Today was spent in Wales. I hadn't realised we were that close.
We set off about 9am. The driver didn't like the route chosen by the navigator, so instead of taking the B4293 suggested by google maps, we took the A466. The said navigator was a tad miffed but the decision had 3 benefits.
1. It took us passed Tintern Abbey. We stopped and enjoyed this magnificent ruin in the middle of nowhere, so to speak.
2. The road was closed immediately passed Tintern and so our planned hike along the Wye here, the following day, would have required rerouting on these small lanes.
3. Said navigator got her way anyway! We had to retrace our route back to Monmouth and take the B4293!
I love the green canopy of trees over so many of the country roads in England. Today was no exception, but unfortunately today I was missing out on some wonderful views, as we constanlty drove through a tunnel of trees.
Just another quaint village we drove through.
Unknowingly arriving at Tintern.
We parked a good distance from the Abbey, to enjoy this lovely village nestling on the banks of the Wye.
Tintern Abbey - " One of the greatest monastic ruins of Wales. It was only the second Cistercian foundation in Britain and the first in Wales." Founded in May 1131 by Walter de Clare of Chepstow it prospered but was never very large or important. Todays ruins woud have been built between 1269 and 1301. It was surrendered to King Henry V111 on the 3rd September, 1536, during the dissolution of the Catholic monasteries, ending a 400 year time span. "It fell ito disrepair until the late 18th Century when the Wye Valley became renowned for its picturesque qualities. Swathed in ivy, it was rediscovered by many famous seekers of the romantic and picturesque, including the painter JMW turner and poet William Wordsworth".
You may be interested in more info via this link. http://www.castlewales.com/tintern.html
On our arrival in Chepstow, No 1 job of importance was, as always, to find car parking in its narrow streets. We inadvertently crossed the Wye via the lovely arched iron "Old Wye Bridge' or now called the Chepstow Bridge. This was another plus for the day. We immediately found a free carpark and walking back across the bridge, we had an amazing view of the castle overlooking the river.
Arriving in Chepstow, signage is in both English and Welsh. It was a delighful town to wander through with its hanging baskets and planters of colour, bringing a smile to my face constantly.
Our view of Chepstow Castle as we enjoyed coffee and homemade cake from the information centre.
Of historical interest were the tiles placed in the footpath outside shops giving knowledge of that shop's history.
Other tiles recorded quotes.
Time now to set off on our hike to Piercefield Park, commencing beside the castle.
The castle is the oldest surviving post Roman stone fortification in Britain, 1067 - 1300. Its 800 year old wooden doors are said to be the oldest in Europe. To prevent their deterioration, they are on display within the castle.
The trail wound behind the castle. Some street walking followed before entering lovely woodlands. The views I had expected from the high cliffs above the Wye, were few and far between.
First opening along the trail - a view back to Chepstow, its castle and the Bridge over the Severn River.
Looking left.
The woodlands.
A glimpse of countryside and river.
Walking away from the river we entered Piercefield Park a 'grade one historic landscape' and passed the sad ruins of Piercefield House, built 1792 - 1799. This wonderful park had green fields, edged by tall trees and gently descended to sweeping views of Chepstow.
On its western rim was the Chepstow racetrack. This day was raceday and our peace and tranquilty was regularly severed by the calling of a race and other announcements.
The tiny Wye River, especially at near low tide, will soon enter the mighty Severn river.
Walking across the Wye to return to our car, we were amazed at how low the tide had become.
One of very few glimpses of the the countryside we were travelling through, seen on our journey back to Goodrich.
I would love to read your comment.
I am green with envy--- perhaps a bit of puce as well. The old house is sad, but the church is magnificent, absolutely magnificent even as a ruin. It seems a place for quiet reflection now more than ever. Thanks, as always, for sharing.
ReplyDeleteCool place:)
ReplyDeleteWhat beautiful architecture is still reflected in the church ruins! The little villages are so picturesque and well-kept. I love the colorful hanging baskets of flowers. They just seem to say, "Welcome!"
ReplyDeleteI think that Wales is my favourite part of the UK, Helen, especially the Island of Anglesey. I have been there on several occasions and enjoyed it every time.
ReplyDeleteOh, I do love the English countryside. The ruins of the abbey are spectacular!
ReplyDeleteThe abbey is awesome. Reminds me of the Wordsworth poem, otherwise I probably would not have known about it. I also love the flower baskets.
ReplyDelete