Raglan Castle in the middle distance, Sugarloaf behind

6.7 miles away

Wye Valley Sculpture Garden - Brockweir, Chepstow, Monmouthshire

Nature

The Wye Valley Sculpture is the vision of artist Gemma Kate Wood which is an accumulation of a shared vision stretching over three generations. The story reaches back to the 1950's, to an organically run small-holding set up by her grandparents. Inspired by their reverence for the natural world, her parents- who are both botanists and ecologists- have been collecting plants and growing this garden for over 40 years. We still hold true to that Organic, Sustainable vison. In 2018 the Garden won a Sustainable Venue award.

10.3 miles away

Castle Meadows - Riverside Meadows, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire

Nature

Take a stroll past the castle and into the castle meadows which take you quietly past the River Usk and to the river bridge at Llanfoist a popular area for picnics, dog-walking, and handgliders landing from the Blorenge

11.6 miles away

Forest of Dean Mountain Biking - Gloucestershire

Nature

Offering professional guided mountain bike rides on the fantastic trails in the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley. Catering for all levels from gentle fun family rides to the more extreme routes that the area is famous for.

5.0 miles away

Clytha Estate Walks - Clytha, Monmouthshire

Nature

National Trust walks on the Clytha Estate in the Usk valley, including a 3.8 mile circular walk. The National Trust also covers walks to the peak of the Sugar Loaf and in the Usk valley.

6.5 miles away

The Angidy Trail - Tintern, Monmouthshire

Nature

A 5 mile circular walk along Tintern's Angidy Valley.

8.5 miles away

Picturesque Piercefield - Chepstow, Monmouthshire

Nature

A 6 mile walk through Piercefield Park, near Chepstow.

7.0 miles away

Tintern Hidden Histories - Tintern, Monmouthshire

Nature

An 11 mile walk (or trot, or cycle!) around Tintern and the Angidy Valley.

3.0 miles away

Dingestow Discoveries - Dingestow, Monmouthshire

Nature

A 5.5 mile walk, cycle or horse ride around rural Monmouthshire near Monmouth.

5.0 miles away

Whitestone, Whitebrook and the Wye - Monmouthshire

Nature

A 14.5 mile walk, cycle or horse ride around the scenic Wye Valley.

3.5 miles away

Trellech Beacon Walk - Trellech, Monmouthshire

Nature

An easy 3 mile walk, one of the 12 Easy Walks specially developed for anyone who wants to explore the Wye Valley at a gentle pace.

3.5 miles away

Craig-y-Dorth Walk - Monmouthshire

Nature

An easy 1.5 mile walk, one of the 12 Easy Walks in the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean.

5.1 miles away

Whitestone and Cleddon Falls Walk - Monmouthshire

Nature

An easy 2 mile walk, one of the 12 Easy Walks in the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean.

7.0 miles away

Brockweir Walk - Brockweir, Gloucestershire

Nature

An easy 2 mile walk, one of the 12 Easy Walks in the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean.

6.5 miles away

Great Tre-Rhew to White Castle Circular Trail - Monmouthshire

Nature

A Land and Legends trail: discover the history and legends associated with Monmouthshire.

6.5 miles away

Tintern to Penterry Circular Walk - Tintern, Monmouthshire

Nature

A Land and Legends trail: discover the history and legends associated with Monmouthshire.

4.0 miles away

Mitchel Troy Walks - Mitchel Troy, Monmouthshire

Nature

5 walks looping around the villages near Monmouth: Mitchel Troy, Wonastow, Lydart, Lloysey and Penallt.

10.0 miles away

Chepstow Countryside Walks - Mathern, Monmouthshire

Nature

3 circular walks across the villages and countryside just outside Chepstow, with an emphasis on the fascinating local history of the area.

5.0 miles away

Usk Walks - Usk, Monmouthshire

Nature

21 walks in and around the town of Usk, from 2 to 14 miles.

7.4 miles away

Wentwood Forest - Monmouthshire

Nature

Ancient woodland with routes, facilities and history to discover.

6.0 miles away

Geoffrey of Monmouth Trail - Monmouth

Nature

A 1.75 mile walk around Monmouth, suitable for all ages and abilities, from the Circle of Legends: lifesize sculptures of characters from Monmouthshire's past at Tintern Old Station.

