If you have decided to change your lifestyle based on the freedom of working from home that might now be open to you as a consequence of the Covid-19 pandemic, you might be tempted by the lure of a more peaceful life in the country or near the coast.
But if you can't quite detach yourself from living in a city, then maybe the smallest city in the UK might be a perfect blend, at least on paper.
In reality, St Davids is no ordinary city - no concrete jungle constructions or rush-hour gridlock, although the charming, winding streets through the historic location do get busy during the holiday season. Instead, St Davids is a charming city in Pembrokeshire that oozes a unique history that drapes itself over the area, emanating from the incredible cathedral.
READ MORE: The pretty stone terrace with outstanding sea views that's full of extra surprises
According to the website for St David's Cathedral, there has been a church on this Pembrokeshire site since the 6th century, offering daily prayers for the past 1500 years. St David was born in the year 500, the son of St Non and a prince of Ceredigion, and during his lifetime he founded a monastery on the site, with the present-day cathedral construction beginning in 1181.
The cathedral's long and colourful history includes the site coming under attack from Vikings and being visited by William the Conqueror seeking prayers. It's been visited by royalty through the ages too, and even suffered a collapse of the tower in 1220 and damage by an earthquake in around 1248.
The cathedral was declared a centre for pilgrimage by Pope Calixtus II in the 12th century and it was at this time the shrine to St David was constructed close to the high altar. The Pope also stated that the shrine was so important that two pilgrimages to St Davids were equivalent to one to Rome, and three were equivalent to one to Jerusalem.
Wander down any of the quaint streets in the tiny cathedral city and a mix of country cottages, converted former commercial stone buildings and grand Georgian facades happily rub shoulders together, along each eclectic street scene that are each a visual delight.
St Davids has a charming central square flanked by beautiful period properties and dotted with unique and boutique shops, cafes and restaurants.
And if a day at the beach is a desire, there is an embarrassment of coastal riches to choose from along the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path - each family-friendly beach and hidden cove offering a gem of a seaside experience.
The city is one of Wales' most loved gems for its location, character and, of course, history - all of which this pretty stone cottage for sale can enjoy from its prime position.
Whilst most cities claim their most expensive areas as being based on amenities, facilities, school catchment, community and open spaces, this city can add proximity to the world-famous cathedral as an extra and unique category.
To live near the historic site adds value to a house here, but to have an uninterrupted view of it because it is at the end of your garden is rare. It's a prime piece of real estate indeed to look out over the cathedral and few can claim such a prize. Those who can infrequently come to market and can command a premium price.
Some house hunters might be so desperate to live in the shadow of this unique historic site and landmark ancient structure that they will consider any type, style or price of property just to bag the best position in the city.
But with this charming stone cottage on Goat Street there's no compromise, it's an attractive home that oozes character inside and out as well as its cathedral location.
Through the enticing blue and stained glass front door and pine-clad porch and into the lovely and welcoming hall that sings its charm loudly via exposed stone wall, stripped wood staircase, exposed ceiling beams and flagstone floor; it's a cracking start to the tour.
First room to give you a hug with its charm is the kitchen at the front of the house, with more exposed stone, wood beams and slate tile floor. These instantly appealing features create the perfect period cottage backdrop for the pale blue Rayburn range and classic country-style pine kitchen units that include a traditional plate rack and open shelves.
Of course there's a farmhouse kitchen breakfast table and chairs in the centre and, of course, it's a gathering hub of the home; but it's not the only one.
Either via the hall or through the connecting door from the kitchen, the lounge at the rear of the cottage is another visual and physical delight where people are drawn to gather. The slate floor continues from the kitchen to ensure visual flow and connection between the rooms, even when the door is closed.
The whole wall of stone and central fireplace both add to the tactile and nature based feel of this room, with familiar warmth oozing from the traditional and comfortable decor as well as the fire itself. It feels inviting and welcoming and somewhere you could easily and happily gather with the family or sit in solitude reading a good book.
Through glass doors in the far wall, the cottage has the bonus of a generous and sunny conservatory, and again the decor is slate and stone, wood and classic design. This addition to the house is a triumph, adding extra floor space to the layout and creating a wonderful spot to enjoy views of the cathedral, whatever the weather throws at its glass roof.
Step out into the garden from this bonus room, or from the end of the hallway, and the garden is as full of character as the house. From the large flagstone terrace that flanks the house, wander through a garden gate to get you to an ornamental stone patio area and then up a step to a sizeable paved patio.
It is a perfect viewing platform for the cathedral and its surrounding, historic site, with the countryside rolling off to the horizon that includes the easily recognised Carn Llidi rocky outcrop. And what a wonderful sight it is, centuries of history at the foot of the garden, the cathedral seeming to rise up out of the landscape and dominate the sky.
Surely many hours of relaxation in the shadow of one of Wales' most magnificent and majestic landmarks have been enjoyed on this raised terrace, gazing at the awe-inspiring structure and absorbing the distinctive ambience that the cathedral emits.
Wandering back into the house, the upstairs is calling and from any of the rear rooms the view is elevated to the next level; literally. You may be further away from the cathedral, but the panoramic view is remarkable and a rarity that only the sprinkling of homes that cluster around the religious site can call their own.
The traditional family bathroom and double bedroom at the front look out over the winding and characterful street scene, just a few minutes stroll from the city's picturesque central square. Each bedroom can boast stone walls and a calm, country vibe, with the master at the back enjoying a dual aspect of the cathedral.
But if you want top of the spots, then climb a surprise extra staircase into the third bedroom hiding in the converted loft to find the most mesmerising prime view within this property that can boast a prime location.
The cottage on Goat Street that is not kidding when it can claim to have one of the best views in the city, is on the market with a guide price of £545,000 with estate agents JJ Morris, call their Fishguard branch on 01348 873836 to find out more. And to make sure you never miss the best dream homes in Wales, renovation stories and interiors, join the Amazing Welsh Homes newsletter, sent to your inbox twice a week.
