Monmouthshire Guide

Monmouthshire is both spectacular and peaceful. Whether you're looking to get away from it all, have an action-packed break, visit friends & family or just uncover the hidden delights, there is something here for everyone.
Situated in the beautiful South East corner of Wales, it has it all and more. Beautiful scenery, fascinating history, outdoor activities, some of the finest golf courses in Wales, superior accommodation and gourmet dining. Ancient castles, stunning rivers and gardens, bustling market towns and captivating visitor attractions are all on offer.

Here are some facts about Monmouthshire:


• Monmouthshire was created in 1536 from the marcher lordships of Newport, Abergavenny, Monmouth, Chepstow, Caerleon and Usk.

• Monmouthshire's status as a Welsh county fell into doubt in 1543 when it was omitted from the 2nd Act of Union which established the Court of Great Session legal system in Wales.

• As a result, until 1900 certain Welsh laws were deemed not to apply to Monmouthshire, such as the closure of public houses on Sundays.

• Monmouthshire's status as part of Wales was re-confirmed in 1974 when the administrative county was replaced by Gwent.

• A smaller mainly rural council called Monmouthshire was created in the local government reorganisation of 1996.

• Monmouthshire is the 2nd most populous of the old Welsh counties with around 474,000 people thats less than in Glamorgan.

• Monmouthshire is the fourth smallest Welsh county, only bigger than Radnorshire, Anglesey and Flintshire.


Here are just some places to visit in and around Monmouthshire: