Officers' Mess

4.3 ( 68 Reviews )

3.3 miles W of Little Haven

Sleeps 2 | dog friendly

From £77 per night

Quirky house with a hot tub in Pembrokeshire: Take a trip back in time with a stay at our lovingly restored former WWII military building. Just a mile from the beach this is a truly unique and special retreat for two, plus your four legged friend.

Overview

This quirky Second World War building has been carefully transformed into a cosy, coastal hideaway. Since the 1940's the officer's mess has had a real makeover from its former days as a top-secret Radar Station. As you step through the door you are transported back in time. The characterful interiors echo the captivating history of this eccentric hideaway. A warm atmosphere fills each room with a comfortable mix of historic features and modern-day comforts. We promise you; you will have never experienced a stay like this before! It's definitely off-the-well-worn-path and of course, a little bit special.

Step Inside

Sleeping two guests this hideaway is idyllic for a romantic break away and your dog is also warmly welcomed. There's a double bedroom with a king-sized bed, perfect for long lazy lie-ins. The kitchen has everything you need to prepare delicious, indulgent meals and you also have the option of lighting the barbecue and dining alfresco! The sunroom can be accessed from the patio which has wonderful far reaching rural views. The perfect spot to enjoy a 'sundowner'. With a small dining table, armchairs, atmospheric lamp lighting and coal effect fire, this space makes a perfect addition to your holiday experience.

Outdoors

Enjoy cosy moments by the wood-burner or outside around the fire pit, as the stars light up the night sky. Or why not pour yourself a glass of bubbles and sink into the hot tub and unwind after a day full of adventures. The patio transforms into the most dreamlike setting at night. With the fairy lights lit, the fire pit roaring and the hot tub bubbling, you will find yourself in a magical haven, a whole world away from everyday life. Officers' Mess is the perfect year-round coastal retreat with an abundance of unique charm that you are sure to fall in love with.

Explore

Pembrokeshire provides the most magical base for your holiday. Uncover exquisite coastlines, rolling surf, tumbling hills and fairy tale landscapes. Few places offer such immense variety as Pembrokeshire. Rich in history, diverse in culture, with overwhelming beauty, sparkling seas, and natural landscapes, rated by National Geographic magazine as the second-best coastline in the world. You're in for a timeless treat.

Located in the midst of the Pembrokeshire coast, there are so many glorious beaches to explore. The tiny, sheltered cove of St Brides Haven is just down the road and the magnificent Marloes Sands is less than five miles away. Ramblers will be in heaven as the coastal path is accessible by foot, down a farm track to Mill Haven, a tiny cove frequently visited by seals. The Coastal Path meanders above craggy coves, stretches of golden sandy beaches and through idyllic seaside villages, perfect for pub lunches or traditional cafes en route. Or you may like to take a trip up the coast to St Davids to soak up the relaxed vibe and mystical presence. Visit the majestic Cathedral, galleries, and boutique shops or for surfers, popular Whitesands Beach is close by. The closest seaside villages are Little Haven and Broad Haven, where you can find a well- stocked supermarket with a bakery, a Post Office, beach shop, cafes, pubs, and restaurants.

The sheltered anchorage of Dale is four miles up the road, a paradise for those who love water sports. Try paddle boarding or windsurfing, a tasty lunch in the award-winning Griffin Inn or just relax and unwind in the fresh sea air. Try surfing at West Dale or Newgale. And for that extra special day, a boat trip to Skomer Island from nearby St Martins Haven is an absolute 'must do'

Layout

Porch
Open plan living-room with kitchen and dining areas. Smart TV, Bluetooth speaker and wood-burner. Gas hob, gas oven, microwave, fridge/freezer, tumble-drier and Nespresso machine
Bedroom with king-size double bed (5') and en suite Shower-room with shower, WC and wash-bain

Extra Information

Babes in arms, under six months old, are accepted at the Officers' Mess. *A cot is not provided, bring your own travel cot.

Officers' Quarters (4759) is another hideaway nearby, sleeping four (pet free). Officers' Mess is detached. Please note all guests have complete privacy.

More Details

  • 1 Pet welcome
  • Short breaks available
  • Hot tub/Outdoor bath
  • Wood-burner/Open fire
  • Private parking for 2 cars
  • WiFi
  • No smoking
  • Pub 4 miles
  • Garden furniture and barbecue
  • 3 electric thermostatic radiators

Availability, reservations and pricing: From £77 per night

Need more time? Reserve any hideaway for up to 24 hours before booking Choose to pay the balance in monthly instalments, once you've paid the deposit
available unavailable

Officers' Mess Reviews

4.3

(68 Reviews )

Good or bad, we publish all the reviews left by the guests who have stayed at this property. Reviews policy

40 written reviews

Michelle

4

December 2025

We had a lovely 12 night stay. Very peaceful and beautiful walks locally which suited us and the dog perfectly.
The cottage was very comfortable, had everything we needed and we liked the 1940s decor. The owner gave us a fantastic tour of the adjacent radar rooms museum.
Best holiday we've had for years.

Reply from Unique Hideaways:

We're thrilled to find this was your 'best holiday' for years! It was wonderful to see how much effort and attention the owners have given in re - creating this historic site and your tour of the radar rooms must have been fascinating. Sarah, Customer Support

Alison

4

September 2025

Quirky hoilday home in a quiet location based on ww2 accommodation. Lovely enclosed patio area with hot tub. Plenty of beaches within a short driving distance. The owner very helpful and on hand if needed. Will be coming back and highly recommended.

Karen

4

July 2025

If you love your history. This is definitely the place for you. John and Julie's efforts ooze their love and passion for the place. We loved every minute. We went back in time with John's amazing tour of the radar rooms, and relished every minute. To think we have stayed in the original officers mess is truly humblingThe hot tub, was a real added bonus. The ablutions room, the comfy bed, the views, the stars at night , the tranquility. I could go on forever. We are still smiling. Also the beautiful places around it and the closeness to the beaches. Seriously please put this place on your bucket list. You won't be disappointed and John & Julie are lovely ??

Gillian

4

June 2025

Fantastic location, feisty hot tub & best fire pit ever. Wound up the gramophone and drank complimentary sherry on arrival! Such a comfy bed, well equipped kitchen. We absolutely loved it and will definitely return.

Jon

4

May 2025

If you are interested in WW2 history and in particular RADAR stations, this is an ideal place to stay. The owner has recreated the atmosphere and an exhibition of what it was like during that time. John will give you an enthusiastic tour of the building and how he has gone about the recreation.

Hilary

5

May 2025

So different. The Officer's Mess is a delightful comfy, well equipped adaptation of part of the former RAF Ripperston GCI site, that evoked past memories of Service life in the 1950's yet gave us all the features of modern living but in an unobtrusive way. Our hosts were informative, attentive and most welcoming and deserve great credit for their achievements of restoration throughout the site.

Melanie

5

April 2025

We loved our stay, it was so peaceful. It was an excellent base to visit the surrounding villages, which were beautiful, especially Monroe, Little Haven and broad Haven.
The property was really comfortable and the owners were so nice. The history of the property was so interesting.

Philip

4

December 2024

This is a wonderful place for a couple wishing to explore Pembrokeshire. The history of the buildings and its pivotal role during WW2 is fascinating. The accommodation is well appointed throughout. The neighbouring towns and villages within a short driving time of the property provide a range of services for eating and drinking out whilst at the same time enjoying some breathtaking views. Well worth a visit!

Adrian

5

September 2024

Lovely, comfortable accommodation, well equipped with everything you could possibly need for a relaxing break away from it all. Tucked away, but with easy access to local walks and beaches, with plenty of tourist attractions within a 30/40 minute drive. We shall return.

Jo

5

August 2024

We absolutely loved the Officers Mess, it was the perfect blend of old & new, comfortable sofas & bed, tv & wifi, but with authentic touches which made it a different experience to your average holiday home. It was so peaceful, we slept really well & the hot tub after coastal walking was much appreciated. The history was really fascinating and we were very grateful to the owner John for an informative tour of the site, the restoration is a huge project and a labour of love.
We hadn't realised what a stunning part of the world we were staying in! Our first time in the area, we found it wonderfully quiet and unspoilt with beautiful beaches, views and wildlife - we were lucky to see seal pups and choughs from the clifftops. Very good cafes/pubs in the area too! We will definitely return.

marianne

2

July 2024

If you are interested in WWII history this is an interesting place to stay.

