YHA St Briavels Castle is a venue with real 'wow' factor that will amaze and inspire visitors of…
Our View
The ruins of this Cistercian monastery church, founded in 1131 by Walter de Clare, Lord of chepstow, are still surprisingly intact. The monastery was established in 1131 and became increasingly wealthy well into the 15th century. During the Dissolution it was closed and most of the buildings were completely destroyed. During the 18th century many poets and artists including William Wordsworth, came to see the ruins and recorded their impressions in words and art. It is still a wonderful sight, accentuated by the green wooded valley and neighbouring river.
Facilities – at a glance
Dogs allowed
Features
- Suitable for children of all ages
- Parking onsite
- Facilities: Portable induction loop, 5 disabled parking spaces
- Accessible toilets
- Open all year
- Opening Times: Open all year, daily Mar-Jun & Sep-Oct, 9.30-5; Jul-Aug, 9.30-6; Nov-Feb, Mon-Sat 10-4, Sun 11-4 (last admission 30mins before closing)
Also in the area
About the area
Discover Monmouthshire
In their bid to control the borderlands of Monmouthshire – also known as the Marches – the Normans built a triangle of castles: Grosmont, Skenfrith and White. At first, they were simple wooden structures strengthened by earthworks, but when the lively Welsh refused to stop attacking them, it was decided more permanent fortresses were needed. All three are worth a visit and the views from the battlements at White Castle over the surrounding countryside to the Black Mountains are stunning, as is all the scenery in this area – consisting of a patchwork of low hills, hidden valleys, fields criss-crossed with hedgerows and small belts of woodland.
Monmouth itself makes a great base to explore the beautiful Wye Valley, as well as being known as the home of Rockfield Studios, where Queen recorded Bohemian Rhapsody in 1975. The largest town in the county, Abergavenny is creating a name for itself as the foodie capital of the Usk Valley, and has held a weekly cattle market on the same site since 1863. Its location just six miles from the English border means it’s often described as the ‘gateway to Wales’.
Nearby stays
Places to Stay
Dining nearby
Restaurants and Pubs
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