✅ How to book your XL Escape

If you would like to book a table at Penelope's Cafe Goytre Wharf, please call 01873 880899. For more information, please click "Book Now" to visit their website.

Kim & Chris Ewen

We are SO excited to welcome you to our home! As the founders of XL Escapes, we pour our hearts into creating a space where you can relax, unwind, and make lasting memories.

With two rescue dogs—Holly from Bosnia and Buddy from All Bullie Rescue—and Nala, our beautiful ginger cat (and undisputed Queen of the house), we understand how important it is to feel not just at home, but truly content and relaxed—especially when traveling with your furry companions.

Our goal is to offer more than just a holiday; we want to provide a home away from home where you can escape daily pressures, have a laugh, and enjoy quality time with loved ones. Whether it’s a cosy night in, exploring the local area, or simply making time for yourself, we’re here to make your stay special.

If you have any requests—big or small—just let us know. We’re always happy to help (and we love an excuse to bring a smile to your face, drink in hand, of course!).

Cancellation Policy

We understand that plans can change, and we’ve designed our cancellation policy to be as fair and transparent as possible.

If You Need to Cancel

More than 5 weeks before arrival: You’ll receive a full refund, including your deposit.
5 weeks or less before arrival:
- 5 weeks or less: 30% of the booking is charged.
- 4 weeks or less: 40% of the booking is charged.
- 3 weeks or less: 60% of the booking is charged.
- 2 weeks or less: 85% of the booking is charged.
- 1 week or less: 100% of the booking is charged.

How Refunds Work

If you’re entitled to a refund, it will be processed promptly and returned via the same method of payment.

Need Assistance?

If you have any concerns or extenuating circumstances, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help and will always try to find a solution that works for you.

Payment Details
At XL Escapes, we strive to make the booking process as straightforward and secure as possible. Here’s how it works:
Deposits

A 20% deposit is required within 7 days of booking to secure your stay.

XL Escapes Booking Fee

We charge a small 5% booking fee, which is significantly lower than other major platforms.

Remaining Balance

The remaining balance, including any refundable breakage deposit (if applicable), must be paid 4 weeks before your check-in date.

Secure Payments with Stripe
All payments are processed through Stripe Connect, a trusted and secure platform. Your funds are safely held with Stripe until after your check-out date. This extra layer of protection ensures peace of mind for both guests and hosts. Your payment details are always handled securely, so you can book with confidence.

Check-in and Check-out

Check-in: 4 PM
Check-out: 10 AM
We can’t guarantee early check-ins or late check-outs, but our housekeeping team will update us on their progress. If the property is ready early, you can let yourself in. Similarly, if no one is arriving immediately after, a later check-out might be possible—just message us on the day to check availability.

Pets

Dogs of all breeds and sizes are welcome. 🐾
The garden is fully enclosed to keep your furry friends safe.

Hot Tub

The hot tub is for your exclusive use. It will be freshly cleaned and ready when you arrive. Please follow the usage guidelines provided in the welcome book to ensure it remains in top condition.

Parking

Parking is strictly on the driveway only.
Do not park on the grass or the private road, which is also used by neighbours.

Gatherings and Events

Small, private gatherings are welcome, but parties are not allowed.
Be respectful of the property and neighbours during your stay.

What’s included in the booking?

We provide:

Fresh bedding and towels
Tea, coffee, sugar, sweetener, and coffee pods
A raw doggy hamper (treat your furry friends!) 🐾
Dog-friendly essentials like bowls, poo bags, and towels
A welcome hamper to make you feel right at home
Access to the luxury hot tub

What amenities are nearby?

Owl and Otter Gastro Pub and Restaurant: A 10-minute walk away. Dog-friendly with great food, cocktails, and a beer garden boasting stunning views of the Derwentside Valley.
Boutique cafes: Two charming cafes just a short walk from The Chase.
Local shops: Two within walking distance and larger supermarkets only a 10-minute drive away.

What are some recommended activities nearby?

Beamish Open-Air Museum: A dog-friendly, fantastic day out for all ages. Explore history, meet animals, and enjoy a unique experience.
More local attractions: Ask us for our Local Recommendations Guide before booking to discover even more options in the area.

Can I book The Chase for special events?

Yes! If you’re planning a small celebration or gathering, let us know so we can help accommodate your plans. Please note that large parties are not allowed.

Meet Your Hosts

We have an XL Bully and one of our staff has two. We have a few regular Bullies visiting and they always receive a big warm welcome, as we know how awful it is for them wearing a muzzle and having to be on a lead constantly when all they want is to run like other dogs.

XL Escapes Peace Of Mind Promise

Every business you see on XL Escapes has confirmed to us that they welcome XL Bullies. Before being listed, we ask the questions we'd want answered ourselves — from real experience living and travelling with XL and reactive dogs. That includes confirming they are happy to host XL Bullies, that their listing details are accurate, and that they've considered their own legal and insurance responsibilities. We don't assume. We don't guess. We ask — and they confirm. If anything changes or a business doesn't stand by what they've told us, we take it seriously. If a business listed on XL Escapes turns you away because of your dog's breed, contact us. We will review it, remove them if necessary, and refund your membership.

Cancellation Policy

Home Rules & Useful Information

Penelope's Cafe Goytre Wharf

⚲ Goytre Wharf, Abergavenny

Dedicated dog room · All breeds including XL Bullies welcome · Doggy menu · Dog beds, water bowls & wall tethers · Dogs allowed on settees · Outdoor seating & grassy areas

We are a café situated in the beautiful Goytre Wharf, surrounded by canal boats and trip boats.

We serve hot and cold meals, alcohol and Sidoli's ice cream, as well as barista coffees and hot chocolates.

Book Now

Full Property Description:

We are situated next to the Mon & Brec Canal, with a marina, loads of grassy areas and plenty of outdoor seating. We're just five minutes off the main A4042 road, which runs from Abergavenny to Pontypool. During the good weather, we have live music outside and we also hold craft fayres three times a year.

About This Listing

This property is owned and managed by the host. The information below is provided by the property owner and confirmed as accurate by them.
XL Escapes publishes this information to help guests make informed decisions and does not own or manage this property.

Full Property Description:

Paw of Approval

Photos from real stays, with dogs who gave it their paw of approval.

Got a question about this holiday home?

Amenities:

Dog-Friendly Details That Matter

All dog breeds are welcome, including XL Bullies. Penelope's Cafe has a dedicated dog room where you can dine with your dog. The dog room has five settees and tables, with seating for 21 people. Dogs are allowed on the settees in the dog room. Water bowls and dog beds are provided. Wall tethers are available in the dog room. There is a little doggy menu available. Dogs must be kept on leads. XL Bullies must wear their muzzle in line with legal requirements. The outdoor space is not fully enclosed. There are 11 tables outside and heaps of outdoor space. There are other animals on site, although further details have not yet been provided. The café is in a rural environment. There is a small forest within walking distance of the café. The owners have not yet confirmed whether the café is suitable for reactive dogs and would like to discuss this further.

Neighbourhood Overview:

Penelope's Cafe is situated in the beautiful Goytre Wharf next to the Mon & Brec Canal. The café is surrounded by canal boats and trip boats, with a marina, grassy areas and plenty of outdoor seating. The surrounding environment is rural and there is a small forest within walking distance of the café. The café is around five minutes from the A4042, which runs from Abergavenny to Pontypool.