About five miles from Chepstow, Tintern is a scenic riverside village situated in the Wye Valley. Famous for its ruined Cistercian abbey the village boasts spectacular views, picturesque walks and a number of quaint independent pubs and shops, all of which are dog friendly – what more could you want?
It’s nestled along the banks of the River Wye but its centrepiece is the very first Cistercian abbey in Wales, Tintern Abbey. The towering medieval structure was founded in 1131 by French monks, its roofless sculpture is a sight to behold as the best-preserved medieval abbey in Wales. It was rebuilt towards the end of the 13th century but remains in its original design.
Not only does the abbey represent the important historical role Tintern played, it was also the first place in Britain to make brass and the first to make wire on an industrial scale. The sheer scale of the ruined abbey has formed inspiration to poems by William Wordsworth and paintings by JMW Turner.
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During the winter, the abbey is open every day from 10am to 4pm but it extends its opening hours in the summer. It’s free to visit if you are a member, otherwise tickets range from £6.10 for children to £8.70 for adults. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What’s On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here
Tintern Abbey -Credit:WalesOnline/ Rob Browne
The Monmouthshire village is a hotspot for walkers and cyclists due to its location along many walk and cycle paths. It’s located on the Wye Valley Walk and just off The Offa’s Dyke walk. It also boasts a gentle riverside walk stretching from St Michael’s Church to Tintern Old Station. Another option is the old railway line to Brockweir which starts at the Old Station Tintern.
These walks offer phenomenal views of the abbey, and one of the best of these come from the Devil’s Pulpit viewpoint on the other side of the River Wye. The name comes from the old legend which says the devil would taunt the Abbey’s monks and occupants from across the river. You can access the viewpoint if you follow the signs up the valley once you’ve gone over the tramway bridge.
Around the corner from Tintern Abbey you’ll find Abbey Mill, an independent, family-run craft and shopping complex with a recently renovated old water wheel. Abbey Mill has lots to offer from coffee, crafts, clothes, food, cider and gifts to even running their own live events and offering catering facilities. Abbey Mill is closed during January but back open on February 1.
Some of the Abbey Mill’s previous events include raft races, vintage car shows, tractor festivals, bike rallies and live music. Abbey Mill also prides itself on being dog friendly, accessible and being a hub of local produce. They said: “We love dogs and great value local produce! Easy access for all, parking and muddy boot friendly!”
The Old Wireworks Tramway Bridge across the River Wye -Credit:WalesOnline/ Rob Browne
Also in the village is The Anchor Inn which has a large beer garden perfect for the summer months or as a mid-walk stop throughout the year especially if you stumble across the pub whilst they are serving their Sunday carvery filled with local produce. It has stunning unspoilt views of the gothic abbey, a children’s playground and a large sports field.
Another excellent viewpoint can be found on the Old Wireworks Tramway Bridge across the River Wye. But wherever you stand in Tintern it’s hard to miss the towering structure of the abbey peeking above every building.