11.0 miles away

Severnside Heritage Trails - Caldicot, Monmouthshire

Nature

3 walks celebrating the southern towns on the Gwent Levels: Caldicot, Magor and Undy, and Rogiet.

27.6 miles away

Kinnersley, part of the Black and White Trail, Herefordshire

Towns and villages

Kinnersley is a village in Herefordshire, England. Also hosts a grand 11 Castle

32.5 miles away

Leominister, part of the Black and White Trail, Herefordshire

Towns and villages

The market town of Leominster is located in beautiful North Herefordshire, at the heart of the Black and White Villages. The town and the surrounding villages make a perfect base for exploring the wonderful rolling hills of The Marches; the border land between England and Wales. Breath-taking views coupled with architectural delights, historic sites, wonderful gardens and great hospitality, make this a versatile destination for all.

32.3 miles away

Lyonshall, part of the Black and White Trail, Herefordshire

Towns and villages

Lyonshall was listed under the name Lenehalle the Domesday Book of 1086.[2] The entry reads: LYONSHALL. Walter holds from him. Thorkell held from Earl Harold. 5 hides which pay tax. In Lordship 2 ploughs; 3 villagers, 11 smallholders and 3 riding men with 5 ploughs. 5 slaves, male and female. From some men settled there 110d are given for as long as they wish. Value before 1066, 60s; now 50s. Lyonshall is listed as being in the land of Roger of Lacy in Elsdon Hundred. Other villages in the same Hundred were Hopley's Green, Woonton, Eardisley and Letton. Also listed in Domesday Book are the adjacent parishes of Kington, Titley and Rushock, all described as non-tax paying waste lands. To the east of Lyonshall lies Pembridge, which, like Lyonshall, is described as a reasonable sized manor. Lyonshall local dialect was recorded as part of the Survey of English Dialects.[3] The village's name was omitted from the list of localities in the published Linguistic Atlas of England but it is shown on the maps as site 7 in Herefordshire. Lyonshall Castle is a ruin in private ownership, with moat and outer enclosure covering about three acres. The building of the castle started in about 1090 when the Devereux family, sometimes referred to as d'Évreux or D'Ebroicis, held it as lords of the manor from Roger de Lacy. Lyonshall was important as one of the border manors of the Marcher lords. Its position, occupying a useful spot on the roads to and from Wales, attracted military interest, and many of the castle occupants continued to lead lives of national significance, often serving in the Royal Courts. Many of Lyonshall's lords have been significant figures, both famous and infamous. In 1322 the castle is mentioned as being part of the estates of Bartholomew de Badlesmere, 1st Baron Badlesmere, who was described on his execution as "a great Baron and as great a Rebel." After Magna Carta some of the Marcher Lords continued to be troublesome to the king. Bartholomew's only son, Giles, died without issue, Lyonshall becoming the property of his sister and co-heir Maud who married John de Vere, 7th Earl of Oxford who fought in the Battle of Crecy in 1346. In 1382 Lyonshall passed to Simon de Burley, a royal favourite. Introduced to court at a young age, he went to sea at the age of 14 to fight the Spanish, and he was a soldier until his capture by the French at Poitou in 1369. He was a court tutor, and his former pupil, Richard II, made him Governor of Windsor and Llanstephan, Master of Falconry and Keeper of the Royal Mews; he also received manors and estates in reward for his service. However, he was charged with treason by the Duke of Gloucester and although the king and queen personally knelt to beg for his pardon, he was executed on 15 May 1388. The castle ruins are on Historic England's Heritage at Risk Register due to their poor condition.[4]

32.5 miles away

Pembridge Village, part of the Black and White Trail, Herefordshire

Towns and villages

Vibrant black and white village, with fine almshouses & characterful 700-year-old New Inn. See the 16th century Market Hall. Visit St Mary's Church and its amazing pagoda-style belfry. Peruse modern art & craft at Old Chapel Gallery. Paddle & picnic at the pebble beach by the bridge. Enjoy delicious food at the nearby Cider Barn Restaurant. Pembridge once enjoyed the patronage of the powerful Mortimer family and the prosperity that went along with it. Quintessentially English, picture-perfect timber-framed buildings line the main street, with the house names giving away the buildings' original uses.

