The small market town of Abergavenny on the eastern edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park marks the start of the "Head of the Valleys Road" (A465), which extends along the impressive stretch at the northern end of the "Valleys" as far as Swansea. Built in about 1100, but subsequently renovated several times, the castle now houses a museum devoted to local history.
The Raglan Castle is an imposing medieval fortress, and the last of its kind in the country. Stunning views out over the countryside can be had from the tower.
The Abergavenny Museum chronicles local history from Prehistoric and Roman times to present. The museum is set in the ruins of Abergavenny Castle which was the site of the infamous Christmas Day 1175 massacre of Welsh Chieftains by Norman Lord, William de Braose.
Address: Abergavenny Museum & Castle, Castle Street, Abergavenny NP7 5EE, Wales
Hours:
March 1 to October 31: 11am-1pm, 2pm-5pm; Sun:11am-1pm, 2pm-5pm
November 1 to February 29: 11am-1pm, 2pm-4pm; Closed: Sun
The center offers numerous different rides through the Vale of Ewyas for riders of all abilities. Welsh cobs are used to ride up to the tops of local mountains. Instruction is also provided.
The center is approved by the Wales Trekking and Riding Association and is a Wales Tourist Board accredited activity center.
Address: Grange Trekking Centre, Capel-Y-Fin, Abergavenny NP7 7NP, Wales
White Castle was one of the Three Castles designed to protect the open lands between the Wye Valley and the Black Mountains. Construction of this Norman castle began in 1180 and later additions were made during the 13th century. The name is most likely derived from the white plaster which once covered its walls.
Address: White Castle, Llantilio Crossenny NP7 8UD, Wales
Hours:
Always closed on: New Year's Day (January 1), Christmas Eve - Christian (December 24), Christmas - Christian (December 25), Day after Christmas, St Stephen's Day, Boxing Day (December 26)
This castle, accompanied by Grosmont and White Castle, is one of the Three Castles that was responsible for defending the routes between England and Wales through the open country between the Wye valley and the Black Mountains. It also acted as a key defensive position for defense along the Monnow river.
Completely redesigned after Hubert de Burgh leveled the earlier Norman fortress, the current castle of stone is designed with noticeable influence from French fortresses.
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Raglan Castle
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Raglan Castle, Abergavenny
