Tintern Abbey (Abaty Tyndyrn)

Welcome to your route to Tintern Abbey. You'll see ancient castles and wonderful British countryside as you weave around the River Wye, hopping between England and Wales. This historical itinerary will take you through some of the most outstanding beauty, ending at the ruins of what was once a magnificent abbey.

You'll soon pass through Chepstow, which in Old English means marketplace, a small Welsh town located in a county adjoining England. As you wind through the narrow streets of Chepstow you'll be presented with a stunning view of Chepstow Castle, which was constructed in 1067 by Earl William FitzOsbern. It'll appear on your left, just after the row of terraced houses comes to an end. The castle, which serves as a bed and breakfast today, is perched on the limestone cliffs overlooking the River Wye.

You're now crossing over the Old Wye Bridge, which is 116 yards long. If you look to your left you'll see the start of the valley just north of Chepstow, and if you look back towards Chepstow you'll get a great view of the castle, sitting proudly above the river. This bridge is significant, as it's the crossing between Wales and England. You've just passed from Chepstow, on the Welsh side, into England.

On your left is St Luke's Church. It was built in 1853 to cater for a growing population that needed a place to hold services. The building itself boasts the Gothic style architecture of the time, using local stone and with stained-glass windows. It has grown over the years, with the most recent extension taking place in 1995. The building is one of five in the area that are run by the same parish.

You'll soon be able to see a vast natural space on your left, which is Lancaut Nature Reserve, owned and maintained by The Wildlife Trusts. This is a popular spot for birdwatchers and nature lovers, as it's home to numerous native species. There are over 350 plant varieties on the grounds and many species of bird can be seen, such as peregrine falcons, ravens and herons. If you're lucky, you can sometimes see seals in the river.

To accompany your drive along this beautiful tree-lined road, here are some fun facts about the River Wye and the Wye Valley. Did you know that the River Wye is the fourth-longest river in the UK, stretching 155 miles from source to sea? Most of the river has become a natural border between Wales and England, as it's a simple geographical divider.

As you follow Belmont Road you'll shortly be passing by Hewelsfield Common, at the next waypoint. Nestled behind the hedgerows of these winding country lanes is Hewelsfield Common, which lies in the heart of the Forest of Dean. The Common has been a meeting place for the parish for hundreds of years, and even today you'll find weekly events here for the community. Commons are public land, so anyone can use them, host events and meet up freely.

After a short drive following the river bends you'll see the Abbey Mill. On your left is the Old Mill building, with the Old Tramway Bridge (formerly Wireworks Bridge) next to it. These were essential structures in the village, and have since been repurposed into a shopping and restaurant complex, which has been running successfully since 1936. Just past the Mill you'll catch a glimpse of Tintern Abbey ruins appearing in the distance, which will be your destination.

The reason why Tintern Abbey is in ruins is the dissolution of the monasteries across the UK in the 16th century. Since then, the ruin has been used by many poets and artists as inspiration for their work.

You've arrived at the Abbey ruins. If you follow the road you'll see the car park at the end. Explore the Abbey and admire what remains of its magnificent structure.
Located on the west bank of the River Wye, the Abbey was founded for Cistercian monks in 1131. It underwent vast improvement and enlargement between 1220 and 1287, but its construction was not completed until the early 14th century.
You have now reached the destination of this route. It is great that I was able to accompany you here. I hope you enjoyed the tour and wish you a pleasant stay and safe onward journey.