26.6 miles away

Weobley Village, part of the Black and White Trail, Herefordshire

Towns and villages

Pronounced 'weblee', follow the Heritage Trail to see excellent examples of timber-framed buildings, including cruck cottages and Wealden houses, as well as the place where Charles 1st stayed overnight during the Civil War. Look out for the pink and black house. Wander over to the fine church of St Peter and St Paul with its 185 feet high spire. Stroll around the remains of Weobley Castle

32.5 miles away

Kingsland, part of the Black and White Trail, Herefordshire

Towns and villages

The village church was built during the reign of Edward I (1239–1307) by Edward, Lord Mortimer and is dedicated to St Michael.[2] To the west of the church are the earthwork remains of a motte-and-bailey castle, known to locals as 'The Mound'. Mortimer Park, located just outside the village, is home to Luctonians Rugby Club who currently play in the fourth tier rugby union league, National League 2 West.[3

25.6 miles away

Ledbury

Towns and villages

Stroll Ledbury's historic streets, cobbled lanes and tiny alleys to find fantastic boutiques and heritage highlights, from the distinctive Market House to the 16th century Painted Room. Woods and orchards surround the town, with footpaths winding into the Malvern Hills and along Marcle Ridge. Cider producers and vineyards are dotted nearby, as well as the stunning Eastnor Castle and Hellens Manor. Literary luminaries, including Elizabeth Barrett Browning and John Masefield, were enamoured with this beautiful area. And the local love affair with words endures, thanks to Ledbury Poetry which hosts an annual festival and events throughout the year.

12.7 miles away

Ross-on-Wye

Towns and villages

The Market House in the centre of town houses an gallery upstairs. Underneath you will find the market on a Thursday and Saturday which spills out on to the adjacent apron. It is the focal point for gatherings such as the Christmas Lights Switch on. In the town centre you will find numerous places to eat offering something for every taste. You can relax in a restaurant or a traditional teashop and there are fast food outlets, pubs, coffee shops, icecream shops and pavement cafés.

Sarnesfield, part of the Black and White Trail, Herefordshire

Towns and villages

Sarnesfield is a village in the W of the county, 11 miles NW of Hereford. The two manors into which it was divided at the end of the 14thc are now represented by Sarnesfield, site of the church and the remains of Sarnesfield Court (demolished in 1955), and Little Sarnesfield, with a moated site, 1 mile to the NE. St Mary's consists of a chancel with a S chapel, a nave with a narrow S aisle and a S porch, and a W tower. The nave is 12thc, and the aisle was added before the end of that century. The tower was added c.1300, and the S chapel in the 14thc. The church was restored by G. C. Haddon in 1869-70, and again (apparently undoing most of Haddon's work) by Roland Paul in 1906-07. Sarnesfield belonged to Leominster Priory before it was dissolved in the Confessor's time, and was given by William I to Roger de Lacy. Gothmund held it from Roger in 1086, and it was assessed at 1½ hides. By 1109 it was held by Philip de Sarnesfield from Hugh de Lacy, and it remained in this family until 1394 when the male line failed. At this time it was divided between the two daughters of Nicholas de Sarnesfield; the Sarnesfield manor passing to the Monington family and Little Sarnesfield to the Bromwich family

Hay-on-Wye

Towns and villages

Hay-on-Wye has become world famous for its secondhand and antiquarian bookshops. Founded by Mr Richard Booth in 1961, it has become the World's largest Secondhand and antiquarian book centre. Some of the bookshops specialise whilst others carry general stock. The larger bookshops are open 363 days a year and during the summer, stay open until late evening. You can view a list of Hay's bookshops HERE. The annual Booksellers (and related business) leaflet is available from our downloads page in PDF format. Hay Castle In May 2022, Hay Castle opened its doors to the public for the first time in its 900-year history, following a major 10-year restoration project. The castle is one of the great surviving defence structures on the border of England and Wales, and preserves the Richard Booth Collection, which was established as a tribute to the self-declared King of Hay. The castle and the beautiful grounds are striking spaces for private and community events, as well as hosting a programme of exhibitions, musical and dramatic performances, workshops, performing arts, and cultural activities.

