wye valley and vale of usk

8/13/2019 Wye Valley and Vale of Usk

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Wye Valley &Vale of Usk

THE WALES COAST PATH STARTS HERE200 years on the Mon & Brec canal

Supper club: the secrets out

The Art and Craft of gardening

An alternative Olympic-sized challenge

21st century land girls shape thefuture of farming

Visitor Guide 2012

Monmouthshire & Newportvisitwyevalley.com


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What a wonderful thing: to walkthe entire length of a countryscoastline, to trace its every nook,cranny, cliff-face, indent and

estuary. How better to trulyappreciate the shape andsoul of a nation?


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Lonely Planet one of the worlds leading

travel publishers has described the Welsh

coastline as the greatest region on Earth

to visit in 2012, ahead of some of the

worlds most iconic destinations. Lonely

Planet author Sarah Baxter wrote of Wales

selection in first place: What a wonderful

thing: to walk the entire length of a countrys

coastline, to trace its every nook, cranny,

cliff-face, indent and estuary. How better to

truly appreciate the shape and soul of anation? Well, in 2012 Wales will become the

only country in the world where you can

do just that.

The Path links a pre-existing network

to new stretches that have been built over

the past five years, with significant input

from enthusiastic walkers. Derek Shottin is

one of the Countryside Volunteers who, for

many years, has supported the work of the

local council by keeping an eye on several

footpaths near his home. New to his care

is a 3-mile stretch of the Wales Coast Path

between Portskewett and Mathern, andone of his recent jobs was to install the first

Wales Coast Path marker disks on the route.

What will this new walking route mean

to the area and Chepstow in particular?

The official starting point will inevitably be

a popular place to begin walking. Even if

people arent intending to cover the entire

Wales Coast Path they may like the feeling

of having begun at the beginning. And for

many walkers, itll be an entirely new stretch

as several miles of new footpath have been

created along the Severn Estuary. Chepstow

already sees large numbers of walkers on

the Offas Dyke Path or the Wye Valley Walk,

and the town is working hard to improve itsoffer to walkers. Soon Chepstow hopes to

be part of the Walkers are Welcome network

of towns across the UK, says Derek.

Unlike some of the high mountain

walks in this region, the Wales Coast Path

should attract a steady number of walkers

throughout the entire year. Whenever

visitors come, they may be surprised by

the wealth of wildlife in this area. Up to

90,000 wading birds and wildfowl visit the

Severn Estuary because, with one of the

highest tidal ranges in the world, it has

ideal over-wintering conditions. And with thepath passing through the RSPBs excellent

reserve at Newport Wetlands, the route

has year-round wildlife interest, Derek says.

The initial 5-mile stretch of the Wales

Coast Path was opened last autumn with

the unveiling of two stones at its starting

point near the Old Town Bridge in Chepstow.

A similar pair of stones one of pennant

sandstone from the Forest of Dean and

one of halkyn marble from Flintshire

will eventually stand at the other end of

the Wales Coast Path at Queensferry. To

enhance the monoliths in Chepstow a piece

of artwork has been commissioned from a

local ceramicist. This work will celebratethe Wales Coast Path and its link with the

Offas Dyke Path.

Derek wonders how long it will be

before the first person walks along the entire

border of Wales, not just the 870 miles

of the Coast Path but also the 177 miles

of Offas Dyke Footpath which runs along

the border with England. Its a brand new

challenge. I bet someone will conquer it

before too long! says Derek. Simon Calder,

the Travel Editor at the Independent, agrees,

pointing out that the completion of the

Wales Coast Path, particularly added to theOffas Dyke path, means this is one country

that you can walk all the way around and

I think thats a tremendous offering to put

to the world.

Chepstow the entrance to Wales is now the starting pointfor a walking route that runs along the countrys entire coastline.The Wales Coast Path, which officially opens in May, stretchessome 870 miles from Chepstow to Queensferry in North Wales.

Lets start at thevery beginning

3visitwyevalley.com

Left to right:

Countryside Volunteer Derek Shottin passes the iconic landmark of the Severn Bridge linking Wales and EnglandInstalling the Wales Coast Path marker discs

The path passes through Newport Wetlands

A beautiful walk year-round


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BridgesThe Wales Coast Path offers

spectacular views of the Severn Bridge

(opened in 1966) and the Second Severn

Crossing (opened in 1996), iconic landmarks

linking Wales and England.

Black RockA popular picnic site next to a

long-gone railway line that used to take

passengers out on a wooden pier, to where

ferries crossed the estuary to Bristol. Its the

place to spot the lave net fishermen who are

passionate about keeping alive one of Wales

less well-known traditions. They wade out

into the fast flowing Severn to catch salmon

using handmade willow lave nets.

blackrocklavenets.co.uk

Chepstow CastleYou cant really miss it,

nor should you. Begun in 1067, its the firststone-built castle in Britain and boasts the

oldest surviving castle doors in Europe!

Scene of some spectacular re-enactment

events. cadw.wales.gov.uk

LighthousesEast Usk Lighthouse, as its

name suggests, is located on the eastern

side of the entrance to the River Usk.

Its an active lighthouse about a mile

walk from the main building at Newport

Wetlands. On the other hand, West Usk

Lighthouse is a quirky B&B.

westusklighthouse.co.uk

GeocachesThere are plenty dotted

along the path or within half a mile of it.

geocaching.com

Gwent LevelsThe name for the low-lying

land adjoining the Severn Estuary between

Chepstow and Newport which has been

reclaimed from the sea since Roman times.

Evidence suggests that this area was the site

of one of the UKs worst natural disasters,

when a tsunami hit on 20 January 1607.

MathernThe local 7th century king Tewdrig

died here after being wounded at Tintern in a

battle against the invading Saxons around the

year 630. His wounds were washed at a spring,

known as St. Tewdrics Well, a church was

erected here by his son Meurig and Mathern

Palace became the official home of the Bishops

of Llandaff until the early 18th century.

Newport WetlandsA haven for wildlife

on the edge of the city of Newport. It has

a delightful childrens play area, offers a

programme of events throughout the year

and has a well-stocked gift shop and caf

serving fair trade produce. rspb.org.uk

Severn BoreOne of Britains few truly

spectacular natural phenomena, this large

surge wave occurs in the estuary of theRiver Severn. It cant be seen directly from

the Coast Path but its worth making a trip

to a viewing point if youre in the area when

the bore is predicted. severn-bore.co.uk

Severn EstuaryHas the second highest

tidal range in the world, as great as 50 ft.

St Pierre, A Marriott Hotel &

Country Club Perfectly placed for a break

during your walk on the Wales Coast Path;

set in 400 acres of beautiful parkland with 2

golf courses that have hosted 14 EuropeanChampionships, this 14th century manor

house offers lunch and afternoon tea.

marriottstpierre.co.uk

SudbrookThis village was built in the 1870s

to house workers who were constructing the

Severn Tunnel, the longest rail tunnel in the

UK. Its huge Victorian pumping station still

works around the clock to pump water out

of the Severn Tunnel. Most of the water comes

from a fast-flowing underground spring which

is diverted and fed to the nearby brewery.

sudbrook.info

Transporter BridgeBuilt in 1906,

this Grade 1 listed structure offers an

unusual way of crossing the river Usk;

passengers and vehicles are carried on a

gondola suspended from a high structure

which was built to allow tall ships to sail

up to the main dock in Newport. It is one

of only 8 surviving bridges of this type

in the world and is still in daily operation.

fontb.org.uk newport.gov.uk

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Points of interest

Many more miles

The Chepstow area is the hub of

several long, themed routes:

Cistercian Way602 miles

cistercian-way.newport.ac.uk

Offas Dyke177 miles following the routeof the 8th century earthwork built by

King Offa nationaltrail.co.uk

Wye Valley Walk 136 miles to the sourceof the river. Guide available as a printed

book or an e-book wyevalleywalk.org

King Arthurs Trail 36 miles

thecircleoflegends.co.uk

Tewdrigs Trail 11 miles


Also suitable for cyclists:Celtic Trail 220 miles to the west coastof Wales

Ln Las Cymru250 miles to Anglesey

sustrans.org.uk

Dont Miss

Crickhowell Walking FestivalFebruary/March

crickhowellfestival.com

Monmouthshire Walking Festival

Octoberwalkinginmonmouthshire.org

Left to right:

East Usk Lighthouse / Chepstow Castle (top) / Newport

Transporter Bridge / Blackrock Lave Net Fishermen


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Trails for

TowniesSmall enough to walkaround with ease.

Big enough to holdyour attention for a day.Here are seven placeswith designated visitortrails, to make sure

you see all the sights.

FIND DETAILS OFALL THE TRAILS ATvisitwyevalley.com/info/36/trails

5visitwyevalley.com

TrailsNot one but seven trails to choose from.

Its true that some of them take you outside

the town and require transport but all of

them start in this market town. The most

popular is the walking Trails and Tales for

Families which is equally informative

for adults.

Main attractionsCastle and museum, St. Marys Priory

church, tithe barn exhibition, market hall,

castle meadows.

Independent businessesLoads to look out for including Abergavenny

Music, Alison Tod Milliner, Cooks Galley,

Gateway Cycles, Homes of Elegance,

Love Lily, Martins Jewellers, Straker Chadwick

Auctioneers, The Art Shop, The Celtic

Warehouse, The Wool Croft and two

superb butchers, Edwards and Rawlings.

Visitor informationThe Tourist Information Centre at the

bus station is open all year and theres

a touch-screen kiosk outside providing

essential information 24 hours a day.

visitabergavenny.co.uk

TrailTheres a Heritage Trail around this tiny

town which, believe it or not, was one of

the most important military sites in Britain

under the Roman Empire. Channel 4s

Time Team made some amazing finds

during their dig here last summer. Caerleon

is also home to the legend of King Arthur

and theres an online quest that takes you

to five important sites in the town.

Main attractionsRoman baths, barracks, amphitheatre

and museum.

Independent businessesDont miss the traditional Caerleon Hardware,

Sourcd Greengrocers, The Lodge Coffee

and Deli, The Giftbox, The Village Bakery

and the Ffwrwm, an eclectic array of shops

and places to eat in a courtyard setting

full of Arthurian-inspired artworks.

Visitor informationThe Tourist Information Centre is located

in High Street and is open all year.

caerleon.net

Abergavenny Caerleon

Left to right:

The Market Hall clock tower and The Angel Hotel in the centre of Abergavenny

Remains of the Roman amphitheatre in Caerleon

castlesmuseums

marketscafsexhibitions


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Caldicot Chepstow City of Newport

walks shoppingculture

independentpubseat&drinkchurches

TrailsTwo circular walks encompass Caldicot Castle,

which sits in a 55-acre country park and is

the prominent feature in this small town.

For something a little longer try the

Severnside Heritage Trail around Caldicot.

Main attractionsCastle which hosts re-enactments

and medieval banquets, country park,

Dewstow golf club and gardens nearby.

Independent businessesSeveral pubs to quench your thirst

Cross Inn, The Castle Inn, The Haywain

and McBrides @ The White Hart.

Visitor informationBest place to go is the castle; staff

are knowledgeable about the area.

caldicot.com

TrailsThere are two trails to follow a flat one

along the riverside and another within the

town walls both with direction markers

and illustrated plaques along the way.

They start at the Tourist Information Centre

next to the impressive castle on the banks

of the river Wye.

Main attractionsCastle, museum, St Marys church, port

wall, town gate, road and rail bridges

over the Wye.

Independent businessesA superb selection including 559 Bikes,

Artists Corner, Chepstow Bookshop,

Country Clutter, Dragonheart Jewellery,

Eden Rose, Kinaree, Kreations, Runway,

Scandia, Sherbet and Lemon, The One,

The Tulip Tree and Herbert Lewis

department store.

Visitor informationThe Tourist Information Centre is open

all year and theres a touch-screen kiosk

outside providing essential information

24 hours a day. chepstow.co.uk

TrailsTake the Public Art Trail to see 10 large

artworks dotted around Newport, each with

a significant link to the city. Alternatively

follow the Chartist Walk and discover the

hard-hitting story surrounding the Chartists

struggle to improve their living and

working conditions.

Main attractionsBelle Vue Park, Fourteen Locks, Transporter

Bridge, St Woolos cathedral, Riverfront

Theatre and Arts Centre, castle, museum,

Tredegar House and Newport Wetlands

(just outside the city).

Independent businessesThe city centre is largely occupied by

national chains but dont miss the impressive

Indoor Market which houses an eclectic

range of traders. Theres the oldest record

shop in Newport and the only place in

the city where you can get Welshcakesfreshly-baked while you wait!

Visitor informationThe Tourist Information Centre, housed

in the same building as the museum, is

open all year. newport.gov.uk

businessesgolf

6

Left to right:

Caldicot Castle, scene of many re-enactmentsColourful Chepstow in the summer


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Monmouth Usk

artsbridgesgardens

Trails forTownies

TrailsChoose the Blue Plaque trail which takes you

to 24 significant sites in the town or follow

the Chartist Trail that highlights Monmouths

role in this mid-19th century uprising. Other

trails to be published include a Childrens

Town Trail and a Crime and Punishment

Town Trail. Printed trail leaflets are available

from Shire Hall.

Main attractionsCastle (where Henry V was born), regimental

museum,13th century Monnow bridge,

Shire Hall, Nelson museum, St Marys church.

Independent businessesExceptional choice including Artico, Bees

for Development, Emma Webster Flowers.

Fingal Rock, Gallery Gilmar, Mark Elliot

furniture, New Leaf Gallery, Salt and Pepper

and The Cotton Angel.

Visitor informationAt Shire Hall in Agincourt Square you can

pick up leaflets and speak to helpful staff.

There are two touch-screen kiosks in

Monmouth one inside Shire Hall and one

at the Cattle Market Car Park - providing

essential information 24 hours a day.

welcometomonmouth.co.uk

TrailsUsk Town Trail, which can be purchased

at Usk Rural Life Museum and Lindwalls

Newsagents, takes you to 28 sites of

historic interest, each with a Blue Plaque,

in this small, picturesque town.

Main attractionsRural Life Museum, Sessions House,

river Usk, clock tower in Twyn Square

and the privately-owned castle.

Independent businessesA lovely selection including Extons,

Gallery in the Square, Mandalay Books,

Manon Interiors, Penhowe Antiques,

Quails cabinet makers, Sweets Fishing

Tackle and Upmarket Flowers.

Visitor informationCall at Usk Rural Life Museum for advice

and leaflets. uskmuseum.org.uk

usktown.co.uk

bookshops

Left to right:

Public art at the Riverfront, NewportUsk in spring

Fortified Monnow bridge at Monmouth


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While Wales cant claim to have started this

phenomenon, we are catching up quickly.

One of the first Welsh supper clubs to

emerge is based in Abergavenny, food

capital of Wales and home to the famousFood Festival (15-16 September 2012).

A variation on the secretive supper clubs

found in Londoners dining rooms,

Foodworkshop Supper Club is not organised

by a talented amateur cook but rather by a

professional chef, Mark Coulton. The owner

of a successful event catering company,

Marks credentials couldnt be better he

worked for Franco Taruschio at The Walnut

Tree in the 1990s and has won Great Taste

Awards for his Chef in the Freezer range.

So whys he getting involved in supper clubs?

I enjoy being with diners, connectingwith them, finding out what they think; thats

how I get inspired to develop new dishes

from the very best local produce. As a chef

who spends a great deal of time providing

catering for large corporate and private

events, its exciting to get intimate again.

To spend time creating a great meal for

twenty to thirty people, says Mark.

Unlike some supper clubs, Mark is keenthat he uses different venues each time. It all

adds to the event being distinctive and gets

me thinking creatively about the theme for

the evening which is reflected in the food and

drink we serve. So, for example, in summer

we may go to a vineyard and have a barbeque

with a great selection of wines. In winter, when

the game shooting season is in full swing,

were more likely to serve pheasant on a

country estate. One of the most interesting

was a Murder Mystery supper club held on a

wintry night in Sessions House in Usk, complete

with Victorian court room, Mark adds.Word has spread quickly about Marks supper

club and he is regularly approached by

people with ideas for future venues an

historic building, a village hall, a farmhouse.

While Mark likes to keep people guessing

about what hell do next, hes consistent

about one thing: At our supper club youll

always get great, local, seasonal food,

he says.So if you dont fancy cooking on holiday

or want a change from the hotel restaurant,

try Foodworkshop Supper Club the new

eating out. supperclubwales.co.uk

Look whos coming to supper!Theres a growing trend amongst diners to give high streetrestaurants a miss and opt instead for a supper club. Its akind of dinner party with new friends at an unusual venue,prepared by someone who enjoys cooking.

Chef Mark Coulton comes up with some

surprising venues for his supper club

8


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Cookery courses

The Chefs Room, BlaenavonLed by Franco Taruschio & Lindy Wildsmith,

with masterclasses by other eminent chefs

from time to time. thechefsroom.co.uk

The Culinary Cottage, PandyCourses include Cooking on an Aga,

Thai cuisine and courses for men only.

theculinarycottage.co.uk

Castle Fayre to Dragons LairIndulge in some merriment with this special

family package which takes you back in time.

Stay at the luxurious Celtic Manor Resort,

try out historic pastimes including archery

and enjoy a medieval banquet at Caldicot

Castle complete with strolling minstrels.

Available 1213 April and 910 August.

celtic-manor.com

Get Up and Grow

Thats the name of an innovative project runby Monmouthshire County Council which

engages people between the ages of 11 and

25 to get involved in growing herbs, fruit

and vegetables. Winner of the Kerrygold

Community Award for Wales, they now

proudly supply some of their produce to

The Angel Hotel in Abergavenny.

Festivals for Foodies

Abergavenny Food Festivalis a majorplayer on the food scene with its weekend

festival attracting around 30,000 people

each September. Two years ago it started a

Christmas Food and Drink Fair and is looking

to launch a spring event in 2013. Check

out.abergavennyfoodfestival.comfor the

very latest. After a successful inaugural

event last year, Newport Food Festivalwilltake place in the city centre this autumn

newportfoodfestival.co.uk.And The CelticManor Resortwill hold its first SavourFood Festivalon 14 & 15 July, showcasingthe very best in local produce and featuring

live cookery demonstrations from top

celebrity chefs. celtic-manor.com

The Golden LionCrown Hotels & Restaurants, owner of the

Michelin-starred Crown at Whitebrook

restaurant, has acquired a 17th centuryWelsh pub. Its plans for The Golden Lion in

Magor include a new-look restaurant while

retaining the charm of this historic setting.

