Discover the Enchantment of St Briavels Castle
Explore St Briavels Castle, a historic gem in the heart of the Wye Valley, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into medieval life.
A brief summary to St Briavels Castle
- Church St, Lydney, Saint Briavels, GL15 6TA, GB
- +443703331181
- Visit website
- Monday 1 pm-4 pm
- Tuesday 1 pm-4 pm
- Wednesday 1 pm-4 pm
- Thursday 1 pm-4 pm
- Friday 1 pm-4 pm
- Saturday 1 pm-4 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-4 pm
St Briavels Castle stands as a remarkable testament to medieval architecture and history, nestled in the charming village of St Briavels. Originally built in the 12th century, this historical landmark showcases a blend of architectural styles, featuring imposing stone walls and intricate details that reflect the craftsmanship of the era. Visitors can wander through the castle grounds, where they will find lush gardens and stunning views of the surrounding Wye Valley, an area known for its natural beauty. The castle's rich history is brought to life through informative displays and guided tours, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the stories of the past, including its significance as a royal residence and its role in local defense. The serene atmosphere and historic ambiance make it an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll or a picnic, where one can soak in the tranquil surroundings. St Briavels Castle also serves as a popular venue for events and activities, offering a unique backdrop for weddings and special occasions. As visitors explore this enchanting site, they will undoubtedly appreciate the castle's historical significance and its role in shaping the local heritage.
Local tips
- Visit during the afternoon for guided tours that delve into the castle's rich history.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Wye Valley from the castle grounds.
- Check the opening hours before visiting, as the castle is only open for a limited time each day.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the castle and its gardens.
- Look out for local events or reenactments that may be taking place during your visit.
Getting There
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Bus
From Bristol City Centre, head to the nearest bus stop for the number 3 bus towards Cribbs Causeway. Board the bus and travel for about 15 minutes to reach the Broadmead bus stop. Here, transfer to the number 34 bus towards Lydney. Stay on this bus for approximately 45 minutes, enjoying the scenic views. Once you arrive at the Lydney bus station, disembark and walk towards the train station exit. From Lydney, take the bus number 23 towards Monmouth and get off at the St Briavels stop. From there, it’s a short 10-minute walk to St Briavels Castle on Church St, following the signs.
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Train and Bus
Start at Bristol Temple Meads train station. Board a train heading towards Lydney, which typically takes around 30 minutes. Once you arrive in Lydney, exit the station and head to the bus stop outside. Catch the bus number 23 towards Monmouth and ride it for about 15 minutes. The bus will drop you off at the St Briavels stop. From there, walk for about 10 minutes following the signs to St Briavels Castle located on Church St.
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Walking and Bus
If you prefer to walk a bit, you can take a train from Bristol Temple Meads to Lydney, which takes around 30 minutes. After arriving at Lydney, you can walk from the train station to the bus stop (approximately 10 minutes). From the bus stop, take the number 23 bus towards Monmouth. Get off at St Briavels stop, and it’s just a short 10-minute walk to the castle on Church St. Make sure to check the bus schedules to avoid long waits.
Attractions Nearby to St Briavels Castle
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Bigsweir Bridge
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Cleddon Shoots
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Clearwell Caves
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The Old Station Tintern
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Puzzlewood
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Abaty Tyndyrn / Tintern Abbey
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Cannop Ponds - Forestry England
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Wintour's Leap
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National Trust - The Kymin
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Monmouth Viaduct
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Go Ape Mallards Pike, Forest of Dean
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Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail
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Wye Bridge
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Monmouth Millennium Mosaic
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Monnow Bridge
Landmarks nearby to St Briavels Castle
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Devil's Pulpit
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Harold's Stones
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Coleford Great Western Railway Museum
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Hopewell Colliery
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St Mary's Priory Church
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Gloucester Hole
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Llanmelin Wood Hillfort
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The Glen Yr Afon House Hotel
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Hen Gwrt Moated Site
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Visit The Cotswolds
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May Hill
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Uley Long Barrow (Hetty Pegler's Tump)
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Gwent Memorials
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Great Days Out UK
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Coaley Peak