Skenfrith is on the banks of the River Monnow (Image: Jonathan Myers/WalesOnline)
The picturesque of Skenfrith, nestling on the banks of the River Monnow in Monmouthshire, boasts storybook charm that visitors find simply enchanting.
The settlement, lying close to the anglo-welsh border, offers quintessentially British vistas with winding streets meandering around the historic Skenfrith Castle.
Explorers in this Welsh haven can immerse themselves in a postcard-perfect scene; from ancient stone cottages to a venerable church, it’s an idyllic slice of Welsh countryside bliss.
Noteworthy is the celebrated Bell Inn, lauded by Time Out as a hotel and restaurant offering some of the “best views in the “.
The journey to Skenfrith itself is a romantic affair, with the B4521 unveiling the pinnacle of rural Britain, from serene hills to lush woodlands and pastoral beauty.
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St Bridget’s Church is a sight to behold (Image: Jonathan Myers/WalesOnline)
On arrival, the village’s charming may just inspire dreams of countryside living. Summer visits are especially magical, with vibrant wildflowers adding a sprinkle of wonder to the already captivating scenery, reports .
Skenfrith, a Welsh beauty spot, shines with charm not just in summer but also as an idyllic winter retreat. Wrap up and soak in the vistas at the Bell Inn, a village pub with a beer garden lauded as one of the finest in Britain.
TimeOut magazine recently ranked it fifth in their roundup of the 12 best beer gardens, wooed by its “idyllic views over the valley.”
The Bell Inn is tucked away in scenic Skenfrith, hugging the River Monnow and its stunning bridge that captures the imaginations of enthusiasts far and wide.
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Skenfrith Castle has a great historic past (Image: Jonathan Myers/WalesOnline)
Patrons at the Bell can gaze out at lush hills, dotted with grazing sheep and, if timing permits, the sight of deer at dusk.
Less inclined towards the cosy pub setting?
Skenfrith Castle stands proudly in the heart of the village, inviting those with a love for history to explore its grandeur. The fortress saw significant reconstruction work between 1219 and 1223, though it lay abandoned by 1538.
Now under the National Trust’s protection, the castle offers a splendid spot to delve into history, capture memorable moments, or enjoy a serene picnic.
The site, which is open to the public all year round, offers more than just a glimpse into the past. As fans of Doctor Who will know, Skenfrith was used as the setting for the fictional village of “Upper Leadworth” in the episode ‘Amy’s Choice’, aired on 22nd May 2010.
The picturesque village provided various filming locations. Just a stone’s throw away from the historic castle lies St Bridget’s Church.
First mentioned in 1207, the church was rebuilt and expanded in the 14th century. Located at the northern end of Skenfrith, it remains an active parish church and is a Grade I listed building.