Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Off The Beaten Path: Abergavenny, Wales

Abergavenny is a picturesque town situated in the South Eastern corner of Wales, Great Britain, only 20 miles from the English border. Abergavenny is steeped in history and enjoys an enviable position close to the industry of middle and western England whilst bathing in the beauty of the Brecon Beacons national park. The community in Abergavenny balances fervent nationalism with an open and friendly hospitality.

As if quietly enjoying the beauty of the area was not enough, there are plenty of sights to see and things to do in and around Abergavenny. Falconry and Craft Centres, a well equipped Leisure Centre, a number of impressive Castles & Antiquities and a whole lot more besides.

Fortifications abound in the Abergavenny area. Particularly good examples are at Raglan Castle, White Castle & Skenfrith to name a few . The abbey at Llanthony is a pleasure both to view and to travel to and Tintern Abbey in the Wye valley is also well worth the drive.

A Museum can be found within the grounds of the Castle with interesting exhibitions of Abergavennys past.

From above to below the ground, if you have an interest in mining, a visit to Big Pit in Blaenavon is a must. Open all year (restricted times in winter). While you are here you may also like to see the Steam Railway.

Raglan Castle
Even to this day, Raglan Castle is an impressive sight. It is un-like any other castle in Wales with angular not round towers. For the visitor there is plenty to explore ranging from dark, damp dungeons to steep spiral staircases and some great views of the surrounding countryside. Well preserved `coats of arms` and beautifully restored windows are also abound.

White Castle
First recorded in the 13th century, White Castle still packs a visual punch with the external structure pretty much intact. Accessed by a footbridge over the moat, this castle got it`s name from the white rendering which is still visible on parts of the exterior walls.

Abergavenny Museum is set in the grounds of a 'ruined' Norman Castle, where you can enjoy a picnic during the summer & a brisk walk on colder days. The keep along with most of the other castle buildings, was destroyed in the Civil War, between 1645 - 1646. In 1818, the present building - now the Museum - was constructed on top of the motte as a hunting lodge for the Marquess of Abergavenny.

Looking for that uniquely different vacation destination. Call Rawhide Travel and Tours today 602-843-5100 or visit our website rawhidetravel.com. We can help!

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel and Tours Inc
6008 West Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, Arizona  85308-3793
(602) 843-5100
rawhidetravel.com

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