A road trip planned by WENDY NOBLE over 33 days with 108 stops.
Countries: GBR
From 2025-08-17T23:00:00.000Z to 2025-09-18T23:00:00.000Z
UK
UK
See Stuart and Cath Pinkney
Brownwich Lane, Titchfield, Fareham, UK
booked in 14-8-25
UK
See Peter and Valery Crick
Abbey Hill, Netley, Southampton, UK
Abbey Hall CP is free and unrestricted ON optionEH Parking: There is limited car parking at the site. Further parking can be found at the Abbey Hall Recreation Ground, a five-minute walk from the site. Toilets here
Pinkney Lane, Bank, Lyndhurst, UK
Church Lane, Romsey, UK
1030-430Traditionally, the Abbey Church of St Mary and St Ethelflaeda can trace its origins back to 907 AD, the year in which King Edward the Elder, son of the Saxon King Alfred the Great, first settled some nuns here under the charge of his daughter Elflaeda. King Edgar refounded (or, quite possibly, founded) the nunnery in 967 under the rule of St. Benedict. Ethelflaeda, whose reputed acts of sanctity included chanting psalms whilst standing naked in the River Test at night, was abbess around the time of the first millennium. The first stone church and nunnery were built c.1000 AD and flourished as a place of education for the daughters of kings and noblemen. Work began on the present building c.1120-1140 with the choir, transepts, a Lady chapel at the east end and first three bays of the nave, a fourth being added in 1150-1180. The last three arches, in the Early English style, at the west end of the nave were added in 1230-1240, at which time over 100 nuns belonged to the foundation. In 1349, however, the Black Death decimated the population at large and, at the Abbey, the number of nuns declined to just 19. Its dark shadow had receded by the turn of the Fifteenth Century, during which a second aisle on the north side of the Abbey was built to accommodate a church, dedicated to St. Lawrence, for the townspeople.
Mottisfont Lane, Mottisfont, Romsey, UK
Garden and Cafe 1000, house and art gallery 1100 An Augustinian priory was founded here in 1201, laying the foundations for the 18th-century structure that’s now visible. Maud Russell made Mottisfont her home in the 1930s, bringing artists here to relax and create works inspired by Mottisfont’s past, including an extraordinary drawing-room painted by Rex Whistler. We continue those artistic traditions today, with a permanent 20th-century art collection and major exhibitions in our top-floor gallery.
Cholderton, Salisbury, UK
01980 669924Cholderton, Salisbury SP4 0DW
Salisbury, UK
EHOpens 0930Stonehenge is perhaps the world’s most famous prehistoric monument. It was built in several stages: the first monument was an early henge monument, built about 5,000 years ago, and the unique stone circle was erected in the late Neolithic period about 2500 BC. In the early Bronze Age many burial mounds were built nearby.
High Street, Stourton, Warminster, UK
Your Booking ID :Y3FNJGCEPark :Stourhead Estate Motorhome Site (Wiltshire)Party Leader :Wendy NobleParty :2 Adults, 1 PetAccommodation :Hardstanding Pitch with electric hook upDate & Duration :1 Night from Thursday 21/08/2025Holiday Extras :NoneTotal Booking Cost :£37.00Amount to be taken :£37.00
High Street, Stourton, Warminster, UK
Palladian house and world-famous landscape garden
Bruton Rd, Evercreech, Shepton Mallet, UK
the existing late 15th-century church stands atop much older foundations. The glory of St Peters is the superb west tower, one of the finest in Somerset - a county noted for its medieval church towers. Architectural historian Nikolaus Pevsner called Evercreech's tower the finest in Somerset; quite a claim!The earliest part of the church is the chancel, built around 1300 of blue lias rubble. The large east window with its Decorated Gothic tracery is original, as is the priest's door.The NaveThe nave was rebuilt in Perpendicular style in several stages during the 15th century. The king post nave roof is simply stunning, with four bays supported on five massive trusses with pierced tracery decoration. Each bay has 4 carved and painted angels.The 15th-century naveOne angel in the second bay carries a shield with the arms of the Lord Protector Somerset, uncle of Edward VI. The Lord Protector held the manor of Evercreech from 1548 until his abrupt fall from power in 1551. According to tradition the roof was first painted by the Duke's orders and perhaps paid for out of his own pocket. The effect is extraordinary - be prepared to have your jaw drop when you first glimpse the roof.The nave is lit by a pair of extravagant brass chandeliers, one dated 1761. In the galleries, and rather hard to see, are a trio of hatchments. One is to Ann Talbot (d. 1857), and another to her husband James, Earl of Malahide, who died in 1850. The oldest hatchment is that of Mary Cozens (d. 1756), a great-aunt of Ann Talbot.The north aisle was built at the same time as the nave, though it is rather overwhelmed by Victorian galleries added from 1826 to meet the needs of a rapidly expanding population. The south aisle was built in 1843 to match the north aisle, and it also has a gallery with numbered pews to balance out the earlier aisle across the nave.A Mason's RevengeWhen the south aisle was being built the mason is said to have quarrelled with the parson and the publican of the village inn where he was lodged. The mason took his revenge by carving two grotesques, or hunky-punks as they are known in Somerset, to decorate the parapets. The carvings are a monster, representing the parson, and a monkey to caricature the publican. A pair of village gossips are represented by two cats!Just outside the churchyard is the handsome medieval village cross, erected in the late 15th century. The cross originally stood in the churchyard but was moved to its present site in 1781.St Peters is a wonderful church, a marvellous late medieval building. In a county known for its medieval churches, Evercreech is one of the best.
