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Discover Monmouth: Top 8 Amazing Fun Facts You Never Knew About this Charming Town

illustration of monmouth
Dive into a treasure trove of quirky tidbits and intriguing trivia as we uncover the lesser-known, yet fascinatingly fun facts about Monmouth!

1. Henry V's Welsh beginnings

Before Henry V could say, "Once more unto the breach, dear friends," he had to learn the ropes in a little Welsh-flavored corner of the world: Born in the humble abode of Monmouth Castle, young Henry honed his military prowess during Owain Glyndŵr's revolt and later earned his warrior-king badge by leading England to victory in the iconic Battle of Agincourt during the Hundred Years' War.
Source => en.wikipedia.org

2. Nelson's treasure trove

Ahoy, history buffs and nautical nerds! Ever wanted to dive into the life of Admiral Horatio Nelson, the swashbuckling hero straight out of a Marvel comic? Well, prepare to hoist the colors and set sail for an unexpected treasure trove: Monmouth is home to a stunning collection of artifacts dedicated to the legendary British naval commander, featuring everything from weapons and letters to fine ceramics and ship models, all providing insights into Nelson's life, loves, death, and commemoration. Anchors aweigh, me hearties!
Source => visitmonmouthshire.com

3. Monnow Bridge: The Swiss Army knife of British bridges

Just like the Swiss Army knife of British bridges: Monnow Bridge in Monmouth, Wales, has done it all - from being a mediaeval fortified river bridge to a toll collection point, a jail, and even a cozy little home! The serious reveal: Visitors can tour the still-standing gate tower, learn more about its multi-faceted history at Monmouth Shire Hall, and marvel at this architectural jack-of-all-trades.
Source => visitmonmouthshire.com

4. A Breton affair in Monmouth

A knight's tale, with a side of Breton crêpes: Monmouth was once ruled by Breton lords between 1075 and 1086, giving the names Galfridus and Arthur – associated with the legendary Geoffrey of Monmouth – a French twist, making them more popular among Bretons than the Welsh.
Source => en.wikipedia.org

Aquatic festivities in Monmouth

5. Aquatic festivities in Monmouth

Ahoy there, mateys! If gallivanting atop floating vessels and partaking in water-filled festivities floats your boat, then Monmouth is the port you seek: Home to the annual Monmouth Regatta in May and the Monmouth Raft Race in September, this picturesque town boasts a rowing club that's been paddling away since 1928, offering public steps for aquatic adventurers to dive into canoeing and swimming without causing a row(r) with the local rowers.
Source => visitmonmouthshire.com

6. St. Thomas the Martyr Church: The architectural Tardis

Step aside, Dr. Who, there's a new time traveler in town: Monmouth's St. Thomas the Martyr Church! With roots dating back to 1170 and a 12th-century Norman chancel arch casually chilling alongside modern restorations, this architectural Tardis showcases centuries of style. Time warp-tasticness aside: the most recent facelift of this ever-evolving masterpiece was completed in 1989-91, keeping it fresh for generations of worshipers and history buffs alike.
Source => en.wikipedia.org

7. Nelson and Rolls-Royce obsessions

Ahoy there, history buffs and admirals with an eye for trinkets! Lo and behold the treasures of Monmouth's very own Horatio Nelson superfan at the ultimate Nelsonalia palace: The Nelson Museum and Local History Centre. Here, you can revel in Nelson’s personal oohs and aahs, as it exhibits his weaponry, fine ceramics, swanky silver and glass, miniature ships, and love letters. And don't forget to tip your hat to Charles Stuart Rolls, THE Rolls of Rolls-Royce, who apparently was even more obsessed with balloons, motor cars, and aeroplanes than with automobiles. Wye not take a dip into Monmouth's maritime and historical delights at this delightful museum?
Source => visitwales.com

8. Ancre Hill Vineyard: Wales' wine wonderland

Who needs Napa Valley when you've got a taste of Wales awaiting your glass? Raise your goblet to the Ancre Hill Vineyard: established in 1979 along the sun-kissed slopes of the River Monnow, this Welsh gem produces a delightful array of still and sparkling white wines that have supermarket shelves and wine enthusiasts singing its praises while offering private vineyard tours and tastings by appointment.
Source => shuttercraft.co.uk

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