Presteigne, or Llanandras, is a historic town in Powys residing at the heart of the Welsh Marches, close to the border of Wales and England. At the corner of Shropshire, Herefordshire, and Powys, its rich history and riverside location on the banks of the River Lugg make it one of the most enchanting destinations for a spellbinding retreat.
For those seeking timeless reveries, a plethora of attractions awaits to be uncovered in Presteigne, from wandering along its old streets and perusing its range of independent shops and eateries encased within attractive buildings, to exploring rolling countryside scenes. Whether you’re peeling back the layers of the town’s history through its guided trails, immersing in one of the local festivals, or venturing out to explore the exquisite surrounds, you can enjoy an unforgettable journey of exploration and relaxation in one of Wales’ most vibrant towns.
Providing you with inspiration for your heavenly stay in Presteigne, uncover our curated guide to all the things to see and do nearby.
The Judge's Lodging Museum
The Judge's Lodging in Presteigne is an award-winning restored Court House that was one of the most renowned judge’s residences in Wales and England, complete with living quarters, a courtroom, and cells. Head over to uncover the museum’s collections and learn about what life was once like for the lodging’s resident judges, staff, and felonious visitors.
Presteigne Carnival
Presteigne Carnival is a family-friendly festival held annually in the town on the second Saturday of July. Adored by locals and visitors alike, this traditional carnival is widely anticipated and promises a full line-up of events, including a procession through the town centre with carnival floats, dog shows, cookery competitions, live music, and much more.
Presteigne Music Festival
For lovers of music, the five-day Presteigne Music Festival is held every August amongst the soul-stirring beauty of the Welsh Marches. Running for over 40 years, it brings together music groups and artists from all over the world, with everyone from Irish fiddlers to African drummers to French-Canadian percussionists having performed at the festival.
Sidney Nolan Trust
Sir Sidney Nolan was a leading 20th-century artist who was especially well-known for his famous paintings of the Australian bushranger and outlaw, Ned Kelly. Today, the Sidney Nolan Trust in Presteigne – home to Nolan’s former home, studio, and 250-acre estate – is open to the public to celebrate his life and work and share collections from his artworks, library, and personal archive.
St Andrew Church
A 9th-century Anglo-Saxon church with Norman and Victorian renovations, St Andrew Church in Presteigne is a historical and spiritual focal point for the town. Inside, one of the church’s most unique and special features is its 16th-century tapestry which was gifted by the Flemish in 1737. It’s one of two pre-English Reformation tapestries and depicts Jesus' entry into Jerusalem.
The Workhouse Rugs & Textiles
The Workhouse is a family-run gallery, workshop, and café in Presteigne that first opened its doors in the 1970’s. Evolving over the years, it features a treasure trove of ethically produced and intricately designed goods, crafted in both the local area and global communities. Peruse the gallery’s unique offerings, from aromatic candles to handwoven carpets and kilims, before settling down with a plate of deliciousness in the onsite café.
The Spaceguard Centre
Situated on a tranquil Dark Sky site in the Welsh Marches, the Spaceguard Centre is an intriguing visitor attraction and working observation centre revealing insights into life in the cosmos. Pay a visit and gain insights from one of the country’s leading experts about the solar system and the work of the Spaceguard, including its tracking of comets and asteroids.
Kington Golf Club
At nearly 1,300 feet above sea level, Kington Golf Club is home to the highest 18-hole golf course in England. One of the most beloved natural inland links golf courses in the country, it reveals gorgeous views over the Herefordshire and Welsh countryside, overlooking the Brecon Beacons, Black Mountains, Clee Hills, and beyond. It’s clubhouse also beckons with a delectable selection of food and drink to satiate appetites after rounds on the green.
Wigmore Castle
Once the stronghold of the Mortimer family, Wigmore Castle was one of many castles built along the border of England and Wales after the Norman Conquest. A power centre for 500 years, it was gradually left to fall into disrepair and now its romantic ruins are some of the most intriguing in England – buried to the first floor and home to rare flora and fauna.
Water-Break-Its-Neck
Water-Break-Its-Neck is a beautiful waterfall in Radnor Forest and a natural attraction that has called to visitors for hundreds of years. Found within the verdant depths of Warren Woods, this hidden gem is often heard before its seen, especially if there has been a lot of rainfall. Adorn your walking attire and follow one of a number of walks to reach the falls, before heading back to your luxury retreat or wending your way further for sylvan strolls between sun-dappled trees.
Feeling inspired for unforgettable reveries? Uncover our collections of luxury cottages in Wales and Herefordshire.