4.1 miles away

Monmouth Town - Monmouthshire

Towns and villages

Monmouth, the UK's first Bee Town, nestles in the tranquil lower reaches of the beautiful Wye Valley and has been a centre for tourism since 1780. Well known for its iconic 13th century gatehouse bridge, Monmouth has a famous past with its connections to Henry V, Geoffrey of Monmouth and (more recently) Queen, Oasis & Simple Minds who all recorded at Rockfield studios. Monmouth is also renowned for its independent shops – don't miss Bees for Development, Fingal Rock, Atelier Gilmar and Salt and Pepper. It has restaurants to suit all tastes and plenty of opportunities for a coffee in a café in a quiet courtyard. Make sure to visit its Georgian Shire Hall & Museum, Ance Hill Vineyard, The Savoy Theatre, Rockfield Studios and The Kymin. The most famous, is probably Monmouth County in New Jersey. This is where the longest and largest battle of the American War of Independence was fought. There is also the Monmouth Rebellion in the 17th Century, in which the Duke of Monmouth tried to overthrow his uncle, James II. And of course King Henry V.

10.4 miles away

Abergavenny - Monmouthshire

Towns and villages

Discover locally-produced food, great places to stay and fantastic scenery – the beautiful Black Mountains are the backdrop to Abergavenny in the south east corner of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The town is a great base for walking, cycling and just enjoying the great outdoors. With its annual Abergavenny Food Festival, the town is also mecca for foodies – and there are plenty of gorgeous gastro pubs, ancient inns and restaurants to try in the surrounding countryside too. The town has regular markets where you can buy quality produce grown locally too. Abergavenny has history and heritage in spades – come and explore our castles, medieval mansions, Roman remains and standing stones. We've got the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal on our doorstep and the Blaenavon World Heritage and Big Pit mine are just up the road.

6.1 miles away

Bigsweir Fishery - Lower Wye, Monmouthshire

Activities

Salmon Fishing in the Wye. Situated right opposite The Florence – 9 beats – Booking essential – call for details.

23.8 miles away

Brecon Mountain Railway - Merthyr Tydfil, Wales

Activities

The line runs from Pant, 3 miles North of Merthyr Tydfil, to Torpantau following part of the route of the original Brecon & Merthyr Railway which closed in 1964. Travel from our Main Station at Pant in one of our all-weather Observation Carriages, behind a vintage Steam Locomotive. The 9.5mile return journey takes you into the Brecon Beacons National Park, through Pontsticill and along the full length of the Taf Fechan Reservior before climbing to Torpantau high in the Brecon Beacons and the summit of the original line.At our main station in Pant you can visit our Licensed Tearooms for refreshments, gifts and souvenirs are available from our Shop. You can also visit our Workshop where the Steam Locomotives and Carriages are repaired. All trains travel non stop from Pant to Torpantau. All returning trains from Torpantau stop at our intermediate station in Pontsticill where you can visit our Lakeside Cafe, admire the view or go for walks alongside the reservoir, there is also a children's play area here.

0.5 miles away

Dark Skies Stargazing

Activities

Highcloud Farm the hilltop retreat of a world explorer, it has with tall carved totems and artifacts from the farthest corners of the earth. High Cloud has panoramic views, woodlands with a grotto, a stream, a jogging track, and a heated outdoor swimming pool. An enormous night sky, on clear night you may see the Milky Way, comet showers or shooting stors, even the Northern Lights. Best dates for Northern Lights are Oct 22 and Nov 7. A good aurora notification app such as Glendale will alert you when sightings are possible. To photograph the Northern Lights, use a long exposure of 3 to 4 seconds, this absorbs more night light and shows the colours of the aurora which, to the naked eye, may simply be grey and cloudy. If using a smartphone, put in Night mode. Use tripod if available. For all star gazing experiences, avoid a full moon, its light blots out the stars. You can check the Moon phases and rise and set times for your location on the Time and Date website or using a smartphone app such as Lunescope. Plan your stargazing session for a time when the Moon is out of the way. Some constellations are seasonal and are therefore only visible at certain times of the year so make sure you've done your research before heading out. You can use the free Stellarium app, star chart or planisphere. The British Geological Survey (GBS) website gives information on forecast cosmic activity. Best time for star gazing at High Cloud September to February. In Sept and Oct you can relax floating in the heated swimming pool watching the sky. If you would like to book an astronomical expert, guided star-gazing sessions are offered to help you explore the beauty and mystery of the night sky. For this, and for tailor-made star-gazing experiences, please contact Allan Trow: https://darkskywalestrainingservices.co.uk/contact. Please request that he brings his large telescope if wanted.

