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The community lies on the Afon Llwyd, in the central region of Monmouthshire, in the southeastern part of Wales. Stone Age peoples were the first to pave a way through this river valley. The Bronze Age Celts later followed and evidence of their existence lies in the remains of burial mounds. The fierce Silure tribe dominated the land before the arrival of the Romans in 43 AD.
The Romans had little influence on the Celts, but converted some to Christianity. Once the Romans abandoned the territory, the Welsh princes retained control for centuries, passing the land from one generation to the next. Even with the Norman Conquest, Pontypool and the surrounding areas remained under Welsh rule.
Beginning in 1179, Pontypool belonged to the church. In 1490, Jasper Tudor, uncle of Henry VII, bestowed the land the to John ap David. The community took it name for the bridge constructed across the pond. The locals began iron ore industries as early as 1425, but it was not until Richard Hanbury acquired the land in 1588, did the community experience growth.
Hanbury established a manor estate, around which the community formed. The site of his grand residence became known as Pontypool Park. During the 1930s, Olympian swimmer Johnny Weissmuller came to the park, putting on an exhibition of diving and swimming techniques in the lake. He later gained fame as the actor who played Tarzan.
During the Napoleonic Wars, Hanbury grew even wealthier by manufacturing armaments and munitions. Pontypool also had coal mining, steel industries and additionally manufactured lacquer ware.
Activities and Attractions
Hanbury donated the family estate, now known as Pontypool Park, to the community. Encompassing over 150 acres (60.7 hectares), the park contains a varied landscape from the valley by the lake to tall grassy hills. The tall hills have a dry ski slope, one of the longest and oldest in the country, which attracts visitors from all over the world. The park also has a bowling green, tennis courts and a children’s play area.
The location regularly holds special events that include fairs and rugby tournaments. Inside the decorative iron gates lies the manor house, now the Pontypool Museum. Museum collections include archaeological, geological, industrial and social artefacts depicting the town’s history. Visitors have the opportunity to see an assortment of household items used in the 1700s. Examine the tools used for mining, iron and steel working. Browse through the decorative arts and fine paintings dating from the 1700s.
Journey through the park and see the Folly, a popular landmark. The Roman road nearby leaves some to believe the Romans first had a watchtower here, which was later reconstructed by the Hanburys. That Folly tower fell during the second world war, but the community insisted upon a replacement. By climbing the structure to the observatory, visitors get commanding views over the community.
Another interesting landmark in Pontypool Park is the unusual Grotto. The outer walls consist of grit, limestone and quartz. The interior boasts a vaulted roof, arches and pillars covered with pebbles and shells. The floor consists of pebbles, animal bones and teeth, acquired from the many hunts Hanbury and guests enjoyed in the park.
The Big Pit mining museum takes guests on a guided tour above and below ground of the old mining site.
Places to Stay and Dining
Guests enjoy a cosy, pleasant stay at any number of local bed and breakfast accommodations. Designed to feel like a home away from home, facilities offer a wide range of conveniences surrounded by stunning views.
Staying in Pontypool on the weekends brings guests to the Plas-y-coed guesthouse and restaurant. The facility offers inexpensive three course lunches that include starters, main meals and desserts. Begin the meal with homemade soup, followed by a choice of beef, chicken or lamb roasts accompanied by a nice selection of garden vegetables. For dessert, indulge in homemade custards, pies and puddings.
Accommodation in Pontypool
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