Excursion Tintern abbey and monmouth tour at Cardiff

Experience a taste of life in Wales a millennium ago during this immersive, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Cardiff, Wye Valley, Tintern Abbey, Gothic Architecture, Decorative Detail

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to the Wye Valley for a visit to 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. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour of Tintern Abbey. The shell of the Tintern Abbey stands open to the skies almost to its full height, an outstanding example of the elaborate decorative 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.

Monmouth Town, Wye and Monnow Rivers, Georgian Buildings

Next, re-board your coach and continue through the Wye Valley to Monmouth, a Welsh border market town situated at the confluence of the Wye and Monnow rivers. The wealth of elegant Georgian buildings reflect its former status as the county town of Monmouthshire. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour through Monmouth Town.

11th-Century Castle Ruins, Statues, Shire Hall, Agincourt Square, Monnow Bridge, Free Time

Along the way, see the ruins of the 11th-century castle which was the birthplace of Henry V in 1387. Statues of Henry and Charles Steward Rolls, co-founder of the Rolls-Royce car manufacturers, stand in Agincourt Square. Other sites to be seen include the elaborate Shire Hall, which dominates Agincourt Square, and the Monnow Bridge. With a narrow, 13th-century gateway on its western approach, Monnow is thought to be the only surviving fortified bridge-gate in Britain. Following your tour, some free time is made available for independent shopping and exploration. At the conclusion of your visit, commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Cardiff, Tintern Abbey, Monmouth Town, Wye and Monnow Rivers, Georgian Buildings, Castle Ruins, Statues, Shire Hall, Agincourt Square, Monnow Bridge, Free Time

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, at times over uneven, grassy, gravel and natural surfaces, with a few steps to get on/off the coach. Walking in Monmouth is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing in layers with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a weatherproof jacket, an umbrella, bottled water, and credit cards or local currency for purchases from the ship. Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. The coaches utilised on this tour are air-cooled. The tour sequence may vary.