And the winner is....The Brockweir and Hewelsfield Village Shop

in the Wye Valley won the Best Local Food

Retailer category in the BBC Radio 4 Food

and Farming Awards. As well as being an

outlet for local food producers and suppliers,

this community-run shop hosts a caf

offering free WiFi and an exhibition spacefor local artists. bandhvillageshop.co.uk

The Secrets Out

The Secret Supper Clwbis secretno longer. Officially launching on

25 February in Newport, chef Emma

Evans promises an exciting line-up

of entertaining suppers throughout

the year. thesecretsupperclwb.co.uk

9visitwyevalley.com

Top to bottom:Franco Taruschio at The Chefs Room, Blaenavon

A summer supper from Mark Coulton

Medieval banquet at Caldicot Castle

Nibbles


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The power of the flame

FoxhunterMatt Tebbutts restaurantThe Foxhunter near Abergavennyis named after Sir Harry Llewellynslegendary horse on which he won anOlympic gold medal in Helsinki in 1952.

Foxhunter is buried on the Blorengemountain, overlooking Abergavenny Sir Harrys home town; severalwalking routes in Blaenavon WorldHeritage Site pass Foxhunters grave.thefoxhunter.com

world-heritage-blaenavon.org.uk

For many people 2012 meansone thing the OlympicsWhat challenge have you set yourself forthis Olympic year? In the Wye Valley & Valeof Usk youll find an alternative pentathlon.Five disciplines. Star-studded. Energy-sapping.Downright silly. Each ones different. You cango it alone in some of the events. For othersyoull need a team. For the real championsamongst you, the entire pentathlon can be

completed during 2012. But, if you miss afew events, dont worry you wont haveto wait another four years for glory.


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WALKINGThree Peaks Trial31 March

A choice of four walking routes linked

to the three main peaks surrounding

Abergavenny which the organisers saytest endurance and map reading skills.

They range from 20 miles with 5,000 of

ascent to a mere 10-mile jaunt up and

down the Sugarloaf. Attracts some 500

walkers and raises funds for, among

others, Longtown Mountain Rescue

Team. threepeakstrial.co.uk

RAFTINGMonmouth Raft Race2 September

Cajole at least three other people into

building a raft and paddling six miles

down the river Wye with the aim of

raising money for St. Davids Foundation

Hospice Care. Most of the 50 or so teams

make it, eventually. Complete the course

in under an hour and youre likely to win!monmouthraftrace.com

CYCLINGAbergavenny Festival of Cycling13 15 July

A selection of events to choose from,

including a 20-mile family ride and an

extremely hilly 120-mile ride! Theres achance to watch the professional riders

make it look easy, and opportunities for

children and teenagers to test their

cycling skills in the towns park.

abergavennyfestivalofcycling.co.uk

GOLFINGThe Ryder Cup ExperienceAll year

Take on the challenge set for the

European and American teams in

The 2010 Ryder Cup, with 18 holesof championship golf on The Twenty

Ten course at Celtic Manor, near

Newport. Use one of the Ryder Cup

stars luxury lockers and take home a

commemorative Ryder Cup gift.

celticmanor.com

MOUNTAIN BIKINGBlack Mountains 3 Day29 June 1 July

When a few hours mountain biking is

not enough, try this incredible 72-hour

cross-country endurance event in the

beautiful and remote Black Mountains.

Your body will probably complain

for several days afterwards but youll

remember the experience for a lifetime.

blackmountains3day.co.uk

The Olympic Torch Relayarrives in Wales on 25 May,

crossing the border at Monmouth and

travelling through Raglan, Abergavenny,

Blaenavon and Newport before ending

that day in Cardiff. The 70-day journey

begins on 19 May at Lands End and

covers 8,000 miles across the UK

before reaching the Olympic Stadium

in London for the Opening Ceremony

on 27 July.london2012.com

CATCH AGLIMPSEOF THEFLAME

11visitwyevalley.com


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Right on track for a place in the GB

Olympic team is Abergavenny-girl Becky

James. While the final decision is not

made until early June, cyclist Beckys doing

her utmost to earn a coveted place in the

womens track sprint team by following a

rigorous training regime at her base in

Manchester. In 2008, aged just 16, Becky

watched her idols on television as the GB

cycling team brought home 14 Olympic

medals. Four years on, she dreams of

contributing to the GB medal tally.

12

Ourchampion:Rebecca

James


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Check out the Cultural Olympiad programme

Olympiad programme includes:

For culture vultures

Following the Flame exhibitionsat Langstone, near Newport

19 March 28 April, Newport Museum &

Art Gallery 30 March 16 June and Shire

Hall in Monmouth 729 May. This exhibition

explores the history of often-forgotten

Welsh Olympians and Paralympians

through their own words and images.

See an inspiring collection of photographs

and sporting memorabilia.

www.wrexham.gov.uk/english/heritage/flame

Elementalat Blaenavon Ironworks29 30 June

Twilight performances combining music,

words, dance and drama which celebrate

Wales metalworking heritage.

head4arts.org.uk

The Pilgrimage 2012A 22-day pilgrimage takes place between

Llanthony Abbey in the Black Mountains

and St Davids in Pembrokeshire, along

the ancient pilgrimage route. In the 12thcentury Pope Calixtus II declared that two

pilgrimages to St Davids equalled one to

Rome and as a result many followed the

path. Storyteller and guide Andrew Dugmore

will be setting out from Llanthony on 16 June

to walk the route, following in the steps of

kings, saints, madmen and paupers. Visitors

can join him by booking a place on the

pilgrimage. At key points along the route,

such as castles and holy wells, there will

be events, performances and workshops.

The journey asks can there be meaningfor a modern day pilgrim?

pilgrimage2012.co.uk


Fast FactsOlympic medal winners from

this area include :

Sir Harry Llewellyn show jumping (1952),

David Broome show jumping (1960 & 1968),

Jamie Baulch athletics (1996) and

Tom Lucy rowing (2008).

The inaugural World Alternative Games

takes place on 1 & 2 September with

some events, including underwater hockey known as Octopush being held in

Newport. worldalternativegames.co.uk

The city of Newport held its very first

marathon in 2011. Put 28 October in

your diary if you fancy taking part

this year. newportmarathon.org.uk

Top to bottom:

Following the Flameexhibition

Inspiration for the Elementalshow at Blaenavon Ironworks

For armchair athletesGolfThe Celtic Manor Wales Open31 May 3 June

walesopen.com

Horse RacingChepstowchepstow-racecourse.co.uk

RugbyNewport Gwent Dragonsnewportgwentdragons.com


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Well probably never know why he chose the Wye Valley. Perhaps hed fallenin love with its natural beauty on earlier visits. Maybe the splendid historic

buildings mingled with mountains, valleys and rivers was, for him,a heady mix that provided an essential source of inspiration.


Improve your gardenOne of the UKs most talented garden

designers, Arne Maynard, runs courses

at his home, Allt y Bela, a medieval

towerhouse near Usk. Look out for him

this year at the RHS Chelsea Flower

Show as he designs the garden for

Laurent-Perrier. arnemaynard.com

Specialist plantsmen and garden

writers are invited to lead courses

at Llanover Garden School set in a

15-acre listed garden complete with

arboretum. Abergavenny-born Anna

Pavord, gardening correspondent for

the Independent, returns to her roots

in March to talk about growing food.

llanovergarden.co.uk

Or take the easier option and let RHS

Chelsea medal winner Cheryl Cummingsfrom Monmouth design your garden

for you.gardendesignerwales.co.uk

F

Left to right:Double herbaceous borders at High Glanau

Helena Gerrish, author of Edwardian Country Life: The Story of H. Avray Tipping

High Glanau from the octagonal pool

High Glanaus ribbon parterre looking towards the pergola

or whatever reasons, Henry Avray Tipping a wealthy

39-year old architectural historian with a passion for plants,

and a friend of Gertrude Jekyll and Harold Peto set up home

in the Wye Valley in 1894. And it was in this part of Wales

that he refined his skill as a garden and house designer over

the next 30 or so years, reaching a pinnacle with High Glanau

Manor, near Monmouth.

He combined practical projects with his role as Architectural Editor

of Country Life, which he transformed into essential reading about Britainscountry houses. But his real love was plants, and his love of plants led him

to designing gardens, and gardens led to houses, says Helena Gerrish,

present day owner of High Glanau Manor. Regarded in the early 20th

century as a leading authority on British country houses, Tipping is less

well known for his skills as a garden designer, though he notably designed

Chequers and Dartington Hall. A fine gardener herself, Helena Gerrish is

perhaps Tippings greatest fan. Not only has she restored the house and

its gardens to what Tipping originally created, but she has undertaken

extensive research on the life of this rather eccentric man the focus for

her Masters degree and the subject of her first book Edwardian Country

Life: The Story of H. Avray Tipping (2011).

Each of the small estates which Tipping developed in this areawas carefully chosen, with regard to historical associations, aspect,

soil, rocks and water.


