633 254044 to find out more. For more property stories join our Amazing Welsh Homes Facebook group here.