The Town of Crickhowell
Crickhowel is a small town of around 2800 people and lies on the River Usk, on the southern edge of the Black Mountains and in the eastern part of the Brecon Beacons National Park. The Georgian town has a 13th Century castle and a spectacular 17th Century river bridge. The bridge at Crickhowell, spanning the river Usk, is unusual in that it has 13 arches on one side, but only 12 on the other! Crickhowell is a paradise for walkers and has developed an enviable reputation for superb food. Not far from Crickhowell is Talybont Falls, with spectacular scenery and fantastic walking. There is plenty to do in the area ranging from pony trekking, fishing for salmon and trout, to paragliding, hang gliding.
Crickhowell Castle
Crickhowell castle was initially a motte and bailey castle built from 1121. The castle was refortified in stone from 1242 when Sybil Turberville a Turberville heiress married Sir Grimbold Pauncefote or Paunceforte. The castle was walled with substantial stone towers and a large bailey, a home castle befitting an important Royal ally in Wales.
The castle was in the hands of the powerful Mortimer family dynasty of Marcher Lords and in the 1300's and declined as a smaller holding within a large portfilio of lands, titles and larger castles.
The castle was refortified on the Royal command of new King King Henry IV in 1400 and carried out by Sir John Pauncefote, great grandson of Sir Grimbold, in advance of the uprising led by Owain Glyndŵr to 1412. The castle was largely destroyed in the early fifteenth century by Owain Glyndŵr's forces who also attacked and burned Abergavenny town and other settlements in the area. The ruined stone double tower still stands on the Castle Green.
Crickhowell Walking Festival
The Crickhowell Walking Festival was held for the first time in 2008. Building on it's success, the 2009 walking festival featured more walks and events. The objective of the Festival is to provide walks for everyone — ranging from tough all day treks in the mountains to easier strolls and special interest walks. The aim is to show that everyone can get out and enjoy the countryside! Find out more on the Crickhowel Walking Festival Website.
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