16/5616

The gardens always came first. His typical design was to have a formal

layout around the house, gradually merging into a natural-looking, though

carefully-planned, garden and woodland. His gardens are characterised bydivided compartments with sculpted yew hedging, topiary birds and animals,

long grass bowling greens and lush planting. Water was a trademark too;

if there was no stream, he would create one, pumping water from some

distance if necessary, adds Helena Gerrish.

First Tipping restored the dilapidated Mathern Palace, near Chepstow,

which had been the official residence of the Bishops of Llandaff from 15th to

17th century. This was his main residence for nearly 20 years before he chose

a site just a couple of miles away to build Mounton House, an ambitious

half-timbered Jacobean-style mansion with extensive formal gardens. One

of the last important country houses to be built in Britain, Mounton House

was where Tipping entertained the great and the good of the Edwardian era.

His next project was Wyndcliffe Court, near Chepstow, for the Clay family,

owners of the Cardiff shipping company. Finally, he created his perfect

home and garden at High Glanau Manor, which thankfully, visitors can still

experience today. On 13 May the garden opens as part of the National

Gardens Scheme and on 10 June a Rare Plant Fair will take place in the

grounds. In fact Helena Gerrish opens High Glanau Manor by appointment

throughout the year, offering lectures and cream teas as well as a tour of the

gardens; contact her on 01600 860005or [email protected] like the perfect Edwardian afternoon.

...his love of plants led him to designing gardens,and gardens led to houses...

Wales in Bloom

Our towns and villages are keen to showoff their gardens, too. Both Chepstow and

Usk won gold medals (again!) in the recent

Wales in Bloom competition. Each has a

thriving army of gardeners on a mission

to make their patch the prettiest.

walesinbloom.org.uk uskinbloom.org.uk

Three score and tenThats the number of gardens in the

Wye Valley & Vale of Usk that will open

to visitors as part of the National Gardens

Scheme in 2012. From the co-ordinated

openings of Coed y Paen, Llanfoist,

Llanthony and Usk to one-offs like Ochran

Mill (its pinball and arcade collection is

very popular with non-gardeners and

children) and Dewstow Gardens (5-acre

Grade 1-listed garden with underground

grottoes created around 1895 by James

Pulham & Son which was buried after

World War 11 and rediscovered in 2000).

ngs.co.uk

Stop PressDetails of the very first Monmouthshire

Garden Festival are emerging as this visitor

guide goes to print. Keep up-to-date with

developments about this autumn event at

adventa.org.uk

Left to right:Arne Maynard leading a course at Allt y Bela

Lower west terrace at High Glanau in June

H.A. Tipping in the loggia at Mathern Palace


17/56

UKs favourite park: TinternThe Old Station in Tintern has been voted

the UKs favourite park in the annual Peoples

Choice Award public poll. Chosen from

1,290 green spaces that have the Green Flag

Award, this former railway station, not far

from the iconic Tintern Abbey, is cherished

by locals and visitors. A grassy 10-acre siteon the banks of the river Wye, The Old

Stations highlights include restored carriages

housing a Wye Valley exhibition, childrens

play area, Circle of Legends sculptures,

miniature railway and a tea room that

features in the AA guide to Perfect Places

for Afternoon Tea. monmouthshire.gov.uk/

oldstationtintern circleoflegends.co.uk

No sweatWe all know Wales is hilly its part of its

attraction. But it can also make you think

twice about hiring a bike here. So the

thoughtful people at Drover Holidays

Luke and Anna - have added some stylish

Spencer Ivy electric bikes to their fleet. Hire

one for half a day or more, or use it to get

around on a guided or self-guided cycling

holiday. Theyll deliver and collect the bike,

transfer your luggage and even provide you

with a packed lunch and a bottle of local

mineral water. So you can face those hills

and see the wonderful views from the top

without getting too sweaty!

droverholidays.co.uk

Golden casket comes homeThe George V Gold Freedom Casket is back

home in Newport thanks to the generous

support of the V&A Purchase Grant Fund

and the Art Fund. Given to controversial

James Henry Thomas MP in 1924 when he

was made a freeman of Newport, the casket

has enamel panels depicting scenes fromNewports landscape almost 90 years ago.

Other significant social history collections

at the museum are the Transporter Bridge

archive and the Chartist archive including

weapons used during the 1839 protest in

Newport. newport.gov.uk

Hidden industry revealedin the Wye ValleyKnown primarily for its beauty and

Picturesque viewpoints, the Wye Valley was

the crucible of a technologically advancedmetalworking industry from the 16th

century up to the Industrial Revolution.

Visitors can now discover some important

industrial sites for themselves, following the

completion of the 3-year Overlooking the

Wye project, financed in part by the Heritage

Lottery Fund. A series of walk leaflets help

visitors explore the fascinating industrial sites

around Tintern, including Abbey Furnace, the

Limekilns and Lower Wireworks; they can be

downloaded from overlookingthewye.org.uk

or wyevalleyaonb.org.uk.

Miss JanuaryDrum roll, please. Our very own, beautiful

Twyn Square in Usk is now a pin-up star.

Because it has colourful historic buildings

bedecked with floral arrangements and

an elegant clock tower erected in 1887

to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Queen

Victoria? No. Simply because it has aroundabout. Well, a noteworthy roundabout.

Its one of just twelve chosen to feature in

this years (and the first ever) Roundabouts

of Wales calendar, produced by the

Roundabout Appreciation Society.

roundaboutsofbritain.com

On locationThese days you never know who youll bump

into in Newport; its becoming a very popular

location for filming. Recent productions

include Time Team, Great British Railway

Journeys, Being Human, Sherlock Holmes

and Dr Who.

Bees for DevelopmentThe international development organisation

which offers training courses to UK

beekeepers and works to alleviate poverty in

the developing world through the promotion

of sustainable beekeeping, has a new shop

near Shire Hall in Monmouth. Opening in

the spring, it has organic beeswax-based

cosmetics, beekeeping equipment and an

amazing selection of local honeys as wellas exotic African honeys that raise incomes

in Ethiopia and Zambia.

beesfordevelopment.org


Bite-size news

Left to right:Old Station, Tintern

Twyn Square, Usk

Industrial heritage in the Wye Valley

George V Gold Freedom Casket


18/56

Now known affectionately as the Mon &

Brec, it is considered by many to be Britains

most picturesque canal, and, for much ofits length, it lies within the Brecon Beacons

National Park. This waterway is also a great

testimony to the skill of the 19th century

engineer Thomas Dadford, Junior who

designed the canal to hug the mountainside

high above the Usk valley. In doing so, he

created one of the longest lock-free

stretches in the UKs waterway network;

for 25 miles the canal remains at 361 ft

above sea level, a marvel of contour

canal engineering.

Unlike many canals the Monmouthshire

& Brecon has trees along much of its length

and an array of wildflowers on its bank.

A colourful nature trail in every season,

the canal is a diverse wildlife habitat, home

to an impressive array of historic industrial

architecture, a long distance path for walkers

and cyclists, a pleasant route for exploring

in a day boat or kayak and a narrowboatholiday destination passing through pretty

villages with canalside pubs.

Managed by British Waterways (which

becomes the Canal & River Trust in April)

and Local Authorities, the Mon & Brec

attracts more than 3 million people annually.

In its bicentennial year there are even more

reasons to visit: guided walks, history talks,

crazy competitions, cycle rides and family

fun days. Check out whats planned at

facebook/monmouthshireandbreconcanal,

fourteenlocks.co.uk,

mon-brec-canal-trust.org.ukand

canalandrivertrust.org.uk/monandbrec200.

Ring the bellsThe Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal is celebratingits 200th anniversary with a year-long programmeof activities and events on and alongside the canal.

18

The Mon & Brec 200 celebrations are

launched on 10 February with peals of

bells sounding out from over 70 churchesalong the route of the canal. This Ringing

of the Bells recreates exactly what

happened when the canal opened

200 years ago.

Top to bottom:

Goytre Wharf c. 1850 with its busy limekilns(illustrated by Michael Blackmore)

Cruising on the Mon & Brec


19/56

1790sTwo separate canals were beingplanned for this part of Wales to improve

the transportation of coal, lime, iron ore

and agricultural produce. For commercial

reasons, the companies building the canals

decided to link them at Pontymoile Basin,

near Pontypool.

1799The Monmouthshire Canalopened; it had two arms Newport to

Pontnewynydd, near Pontypool and

Newport to Crumlin.

1812The Brecknock & AbergavennyCanal, from Brecon, reached Pontymoile

Basin, joining the two canals together.

It linked with over 200 miles of horse-drawn

tramroads to convey goods to the busy

port of Newport and to other towns in

South Wales and the Midlands.

1820sThe heyday of the two canals;every few miles there were busy wharves

and lime kilns, full of the noises of men

and horses at work.

1865The Monmouthshire CanalCompany bought the Brecknock &

Abergavenny Canal Company.

1880The Great Western Railwaypurchased the canal and changed its name

to the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal.

1920sTrade on the canal had virtuallyceased as railways came to the fore. Over

the next 30 years the Monmouthshire

canal stretch was adversely affected by

road and bridge building but the Brecknock& Abergavenny canal survived as a water

feeder, although it was no longer navigable.

1950sThe Inland Waterways Associationcampaigned to restore the canal.