Castle Cary, UK
Susannah ONAlternative is Montague Inn Shepton Montague BA9 8JW01749 813213
Montacute, UK
Open 10 for all but HOuse . House at 1100 A masterpiece of Elizabethan architecture and design, built at the end of the 16th century. One of the few remaining Elizabethan compartmentalised gardens. Lawns, flower borders and clipped yew hedges.
Somerton, UK
Market Place, Somerton, UK
UK
Wells, UK
CP next to council one - make sure as side by side. Private CP Approach via Priory road to avoid low trees. not the one with bus station- best on the gravel area eg backing onto pets Corner good for city and Wells Cathedral24 hour loo at bus station ?? empty casset?
Cathedral Green, Wells, UK
AUGUST 24 SUNDAY: BARTHOLOMEW THE APOSTLE 8.30 a.m. HOLY COMMUNION Book of Common Prayer 10.30 a.m. CATHEDRAL EUCHARIST (Universities in London Church Choir) Grunenwald Preces, from Diptyque liturgique Hymns 231, CP 481, 374, 478 Sumsion Communion Service in F Sermon The Reverend Rosey Lunn, Priest Vicar Malcolm Archer Ave verum corpus Widor Marcia, from Organ Symphony No 3 in E minor, Op. 13
The Bishop's Palace, Wells, UK
Caravan club is buy one get one free £22open 930 -530The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens in Wells, Somerset has been home to the Bishops of Bath and Wells for over 800 years and this stunning medieval palace, along with its 14 acres of RHS partner gardens, is now open for all to enjoy. The site dates from the early-thirteenth century when Bishop Jocelin received a crown licence to build a residence and deer park on land to the south of the Cathedral of St Andrew. The moat has also been home to mute swans since the 1800s. - dogs only allowed in the gardens. also dont forget vicars close next door - Vicars' Close is a unique site, physically connected to Wells Cathedral by the Chain Gate, and reputedly the oldest intact medieval street in Europe (1348)
Wells, UK
CP next to council one - make sure as side by side. Private CP Approach via Priory road to avoid low trees. good for city and the Cathedral
Brent Knoll, Highbridge, UK
Open 9 to 5 dependant on volunteersBrent KNollThough most of the present building is 14th and 15th century, there is a Norman column in the north aisle.The Norman zigzag moulding over the south door was replicated by a much later craftsman in the decorative woodwork on the Jacobean pulpit.The church is known for its 15th century bench ends, most famously a series of three that portray a tale of vengeance involving a cleric, possibly the then Abbot of Glastonbury. He is depicted as a fox in ecclesiastical robes with crozier and mitre.
Puxton Road, Hewish, Weston-super-Mare, UK
Puxton open daylight hoursA wonderful Medieval church with a noticeably leaning tower on the low-lying north Somerset Levels.It stands on a small mound at the edge of an earthwork which has produced evidence of a tenth to thirteenth century settlement.Dominated by its leaning tower, the church is externally Perpendicular in style, with an earlier Saxo-Norman nave to the south.Its light, rustic interior features ledger stones - engraved stones covering old tombs - set in the flagged floor.Fine oak box pews on the north side of the nave are probably early eighteenth century, and the oak reading desk and pulpit are Jacobean.
Nore Road, Portishead, Bristol, UK
not listed as ON parking but huge CP , booked in 1830 dinner reservation - need to move to their own CP from the large CP by 2200 58 Nore Rd Portishead BS20 6JZworth a try01275 818483
Wraxall, Bristol, UK
Estate and cafe 10 house 1030Tyntesfield was not intended to be an extravagant statement of wealth, power or politics. Its purpose was simple: to serve as a family home.Originally a smaller Georgian house, Tyntesfield was transformed into a Gothic Revival masterpiece. Its bespoke architecture reflects the devout Anglo-Catholic beliefs of the Gibbs family. Here they invested their wealth derived from controlling the import of Peruvian ‘guano’ fertiliser.The garden and estate balance faded beauty and function with an abundance of nature. Flower-filled terraces, an empty lake, extensive woodland, champion trees and a productive kitchen garden give many opportunities for exploration. And with each season you can experience a new side to Tyntesfield.
Chepstow, UK
CADW/EHChepstow Castle, one of the earliest Norman stone fortresses in Britain, was initially built in 1067 by William fitz Osbern, a close companion of William the Conqueror. Located on cliffs overlooking the River Wye, it served as a vital strategic point on the Welsh border and a powerful symbol of Norman control. CP Bridge St, Chepstow NP16 5EYPublic toilets bridge street CP
Upper Church Street, Chepstow, UK
Though the building has been considerably altered over the years, several extremely fine medieval features remain, including a superb 12th-century west doorway, decorated with traditional zigzag and lozenge patterns. Inside the church the best features are the massive nave pillars rising to an excellent vaulted ceiling.Historic highlights include a pair of medieval fonts. One dates to the Norman period, the other is 15th century. But it is the wealth of medieval and later memorials that make the priory so enjoyable to visit.Among the best tombs is that of Henry Somerset, the 2nd Earl of Worcester. Even more elaborate and colourful is the Jacobean memorial to Margaret Cleyton and her two husbands, with figures of her dozen children arranged on a frieze below effigies of the parents.Another important historical tomb is that of Henry Marten, a close friend of Oliver Cromwell and one of the men who signed Charles I's death warrant. When Charles II regained the throne in 1660 he had Marten imprisoned in Chepstow Castle for 20 years until his death in 1680. Marten's imprisonment was so long that the tower inside the castle where he was held is still known as Marten's Tower.Other highlights include an early 17th-century organ. The organ was made for Gloucester Cathedral and was used in Bristol Cathedral from 1663 before coming to Chepstow around 1685.
Tintern, UK
CADW/EH Tintern is famous for its abbey and for the poets and painters such as Wordsworth and Turner who visited it two hundred years ago in the Romantic period. It is indeed a wonderfully romantic place, lying on the Welsh side of the winding valley of the River Wye between Chepstow and Monmouth. But it also has a fascinating history which is not often known to the many visitors who come here to enjoy its picturesque beauty. The River Wye has been a major thoroughfare from the Roman times, and it is said that the Viking longships rowed up the river as far as Monmouth. With the roads in the area made difficult by the hilly terrain, in more recent centuries the Wye has been a busy commercial waterway carrying coal, wood, charcoal, iron ore, and stone, and there was regular trading with Bristol.
Church Road, Caldicot, UK
free entry
Caldicot, UK
Elsan point in overflow cp at Caldicot Castle also water tap by toilets
High Street, Newport, UK
CADW/EH Life was hard for a Roman legionary in first-century Wales. When he wasn’t cooped up in his barracks or being barked at by a centurion he was out risking his life in skirmishes with ancient Britons.But here in Isca, one of just three permanent legionary fortresses in Britain, there were compensations. He could always hang out with his friends at the fortress baths – or take a stroll to the amphitheatre to watch the gladiators.Inside a modern covered building in today’s Caerleon you can still explore the remains of the immense natatio, or open-air swimming pool, that once held more than 80,000 gallons of water. Thanks to the wonders of film projection you’ll glimpse a Roman soldier still diving the depths today.You can also see the cramped rooms where the men slept and stored their weapons – the only Roman legionary barracks still on view in Europe.And you can walk through the great north entrance into the most complete Roman amphitheatre in Britain and imagine the din of 6,000 people baying for blood.
Stow Hill, Newport, UK
couple of CP by the cathedral8 a.m. Morning Prayer followed by Holy Eucharist (except Thursdays)Newport Cathedral was originally a fascinating medieval parish church raised to cathedral status in 1930. The 11th-century nave contains many Norman features, including a 12th century arch with columns that may be Roman. There is a very striking modern stained glass east window.WHO WAS WOOLOS?According to legend, Gwynllyw (the original Welsh form of the English ‘Woolos’) was a 5th-century Lord of Gwynllwg. He was converted to Christianity by Tathan of Gwent, and founded a church here around 500AD. Another version of the story says that Woolos, having failed to woo the Christian daughter of Brychan, kidnapped her and made her his wife. Her piety, and that of her son Cadog, convinced him to convert to Christianity.Cathedral ArtAdream instructed him to find build the church where he found a white ox with a black spot on its forehead. This he did and was later buried in the church after he died. Gwynllyw, and Cadog after him, founded churches throughout the area that is now Monmouthshire and Gwent.The History of the Cathedral is represented in the many works of art contained within – from window craftmanship and the ornate internal carvings, to the well-preserved Norman Arch and the Mediæval pillars, as well as the Rood (the Hanging Christ), the Nave Altar and the recently commissioned icons.
Pencarn Way, Duffryn, Newport, UK
Cardiff, UK
CADW/EH but some exhibitions are chargedSt. Fagans is an affluent village on the city’s outskirts, known for St. Fagans Castle. This Elizabethan manor has extensive gardens, with fountains, the Italian Garden and a rosery. Also within its grounds, the open-air St. Fagans National Museum of History showcases historic buildings relocated from across Wales, including a farm, a tannery, mills and a chapel.
Duffryn Lane, Saint Nicholas, Cardiff, UK
Garden roomsA variety of smaller themed gardens, reflecting different countries and styles. Some areas are undergoing restoration, most are open for visitors.Walled gardenA productive kitchen garden, used to grow all manner of fruit, vegetables and cut flowers.Arboretum22 acres of woodland, featuring trees from all over the world. Some areas are currently closed to the public, but many routes and paths remain open.GlasshouseHome to a large collection of cacti, succulents, grape vines and tropical plants, there is always something exotic in bloom.