9.6 miles away

Forest Hills Golf Club - Coleford, Gloucestershire

Activities

Super Greens & challenging holes for players of every level. 6300 yard par 72 Golf Course. Memberships available, visitors welcome on the Course and in the Bar. Conference & Wi-Fi facilities.

19.9 miles away

Grange Trekking & Riding - Abergavenny, Monmouthshire

Activities

The Grange Trekking Centre was established in 1957 by David Griffiths and his wife Mary, a pioneer in horse and pony trekking. Now, in later years it is run by his daughter and granddaughters. Sadly David passed away in 2002 but would be proud in the knowledge that the day-to-day running of the centre is done by three generations of the Griffiths family. We have about forty five horses, many of whom have been with us a long time, some are youngsters, BFGs or companions and all of them are part of the family. The staff who take out the rides are friendly, cheerful, qualified, and all have first aid training. The centre is accredited by Wales Trekking & Riding Association, AALA and Visit Wales, and has a yearly inspection with Powys County Council.

8.2 miles away

Inspire2adventure - Monmouthshire

Activities

Paul and Liz started Inspire2Adventure as a small family business back in 2005 when we also welcomed our daughter into the world - a big year for us! At this time Paul had worked in the outdoor adventure industry for over 20 years and was working on a freelance basis when we decided to start our own adventure activity business. With his knowledge, experience and qualifications combined with living in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty it was the perfect time. Fast forward 15 years and we now offer many outdoor adventure activity experiences in Monmouthshire, Forest of Dean & The Wye Valley. You will probably meet Paul when you arrive for your activity session, and Liz looks after things here at base. Our strength is in providing adventurous activities that are of a high quality experience creating an atmosphere that is fun, challenging and promotes participation by all. We cater for all ages and abilities with instructors who have professional experience to adjust activity days to suit.

6.1 miles away

Monmouth Canoe Hire and Activity Centre - Monmouthshire

Activities

Monmouth Canoe Hire and Activity Centre

11.2 miles away

Pedalbikeaway - Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire

Activities

Pedalabikeaway is in the heart of the Royal Forest of Dean. Bike hire, cafe and workshop we have every thing for the forest day out with friends and family.

9.9 miles away

Wyedean Canoe Hire - Herefordshire

Activities

Family run Canoe & Kayak hire centre, catering for both adults and children. All levels of experience are catered for with qualified instructors and expert tuition. Great for team Building, Corporate Days or just a family fun day.

19.5 miles away

Brock Moorhead - Alpaca Walking

Activities

We offer your group an exclusive alpaca walk which is a great way to learn about these interesting animals from South America. After meeting the animals your group will walk with them for about 45 mins when there is plenty of opportunity to interact and learn more of their personalities, Walks finish with a chance to hand feed your new friends, meet our other interesting animals and find out a little about their fibre and what we do with it. We can accommodate groups of between 2 and 5 people.

3.8 miles away

Cute Farm Experience - Monmouthshire

Activities

Set in an idyllic location with stunning views across to the Black Mountains of Wales, an experience with us is worth it for the views alone. Why not try one of our Cute Experiences; Whether walking alpacas, cuddling miniature donkeys or having a cwtch with the worlds cutest sheep, you are guaranteed a day out with a difference and certainly something to tell your friends. We are not a petting farm or open to the public, these are private experiences, by appointment only. Our experiences vary in price and time and are ideal for the whole family. With large barns, and straw bales at hand, our experiences are available in all weather; rain or shine.

24.5 miles away

Over Farm Park - Gloucester, Gloucestershire

Activities

Soak up the great outdoors in beautiful surroundings at our farm park, just a mile north of Gloucester city centre. Acres of adventure await, with so much for all the family to enjoy and all the fresh air in the world. Tickets include entry to our quad trains, tractor trailer rides, bouncy pillows, mini golf, play areas, animal trails and much much more. Generally speaking though, Countryside Adventure is open most weekends and for special seasonal events during the school holidays. Use this page to find out what's happening throughout the year and book tickets, and if you've ever got any questions just give us a buzz on 01452 341510.

8.9 miles away

Perrygrove Railway - Coleford, Gloucestershire

Activities

Perrygrove Railway Adventure offers visitors multiple train rides alongside extensive play areas, aimed at children under 10. We are a dog friendly attraction. There is a café onsite selling great coffee, tempting cakes, local ice cream, sandwiches and pastries.