1970The stretch from Brecon toPontymoile Basin reopened to navigation.

1985Monmouthshire, Brecon &Abergavenny Canals Trust was formed

to fight the closure of the canal

through Cwmbran.

1990sA further 2 miles wasrestored, from Pontymoile Basin to

Five Locks, Cwmbran.

Since21st centuryEnthusiasticvolunteers continue working towards theirdream of full navigation. Recent successes

include restoration work on the impressive

Fourteen Locks Flight on the Crumlin arm,

which originally raised the canal 155ft in

just mile.

2012Another chapter in the canalshistory begins as British Waterways becomes

a charity the Canal & River Trust.

Blaenavon World Heritage Site

The canal forms part of BlaenavonWorld Heritage Site, which also boasts

Big Pit National Coal Museum, Pontypool

and Blaenavon Railway, Blaenavon World

Heritage Visitor Centre, Blaenavon

Ironworks and themed walking routes.

museumwales.ac.uk

pontypool-and-blaenavon.co.uk

world-heritage-blaenavon.org.uk

PuddlersLaunching in this bicentennial year is the

Mon & Brecs only floating caf-restaurant

boat. Its name, Puddlers, draws inspiration

from the men who built the canal (puddling

the clay to make a watertight lining to the

canal) and the men who worked in the local

ironworks (puddling the molten metal to

produce a better quality iron). Moored at

Llanfoist Wharf, just outside Abergavenny,

this Edwardian-style boat has a luxury oak

interior, brass light fittings and elegant

seating. Delicious breakfasts, pastries, lightlunches and scrumptious tea and cakes are

served every day from 10am to 4pm sit

inside or take-away. On Thursday, Friday

and Saturday evenings it slips its mooring

and guests enjoy an evening cruise as they

dine; dinner reservations are essential.

puddlers.co.uk


Left to right:Blaenavon World Heritage Site includes Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway

Llanfoist Wharf c. 1850, a hive of activity

Llanfoist Wharf 2012, a tranquil setting

New Mon & Brec BookTo mark this bicentennary, artist

Michael Blackmore and AlasdairKirkpatrick from Beacon Park Boats

have produced a commemorative

book200 Years of The Monmouthshire

and Brecknock & Abergavenny Canals:

an illustrated history.For a chance to

win one of five copies of this beautiful

coffee table book, please answer this

question: Which author included LlanfoistWharf and the Mon & Brec Canal in his1959 novel? Email your answer, togetherwith your name and address to

[email protected].

Closing date is 30 September.See visitwyevalley.comfor terms and

conditions. Visitbeaconparkboats.com

for more information.

W

in


20/5620

Tread and Trot TrailsThree new waymarked countryside trails are the first

in the area to be launched with mobile phone apps,

in addition to the more traditional printed leaflets.

The apps include animated and audio interpretation,

and let you log the wildlife you spot and the time you

take to complete the route! Set in some of the regions

most inspiring locations, Whitestone, Whitebrookand

the Wye, Dingestow Discoveriesand Tinterns Hidden

History are suitable for horse-riders, cyclists and walkers.

Go to treadandtrottrails.co.ukto download a PDF of

the printed leaflet or the app for your smart phone.

Then youre ready to set off........

Touch screen kiosksSix interactive visitor information kiosks have been

installed at key locations to provide information

24 hours a day, seven days a week. They complement

the face-to-face service provided by our Tourist

Information Centres. Two of the kiosks are located

inside buildings, at Magor Services (M4 junction 23A)

and Shire Hall in Monmouth; the other four are external

kiosks at Abergavenny TIC, Chepstow TIC, Monmouths

Cattle Market car park and Old Station, Tintern. With a

46-inch touch screen interface, each kiosk uses QR code

technology (a barcode that can be read by a phones

camera) to help you build bespoke itineraries which you

can then take away with you on your mobile phone.Smart, eh?

You may already follow us and benefit fromthe constant updates about whats happening

in the Wye Valley & Vale of Usk.

Were on www.facebook.com/visitwyevalley

@visitwyevalley.

If this is news to you, why not start following us.

Email us ([email protected])

if you want to know how to get started.

On the digital trail LocationWiFi

Castles to goNow you can access a wealth of essential information

about our castles and other historic sites with the latest

mobile phone app from Cadw. cadw.wales.gov.uk.

Pronounced kad-oo (meaning to protect or keep

in Welsh), this is the Welsh Governments service that

conserves Wales heritage. Download the app for

free at the iTunes App Store or the Android Market,

then use it to:

locate your nearest site with the Google map find out admission prices and site opening times

search for forthcoming events

learn about our historic buildings.

QR codesAs more and more visitors access information

whenever they want, wherever they are, exciting

digital developments are happening, not least the

use of QR (quick response) code technology - a weird-

looking black and white barcode that can be read by

a smartphones camera. Youll need to download a

free QR-code app onto your smartphone. Launch the

app and your phones camera is activated. Line up the

camera on your device with the QR code you want to

scan and hold the device steady until the app can readthe code in front of it. When the app has recognized

the QR code it will display the info the code contains,

or launch your web browser to take you to a designated

website. Fancy a go? Just point your smart phone at

the QR code above and see where it takes you.



Raglan Under Siege 1646Visit raglanundersiege1646.co.ukbefore you visit

Raglan, and youll see this village in an entirely new light.

Famous for its castle in which Royalist Cavaliers were

besieged for weeks by Parliamentary Roundhead forces

in the summer of 1646, the village now has an engaging

heritage trail with a difference. Explore nine locations

on foot with Professor Ray Howell from the University

of Wales Newport as your personal tour guide. At each

location simply use a smart phone to scan the relevant

QR code (see adjacent image) on the trail leaflet.Youll be whisked back in time with a video clip revealing

Raglans Civil War history.

Search Chat PlayInformation

MonmouthpediaThe border town of Monmouth is to be the focus

of a groundbreaking Wikipedia project. The online

encyclopaedia is inviting historians and local residents

to contribute photographs and articles to document

the life and history of the entire town. The project will

see QR codes placed at points of interest around the

town; visitors will scan a QR code with their smart phones

to get information about that landmark in their own

language. A world first, apparently! monmouthpedia.org


22/5622


23/56

BBC TWOS LAMBING LIVE WAS THE TURNING POINT.We had so much correspondence from viewers asking for advice and

showing interest in various aspects of country life that we decided to set up

Kates Country School, said Kate Beavan, whose farm near Abergavenny was

the location for the first Lambing Live television series presented by Kate

Humble and Adam Henson. Its an idea that had been at the back of my

mind for years; the chance to share our knowledge of animal husbandry

and land management to people who are keen to learn but perhaps dont

want to enrol on a formal course.

A lecturer at the local agricultural college and married to a

third-generation farmer, optimistic Kate has all the necessary attributes to

make a success of her new venture at Great Trerhew farm. To begin withwere offering day courses on topics that are simply part of our routine:

lambing, sheep shearing, butchery, animal husbandry, wildlife conservation,

drystone walling and cider-making. We made 150 gallons of cider last

autumn from apples grown elsewhere, and enjoyed it so much that weve

decided to reinstate the farms cider orchard. Future plans also include

courses in wood-turning and bee-keeping. All the activities will take place on

the farm or in my brother-in-laws butchers shop, said Kate, whos keen to

ensure that everyone gets a glimpse of real life in the countryside, not just

theoretical learning in a classroom. For a day, theyll be part of our family

on the farm, getting stuck in and sharing lunch around our kitchen table.

Kate Beavan already has one satisfied student - Kate Humble.

Good friends since the Lambing Live series, they are also fairly closeneighbours, with the television presenter having moved to a smallholding

in the Wye Valley about five years ago. Kate Humble said, I fully support

Kate Beavans plans for her Country School. Our shared experience on

Lambing Live showed us that theres a huge interest in how good food is

produced, and people want to know how to do it for themselves. The Wye

Valley and Vale of Usk have a fine tradition of farming, and its just the place

to rekindle the publics interest in food production. Kate Humble and her

husband recently purchased a former council farm near their home, where

they plan to set up a rural skills centre in 2012.

Ruth Tudor, farmer, educator and psychotherapist, who farms 2000

acres and co-owns award-winning Trealy Farm Charcuterie with her

husband, is trying to help people connect with the realities of farming

animals for meat. Her on-farm courses explore farming practices, slaughter,

butchery and cooking with the aim of recovering something largely

lost today proper understanding of, and respect for, how food reaches

our plates.

THERES SOMETHING OF THE DUNKIRK SPIRIT TO BE FOUNDON MANY OF OUR FARMS. A DETERMINATION TO RALLY ROUND,

SUPPORT OTHERS AND PLAN FOR A POSITIVE FUTURE. AND, IN MANYINSTANCES, ITS WOMEN WHO ARE TAKING THE LEAD.


LAND GIRLS

For a day, theyll be part of ourfamily on the farm. . . sharing lunch

around our kitchen table.


24/5624

Lend a hand on the landThere are year-round opportunitiesto learn a traditional skill AND helpconserve the rural way of life in theWye Valley & Vale of Usk... everything

from a days taster to a working holiday.communityforestfarm.co.uk

gwentwildlife.org/events

katescountryschool.co.uk

katesfarm.org

llananant.co.uk

meatcourse.co.uk

nationaltrust.org.uk

villagealivetrust.org.uk

wyevalleyaonb.org.uk/events

Open Farm Sunday17 JuneSeveral local farms open theirdoors to visitors.

farmsunday.org

Sue Pritchard is another visionary. On her 52-acre holding near Raglan,

Llananant Farm, shes developing The Permaculture Project which has the same

roots as the theories and methods that guide her management consulting practice.

Sue believes many of the pressing problems faced by families, organisations and

indeed the entire planet can be tackled by living and working in more sustainable

ways. All activities at Llananant Farm, including short courses on choosing and using

renewable energy, restoring orchards, coppicing woodlands and strawbale building,

aim to support the growth of vibrant, connected, sustainable communities.One farm where visitors have already made a huge difference is Llwyn

Ffranc on the slopes of the Skirrid Fawr mountain near Abergavenny. Many of

our volunteers come via World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms and the

Bristol-based community enterprise Open Platform, explained Liz Court, one of

the directors of this community-owned farm. Theyre helping us progress towards

our aim of becoming a biodynamic farm and, in turn, were giving them a chance to

connect with the land, food and forest. Hopefully, theyll take away some of what

they discover here and apply it at home, added Liz. Visit Llwyn Ffranc on 14 15 April

for their second Wild Garlic Festival and you can forage in the woodland and enjoy

a fine wild garlic soup.

All activities at Llananant Farm... aim tosupport the growth of vibrant, connected,

sustainable communities.

Back at Great Trerhew, Kate Beavan sums up the passion foundin each of these women. Were keen to show how relevant farming

and food issues are to everyone, wherever they live. Who knows perhaps coming here will inspire someone to live the good life, andthat may have a beneficial impact on their friends and family or

even an entire community, said Kate.

Left to right:Sue Pritchard at Llananant Farm

Early morning mist in the Vale of Usk

Ruth Tudor helps people connect with the realities of farming animals for meat

Local resident Kate Humble



Arthur5th 6th centuryCaerleonhas long beenassociated with the legend

of King Arthur. In the 12th

century Gerald of Wales confirmed that itwas here that Roman Legates came for an

audience at the great Arthurs famous court.

But it was Geoffrey of Monmouths recently

written fanciful history, Historia Regum

Britanniae, which sparked the creation of

the powerful legend. Others have further

embellished the tale, including Alfred, Lord

Tennyson, who has almost become part

of the story itself. He visited Caerleon for

inspiration to write his masterpieceIdylls of

the King, staying at the Hanbury Arms;the window overlooking the Usk valley is

still known as Tennysons window.

idl.newport.ac.uk/legendofkingarthur

Tewdricc.580c.630Tewdric (or Tewdrig) was

a King of Gwent who was

fatally wounded while

defeating the invading Saxons at Pont ySaeson, near Tintern. On his final journey,springs arose to bathe his wounds wherever

he stopped. He died at a place now called

Tewdrigs Wellin Mathern. KingstoneBrewery in Tintern has created an ale

named Tewdrics Tipple.


kingstonebrewery.co.uk

Offa8th centuryThis King of Mercia was

one of the leading figures

in Saxon history, extending

his influence to include most of Englandsouth of the Humber. After devastating

invasions by the Welsh, Offa built a massive

linear earthwork to define the boundary

and defend his territory. Known as OffasDyke, and still traceable for much of itslength, it was originally about 27 metres

wide and 8 metres high.

offasdyke.demon.co.uk

Rubbing shoulderswith royaltyIn this Diamond Jubilee year, the events of 1952 are inevitably big news. Like the rest ofGreat Britain, local events to celebrate the Queens 60 years on the throne are centredon the special bank holiday weekend in June. But our royal connections are visible all year

round. It might surprise you to learn that the Wye Valley & Vale of Usk has significantlinks to many regal characters some fairly recent, others shrouded in the mists of time.There are some pretty interesting stories to be uncovered at sites across the region.Heres a selection, including some you probably wont find in the guide books.

Left to right:

Arthur, Tewdric and Offa, depicted in lifesize woodensculptures at the Old Station, Tintern.


26/5626

Eleanor ofProvence12231291

Younger sister of the Queen

of France, she married Henry III of England

and had nine children including Edward I,

the great castle builder. Her influence, and

that of French architects, can be seen at

Grosmont Castle(with Eleanors chimney)and St Nicholas Church(with its Eleanorchapel).grosmont.org

Henry V1386 1422Born in Monmouthcastlelong before hisfather became king

(Henry IV), Henry V reigned for just nine

years (1413-1422). But his military successes

in the Hundred Years War culminating

with Agincourt in 1415, are legendary,

inspiring three of Shakespeares plays. In1792, a statue of Henry V was erected in

a niche above the entrance to the Shire

Hall overlooking the appropriately-named

Agincourt Squarein his home town.Built in 1724, the Grade 1-listed Shire Hallunderwent a 4.5m refurbishment a few

years ago before being officially reopened

to visitors by the Princess Royal. It contains

the courtroom where the Chartists were

tried in 1839/40, a recently-embroidered

Henry V wall hanging and is home to

a weekly market.

shirehallmonmouth.org.uk

Henry VII14571509Henry Tudor spent his

childhood at Raglan Castle,in the custody of William

Herbert, a leading Yorkist who was trying to

curb the influence of the Lancastrian Tudor

family. cadw.wales.gov.uk

Charles I1600 1649Charles reputedly used

15th century LlanvihangelCourt, near Abergavenny,

as a hideaway during the Civil War. After the

battle of Naseby in 1645 he visited RaglanCastle, and during a trip the following yearhe reputedly played bowls on the castles

green. In 1645 he also spent time at the

stone-built Tredegar Housein Newport,an indication of this propertys importance

and the influence of the Morgan familywho lived there. Rebuilt on a palatial scale

after the Civil War, the red brick mansion

that is now managed by The National Trust

is one of most important late 17th century

buildings in Britain.

llanvihangel-court.co.uk nationaltrust.org.uk

cadw.wales.gov.uk

THAT WAS THEN 1952

Agatha Christies play The Mousetrap

starts its run at the New Ambassadors

Theatre in London, where it is

still showing.

Only 10% of the adult population

had a telephone.

After 13 years, tea rationing ended

on 5 October.

Summer Olympics in Helsinki andWinter Olympics in Oslo.

Sir Harry Llewellyn won an Olympic

Gold Medal with his horse Foxhunter

at the Olympics in Helsinki.

Last tram ride in London.

THIS IS NOW 2012

The Riverfront in Newport hosts, on

average, 26 different events, workshops

and performances each week!

newport.gov.uk/theriverfront

Less than 10% of the adult population

does not own a mobile phone.

Diamond Jubilee Afternoon Tea at

The Angel Hotel, Abergavenny 110 June

angelabergavenny.com

Some events in the inaugural World

Alternative Games take place in Newport.

worldalternativegames.co.uk

Foxhunters grave, near Keepers Pond

on the Blorenge mountain above

Abergavenny, is a well visited spot.

Sir Harrys ashes were scattered at

this location after his death in 1999.

Miniature trains still run at Old Station,

Tintern and restored full-size locomotives

pull passenger services in Blaenavon.monmouthshire.gov.uk/oldstationtintern


Top left to right:

Brewed in Tintern

A Monmouth pub frequented by Oliver Cromwell

Detail on the Town Gate, ChepstowShire Hall, Monmouth

Raglan castle

Grosmont castle with Eleanors chimney

Stately Tredegar House, Newport

19522012


28/56

an enthusiastic crowd

What?Optimistic racegoers crescendoas the runners reach the finishing straight

in front of the grandstand.

Where?Chepstow Racecoursechepstow-racecourse.co.uk

When?All year; there are 28 NationalHunt and Flat race meetings planned

for this year, including weekday, weekend

and evening fixtures.

AlternativesA free live gig in the buzzing

Agincourt Square, Monmouth duringMonmouth Festival. monmouthfestival.co.uk

A full-blooded rugby match at Rodney

Parade, home of Newport Gwent Dragons,

one of the four professional rugby teams

in Wales. newportgwentdragons.com

golden silence

What?Unadulterated peace and quiet,interrupted by only the sounds of nature

wind in the trees, water on rocks,

lambs bleating, birdsong. Refreshment

virtually guaranteed.

Where?Secluded Llanthony valley,reached by a narrow, winding road.

From Offas Dyke Path high up on the

eastern ridge the 12th century Cistercian

Priory on the valley floor is but a dot.

breconbeacons.org

When?All year. OK, so therell be otherswith the same idea on bank holidays but

even then youll find plenty of space to

yourself just a few minutes walk from

the Priory car park.

AlternativesWander through the VictorianBelle Vue Park and take a seat in St. Woolos

Cathedral in Newport city centre. One of

the former bishops of this diocese is

Dr. Rowan Williams, now Archbishop of

Canterbury. churchinwales.org.uk

Or fill your senses at New Grove Meadows

Reserve, near Monmouth, some of the

very best wildflower meadows in Britain.

Bursting with colour (and natural sounds)

from April to July.gwentwildlife.org

a distant whistle

What?Take a trip back in time on restoredsteam and diesel locomotives at Pontypool

and Blaenavon Railway, which recently

opened a branch line to Big Pit National

Coal Museum. Adults can even take the

controls of a locomotive on a Steam Driver

Experience Day.