Llantwit Major, UK
CCC- Acorn Camping & Caravan Site, Ham Lane South, Llantwit Major CF61 1RP01446794024Laundry availablehttp://www.acorncamping.co.uk/booking reference number is: 9607458. arrival est 1700-1730
Church Lane, Llantwit Major, UK
park in 1 Church St - town hall cpHistorically, Saint Illtud's is really two churches. The part you enter through the porch is the west church, thought to be built where the original Celtic Church stood. When you pass through the the glass doors you enter the east church an altogether more ornate structure which reveals the maintenance of faith through a wealth of memorials, monuments, murals and carvings.Church historyThe original Celtic church probably stood on the site of the west church, and this was rebuilt by the Normans around 1100, though the only existing Norman remains are the archway over the south door and some fragments of masonry. In the 13th c. the east church was built and subsequently modified in the 14th c. to include the tower. The west church was rebuilt in the 15th c. and the Galilee Chapel was added on as a chantry chapel through an endowment by Sir Hugh Raglan
Parkmill, Gower, UK
also good local food avail plan early arrival for walk and to get parking £20 includes x1 entry for ON parkingDog walking on coastal pathhttps://www.gowerheritagecentre.co.uk/times-prices-directions/ticket number -2607362056 see printout
Swansea, UK
CAMC CL Site Owner: B WilliamsCall: 01792 37166128 cash booked.
Rhossili, Swansea, UK
NT carpark and great walks
Llanmadoc, Swansea, UK
phoned book table 6.30 and moho okLlanmadoc, Swansea SA3 1DB01792 386624britanniagower@btconnect.com
Castle Road, Kidwelly, UK
CADW/EHSee Kidwelly Castle rising above the river Gwendraeth on a misty morning and prepare to be amazed. This is the medieval fortress of everyone’s dreams.That’s probably why it appears in the very first scene of ‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail’. But it would have been no laughing matter to attack this military stronghold.Kidwelly began in the early 12th century as a Norman ‘ringwork’ castle made of wood and protected only by an earthen bank and ditch. Not surprisingly it was under constant attack by Welsh princes including the Lord Rhys, who captured it in 1159.Four decades later the Normans were back in charge. By the 1280s the Chaworth brothers, powerful Marcher lords, had created the stone ‘castle within a castle’ that still stands today.Imagine being a Welsh attacker. First you had to conquer the great gatehouse with its drawbridge and portcullis, a hail of arrows and rocks raining down on you. Breach these outer defences and you were faced by the four towers of the inner ward. No way forward – and nowhere to hide. A true killing zone.After centuries of see-sawing conflict between Norman invaders and native princes Kidwelly was now a match for any castle in Wales. The gatehouse added by the Duchy of Lancaster was the icing on the cake. Even the forces of Owain Glyndŵr couldn’t break through.
King Street, Laugharne, Carmarthen, UK
CADWhis is the ‘brown as owls’ castle beloved of Dylan Thomas, Laugharne’s most famous resident. He wrote Portrait of the Artist as a Young Dog in the castle summerhouse perched above glorious views of the Taf estuary.After centuries of conflict between Welsh and Anglo-Normans, Laugharne was rescued from near ruin by Elizabethan courtier Sir John Perrot. He turned the dilapidated 13th-century castle into a residence fit for a gentleman, including a grand hall whose gaping windows still stare out over the water.But his rapid rise had made him many enemies – and even the rumour that he was really the queen’s half-brother couldn’t save him.Convicted of high treason, Sir John died in the Tower of London in 1592 while awaiting execution. Some believe he was poisoned just as Elizabeth was about pardon him.There is limited parking opposite the main castle entrance.Greenbanks pay & display parking area is about 300 metres/328 yards below the castle.Walk alon the outer castle along river. Dogs OK in castle
Laugharne, Carmarthen, UK
Laugharne, Carmarthen, UK
Tavernspite, Whitland, UK
booked £20 cash on the dayTel: 07940 858374Tel: 01834 831816 Terry & Rhoda blaenhafod88@gmail.comNote be careful you dont turn ino next door farm They will send detailsHello Wendy Directions to Blaenhafod as follows: Follow the M4 until its very end. At Pont Abraham roundabout take the first exit to follow the A48. Follow the A48 until you reach Carmarthen and then follow the A40 towards St. Clears. At the next roundabout take the first exit onto the A477. Take the second left turn signposted Tavernspite. At the Red Roses crossroads turn left. (The Sporting Chance PH is on the left at the junction). Follow the B4314 until you come into Tavernspite. Take the middle left fork (old village water pumps). Follow this unnamed road past Pant Glas caravan park on your left. About half a mile past Pant Glas look for our entry on the left. You will see 2 Camping & Caravanning Site signs as well as the Blaenhafod sign. Follow the track until you see the entrance to the campsite on your left. Call if you need help on the day. Regards, Terry & Rhoda
UK
castle town walls and large parking
Quay Hill, Tenby, UK
open only Tue Thu Sat
Angle Village, Pembroke, UK
Address: The Old Point House, Angle Village, Angle, Pembroke SA71 5AS Phone: 01646 795264 A historic and charming 16th Century Coastal Inn. With well stocked bars and a speciality restaurantAlternative CAMC Freshwater east Trewent Hill, Freshwater East, Pembroke SA71 5LJ•01646 672341has laundry
Pembroke, UK
park in west street or the commonshttps://pembrokecastle.digitickets.co.uk/event-tickets/61127?catID=58829&Seniors £9
Marloes, Haverfordwest, UK
Address: Fox Dale, Glebe Lane, Marloes, Haverfordwest SA62 3AYPhone: 01646 636243Laundry availableemailed to confirm pitch no EHU £25 to pay
St Davids, Haverfordwest, UK
CADW/EHPark on the Pebblesor Merryvaleor Quick vale
The Pebbles, St Davids, Haverfordwest, UK
no charge
Pembrokeshire Coast Path, Abereiddy, Haverfordwest, UK
St Davids, Haverfordwest, UK
booking summary reference 58983189 Address: Dwr Cwmwdig, St Davids, Haverfordwest SA62 6DWPhone: 01348 831376laundry available
UK
Cardigan, UK
Cross Inn, Llandysul, UK
booking summary reference 58983659 Address: Llwynhelyg, Cross Inn, Llandysul SA44 6LW Phone: 01545 560029laundry availableGetting to the site can be quite difficult if you follow a Sat-Nav via B roads, get to Cross Inn using A roads to the village centre and make a left turn at the Pub.
