A historic Pembrokeshire country mansion, with origins which can be traced back to the 15th century, has given up the secrets of its intriguing past during a major restoration programme.

The Grove, an 18th century country house near Narberth, which was designed in part by leading Welsh architect, John Pollard Seddon, had fallen into disrepair when it was bought by Neil Kedward and Zoe Agar.

“There was water pouring through the roof and into the basement and there were plants growing through the windows,” says Neil.

Neil and Zoe fell in love with the grade II listed property and have restored it as a luxury boutique hotel, being careful to retain the original features.

During the restoration, they stumbled across a vast array of artefacts which give clues to the property’s past.

One perfectly preserved birthday card dated March 3rd, 1883, which had slipped behind an original Georgian fireplace, bears the words ‘With Aunt Blanche’s love and good wishes to Little Mandy’.

Other artefacts were found in the grounds by Pembrokeshire stonemason, Andrew Haines, a keen amateur archaeologist who spent most of his lunch hours searching for relics.

He unearthed a range of bottles, musket balls, ornate shoe buckles and bronze pieces which have yet to be identified.

Neil says the area behind the house proved to be a real treasure trove for Andrew.

“He didn’t have to look too hard because in years gone by the area behind the house was where any items the family no longer needed were discarded,” says Neil.

The Georgian L-shaped house was extended in the late 19th century when a hall, staircase, lounge, master bedroom and library were added.

This enlargement was designed by notable architect, John Pollard Seddon, in the neo-gothic Victorian style, heavily influenced by the arts and crafts movement, which is still very much in evidence today.

Neil and Zoe have been meticulous in preserving the original features.

The house has Georgian fireplaces in every room which had been specifically commissioned for the property, and all have been restored. One proved a particular challenge — it was in 30 pieces but was painstakingly pieced back together again by fireplace restoration expert Patrick McGrath.

“Pat has kind of turned his hand to everything and has also restored the wonderful staircase amongst other things,” says Neil.

Pick up this month's edition of Pembrokeshire County Living for more on the Grove.