Where?Blaenavon World Heritage Siteworld-heritage-blaenavon.org.uk

When?Easter to October half-term,plus Christmas specials in December.

AlternativesRe-enactments and theatreproductions at Caldicot castle, Chepstow

castle & Raglan castle.

caldicotcastle.co.uk

cadw.gov.uk

Sound is often the key that

unlocks memories and evokesspecial locations. A melody onthe radio. A rarely heard accent.In an instant youre in anotherworld. So listen carefully tothese great-sounding ideasfor weekends away.

28

I like thesound of that


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happy children playing

What?Croissant Neuf Summer Party.Winner of the Greener Festival Award,

this is a solar-powered festival with a

super line-up of live music and dance

and an emphasis on family. Everyone

can join in the not-too-serious games

of rounders, cricket & football, and theres

a treasure hunt for children of all ages,

including grandparents!

partyneuf.co.uk

Where?A beautiful countryside

setting near Usk.

When?August

AlternativesOld Station, Tintern(officially the UKs favourite park, see

page 17) for themed childrens activities

from Easter to October half-term.

monmouthshire.gov.uk/oldstationtintern.

For indoor play, try Whirlikidz in Chepstow.

whirlikidz.co.uk

Left to right:Chepstow Racecourse

Croissant Neuf Summer Party great for families

Llanthony PrioryLive music at Croissant Neuf Summer Party

St. Woolos Cathedral, Newport

1940s event at Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway



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Abergavenny Tourist Information

& National Park Centre (open all year)Monmouth Road, Abergavenny,

Monmouthshire, NP7 5HL

Tel: +44 (0)1873 853254Fax: +44 (0)1873 853254Email: [email protected]

Caerleon TIC (open all year)5 High Street, Caerleon, Newport, NP18 1AE

Tel: +44 (0)1633 422656Email: [email protected]

Chepstow TIC (open all year)Castle Car Park, Bridge Street,

Chepstow, Monmouthshire, NP16 5EYTel: +44 (0)1291 623772Fax: +44 (0)1291 628004Email: [email protected]

Newport TIC (open all year)Museum & Art Gallery, John Frost Square,

Newport, NP20 1PA

Tel: +44 (0)1633 842962Fax: +44 (0)1633 222615Email: [email protected]

Websites

For the very latest informationabout the region, including events:

visitmonmouthshire.comvisitwyevalley.commonmouthshire.gov.uknewport.gov.uk/tourismsouthernwales.com

Like more information?If you want to find out more about

something that interests you, visit

visitwyevalley.com or contact one

of the TICs.

Other Sources of Information

Monmouth Visitor Information(open all year)The Shire Hall,

Agincourt Square, Monmouth,

Monmouthshire, NP25 3DY


shirehallmonmouth.org.uk

Caldicot Tourist Information Outlet(open from April November)Caldicot Castle, Church Road,

Caldicot, Monmouthshire, NP26 4HU

Tel: +44 (0)1291 420241Fax: +44 (0)1291 435094Email:[email protected]

The Old Station, Tintern(open from April November)Tintern, Monmouthshire, NP16 7NX

Tel: +44 (0)1291 689566Email:[email protected]

Usk Tourist Information Outlet(open Easter October)Usk Rural Life Museum,

The Malt Barn, New Market Street,Usk, Monmouthshire, NP15 1AU


Visitor information kiosks

Quickly and easily discover whatto see and do in the area

Plan your itinerary

Take advantage of exclusive

offers and discounts

Make transport enquiries

Have the information sent to

your mobile phone

Visitor information kiosks are available

in the following locations:

Abergavenny Bus Station Car ParkChepstow Castle Car Park

Monmouth Cattle Market Car Park& Shire Hall

Tintern Old Station Car ParkMagor Roadchef Motorway

Services

Local Tourism Groups

Abergavenny & District Tourist AssociationProduces a comprehensive guide which

includes details of accommodation,

businesses, restaurants and services

for visitors to the Abergavenny area.


visitabergavenny.co.uk

Abergavenny Farm Holiday GroupFor B & B and self catering on farms and

smallholdings situated on the hills

surrounding the bustling market town

of Abergavenny. Brochure available.

Tel: +44 (0)1873 890359

afhg.co.uk

Caerleon Tourism ForumLocal traders and professional organisations

working together to promote Caerleon,and the annual art and sculpture festival.

Trail leaflets available.


caerleon.net

30

Tourist Information Centres (TICs)For the very best advice on where to stay, what to do,how to get about and whats on, you should contactthe staff at our friendly TICs. If, prior to your visit, yourequire information not contained within this guide,

the TICs listed below will be able to help you.They also offer a local accommodation booking serviceand a Book-A-Bed-Ahead service for anywhere in the UK.Please call to check opening hours.

Sources of information


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Newport Tourism Association


newport.gov.uk/visiting

Stay Down Our LaneRural self catering and bed & breakfast

properties in Monmouthshire offering quality

and a friendly stay.

For information and availability

Freephone +44 (0)8000 935156or visit downourlane.co.uk

Wye Valley & Forest of DeanTourism AssociationOver 300 places to stay, things to do and

places to eat. Full details on the website and

in two guides Attractions, Activities &

Speciality Shopping and Eating Out.

The Association also publishes 12

Easy Walks aimed specifically at the

less able walker.

Tel: +44 (0)845 053 1173Email: [email protected]

wyedeantourism.co.uk

Blue Badge Guides

If youd like a guided tour of the area why notcontact a qualified member of the Wales

Official Tourist Guides Association. These

freelance Guides will undertake various types

of tours, ranging from hourly tours by car or

coach, to extended tours of longer duration

throughout Wales. The following Guides are

resident in the Wye Valley & Vale of Usk:

Phil Coates, NewportTel: +44 (0)1633 774796Mobile: 07867 786368Email:[email protected]

walestourguides.comSandi Gosden, near AbergavennyTel: +44 (0)1495 785356Mobile: 07748 007291Email: [email protected]

Gordon Hill, Caldicot

Tel: +44 (0)1291 424143Mobile: 07836 203295Email:[email protected]

Margaret McIntyre, Monmouth(German speaker)

Tel: +44 (0)1600 712799Mobile: 07801 286098Email: [email protected]

Central Enquiry Service for WalesTel: +44 (0)2920 401430Email: [email protected]

wotga.com

Heads of the Valleys

Green Badge GuidesDetails of those qualified to guide

throughout the Heads of the Valleys region

including Blaenavon World Heritage Site.

wotga.com/HeadsoftheValleys.php

Cordell Country

Official GuidesLet a tour guide introduce you to the

landscapes and places which so inspired

Alexander Cordell, author of Rape of theFair Country. They are your ideal partners

for bringing the sites and his writing to life.

wotga.com/CordellCountry.php

cordellcountry.org

Chartism Heritage

Official GuidesGuides qualified to interpret the heritage

of the Chartism movement, particularly

relating to sites within southeast Wales

and the 1839 Newport Uprising.

wotga.com/Chartism.php

Golf

The region is an outstanding golf destinationthat will appeal to golfers who require pre-set

or tailor made golf breaks. For information,

advice and options please call our dedicated

Golf Sales Team.

Tel: +44 (0)870 600 6088Fax: +44 (0)2920 611334Email: [email protected]

greensofsouthernwales.com

monmouthshiregolfbreaks.co.uk

GroupsIf youre planning to bring a group to the

Wye Valley & Vale of Usk we offer help toorganise tours and short breaks and

to develop itineraries.


visitsouthernwales.org

Conferences and Meeting VenuesFor help finding venues and ideas for

conferences, meetings, incentives &

team building. Tel: +44 (0)1633 233327Email: [email protected]

southeastwales.org.uk

Overseas VisitorsIf youre travelling from outside the UK

you may wish to visit the website below

with information on the southern Wales

region in English, French, Dutch & German.

southernwales.com

Email: [email protected]

Weather ForecastFor the latest forecast contact

the Met. Office.

Tel: 0870 9000 100(UK) 441392 885680(outside UK)

metoffice.gov.uk/weather



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Key toadvertisements

Each establishment headingcarries a map reference (whichrefers to a square e.g. A1) which

can be located on the largemap included with this guide.We hope that this will help youto select a holiday base closeto those places of particularinterest.