Tywyn, UK
Tal-y-llyn, Tywyn, UK
Beautiful location and park up £10 ON Pen-Y-Bont HotelTalyllynTywynGwyneddLL36 9AJPhone01654 78228507816 427749
UK
UK
park in black patch or main carpark
UK
Bron y Graig Uchaf Long Stay Car ParkCADW/EH9.30am-5pmCastell Harlech crowns a sheer rocky crag overlooking the dunes far below – waiting in vain for the tide to turn and the distant sea to lap at its feet once again.No further drama is really required but, just in case, the rugged peaks of Eryri (Snowdonia) rise as a backdrop. Against fierce competition from Conwy, Caernarfon and Beaumaris, this is probably the most spectacular setting for any of Edward I’s castles in North Wales. All four are designated as a World Heritage Site.
Gwynedd, Wales, UK
voucher valid after lunchAddress: A487 Port Meirion Village, Gwynedd, WalesPhone: 01766 77240001766 770000E: post@portmeirion.wales1200 lunch booking 13/08/24turn left not main if that is full. from the smaller one keep going and theres a really big one further on
Penrhyndeudraeth, UK
portmeirion CP requires ticket but can get for free by using brasserie
Criccieth, UK
Address: Tyddyn Sianel, Criccieth LL52 0LSPhone: 01766 522855booking summary reference 58988676 laundry availably
Caernarfon, UK
Nat Ch yrust open 10 to 4Pilgrim Church - St Beunos church and holy well St BeunoSt Beuno, descended from the royal princes of Powys, was the most celebrated of the early Christian monks of North Wales and it was he who founded the 'clas' at Clynnog Fawr in 616 and died here in about 640.National Churches Trust 10-1700
Castle Ditch, Caernarfon, UK
CADW/EHCastell Caernarfon is recognised around the world as one of the greatest buildings of the Middle Ages.This fortress-palace on the banks of the River Seiont is grouped with Edward I’s other castles at Conwy, Beaumaris and Harlech as a World Heritage Site. But for sheer scale and architectural drama Caernarfon stands alone.Here Edward and his military architect Master James of St George erected a castle, town walls and a quay all at the same time. This gigantic building project eventually took 47 years and cost a staggering £25,000.The castle was born out of bitter war with Welsh princes. So of course its immense curtain walls and daunting King’s Gate were designed to withstand assault. But the polygonal towers, eagle statues and multi-coloured masonry sent a more subtle message.
Caernarfon, UK
Llanddaniel Fab, Llanfair, UK
CADW/EHOne of Anglesey’s most famous prehistoric landmarks, Bryn Celli Ddu (the ‘Mound in the Dark Grove’ in English) is actually two sites in one.In the early Neolithic (New Stone Age) period, a henge (bank and ditch) enclosing a circle of stones was built here, to be replaced later by a chambered tomb beneath a mound measuring up to 85ft/26m in diameter. Inside, a long, narrow passage leads to an octagonal chamber 8ft/2.4m across, where artefacts such as human bones, arrowheads and carved stones have been found.
Castle St, Beaumaris, UK
CADW 930 TO 5Beaumaris on the island of Anglesey is famous as the greatest castle never built. It was the last of the royal strongholds created by Edward I in Wales – and perhaps his masterpiece. Here Edward and his architect James of St George took full advantage of a blank canvas: the ‘beau mareys’ or ‘beautiful marsh’ beside the Menai Strait. By now they’d already constructed the great castles of Conwy, Caernarfon and Harlech. This was to be their crowning glory, the castle to end all castles. The result was a fortress of immense size and near-perfect symmetry. No fewer than four concentric rings of formidable defences included a water-filled moat with its very own dock. The outer walls alone bristled with 300 arrow loops. But lack of money and trouble brewing in Scotland meant building work had petered out by the 1320s. The south gatehouse and the six great towers in the inner ward never reached their intended height. The Llanfaes gate was barely started before being abandoned. So the distinctive squat shape of Beaumaris tells of a dream that never quite came true. Still it takes its rightful place on the global stage as part of the Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd World Heritage Site.
