Monmouth Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the picturesque region of Wales, Monmouth is a charming town that captivates visitors with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant atmosphere. This hidden gem offers a delightful blend of old-world charm and modern attractions, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking an authentic and diverse experience.

As you wander through the quaint streets of Monmouth, you will be transported back in time. The town's historic center boasts a wealth of architectural masterpieces, including the iconic Monnow Bridge, which dates back to the 13th century and is the only remaining fortified river bridge in the whole of Great Britain. Immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere as you explore the narrow alleys and discover hidden gems such as The Shire Hall, a magnificent neoclassical building that has witnessed significant historical events.

Nature enthusiasts will be enchanted by the natural beauty that surrounds Monmouth. The town is nestled in the Wye Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With its rolling hills, meandering rivers, and lush forests, this idyllic setting offers a plethora of outdoor activities. Embark on a scenic hike along Offa's Dyke Path or explore the enchanting woodland trails of the Forest of Dean. For a more relaxed experience, take a leisurely boat ride down the River Wye and soak in the breathtaking views of the countryside.

Monmouth is also a paradise for history buffs. Visit the Monmouth Museum to delve into the town's fascinating past, from its Roman origins to its role in the English Civil War. Don't miss a visit to Monmouth Castle, which played a significant part in Welsh history and offers captivating insights into the town's medieval heritage.

In addition to its historical and natural attractions, Monmouth offers a vibrant culinary scene and a thriving arts and culture community. Indulge in traditional Welsh cuisine at one of the charming local restaurants or explore the bustling market square, where you can find an array of fresh produce and artisanal crafts.

Alternative names: Population: 10.1 thous. (2019)Elevation: 98 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 51°48'45"N, 2°42'56"W

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WalesUnited Kingdom

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Monmouth Top Attractions

Monmouth Attractions - What to See and Explore

Monmouth offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Monmouth Museum, Monmouth Castle, Church of St Thomas the Martyr, Monnow Bridge. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Artifacts and exhibits on famous admiral
Monmouth Museum
Nestled in the historic town of Monmouth in Wales, the Monmouth Museum, also known as the Nelson Museum, offers a fascinating journey through local and national history. With a diverse collection that encompasses the life and times of Admiral Horatio Nelson, the museum...
Forts and castles
Monmouth Castle
Monmouth Castle is a castle close to the centre of the town of Monmouth, the county town of Monmouthshire, on a hill above the River Monnow in south east Wales.
Church
Church of St Thomas the Martyr
The Church of St Thomas the Martyr at Overmonnow, Monmouth, south east Wales, is located beside the medieval Monnow Bridge across the River Monnow. At least part of the building dates from around 1180, and it has a fine 12th-century Norman chancel arch, though the exterior was largely rebuilt in the early 19th century.

Historical place • Bridge
Monnow Bridge
Monnow Bridge, in Monmouth, Wales, is the only remaining fortified river bridge in Great Britain with its gate tower standing on the bridge.
Military museum • Museum
Great Castle House
Great Castle House is a former town house built on the site of part of Monmouth Castle in Wales. Amongst the town's most significant buildings, it has a Grade I listing and is one of 24 sites on the Monmouth Heritage Trail.
Concerts and shows • Cinema • Theater
Savoy Theatre
The Savoy Theatre, Church Street, Monmouth is a theatre and cinema, reputedly the oldest working theatre site in Wales. It has a capacity for 360 people and is run by a charitable trust.
Forts and castles
Skenfrith Castle
Skenfrith Castle is a ruined castle in the village of Skenfrith in Monmouthshire, Wales. The fortification was established by the Normans in the wake of the invasion of England in 1066, to protect the route from Wales to Hereford.
Monuments and statues
Statue of Charles Rolls
A memorial statue to the aviation pioneer Charles Rolls stands in front of the Shire Hall in Agincourt Square, Monmouth, Wales.
Park
Chippenham Mead
Chippenham Mead is a registered town/village green in Monmouth, Wales that has been also known as Chippenham Fields, Chippenham Park, Chippenham Gate and Monmouth Sports Ground. There is a sports area within the park called Chippenham Sports Ground. The green is located between Blestium Street and the Banks of the River Wye, Monmouth.
Bridge
Wye Bridge
The Wye Bridge in Monmouth is a bridge across the River Wye. The A466 passes over it and immediately meets the A40 at its western end. The bridge is a grade II listed building. The total span of the bridge is 71 metres.
Bridge
Monmouth Viaduct
The Monmouth Viaduct or Chippenham Meadow Viaduct is a 20-arch 183m red sandstone viaduct, with two 23m steel lattice-girder spans over the river. It carried the Coleford, Monmouth, Usk & Pontypool Railway line across the River Wye at Monmouth, Wales. A further river crossing by the Ross and Monmouth Railway was later built nearby.
Archaeological site
33 Whitecross Street
33 Whitecross Street is a grade II listed building in Monmouth, Monmouthshire, Wales. It is in the historic St James Square neighbourhood.
Church
St Mary's Priory Church
St Mary's Priory Church, in Whitecross Street, Monmouth, Monmouthshire, Wales, is an Anglican church founded as a Benedictine priory in 1075. The current church dates mostly from the 18th and 19th centuries. It was designated a Grade II* listed building in 1952. It is one of 24 buildings on the Monmouth Heritage Trail.
History museum • Event space
Shire Hall
The Shire Hall in Agincourt Square, Monmouth, Wales, is a prominent Grade I listed building in the town centre. It was built in 1724, and was formerly the centre for the Assize Courts and Quarter Sessions for Monmouthshire.
Church
Monmouth Methodist Church
Monmouth Methodist Church is located in Monmouth, south east Wales. It is set well back from St James Street between buildings. Designed by George Vaughan Maddox and built in 1837, it retains its original galleries, organ loft and sophisticated pulpit.
Archaeological site
Blestium
Blestium was a small fort and iron working centre in the Roman province of Britannia Superior, part of Roman Britain. It has been identified with the site of the later town of Monmouth in south east Wales, located adjoining the confluence of the River Monnow with the River Wye. A plaque on the local bank records its position.
Memorial
The Cross
The Cross is situated in St Thomas' Square, Overmonnow, Monmouth, Wales, in the middle of a roundabout opposite the Church of St Thomas the Martyr and the western end of the Monnow Bridge.
Archaeological site
St James House
St James House is a grade II listed building in Monmouth, Monmouthshire, Wales. It is in the historic St James Square neighbourhood, within the Medieval town walls.
Military museum • Museum • History museum
Monmouth Regimental Museum
The Monmouth Regimental Museum is located on Castle Hill in Monmouth, Monmouthshire, Wales. The museum is in a wing...

Day trips

Monmouth – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Monmouth, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Big Pit National Coal Museum (Blaenavon), Tintern Abbey (Tintern), Gloucester Cathedral (Gloucester).

17 milesW
Museum, Historical place, Specialty museum
Big Pit National Coal Museum, Blaenavon
Nestled in the rugged landscape of Wales, the Big Pit National Coal Museum offers a profound journey into the country's industrial past. As a key part of Blaenavon's UNESCO World Heritage Site, this authentic coal mine provides a poignant reminder of the community...
8.2 miS
Cistercian site with iconic Gothic ruins
Tintern Abbey, Tintern
Tintern Abbey, a hauntingly beautiful relic of ecclesiastical grandeur, stands serenely in the village of Tintern, United Kingdom. Founded by Walter de Clare, Lord of Chepstow, in 1131, this former Cistercian monastery is a testament to the architectural prowess of the...
20 milesE
Medieval architecture and Edward II's tomb
Gloucester Cathedral, Gloucester
Gloucester Cathedral stands as a magnificent beacon of history and architecture in the heart of Gloucester, England. With its origins dating back nearly a millennium, this cathedral is not only a place of worship but also a treasure trove for history enthusiasts...
40 milesS
Golf
Burnham & Berrow Golf Club
Nestled along the Somerset coast, Burnham & Berrow Golf Club stands as a beacon of traditional links golf in the United Kingdom. Founded in 1890, this esteemed golf course has been challenging golfers for well over a century with its unique blend of sand dunes, coastal...
6.4 miSW
Impressive and old fortified country home
Raglan Castle, Raglan
Raglan Castle, a historical landmark nestled in the scenic countryside of Raglan, Wales, stands as a testament to the grandeur of medieval architecture and the tumultuous history of Britain. This impressive fortress, now in ruins, was built in the 15th century by Sir...