Establish

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QualityG

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Short Break Rates areavailable ask for details

Room Rate minimum & maximumPrice per room per night includingbreakfast, for single occupancy anddouble/twin occupancy (unlessspecifically stated that the rate quotedis per person, per night)

EstablishmentPho

tograph


Tourism Symbols

. Bookable through TICs

B Bus stop nearby (0.5 miles)

v Caf/Restaurant

P Charge for fuel

b Close to long distance walks

Close to short walking routes

s Coach parties welcome

- Cots available

z Disabled facilities

5 Electric hook-up(caravan/camping site)

O Evening entertainment

S Evening meals by arrangement

m Facilities for visitors withhearing difficulties

l Facilities for visitors withsight difficulties

V Garden (for guests use)

J Golf course within 20 mins drive

F Ground floor bedrooms available

} Gym/Health Club

y Laundry facilities

D Licensed

LiftI Linen provided free of charge

k Major credit cards accepted

} Parking/private car park

C Pets welcome by arrangement

o Railway station nearby (3 miles)

P Showers (caravan/camping site)

Smoking area provided

y Special diets catered for

9 Swimming pool

W Tea/coffee facilities in bedrooms

t Television

0 Toilets on site (caravan/campingsite or attraction/activity)

] Totally non-smoking

$ Use of organic produce

Welsh spoken

Wireless broadband

Quality Grading

General Awards

Inspected & gradedby Visit Wales

Inspectedand gradedby the AA

Visit BritainSilverAward

AARestaurantRating

/

WelcomeHost

Disability AccessStatementAvailable Online

Green TourismBusinessScheme

Les RoutiersListedRestaurant

Winner of GolfResort of the YearEurope 2011

Cask MarqueAward

Campaignfor Real Ale

AA NotableWine List Award20112012

SavourThe Wye

GreenFlagAward

Visit WalesGold Award2012

Inspected & gradedby Visit Britain CYCLISTS

Accommodation Awards

Croeso (Welcome) Award

Welsh Rarebits

CyclistsWelcomeAward

Green DragonEnvironmentalStandard

WalkersWelcomeAward

Visit BritainBreakfastAward

AABreakfastAward

Heart of England

Excellence Awards

Attraction & Activity Awards

Visit WalesAccredited

Attraction

Museums,Libraries &ArchivesCouncil

Visit WalesAccredited

Activity

WalesTrekking& RidingAssociation

British HorseSociety

RYA Training Centre

AALAAccredited

Local Tourist Associations

Abergavenny & DistrictTourist Association

Abergavenny FarmHoliday Group

Brecon BeaconsTourism

Wye Valley & Forest of DeanTourism AssociationStay Downourlane

Abergavenny B4

15 Cross Street, Abergavenny, NP7 5ENT: 01873 857121F:01873 858059E: [email protected]

W: www.angelabergavenny.comOpen: All Year / Rooms:35 / En-suite:35

Historic coaching inn and serviced cottagesclose to Abergavenny castle, market andindependent shops. Stylish restaurant andcourtyard. Tea GuildsTop City and CountryHotel Award for afternoon teas. Wine SpectatorAward of Excellence. Near Shaun HillsMichelin-starred Walnut Tree.

The Angel Hotel

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ShortBreaks

Room Rate: Single from 89Double from 111

CYCLISTS

M&IT Gold Award


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Serviced Accommodation

Abergavenny B4

Abergavenny, NP7 9BTT: 01873 853513 / 07773 775179E:[email protected]:www.hardwickfarm.co.ukOpen: All Year (Except Christmas)Rooms:3 / En-suite:2

Warm welcome and homely atmosphereawaits you on our dairy farm. Situated on theedge of the Brecon Beacons, surrounded bymountain views and rolling countryside,bordered by River Usk. Ideal centre forwalking, exploring castles, pony-trekking.

Hardwick Farm

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Room Rate: Single From 45Double 60-70

CYCLISTS

Abergavenny B3

Pandy, Abergavenny, NP7 7PDT: 01873 890535F:01873 890792E:[email protected]:www.brynhonddu.co.ukOpen: All Year / Rooms:4 / En-suite:4

Our friendly family-run B&B, voted Best B&Bin Wales 2003 by overseas visitors, offerspicturesque views over the Black Mountainsand an historic country house setting with

some of the best walking areas in the countryand extensive biodiversity of flora and fauna.

Brynhonddu Country House B&B

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Room Rate: Single 35-45Double 65-70

CYCLISTS

Abergavenny B4

15 Cross Street, Abergavenny, NP7 5ENT: 01873 857121F:01873 858059E: [email protected]: www.angelabergavenny.comOpen: All Year / Rooms:35 / En-suite:35

Historic coaching inn and serviced cottagesclose to Abergavenny castle, market andindependent shops. Stylish restaurant andcourtyard. Tea GuildsTop City and CountryHotel Award for afternoon teas. Wine SpectatorAward of Excellence. Near Shaun HillsMichelin-starred Walnut Tree.

The Angel Hotel

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ShortBreaks


CYCLISTS

Coldra Woods, Newport, NP18 1HQT:01633 413000E:[email protected] W:www.celtic-manor.comOpen:All Year / Rooms:400 / En-suite:400

Situated in the beautiful Usk Valley The Celtic Manor Resort offers luxury on a grand scalewith three hotels - the five star Resort Hotel, a four star 19th century Manor House Hotel anda country inn, the Newbridge on Usk. There are a wealth of facilities including two health spas

and fitness clubs, six restaurants, and 3 championship golf courses, including the Twenty Tencourse, home of the 2010 Ryder Cup, along with a Golf Academy. All manner of outdoorpursuits can be enjoyed including Adventure Golf, the Forest Jump treetop adventure, tennis,mountain biking, woodland walks and fishing.

Venue of The 2010 Ryder Cup

Caerleon B7

The Celtic Manor Resort

Room Rate: Single 99-1,500Double 99-1,500

Monmouth C3

Monmouth C4

Monmouth D5

Skenfrith, Monmouthshire, NP7 8UHT: 01600 750235 F: 01600 750525E: [email protected]:www.skenfrith.co.ukOpen: 10 Feb 2012 27 Jan 2013Rooms:11 / En-suite:11

Award-winning inn with eleven fabulousen-suite bedrooms. Delicious food from ourorganic garden and local suppliers. Extensivewine list (AA 2012 UK Winner), real ales andlocal cider. Wonderful walks in MonnowValley. Closed Tuesdays November to March.

Mitchel Troy, Monmouth, NP25 4HZT: 01600 712176E: [email protected]:www.churchfarmmitcheltroy.co.ukOpen: All Year / Rooms:9 / En-suite:7

A spacious and homely 16th century formerfarmhouse (Grade II listed) with oak beamsand inglenook fireplaces. Set in large gardenwith stream. Easy access to A40. Two milesfrom historic Monmouth. All types of roomso suitable for families/groups.

Penallt, Monmouth, NP25 4ST: 01600 772765E: [email protected]:www.theinnatpenallt.co.ukOpen: All Year / Rooms:4 / En-suite:4

Jackie and Andrew offer a warm welcome

at their 4 star Country Inn and Restaurant.From freshly baked bread to their ownice-cream, the Inn serves the very best inWelsh and local produce, along with awardwinning ales/ciders.

The Bell at Skenfrith

Church Farm Guest House

The Inn at Penallt

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Short Break Rates: 340 - 470

CYCLISTS

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Caldicot C7

43 Sandy Lane, Caldicot, NP26 4NAT: 01291 420030E:[email protected]:www.rosecottagejs.co.ukOpen: All Year / Rooms:4 / En-suite:3

Peacefully located, Rose Cottage is close tomany shops, pubs and good food. ChepstowRacecourse and the prestigious St Pierre GolfCourse within easy distance, as are historicattractions and the Wye Valley area ofoutstanding natural beauty. Ground floor

bedrooms and full Welsh breakfast.

Rose Cottage


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Chepstow D6

St Pierre Park, Chepstow NP16 6YAT: 01291 635260 F: 01291 627977E:[email protected]:www.marriottstpierre.co.ukOpen: All Year / Rooms:148 / En-suite:148

Nestled in 400 acres of Welsh countryside thehotel was once a 14th Century Manor House andretains much of its charm and character. Ideallylocated in Chepstow the hotel is perfectly placedfor exploring the Wye & Usk Valleys, the Forestof Dean and the rest of South Wales.

St Pierre, A Marriott Hoteland Country Club

Room Rate: Single from 79- 169Double from 79-169

Special Offer Short Break Rate:132-241

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Guest House



Room Rate: Single From 57.50Double From 75

Short Break Rates: Yes, see website for offers.

34


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Whitchurch, Ross on Wye, HR9 6DBT: 01600 890757E: [email protected]:www.portlandguesthouse.co.ukOpen: Feb - Dec / Rooms:6 / En-suite:6

Elegant, grade 11 listed, Georgian house in AONB, 5 minutes from the River Wye, adjacentForest of Dean and Symonds Yat. Highly commended by AA. Cosy relaxing lounge.Spacious ensuite bedrooms with divine beds. Ground floor Lloyd Suite overlooks awardwinning garden. Ross Suite, two bedroomed with countryside views, can accommodate family

of 5/6. Monmouth Suite, gorgeous 4 poster bed Victorian bathroom. 3 course breakfasts,AGA cooked, have justly earned the AA Breakfast Award. Lots to do nearby.

Monmouth D4

Portland House

Room Rate: Single From 60Double From 70

CYCLISTS

Guest Accommodation

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Monmouth C4

Wonastow, Monmouth, NP25 4DWT: 01600 740253E:[email protected]:www.whitehillfarmuk.comOpen: All Year / Rooms:2 / En-suite:2

18th century spacious farmhouse on workingfarm with stunning rural views: A warmreception for quiet stressfree breaks:Large garden and patio, freeview TVs, wifi,magazines etc. Explore the farm, woodlandwalks and see wild deer and badgers.Only 2.5 miles to historic Monmouth.

Whitehill Farm B&B


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CYCLISTS

Raglan C5

High Street, Raglan, NP15 2DYT: 01291 690412 F:

wye valley and vale of usk

Documents