1.8 miles away

Raglan Farm Park - Monmouthshire

Activities

We have over 40,000 sq foot of undercover indoor space, with 7 'soft play' themed areas. Play areas cater for age ranges from 18 months to 11 years… Outside there are zip wires, swings, slides, roundabouts, trampolines, 'ride-on' tractors and go-carts! There are 'astro-turf' paths around the park, so, even if the ground is damp, you won't be!

31.6 miles away

Small Breeds Farm and Owl Centre - Hererfordshire

Activities

Discover the animals at the small Breeds Farm Park set in a glorious rual environment, you have an unique opportunity for a close encounter with many rare, miniature and vaey special friendly animals. We have Pygmy Goats, Miniature Horses and Donkeys, along with Guinea Pigs, Rabbits, Degus as well as a wide range of waterfowl and poultry. Plus over 30 breeds of owls.

9.8 miles away

Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo - Symonds Yat, Herefordshire

Activities

Here at Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo we are not just passionate about butterfly conservation, we really work at it. We support sustainable Butterfly Farming worldwide through trade: This devalues collected specimens and preserves rainforest and other habitats. We have our own Nature Reserve commissioned from Barnaby Millard, Conservation Landscape Architect, and manage the banks of The White Brook to ensure biodiversity. We control our impact on global warming by heating the Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo with pelletised biomass, a renewable fuel

9.8 miles away

Wye Valley Miniature Golf - Symonds Yat - Herefordshire

Activities

A twelve-hole roman ruin fantasy set in spectacular scenery in the Wye Valley. An outstanding outdoor course with all-weather artificial-turf fairways. The design unites a picturesque roman ruin theme, retro minigolf style and adventure golf features for ultimate playability for all ages. Everyone loves the challenge of minigolf, and this course is a real leveller so you never know who'll win. Where else can children beat their parents with a club in a fair contest? This course is accessible for wheelchair users with assistance. Ball-lifting aids and soft or short putters are available, so that even a toddler can play.

23.4 miles away

Ellesmere Riding Centre - Wales

Activities

Since 1966, our small family-run centre has been offering Spectacular Riding in the Heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park - come and experience it for yourself

16.5 miles away

Harts Barn Cookery School - Longhope, Gloucestershire

Activities

The School runs hands-on cooking courses, demos, seasonal events and themed cook and dine evenings. It also offers; regular cooking clubs, after-school clubs and holiday activities and themed parties for children and adults. Membership packages are available for year-round discounts.

6.1 miles away

Monmouth Leisure Centre - Gym & Swimming Pool - Monmouthshire

Activities

Monmouth Leisure Centre. Make sure you take advantage of new pool, spa/sauna, indoor play area for children, and excellent gym and cafe while you're staying nearby.

Angel's Animal Ark - Rescue & Sanctuary, Fownhope, Herefordshire

Activities

We are located in Herefordshire, a short distance away from the village of Fownhope. Herefordshire Miniature Horses, Animal Rescue & Sanctuary, Alpaca's & Reindeer. What we do: Many of the animals you see on your visit are rescues or owner relinquishments. We have also on occasion purchased animals from inadequate homes with unadvertised issues to ensure they have a good home and a soft landing. ​ We try our best to never turn down an animal in need of a safe home. Any support in caring for these animals is gratefully received. In particular we are always in search of grazing land locally, especially over winter, and we always welcome donations of hay. ​

14.4 miles away

The Beavis Memorial Ground - Cinderford, Gloucestershire

Activities

Cinderford Rugby Club is in the top 40 Rugby clubs in the UK. Come watch and let us entertain you and cheer along with the 100s of home crowd supporters, whilst enjoying a view of the Forest of Dean from pitchside.

11.6 miles away

Caerleon Roman Fortress and Baths - Newport, Monmouthshire

Heritage

Caerleon or Isca, as it would have been known as in the 2nd century, is an ancient Roman complex. Today it has been partially excavated and restored as a museum, boasting the most complete Roman amphitheatre in Britain and to host the only remains of legionary barracks on view in Europe. The site also once hosted a temple, heated changing rooms, both cold and warm baths, a covered exercise space and even an outdoor swimming pool. The very impressive remains contain intricate brickwork, stone carvings and mosaics; a great opportunity to view some ancient history, right here in Wales.

