The medieval market town of Abergavenny is often referred to as the gateway to Wales and has a growing reputation for exceptional food and drink, with many fantastic restaurants and even a vineyard. It lies in the south east corner of the Brecon Beacons National Park, surrounded by the Black Mountains. The town is a great base for walking, cycling and just enjoying the great outdoors.
Famed for its annual literary festival, the town of Hay-on-Wye is a 40 minute drive from Abergavenny. It is home to no less than 22 independent and second-hand bookshops as well as vintage treasure troves and cosy cafes. Even the old castle has book shelves in the grounds! The Wye Valley is also an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. If you're looking for adventure during your stay, simply follow Offa’s Dyke path and hike up Hay Bluff for beautiful views across Wales, stay in an off-grid shepherd hut in the woods or load up a canoe and head down the River Wye.
We may be biased as we live here (and it's Dave's hometown!) but Cardiff is a fantastic place to spend a few days. Only a 45 minute drive from Abergavenny, Cardiff has everything - from a rich music scene, brilliant food and lively sporting events, to its impressive 11th century castle and National Museum. For any music lovers, it's also home to the world's oldest record shop - Spiller's Records, in Morgan Arcade, was first opened in 1894!