Mark

5

June 2024

Different but very nice holiday let in a quiet location. With the interior decor it was like staying in a living museum, and fantastic to learn the history of the buildings. The Officers Mess is well laid out with plenty of space for 2 and all the things that you would need for a comfortable stay. Hot tub was a nice luxury that we really enjoined after a long days out walking. Nice secure garden so we didn't need to worry about our dog. The Puffin shuttle runs past the location (which you can hail rather than having to wait at a bus stop) which makes the Officers mess perfect for getting the bus to the nearby bays and villages. John (the owner) was an absolute gent and made sure that we knew where everything was when we arrived.

David

3

June 2024

You will enjoy the location, the privacy and the access to some of Wales' best bits for country walks and seasie activities. However, the property is not as comfortable to stay in as we would have liked and we found it hard to relax into fully, so for us sadly we will not be returning to Officer's Mess.

Reply from Unique Hideaways:

We're sorry to read that the some aspects of the property weren't quite right for you. We hope you enjoyed exploring this stunning part of Pembrokeshire. Julie, Customer Support

Maureen

2

May 2024

I have given honest personal feedback based on our experience but I realise the set up of Officers Mess may suit others so for that reason I will not leave a review to be placed on your Webb site.

Sarah

4

May 2024

The Officers Mess was a fascinating property to stay in. It was lovely and peaceful and full of atmosphere.
The owners who live nearby were very helpful, friendly and informative.
John gave us a wonderful tour of the the rest of the buildings which were used as an RAF Radar station in WW2. John has lovingly restored many of the other buildings near to their original state. He has obtained a vast amount of original artefacts which show exactly how the radar station operated. Anyone who is interested in WW2 history would find John's knowledge and the development of radar which played such an important part during the war absolutely fascinating.
The Officers Mess is also an excellent location for exploring the beautiful surrounding countryside and coastal paths of Pembrokeshire.

Reply from Unique Hideaways:

Thanks for sharing your lovely review. We're so pleased that you enjoyed you stay and the very special tour arranged by the welcoming owners. We do hope that we can welcome you back in the future. Julie, Customer Support

Peter

4

October 2023

A unique property offering all the facilities for an excellent holiday

Reply from Unique Hideaways:

We're so pleased you enjoyed your stay and would love to welcome you back in the future. Julie, Customer Support

M

4

September 2023

There was an excellent file of information covering the accommodation and equipment, the surrounding area and also the history of the place. I notice that some of the literature referred to in the file was available, though I did not have time to read it. This all added to the experience.

C

5

July 2023

Officers Mess is a great property and we had a wonderful time!

K N

5

May 2023

Quirky, cosy hideaway with great outdoor facilities. Lovely owners who gave us a tour of the site.

Emma

5

February 2023

Thanks for an lovely stay, the cottage was perfectly equipped with everything you could need. The outdoor space was an amazing bonus, stargazing in the hot tub a must.
Location fab, between plenty of beautiful beaches. Quiet roads, easy to get around.
House lovely and warm in a chilly late feb.
Thanks to our hosts for such a lovely stay and the tour of the radar station was fascinating.

Mik

5

January 2023

Absolutely amazing concept. The cottage is authentically decorated with 1940s decor but also every modern requirement including full size fridge freezer. Very comfortable bed, nice private garden and hot tub, The added bonus of a museum at the top secret radar station with guided tour, was excellent. The owners John and Jane can be very proud of such a unique property, and are lovely friendly and helpful people.
One tip . The sat nav area is very large , at the fork go left.
Some fantastic walkable paths to St Brides, Broad haven and if you feel fit Newgale.

