Imagine waking up in the same bedroom where Noel Gallagher penned "Slide Away," one of Oasis’s most beloved tracks. Picture yourself standing in the exact spot where the iconic cover for "Supersonic" was shot, right in front of the famous cartwheel doors at Monnow Valley Studio. If you're a music lover, especially a fan of Oasis, Black Sabbath, or even Queen, then Monnow Valley Studio is the ultimate destination to immerse yourself in rock history.
A Riverside Retreat Steeped in Musical Legacy
Monnow Valley Studio, nestled on the serene Wales-England border, is a place where legends were born. This riverside studio started its journey in 1976 when the 17th-century Old Mill House, then known as a rehearsal space for nearby Rockfield Studios, became a recording studio in its own right. Over the years, it has welcomed some of the most influential names in music, from Black Sabbath and Simple Minds to Biffy Clyro, Tom Jones and Phil Collins.
But perhaps one of its well known guests were Oasis. In the early 1990s, as Britpop was gearing up to take over the world, the Gallagher brothers, along with their bandmates, settled into Monnow Valley to record their debut album, Definitely Maybe. It was here, in the cosy and character-filled bedroom number one, that Noel Gallagher wrote the hauntingly beautiful "Slide Away." This room, like the rest of the studio, oozes with the creative energy of the countless artists who have worked here.
A Haunted Stay with Rock Royalty
Monnow Valley isn’t just a place to create music; it’s a place where stories are born. Liam Gallagher, known for his brash personality, has a tale that adds an extra layer of intrigue to the studio’s history. According to Liam, during their stay, he was haunted by a ghost in his bedroom. Whether it was the ghost of a rock 'n' roll past or just the eerie atmosphere of the old mill, it’s a story that adds to the studio’s mystique.
And then there's the infamous incident with the combine harvester. In true rock star fashion, Liam and some friends from The Stone Roses, who were recording their Second Coming album at the nearby Rockfield Studios, decided to "borrow" a combine harvester to go out partying. It’s these wild, larger-than-life tales that make Monnow Valley Studio more than just a recording space—it's a piece of rock history.
From Oasis to Queen: A Shared Musical Heritage
Monnow Valley's proximity to Rockfield Studios, just a short distance away, adds another layer of significance. Rockfield is where Queen recorded their masterpiece "Bohemian Rhapsody," and it’s where Oasis would return to record their second album, (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?. The two studios share more than just geography; they share a rich tapestry of musical innovation and history.
Recently, Noel Gallagher returned to Monnow Valley with Oasis’s long-time art director, Brian Cannon, to work on the artwork for the release of previously unheard versions of Oasis tracks. This visit, decades after the band first recorded there, is a testament to the lasting impact of the studio on the band's legacy.
A Studio with Stories to Tell
Monnow Valley Studio isn’t just for musicians anymore; it’s also a popular holiday let for those who want to experience its unique atmosphere first hand. Whether you’re a musician looking for inspiration or a fan wanting to walk in the footsteps of rock legends, Monnow Valley offers an unparalleled experience.
Staying at Monnow Valley isn’t just about reliving the past; it’s about being part of a living, breathing history. Every corner of the studio has a story to tell, from the ghostly encounters to the late-night jam sessions. It’s a place where the lines between myth and reality blur, where the echoes of legendary tracks still linger in the air.
So...
For fans of Oasis, Queen, or any of the countless other artists who have recorded here, Monnow Valley Studio is more than just a place to stay—it’s a pilgrimage. It’s a chance to connect with the music you love in a deeply personal way, to feel the same creative spark that ignited some of rock’s greatest hits. Whether you're exploring the countryside or simply soaking in the atmosphere, a stay at Monnow Valley is an unforgettable experience. So why not step into rock history and make your own memories at this iconic studio? Contact BHHL to create your experience.
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