Depart from your ship this morning
and head towards the Wye Valley and the picturesque
Tintern Abbey which has inspired both Wordsworth and
Turner. Founded for Cistercian Monks in 1141 and largely
rebuilt in the late 13th century, Tintern Abbey encompasses
grand design and architectural detail of great finesse.
The shell of the abbey stands open to the skies almost
to its full height, an outstanding example of the elaborate
decorated style of Gothic architecture. See the vast
windows with their delicate tracery, and the wealth
of decorative detail displayed in the walls, doorways
and soaring archways.
Continue through the Wye Valley to Monmouth a Welsh
border market town situated at the confluence of the
Wye and Monnow River. The wealth of elegant Georgian
buildings reflect its former status as the county town
of old Monmouthshire.
Join your guide for a walking tour of the town (optional)
and see the ruins of the 11th century castle which was
the birthplace of Henry V in 1387 and the statue of
Henry which stands in the square along with that of
Charles Stewart Rolls co-founder of the Rolls-Royce
car manufacturers. Amongst other sites you will also
see the elaborate Shire Hall which dominates Agincourt
Square and the Monnow Bridge, a narrow 13th century
gateway on its western approach, thought to be the only
surviving fortified bridge gate in Britain. Of course
there will be some free time for independent shopping,
exploring and perhaps refreshments (at own expense)
before heading back to Newport and your ship.
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