The beautiful market town of Abergavenny is known as the ‘Gateway to Wales’.  Situated in the south eastern corner of the country, a mere 7 miles from the border with England and just 30 minutes drive from the Severn Bridge (the main route into south Wales from England), the town is easily accessible. With the River Usk to the south, the Brecon Beacons National Park to the west, the Black Mountains to the north and the famous Skirrid Mountain to the east, Abergavenny is the perfect base for those interested in beautiful scenery, history, wonderful food or simply the great outdoors. Click on the links to view further information about all that this town has to offer.

Gilwern, on the Brecon and Monmouthshire canal has a lively village centre with local shops and pubs. To the east of Abergavenny.

The Llanthony Valley is regarded by many as one of the loveliest valleys in the area, with the romantic ruins of Llanthony Abbey bordered by a long stretch of the Offa's Dyke Footpath.

Grosmont which includes The Three Castles Walk, with its castle ruins, traditional village pub and shop. 

Pandy with its village pubs.

Llangattock Lingoed there is an excellent selection of "gastro- pubs" using good local produce.

Forest Coalpit with its untouched natural beauty.

Clydach, with the Clydach Ironworks now an ancient monument alongside the picturesque Clydach river

History

Thought to have existed in the guise of a Roman fort from as early as 58 A.D, Abergavenny’s birth as a town dates back to the Norman conquest in the late 11th century when the castle was established.  

Its position close to the border with England means that Abergavenny had a rich and sometimes bloody history.  Visit Abergavenny Castle to hear about the massacre of the Welsh nobles on Christmas Day 1175 and drop in at the Tithe Barn to view the incredible Abergavenny Tapestry - an excellent representation of some of the town’s key features and historical moments.  The town’s motto reflects its history well ‘Hostes Nunc Amici’ - Foes Now Friends.  

Some 5 miles outside of Abergavenny is the Skirrid Inn, reputed to be Wales’ oldest pub.  Standing for over 9 centuries, the Inn takes its name from the Skirrid Mountain that overlooks it.  The Skirrid Mountain is often referred to as the ‘Holy Mountain’ as legend suggests that it was split in two at the time of the crucifixion of Christ during a violent storm.  The Inn was used as a courtroom and many unfortunate men were hung from the beam in the staircase.

Eating Out

Abergavenny and its surrounding area is a foodie’s delight with two Michelin starred restaurants and many other award-winning establishments.  

The Angel

Those in the centre of town should visit The Angel for high tea in the ballroom.  This former coaching inn dates from the early 17th century and has recently been refurbished to provide smart and elegant surroundings.  

Walnut Tree

Four miles out of town is the superb Michelin starred Walnut Tree, serving unpretentious and utterly delicious food.  

Hardwicke

Alternatively, or perhaps in addition, try Abergavenny’s other award winner - The Hardwick, where chef Stephen Terry offers a huge menu in stylish but comfortable surroundings.  

There are numerous other wonderful pubs and restaurants in the area, why not let us know your favourite local discoveries on Facebook?  

Entertainment

Baker Street Cinema: The town has lots to occupy visitors indoors as well as out.  The newly renovated Baker Street Cinema in Abergavenny offers two screens showing the latest film entertainment.   

Abergavenny Borough Theatre: Is part of the town hall building and dates from 1870.  It presents a year round programme of professional and community productions.  

The leisure centre: Has a large pool, squash, badminton and tennis courts, and a great gym - all of which are open to non-members.  It’s also worth remembering that during school holidays and on weekends, all children 16 or younger swim for free in Wales at participating facilities.

Events

Time your visit to Abergavenny for mid September and take in the Abergavenny Food Festival to enjoy some Welsh hospitality and sample the amazing local produce.  Last year’s event saw more than 40,000 people descend on the town for culinary masterclasses, passionate debates and performances, a party atmosphere and most importantly, over 200 stalls spread around the bustling town providing a showcase for some fabulous food and drink.

Abergavenny offers much more than just the Food Festival however.  The busy programme of events throughout the year includes arts festivals, the annual carnival, the steam rally, shire horse shows and cycle races.  

For a real flavour of this Welsh town head to the livestock markets held in the centre every Tuesday to watch the farmers, dealers and auctioneers in action.  See our ‘What’s On’ section for more details.

General Information

Shopping

Abergavenny is home to many of the well-known high street shops as well as a range of successful independent stores.  Numerous butchers, delis and shops selling fruit and vegetables provide a local alternative.  Treat yourselves or your loved ones with a little something from one of the many gift shops in the town.  Small, family-run department stores such as Nicholls and Richards are also very popular.

In the middle of Abergavenny sits a large covered market hall which plays host to numerous craft and antique fairs as well as regular flea markets.

Attractions

Abergavenny and its surrounding area boasts a wide variety of attractions, many of which are free to visit.  Head up to the Blaenavon World Heritage Centre located in two beautifully restored former industrial schools just a few miles from Abergavenny.  The interactive displays and the staff at the centre can help you plan your visit to the area which incorporates the Blaenavon Ironworks built in 1789, Blaenavon Heritage Town, the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway and Big Pit, where visitors can take a tour of the mines 300 ft below ground with a real miner.  The historic colliery buildings now house fascinating items and film footage from the time when the mines were still in operation - well worth a visit.  

In Abergavenny itself visitors shouldn’t miss the historical sites of Abergavenny Castle with its museum, the Tithe Barn, and St. Mary’s Priory.  The castle is one of the best examples of a motte and bailey castle in Britain.  The museum now sits amidst the ruins of the castle and makes a wonderful spot for a picnic or a walk.  A five minute stroll through the town sees you arrive at The Tithe Barn, a beautifully restored building dating back to the 12th century.  Enjoy a coffee out in the courtyard, explore the exhibition and view the wonderful Abergavenny Tapestry.  The Tithe Barn is part of St. Mary’s Priory where the church is one of the largest and finest parish churches in Wales.  As with the facilities at Blaenavon, the museum, Tithe Barn and St. Mary’s Priory are all free to enter.