Historical Sites
The area is renowned for its historical sites and it is said that there are more castles per square mile in this area than anywhere else in Europe. Chepstow Castle to the left was the first stone built castle in Wales and stands on a magnificent cliff. Also within a few miles who can visit no less than three major castles and the renowned Tintern Abbey Spend a couple of days discovering these spectacular gems. Or why not visit the many Museums, all are free to enter. Big Pit for a truly Welsh experience of going down a coal mine.
Love Horses
If you fancy a flutter then Chepstow Racecourse host to the Welsh Grand National is just down the road and has meetings throughout the year. There are many Pony Trekking Centres which is such a great way to get out and see the beautiful countryside of Monmouthshire particularly in the Black Mountains. The David Broome Centre known as Cricklands has many Equestrian events throughout the year and is no more than 10 minutes drive away.
The Great Outdoors
The Wye Valley and Forest of Dean is all on your doorstep, a giant playground for those that love the outdoors no matter what time of year and will even satisfy those who yearn that adrenaline rush. This beautiful area has something for everyone whether it be walking, cycling, diving canoeing, climbing, Archery, paintballing or even learning to drive a tank, the list is endless. We are blessed with such a diverse landscape. Golfers needn't miss out, there are no less than 10 golf courses within 30 minutes drive from here and that includes the Celtic Manor that was host to the Ryder Cup in 2010. And for walkers, Chepstow is an accredited Walkers are Welcome town with 4 significant long distance trails. The start/finish of Wales Coast Path, Offa's Dyke Path, The Wye Valley Walk and the Gloucestershire Way or just take a step out of the back door.
Meet the Locals
Chepstow has an active Widders Group, Border Morris with attitude their words not mine. During January they have their Wassail and Mari Lwyd event. For details of their dance programme Visit their website. Another opportunity to mix with the locals is visiting some of our fantastic Agricultural shows, Chepstow Show in early August, Monmouth is the largest 1 day show in the country & held towards the end of August, Usk Show and the Trellech Country Fayre and Horse show in September. Within Clare's Cottage and Dolly's Barn there is numerous literature of 'What's on' in the area or nip down to the Tourist Information Centre in chepstow which has a wealth of information.
Farmers Markets and Food Festivals
Monmouthshire is the Food Capital of Wales. Any weekend around you will find a regular Farmers Market & Chepstow has its own Farm shop stocked with award winning local produce. The NS James butchers in Raglan has won many awards & is one of the oldest independent butchers in Wales. No less than 3 award Vineyards and Wigmore Bakers in Monmouth with its Bara Birth as a speciality. Feast at the Michelin Starred restaurant The Walnut Tree or the Crown of Whitebrook a previously Michelin starred restaurant which will reopen in the Autumn of 2013 with chef Chris Harrod who trained under Raymond Blanc. Or why not try a medieval banquet at Caldicot Castle which take place once a month. Besides these giants there are many good eating places dotted around the county including 3 just up the road Abergavenny Food festival considered by most to be the best in the country takes place in September
Monmouthshire Holiday Cottage & Barn, Itton, Chepstow, Monmouthshire NP16 6BX Call 01291 641856 or 07760195320www.holiday-cottages-monmouthshire.co.uk