9.5 miles away

Chepstow Castle -Chepstow, Monmouthshire

Heritage

The stones of this magnificent clifftop fortress trace 900 years of history Beautifully preserved Chepstow Castle stretches out along a limestone cliff above the River Wye like a history lesson in stone. There's no better place in Britain to see how castles gradually evolved to cope with ever more destructive weaponry – and the grandiose ambitions of their owners. For more than six centuries Chepstow was home to some of the wealthiest and most powerful men of the medieval and Tudor ages. Building was started in 1067 by Earl William fitz Osbern, close friend of William the Conqueror, making it one of the first Norman strongholds in Wales. In turn William Marshal (Earl of Pembroke), Roger Bigod (Earl of Norfolk) and Charles Somerset (Earl of Worcester) all made their mark before the castle declined after the Civil War. These magnates and power-brokers were constantly on the move. Chepstow was just one residence in their vast estates – an impressive shell into which they would bring their gold and silver vessels, rich silk and brightly painted furniture.

11.6 miles away

Goodrich Castle - Goodrich, Herefordshire

Heritage

Standing in scenic countryside above the River Wye, Goodrich Castle is one of the finest and best preserved of all English medieval castles. Boasting a remarkable history and unforgettable views from the battlements, it promises a great day out for all the family. The life of the castle itself began in the 11th century, soon after the Norman Conquest. Strategically placed along the border, Goodrich remained in royal hands until 1204 – when King John awarded it to the famous William Marshal. Sir William was honoured as 'the best knight in all the world' and made his fame and fortune by winning prizes at tournaments."

11.6 miles away

Grosmont Castle - Grosmont, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire

Heritage

This 13th century castle still holds a commanding presence today. Although it is far from its original condition, there is enough intact for you to get a good sense of what it may have looked like. Surrounded by a moat, you are required to walk across a bridge to get access inside. Once within, you can easily visualise what was once, with a well preserved fireplace set within the walls and the footings of the great hall.

3.8 miles away

Lost City of Trellech - Trelleck, Monmouthshire

Heritage

Lost City of Trellech Hello there and welcome to the home of the Lost City Of Trellech. Our aim is to excavate, record and better understand the development of Trellech that was once the largest settlement in medieval Wales. We believe that archaeology should be educational, open to everyone regardless of age or ability and most importantly, enjoyable. ​

2.0 miles away

Raglan Castle - Raglan, Monmouthshire

Heritage

A very impressive castle with lots to explore, from the grand entrance gates, to the maze of dungeons below - Raglan's twists and turns will evoke the explorer in everyone. You can scale up almost 100 steps to reach the highest point, from where you can keep look out from the towers above. Or take a look in the visitor's centre, where a intricately carved wooden panels of the Tudor reign are on display. Toilet facilities are also on sight, as well as it being friendly for dogs, with a gift shop and adequate parking.

8.8 miles away

Skenfrith Castle - Skenfrith, Monmouthshire

Heritage

This 13th-century fortress whilst is in ruin is still relatively well preserved. With a well intact central keep and towering walls that hug the closeby River Monnow. Free to visit and open all year round, just be aware that parking is limited.

6.9 miles away

Tintern Abbey - Tintern, Monmouthshire

Heritage

The best preserved Medieval Abbey in all of Wales is Tintern, nestled in the south of the Wye Valley and beside the River Wye. Although it is without its roof, the rest of the building is mostly complete, with impressive arches, and high walls that dwarf anyone who wanders within. This enormous building is at one with nature, and a perfect place to set out on a walk to explore this area of outstanding natural beauty.

7.6 miles away

White Castle - Whitecastle, Abergavenny

Heritage

Abergavenny is rich in its history, with lots of impressive architecture that has stood the test of time. White, or Llantilio, Castle, is it's largest of what is often referred to as the 'The Three Castles'. Considered as one of the most complete castle ruins in Wales, it has a large moat and impressive pillars within its walls, that loom over those who approach. A fascinating location, which is ideal as a picturesque backdrop to any picnic, dog walk, stroll or family day out.

5.9 miles away

The Nelson Museum & Local History Centre, Monmouth, Monmouthshire

Heritage

The Nelson Museum & Local History Centre