Steeple Lane, Beaumaris, UK
The 14th-century parish church of Beaumaris boasts 16th-century choir stalls with finely carved misericords and the 15th-century table tomb and stone coffin of Princess Joan, the illegitimate daughter of King John and wife of Llywelyn the Great.HistoryThis handsome 14th-century church was erected shortly after Edward I built nearby Beaumaris Castle, to serve the castle garrison and the people of Beaumaris town.The oldest parts of the church are the nave and aisles, and the west tower, all of which date to the 14th century. The chancel was rebuilt in the 15th century and you can see the stylistic differences.Tomb of Princess JoanPrincess Joan's TombThe most famous historic feature of St Mary and St Nicholas is the tomb of Princess Joan (or Siwan in Welsh). Joan married Llewelyn, Prince of Wales, at the age of 15. It was at first a successful union by all accounts, but in 1230 she was discovered in bed with a Norman knight, William de Braose.Llewelyn had Braose hanged, and Joan was exiled for a year at Garth Celyn. Llewelyn eventually forgave her, and Joan returned to court in 1231.She died in 1237 and was buried at the Franciscan Friary in Llanfaes, within sight of Llewlyn's palace of Abergwyngregyn. When Llewelyn died three years later he was not buried with Joan, but at Aberconwy Abbey.When Henry VIII dissolved the Friary in 1537 the monastic buildings were left to decay, and Princess Joan's tomb was lost.
Bangor, UK
Glanrafon Car ParkThis is the oldest cathedral foundation in Britain. It was founded c.525AD on the site of a clas, an institution of the Celtic Church which was somewhere between a monastery and a college.It is thought that Deiniol was given land by Maelgwn, king of Gwynedd, where he created an enclosure for his clas by driving poles into the ground and weaving branches between them. This type of fence was known as “bangor”. Huts and cells were erected in the enclosure by missionaries and their families.The present structure (pictured here in the 1890s) dates from the early 12th century. The present structure dates from the early 12th century.
Bangor, UK
The dominating stone façade of Penrhyn Castle hides more than just its internal red-brick construction. Built in the early 19th century, its formidable architecture, opulent interiors and fine art collection lean on a long history of sugar and slate fortunes, social unrest and the longest-running industrial dispute in British history. Owned by the Pennant family, Penrhyn is a key example of how wealth derived from slavery shaped the built environment of Wales and underpinned local working histories. A staunch anti-abolitionist, Richard Pennant's fortune – acquired from sugar plantations in Jamaica that used enslaved labour – funded roads, railways, schools, hotels, workers’ houses, churches and farms in North Wales. The Penrhyn Slate Quarry and Port Penrhyn, established by the Pennants, dominated the Welsh slate industry for almost 150 years. Penrhyn Castle’s vast rooms, rich neo-Norman architecture and opulent furnishings are steeped in these colonial histories.
Bodnant Road, Tal-y-cafn, Colwyn Bay, UK
Rowen, Conwy LL32 8YU, UK
Booking Reference: 9729234 Booking Arrival Date: 11/09/2025 Booking Departure Date: 12/09/2025
Rose Hill St, Conwy, UK
CADW/EH 0930This famous fortress is exceptionally well preserved. It contains the most intact set of medieval royal apartments in Wales. The high curtain wall and eight lofty towers rise almost as impressively as when they were built more than 700 years ago.Conwy Castle CP - MH bays also Morfa BAch car park
Castle Street, Conwy, UK
only open Thu Fri SatThis is the only medieval merchant's house in Conwy to have survived the turbulent history of the walled town over nearly six centuries. Aberconwy House is the oldest, secular domestic building in Wales. With timbers dating back to 1417, it was initially a Medieval traders house (or warehouse). Since then it has had a long history of trade, with Evan David selling produce from his Benarth farm there in the 1600s and Captain Samuel Williams selling goods such as slate, copper and lead in the 1800s. By the turn of the 20th Century it was a Temperance Hotel run by Jane and William Jones who offered a safe and quiet alternative to the rowdier pubs and inns of Conwy at the time. After running as an antique shop for a number of years it eventually fell into a state of disrepair. To save it from being dismantled and shipped to the USA it was bought by Alexander Campbell-Blair from Llandudno who bequeathed it to the National Trust in 1934. 2nd hand bookshop
Rose Hill St, Conwy, UK
Aberconwy was a Cistercian abbey founded in 1189 as a daughter house of Strata Florida. It was first established at Rhedynog-felen near Clynnog Fawr, but moved to its second home on land granted by Llewelyn ap Iorwerth near Conwy.HistoryLlewelyn was so keen to have the abbey close to his palace of Deganwy that he gave the monks a vast estate of land covering much of Snowdonia and the Isle of Anglesey. So important was the abbey to the princes of Gwynedd that a succession of princes were buried in the abbey church, including Llewelyn himself, Gruffydd ap Cynan, Llewelyn ap Maelgwyn, and Llewelyn's son and heir Dafydd ap Llywelyn.
High Street, Conwy, UK
CADW/EH 930 -1700Never was a building better named. Plas Mawr, or the Great Hall, is quite simply the finest surviving Elizabethan town house anywhere in Britain.This was a golden age when fabulously wealthy merchants invested in mansions, rich fittings and lavish entertaining. Robert Wynn, third son of a local landowner, wanted a piece of the action.He entered the service of Tudor diplomats and travelled to the most splendid royal courts of Europe. His fortune made, he bought a mansion house in Conwy for £200 and between 1576 and 1585 turned it into a celebration of his life, times and wealth.The house’s main frontage is discreetly hidden away in a steep narrow lane. So the High Street gatehouse only hints at the grandeur within, as you rise via a series of terraces to explore 17 impressive rooms.
