The King’s Arms, Abergavenny
A Brief Introduction to the History of Abergavenny
Image courtesy of kingsarmsabergavenny.co.uk.
Abergavenny in Monmouthshire, Wales, is a historic town. It is believed that Celtic settlers lived here during the Iron Age, drawn to the strategic junction of the Rivers Usk and Gavenny. In the eleventh century, the Norman Conquest solidified Abergavenny’s place in history. Under Norman rule, a motte-and-bailey castle was built, marking the dawn of Abergavenny’s association with the influential de Clare family.
Throughout the medieval period, Abergavenny burgeoned as a bustling market town and a pivotal administrative hub. Its significance was underscored by the granting of a market charter in 1217, facilitating economic growth. The de Clares wielded considerable power, with the castle serving as a bastion of control in the region. Yet, Abergavenny was not immune to conflict, enduring bouts of strife during Welsh uprisings, notably during the Glyndwr Rising in the early fifteenth century.
However, the sixteenth century saw Abergavenny continue to flourish. Its market thrived, renowned for its agricultural produce, particularly Abergavenny cattle. The period also witnessed the construction of notable edifices like the Abergavenny Priory Church (now the home of some sublime medieval tombs, resulting in the surviving priory church being dubbed the Westminster Abbey of Wales). It is here that you will find tombs of the de Clares and Herberts, including Sir William ap Thomas, wealthy patrons of the church and town.
Today, Abergavenny is a testament to its rich heritage, with its medieval castle, historic architecture, and verdant surroundings. Its enduring legacy ensures that the spirit of Abergavenny lives on, embodying the resilience and vitality of Welsh history and culture.
Stay at The King’s Arms
The King’s Arms is one of the oldest inns in Abergavenny. Built between 1680 and 1700 by Louis Hurley, it is a fine example of a sixteenth—to seventeenth-century coaching house. It features small windows flanking the fireplace adjacent to the current front entrance, a design characteristic prevalent in the region.
The ground floor originally featured a jettied and timber-framed façade but subsequent modifications have extended it to the first-floor wall, with original heavy sash window mouldings replaced by lighter counterparts. The coat of arms on the exterior, once attributed to Charles II, is now believed to represent a later Georgian lineage.
The hotel’s décor complements some of its original features. There are a variety of room types available, all include digital TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries and WiFi, Selected dog-friendly rooms are available.
Sugarloaf room and Skirrid room with four-poster bed
Historic Properties Nearby
Wales has a wealth of Tudor history. Head to my Tudor Weekend in Monmouthshire itinerary to find details on Tudor places to visit in the area. If you are visiting MOonouthshire, you might consider extending your trip to visit Pembrokeshire, in southwest Wales, the birthplace of the Tudors. In which case, check out my Long Weekend in Tudor Pembrokeshire for travel inspiration.
Visitor Information
For more details on the accommodation, check out The Kings Arms Hotel’s website.
Contact Details: Email kingsarmsabergavenny@gmail.com or call +44 (0) 1873 855074.
Address: 29 Nevill Street, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, NP7 5AA.
