- worldheritage-blaenavon.org.uk
Blaenavon - World Heritage site
Further afield – places to visit near Abergavenny
You'll need transport to get to these places from Abergavennny, however, no trip to this corner of South Wales is complete without a visit to the following places.
Blaenavon Ironworks and Big Pit
The Ironworks at Blaenavon is one of Europe's best preserved sites of the 18th century. This site was at the forefront of technology in the 1780's when a steam engine was installed.
Big Pit was a real coal mine which is now open to visitors. An experience not to be missed, it is possible to put yourself in the shoes of the miners who made their living hacking away at the coal face. The buildings associated with the mine are still there, including the blacksmith's workshop, the engine house and more.
Brecon Beacons
No visit to Abergavenny would be complete without a trip through the majestic landscape of the Brecon Beacons. An area of outstanding beauty, this National Park is not to be missed. Particularly splendid when covered in snow, the sharp rise and falls of these peaks and valleys is breathtaking. For the more adventurous, Pen y Fan at 2906 feet is the highest mountain in South Wales. The view from the top is magnificent.
If you're up for a good stroll, then the summits local mountains - the Blorenge, the Skirrid, and the Sugar-Loaf are all reachable from the town centre within 2-3 hours of walking (there are car-parks nearer the top for those who are less keen!). More details on local walks.
Llanthony Priory
Built around the end of the 12th century, the remains of Llanthony Priory are set in a magnificent location just a few miles outside of Abergavenny. Allow an hour or so to wander around the ruins, but you might want to linger longer once you discover the pub that's built into the cellars! There are also four guestrooms available at Llanthony Priory Hotel.
It's an ideal starting point for walkers wanting to get onto the Hatterall Ridge, part of Offa's Dyke footpath.
St Fagan's
A fantastic open air museum just outside Cardiff featuring houses, farms and miscellaneous buildings representing the heritage of Wales.
A great day out, you can usually find craftsmen practising their trades somewhere in the grounds. There are also various exhibitions such as Welsh costumes from times past.
For more information, please visit the St Fagan's website.
Symond's Yat
It's difficult to imagine a more picturesque part of Wales. With sweeping views over the River Wye far below, and peregrine falcons nesting in the cliff face nearby, Symond's Yat Rock is definitely worth a visit.
After visiting the rock, why not visit the local butterfly farm? Or if you're feeling particularly adventurous, then hire a canoe and paddle down the Wye itself.