Reply from Unique Hideaways:

We're thrilled that you had such a fabulous stay at Officers' Mess and appreciated this amazing and unique property. I'm sure John and Jane will be delighted by your comments and look forward to welcoming you back soon. Julie, Customer Support

Susan

4

September 2022

A fascinating place with lots of history which added another dimension to our holiday.
The owners were so knowledgeable about the history of RAF Ripperston and happy to show us around which was amazing and really enjoyable. The atmosphere and decor in the Officers' Mess was undeniably 1940's with modern touches to make it a cosy and comfortable stay. Lovely views from the hot tub!

Elaine

4

September 2022

We spent a fantastic week at this property. Our hosts were incredibly welcoming and it was a really smooth check-in. We so enjoyed the 40's atmosphere in the property and the little touches which made it feel so authentic. We were blessed with glorious weather and the garden was a perfect little oasis to unwind in the afternoon sunshine after some gorgeous walks in the local area. We really enjoyed reading in the sunroom, sitting outside by the firepit in the evening enjoying the most incredible star display and relaxing in the hot-tub. It was so private and quiet and we would really recommend this place to anybody who wants a rural, relaxing holiday with good walking all around to enjoy. The cafe at Runwayskiln was a real find as were the village stores at Marloes! The local beaches are all stunning and we had a lovely evening meal out at The Castle in Little Haven.
Thank you for sharing this precious space!

Meriel

4

September 2022

A very interesting place to stay. Plenty of original details but still relaxing and a cosy atmosphere. We enjoyed being shown round the historic radar station, it is a very unique experience. The location is very peaceful but there are lovely seaside villages and places to eat nearby.

Alistair

4

July 2022

Terrific blend of 1940s decor/ambience and modern facilities/comfort. Ideally suited for exploring the local area and with the wonderfully sheltered St Brides cove just a half hours walk for swimming.

Mark

5

July 2022

My wife and I had a perfect 30th wedding anniversary at the officers mess.
Thank you John and Jane for welcoming us to your 5 star property.
Everything was first class, inside and out.
Location was great for St brides and the coastal path, plus many more within a few miles.
All in all a fantastic week .

Tony

5

July 2022

Really loved the 1940s decor and atmosphere of the place on arrival. All the RAF touches make this a really unique place to stay. It’s funny how all the brilliant mod-cons like the hot-tub, Smart TV, Bluetooth speakers and the modern kitchen don’t detract from the overall vibe of this perfect time capsule. We especially enjoyed outside space with a choice of places to sit without it feeling cluttered. Lunch at the table, laying down on the sun loungers, relaxing in the big whicker chairs, or enjoying the hot tub. Add to that the bonus of the sun room and you’ve got a truly versatile space for enjoying the summer. All the indoor furniture is really comfortable too. Would definitely look to book again.

Reply from Unique Hideaways:

Thanks so much for your lovely review- we're thrilled to read how much you thoroughly enjoyed your stay. It sounds like you really made the most of the stunning outside space and we're delighted to hear that you would love to return. We're looking forward to welcoming you back soon. Julie, Customer Support

Ann

5

June 2022

The cottage is in a great location with easy access to the coast and surrounding countryside.
The owners have done an excellent job to include all of the modern day requirements and still maintain the 1940s feel and look of the property.
We would highly recommend this cottage.

Esther

5

June 2022

Our stay was fabulous, everything as described on the website. The location is perfect for walking the coast path and seeing this beautiful corner of Pembrokeshire.
We would wholeheartedly recommend the Officer’s Mess as a wonderful, relaxing and comfortable place to stay.

Sandra

5

June 2022

Loved, loved, loved staying at the Officers Mess. Jane & John have done an amazing job sympathetically restoring this building whilst keeping its history. The furnishings were very nostalgic, reminding me of my grandparents home, especially the relaxing ticking of the clock. There are lots of modern comforts though, the hot tub, bbq and sun beds were great 21st century additions.

The property is in a very rural location. Lovely walks from the door along the coastal path, but you will need to use your car to reach shops and restaurants. You can buy milk direct from a farm about a mile away which we didn’t because we stocked up from a supermarket, but would have if we’d known about it.

Jane & John are very welcoming hosts and nothing is too much trouble to make your stay amazing. Thoroughly recommend.

