It’s not surprising that motoring enthusiasts head for Mid Wales when the traffic lights, and the congestion and the car parking charges get too much.

Appreciative owners of cherished and admired motor vehicles gain enjoyment and relaxation over the border where unstressed motoring is only surpassed by the stunning scenery.

One of the celebrated destinations for these rewarding runs is Abbey-Cwm-Hir, just 20 miles from Ludlow on the meandering roads near Rhayader.

Its superbly restored hall dating from 1834 is an excellent example of Victorian gothic revival architecture and enjoys a breath-taking location surrounded by wooded mountains.

Motorists on two and three, as well as four wheels have made a bee-line for the stately home, although the route is anything but straight, and that is a major attraction for drivers.

The hall at Abbey-Cwm-Hir offers elegant, refined surroundings both inside and out and is Grade II* Listed.

The restoration is a remarkable achievement carried out by Paul and Victorian Humpherston who bought the premises in 1997 and spent nine years lovingly recapturing its former glory.

Over the years it has emerged as an ideal venue for motoring groups all year round. The reasons are obvious.

“There is no where to compare with Mid Wales for enjoyable driving,” said Paul. “The lack of other cars and the challenging roads and driving conditions make a trip here extremely satisfying.

“The number of motoring clubs and groups coming to the hall is increasing every year. They are hearing about us by word-of-mouth and through club newsletters and that sort of thing. And we are getting a number of repeat visits.”

Mr Humpherston said one important aspect concerned the passengers of the car enthusiasts.

The hall has so much to interest them from hand-painted wallpaper to decorative plasterwork, stained glass ceilings, marble fireplaces, former domestic quarters and much more.

The collections include thousands of enamel signs and other transport memorabilia including a petrol pump, 1873 fire engine from Budapest, a BSA motorcycle, clocks, radios, phonographs and china.

Last year it was the venue for the Jaguar XK60 and 120 Diamond Tour as well a visit by the Dutch Jaguar Owners Club.

Other motoring marques which have, or will be, enjoying the delights of heading for the hall include Rolls-Royce, Austin Healey, Bentley, Morgan, Salmson, Sunbeam Talbot, Gordon Keeble, Triumph and MG as well as various makes of classic motorcycles.

Paul also mentioned the Topless International Touring Society (TITS) which was an eye-catching sight.