Step aboard The Toad, a beautifully restored 1921 GWR brake van (AKA Toad Wagon), once a vital part of post-war goods trains.
Weighing 20 tons and brimming with original rustic features, this historic wagon offers characterful self-catering accommodation with a touch of luxury.
Enjoy your own private en-suite with hot shower, wood-fired hot tub, and peaceful soundtrack of birdsong and country life. The Toad makes a fantastic all-year-round base to explore the Brecon Beacons and beyond.
The space
Inside The Toad
We’ve lovingly restored and preserved the original interior of this GWR brake van, incorporating beautiful bespoke oak and mahogany features throughout. Many of the items inside have been sourced locally—including a fantastic authentic railway luggage rack found at Trecastle Antiques Centre!
While keeping its rustic charm intact, The Toad is fully equipped with modern comforts: WiFi, instant hot water and heating, outside lighting, and multiple charging points (including USB and a shaving socket) to make your stay relaxed and convenient.
Kitchen
The fitted kitchen includes a fridge/freezer, two-burner gas stove, brass sink with drainer and taps, kettle, toaster, and a full set of utensils for cooking. The Ekol Apple Pie wood-burning stove keeps the space cosy in every season.
(Initial firewood is provided for both the stove and hot tub; extra is available for £7.)
Bathroom
The en-suite bathroom enhances The Toad’s rustic appeal with a flushing toilet, small sink, and enamel shower, complemented by luxurious Myddfai toiletries, towels, and a hairdryer.
Living & Sleeping
Relax in a bespoke corner double bed after a day exploring the Beacons (with all bed linen provided).
Snuggle up in front of the fire on a winter’s evening or step out onto the balcony to enjoy the sunset or stargazing under the dark skies. Extra blankets are provided for chillier nights.
Outside Space
Set on original railway track and slightly elevated, The Toad offers a magical outdoor experience. Unwind in the chemical-free, wood-fired hot tub (off-grid and unconnected to electricity), or enjoy the private deck, patio, and garden with seating and a fire pit—perfect for watching the sun set or listening to the sounds of nature.
Your private garden is often alive with birdsong, the tap-tap of a resident woodpecker, the call of the cuckoo, and the occasional owl. Outside lighting switches are located at the base of the staircase.
(Initial firewood is included; additional can be purchased for £7.)
We look forward to welcoming you with a complimentary basket of tea, coffee, and a few tasty nibbles to get you settled in.
We hope you enjoy your stay in The Toad at Toad and Snail Glamping 😊
Guest access
Tucked away in your own private, secluded area within our grounds, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to a range of unique outdoor features. Take in elevated views from the train balcony, relax on the patio, fire up the BBQ, soak in the wood-fired hot tub, or cool off in the cold dip bath—and of course, you’ll be staying in a genuine train carriage!
Free parking is provided, and we’ve got a charming hay cart available to help transport your luggage across the field to the train. (Please note: you may be sharing the field with some friendly resident livestock.
Other things to note
How to Find Us:
Toad and Snail Glamping, Cray, Brecon, Powys, LD38YP.
From Brecon, follow signs for the A40 towards Sennybridge. Stay on this road for approximately 8 miles, then take a slight left just after the White House Country Inn, following signs for Ystradgynlais/Swansea (A4067).
After about 3 miles, you’ll reach the village of Crai. Turn into the village—the village hall will be directly in front of you.
Bear left, and you’ll see the Toad & Snail sign at the entrance to the field.
🅿️ Free parking is available. A hay cart is provided to help transport your luggage across the field to the train.
🐑 Please note: there may be friendly livestock in the field—please ensure the gate is kept closed at all times.
🗺️ Refer to the illustrated map in the gallery for visual guidance.
Local Amenities
Pubs (Approx 3 miles away):
The Tanners – Defynnog
The White House - Sennybridge
Usk & Railway – Sennybridge
The Coaching Inn – Trecastle
The Shoemakers - Pentrefelin
Nearest petrol station, post office, and convenience store are located in Sennybridge.
Public Transport:
The village has a bus stop with links to Brecon and Swansea via the T6 bus route.