High Street, Saint Asaph, UK
Address: 25 High St, Saint Asaph LL17 0RDLlanelwy is the Welsh name for the place called St Asaph. It means the sacred religious enclosure on the banks of the River Elwy. It is impossible to give an historically accurate account of the beginnings of Christianity in the early settlement at Llanelwy. Legend and tradition are confusingly mixed and there is no archaeological evidence or written record before the twelfth century. The legend of the founding of the church and monastery between the year c.560 and c.573 is to be found in ‘The life of St Kentigern’ written by Jocelyn, a monk of Furness Abbey c.1180. St Kentigern was the bishop of Strathclyde; he was driven into exile and founded a monastery at Llanelwy where he remained until his return to Scotland in 573. There are no local commemorations to Kentigern. St Asaph replaced him as abbot-bishop when he died in 596.In the eastern window of the north aisle there are pictures of St Kentigern and St Asaph illustrating two of the legends told by Jocelyn. Miraculously, St Kentigern helps to find the gold ring which the Queen has lost and it is discovered in a salmon caught by the saint. St Asaph, as a boy, was sent by St Kentigern to bring coals that he might warm himself. Having nothing else in which to carry the burning coals he uses his cloak but neither his own flesh nor the cloak were burnt.St Asaph was a local saint whose name is found in the neighbouring Llanasa (Asa’s Church), Pantasa (Asa’s Hollow), Ffynnon Asa (Asa’s Well), Onen Asa (Asa’s Ash-tree); these place names suggest a strong religious settlement. Asaph’s name and reputation was much advanced by the creation of a new territorial episcopal see at Llanelwy in the twelfth century. From about 1073 Rhuddlan was in the possession of the Normans and it was expedient that they protected their interests and those of the Province of Canterbury, Theobald, consecrated Gilbert as its first bishopread mmore at https://stasaphcathedral.wales/en/cathedral/the-cathedrals-history
Denbigh, UK
0800 daily Often described as the grandest of Denbighshire parish churches, St Marcella’s is indeed extremely impressive. It is believed that Marcella (Marchell) was a sibling of Ddeier and Tyrnog, all of whom, it is said, travelled into the Vale of Clwyd after the destruction of the monks of the monastery of Bangor is y Coed (Bangor on Dee) in 613 by the Saxon, Ethelfrith, of Northumbria, and described in detail by the Venerable Bede, who claims some 1200 monks were killed for praying for a British success at the Battle of Chester. What part Marcella played in this is unknown, since she could have had no part in the life of the monastery itself. Marcella and her brothers were the children of Hawystl Gloff and his wife Tywanwedd, as described in the Bonedd y Saint. While St Ddeier settled in Bodfari and Tyrnog at Llandyrnog, Marcella created a simple cell on the outskirts of what later became known as Llanfarchell, on the outskirts of the later town of Denbigh. It is believed that this cell was situated by what became known as Ffynnon Farchell (067 662), mentioned by Edward Lhuyd in 1698 but which rather depressingly now finds itself beneath a ring road roundabout. By the time of the visit by the Royal Commission in 1912, nothing but the channel from ‘which took the water away’ remained. It would seem that the spring was cut in the building of the Ruthin and Denbigh Railway in the 1850s.
The Green, Gresford, Wrexham, UK
Marchwiel, Wrexham, UK
Wrexham, UK
Oxford Road, Hay-on-Wye, Hereford, UK
Came here to avpid dri ing tomorrow in Storm Amy
Hereford, UK
Oxford Road CP allows 24 hr parkingNote Hay Castle great hall, shop and cafe open free
Oxford Road, Hay-on-Wye, Hereford, UK
Offas Dyke PathHR3 5EHOffas Dyke foot path for dog walking
Cathedral Close, Brecon, UK
OPen 9-6Watton car parkBrecon Cathedral started life in 1093 as the Benedictine Priory of St John the Evangelist, built by the Normans on the site of an earlier Celtic church. At the dissolution of the monasteries in 1537 it became Brecon's Parish Church. It became a Cathedral only in 1923, on the establishment of the Diocese of Swansea and Brecon.Brecon Cathedral's architecture evolved significantly over time, with the current structure primarily dating from the 13th and 14th centuries, after the original Norman church. While the Norman church was established around 1150, much of the building we see today reflects the Gothic style of the 13th and 14th centuries
Brecon, UK
Tretower, Crickhowell, UK
CADW/EHThe clue’s in the name. So striking was the massive circular tower built by Roger Picard II that his castle became known as Tretower – or ‘the place of the tower’.Over two centuries, from about 1100, the Picards transformed themselves from invading Norman adventurers to powerful Welsh lords.So this monumental tower with four storeys and stone walls nine feet thick wasn’t merely for protection. It was social climbing made visible, an open imitation of the castles at Pembroke and Skenfrith.It would be remarkable enough on its own. But Tretower is two wonders in one. Just across the castle green lies an entire medieval court that became a byword for magnificence.It was the creation of Sir Roger Vaughan and his descendants. During the Wars of the Roses Sir Roger became one of the most powerful men in Wales – and Tretower reflected his fame.It became a magnet for medieval Welsh poets who drank its fine wines and sang the praises of its generous host. Now, thanks to meticulous restoration, you can vividly imagine being one of Tretower’s most honoured guests.You’ll find the great hall laid out just as it might have been for a lavish feast in the 1460s. In the recreated 15th century garden you can stroll among fragrant white roses that symbolise Sir Roger’s passionate Yorkist sympathies.
