Bron-Yr-Aur

Bron-Yr-Aur is an 18th-century cottage on the edge of Machynlleth in mid-Wales. The name means ‘hill of gold’ in Welsh and it sits above the Dyfi Valley with wide views of the surrounding countryside. The cottage is privately owned and best known for its links with Led Zeppelin. In 1970 Robert Plant and Jimmy Page went there after a long tour to write new songs. They worked without running water or electricity, using the quiet setting to create music. The cottage became a retreat where Plant, Page and their small group could live simply for weeks. Plant’s wife Maureen, their young daughter Carmen, Page’s girlfriend Charlotte Martin and two roadies joined them. Page later said the time together changed how they worked and inspired future travels for ideas. Several Led Zeppelin tracks trace back to Bron-Yr-Aur, including “Friends,” “Bron-Y-Aur Stomp” and “That’s the Way” from Led Zeppelin III. Other songs like “Over the Hills and Far Away” and “The Rover” also came from this stay. Visitors find a plain stone cottage set in open countryside with sweeping valley views. Inside, the rooms are small and plain, matching the rustic feel of the 18th century. The garden and nearby paths lead into quiet woods where Plant once walked his dog. The cottage’s name appears on two Led Zeppelin songs, one a gentle acoustic piece and the other a lively hoedown. Though the interior is private, the outlook and history draw those who appreciate the band’s creative roots.