A Royal Connection at Tyn y Big

Hidden amongst the rolling countryside of the Llŷn Peninsula, Tyn y Big Estate has a rich history stretching back centuries. But perhaps one of its most intriguing chapters involves a rather unexpected royal visitor.

According to longstanding local accounts, Princess Margaret, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II, stayed at Tyn y Big on several occasions during the years before our family purchased the estate in 1968.

The stories even suggest that a nearby road was closed to protect the princess from the attention of the paparazzi, making the secluded country house an ideal royal retreat.

Before becoming our family’s much-loved country home, Tyn y Big was owned by the Rt Hon Giles St Aubyn (1925–2015), a distinguished historian, author and Eton schoolmaster with connections to the Royal Family.

A Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature, St Aubyn was a friend of the Queen Mother and had tutored Prince William of Gloucester. He was also a prolific writer who enjoyed escaping to the Welsh countryside to work on his books.

His mornings were reportedly devoted to writing, while afternoons were reserved for walks, friends and entertaining.

It was during this period that Princess Margaret is said to have visited Tyn y Big on several occasions.

Known for her glamorous social circle and her desire for privacy away from official royal engagements, the princess would have found the peaceful Welsh countryside a welcome escape from public attention.

Surrounded by ten acres of private grounds, open fields and woodland, Tyn y Big offered a secluded setting, tucked away from passing traffic and the outside world.

Perhaps the most remarkable part of the story concerns an old road that once ran past the fields at Tyn y Big, connecting the surrounding countryside towards Rhiw and Bryncroes.

According to local recollections, the council closed and blocked the road specifically to protect Princess Margaret’s privacy during her visits, preventing photographers and curious onlookers from approaching the property.

The closure reportedly made Tyn y Big virtually paparazzi-proof, allowing the princess to enjoy her time in North Wales away from the cameras and attention that followed her elsewhere.

With ten acres of private grounds and countryside stretching out around the house, the estate was already naturally secluded. The reported road closure would have made it an even more discreet retreat.

In 1968, Tyn y Big was purchased by Sidney Noar, beginning a new chapter in the estate’s history and its connection with our family.

The sale also included St Tudwal’s Island West, the small island with its historic lighthouse lying off the coast near Abersoch. Once part of our family’s property holdings, the island is now owned by the adventurer and television presenter Bear Grylls.

For nearly six decades, Tyn y Big itself has remained in our family, with successive generations enjoying its beautiful surroundings and caring for its historic buildings and grounds.

Over the years, the estate has been sympathetically restored and modernised, while retaining many of its original features, including traditional stone walls and exposed beams. The oldest parts of the house are believed to date back around 300 years, offering a wonderful connection to the area’s rural Welsh past. The stories of Princess Margaret’s visits belong to an earlier chapter, but they remain a fascinating part of the estate’s heritage.

Tyn y Big is surrounded by some of North Wales’ most fascinating historic landscapes.

From the medieval ruins of Criccieth Castle to the ancient pilgrimage routes towards Bardsey Island, the peninsula is rich in history, heritage and remarkable stories.

Explore the beautiful coastal village of Aberdaron, visit St Hywyn’s Church overlooking the sea, or discover the historic house and gardens at Plas yn Rhiw.

For more inspiration, read our guide to Historic Places to Visit on the Llŷn Peninsula.

Today, Tyn y Big remains a wonderfully private country retreat, surrounded by ten acres of gardens, fields and woodland, with seven bedrooms and spacious accommodation for up to 13 guests.

With parts of the house believed to be around three centuries old, original stonework, exposed beams and historic character sit comfortably alongside modern comforts.

As you relax by the fire, wander through the grounds or gather around the table with family and friends, it’s wonderful to imagine the generations who have enjoyed this house before — including, according to local stories, a visiting princess seeking a peaceful escape from the royal spotlight.

Discover the charm, history and tranquillity of Tyn y Big for yourself.

The Secret Royal History of a Remote North Wales Property – Daily Post

Giles St Aubyn LVO – Royal Society of Literature