Bradford Road, Bathford, Bath, UK
CCC SITE. Get to gate and phone 07768 277791Bradford Road Bathford Bath Somerset BA1 7SD
Dyrham, Bath, UK
OPen park and garden bookshop10, houses 1130 Dyrham Park was created in the 17th century by William Blathwayt. It is an early example of how a fortune made from empire was invested in a landed estate, transforming Dyrham into one of the most notable stately homes of its age.The 270-acre (110 hectare) ancient steep and sloping parkland is full of magnificent trees and breathtaking views and space for young explorers to run free, be in nature and tick off challenges on their 50 things list.Splendid borders, idyllic ponds and a wildflower orchard are all features of the stunning garden which is being sensitively developed as a 21st-century garden with echoes of the past.Visitors can get a flavour of the life of William Blathwayt in the late 1600s by stepping into the impressive baroque mansion house with its collection of fine art and Dutch Delftware. His years as a diplomat in Europe, and his several colonial and administrative positions in government, helped to hone – and indulge – his increasingly refined taste.
Lacock, Chippenham, UK
grounds from 10 abbey rooms 1030In its 800 years of history, Lacock Abbey has been many things. It started as a nunnery in the 1200s before becoming a Tudor family home. Since then it has evolved with every owner and in 1835, the first photographic negative was captured in the Abbey. Today Lacock is a well-known location for a host of film and TV productions including Harry Potter and Downton Abbey.1200s: Lacock Abbey was foundedOne of the most powerful women of the Middle Ages, Ela, Countess of Salisbury, founded Lacock Abbey on the morning of 16 April 1232.The cloister and rooms are a rare example of medieval monastic architecture. Ela’s original cloister was demolished in the 1400s and replaced with what you see today.
Marlborough, UK
51.3731, -1.83485Can walk to white horse and long barrow
High Street, Avebury, Marlborough, UK
PArially open from 10 parts still closed due to flooding in Jan 2025
Avebury, Marlborough, UK
EHAvebury henge and stone circles are one of the greatest marvels of prehistoric Britain. Built and much altered during the Neolithic period, roughly between 2850 BC and 2200 BC, the henge survives as a huge circular bank and ditch, encircling an area that includes part of Avebury village. Within the henge is the largest stone circle in Britain - originally of about 100 stones - which in turn encloses two smaller stone circles.Avebury is part of an extraordinary set of Neolithic and Bronze Age ceremonial sites that seemingly formed a vast sacred landscape. They include West Kennet Avenue, West Kennet Long Barrow, The Sanctuary, Windmill Hill, and the mysterious Silbury Hill. Many can be reached on foot from the village. The Alexander Keiller Museum also displays many notable finds from the Avebury monuments. Together with Stonehenge, Avebury and its surroundings are a World Heritage Site.
High Street, Avebury, Marlborough, UK
EH/NTSituated at the prehistoric monument of Avebury, the Alexander Keiller Museum houses one of the most important prehistoric archaeological collections in Britain, housed in the Stables Gallery, and including many artefacts from the World Heritage Site (WHS) monuments. The admission fee includes access to both the Stables and Barn Galleries. The Barn Gallery (belonging to the National Trust) tells the story of the WHS, its monuments, and the people associated with it.The Museum, which sits within the Avebury WHS, is in the freehold ownership of The National Trust and in English Heritage guardianship.
Pewsey, UK
Pitch non electric £30Table x4 630Meet with Windchurches
UK
Saint Arvans, Chepstow, UK
St Arvans, Chepstow NP16 6EJAlso EHU
NTDescribed as a ‘faire place of stone’, records of Tredegar House date back to the medieval age. However, the iconic red brick house that we know today was built in the 1670s by Sir William Morgan and his wife, Blanche.The couple combined their wealth to boast their high fashion and affluence, turning the stone manor house into an extravagant country mansion. Industrial age By the late 1700s, the estate spanned more than 40,000 acres into the surrounding hills. Sir Charles Gould Morgan, who was head of the family at this time, had a mind for business and soon realised the enormous value of the land on his estate. Being rich in minerals, the land was an ideal place for coal mines and iron works. Sir Charles saw this as an opportunity to capitalise the estate, and decided to lease the land to mine owners, as well as establishing the Brecon and Monmouthshire Canal.
Greenwood Lane, Cardiff, UK
park ON and eat there 02920 565 4007pm and MH booked 13-8-25
Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, UK
Pentywyn Road, Deganwy, UK
01492 583777 booked and table for 7pm as only 3 spaces Pub with loo while open
Bryn Llan, Llanrhaeadr, Denbigh, UK
best medieval glass in uk and holy well.
Church End Mews, Llanfair Dyffryn Clwyd, Ruthin, UK
Llanbenwch, Ruthin, UK
Pitch 12HS booked 9729580
17 Aug 2025 - 18 Sep 2025