Julie

5

May 2022

The Officers Mess is in such a beautiful location, with so many beaches, coves and costal walks on your doorstep, the accommodation is well thought out and equipped for your every needs. Would highly recommend.

Surrinder

5

April 2022

Met the owners, so friendly, helpful and knowledgeable X
Super information manual about local amenities and places if interest. Fabulous location for walks, great privacy, would love to come again x

Carolyn

5

February 2022

Absolutely fantastic stay, with very welcoming owners that could not do enough for us. The raw untouched coastline along with the fabulous rich history and importance of this building, makes it a very special place indeed. The perfect cosy get away for people who love to explore the coastline. Looking forward to coming back in October and staying in Officers Quarters.
Lauren + Bruce

C M

4

January 2022

An interesting period property with lovely owners, who have worked tirelessly to recreate it's fascinating history. Well-equipped and comfortable with a private and sunny outside space.We enjoyed our stay.

Reply from Unique Hideaways:

Thank you so much for letting us know what a fabulous stay you enjoyed at Officers' Mess. We're delighted to hear how welcoming you found the owners and we hope that we can welcome you back again soon. Julie, Customer Support

Sharon

4

September 2021

Wonderful cottage, beautifully & sympathetically restored, in a lovely location, far from the madding crowd. Close to the stunning Pembrokeshire coastline, with some great walks, including the sweet little St Brides beach just down the road. We very much enjoyed discovering the local area: Little Haven, Dale, St Martin’s Head (where we saw huge colonies of seals) & Broadhaven. St David’s was a short drive away, with Solva along the coast. South Broadhaven beach, Barafundle Bay & Stackpole were also not far.
In better weather, would have loved to have sat outside, in the secluded patio area, but hopefully another time!
Thanks to Jane & John, we found the history & background to the Radar Rooms fascinating!

Reply from Unique Hideaways:

How wonderful to hear what an amazing time you enjoyed at Officers' Mess. It really is a unique property in a stunning area. Thank you so much for your recommendations. We hope that we can welcome you back soon so that you can enjoy the lovely patio area in the sunshine. Julie, Customer Support

Jill

4

September 2021

What a privilege to stay in such a unique property, the attention to detail is amazing, it was fascinating talking to the owners and finding out more.
We loved the surrounding area, the beaches are beautiful and our highlight was a day trip to Skomer.
I’m sure we’ll be back!!

Stephen

5

August 2021

We had a fantastic stay and would highly recommend both Pembrokeshire and the Officers Mess. Thanks

Sue

2

August 2021

Not happy for you to publish, I add this as contructive feedback that hopefully will be considered. I don't want to put others off as this cottage does have potential.

J

5

July 2021

A very unusual property with interesting RAF memorabilia in a very tranquil setting.

Andrew

4

July 2021

The history of the RAF radar accommodation was amazing. John and Jane who are the owner put their passion in restoring the place to make you feel you are in the 1940s era and keeping the essence of the place. Playing the gramophone was a delight. They are very accommodating and friendly. Sunset view from the rooftop was amazing. It's the best place to explore the area. St Brides beach is the nearest and nicest swim and you BBQ on the beach and watch the sunset. 10 drive minutes You got Little Haven, Broad Have. Next to it Druidstone Beach is the best quite beach. We also travelled to Stackpole to do the Wildlife walk then you got Barfundle beach then the Broadhaven beach and the Lily Pond was magical in which is along the circular walk. You do explore Solva and visit the harbour and buy lobster or crab from Mrs Fish and Something Fishy. Then drive towards St David's cathedral, had a swim in Whitesand Beach then went for mackerel fishing. It was a break that was truly relaxing and every second of it. John and Jane were very lovely and helpful. Highly recommend for couple who loves to walk, adventure, 40s, nature and just chill and relax. We love our stay and highly recommend, and we will be back in the near future.

Reply from Unique Hideaways:

Thanks for your lovely comments regarding your recent stay. We're so delighted that you enjoyed your time at Officers' Mess and very much look forward to welcoming your back in the near future. Julie, Customer Support.

Located 3.3 miles W of Little Haven powered by the classic guide

Location

The location of attractions is intended only as a guide. Distances are 'as the crow flies'.