If you find yourself planning a holiday in Presteigne, you can look forward to a wide array of attractions and activities both within the town and nearby.
Presteigne – or Llanandras in Welsh – is an historic town in Powys that lies at the heart of the Welsh Marches. Close to the border between Wales and England, it sits at the corner of the counties of Shropshire, Herefordshire and Powys and is known as the “Gateway to Wales”. With its riverside location on the banks of the River Lugg and its position amongst some of the UK’s most stunning countryside, it is naturally one of the most enchanting destinations for a short break or leisurely holiday and has plenty on offer to appeal to all generations.
If you find yourself planning a holiday in Presteigne, you can look forward to a wide array of attractions and activities both within the town and nearby. Just wandering along its old streets and perusing its range of independent shops and eateries encased within attractive buildings will be a pleasure. So, whether you’re peeling back the layers of the town’s history through its guided trails, getting involved in one of the local festivals or branching out to explore the local area, you’ll find yourself enjoying a journey of exploration and relaxation in one of Wales’ most vibrant towns.
To provide you with some inspiration for your stay in Presteigne, we’ve put together a guide on all the top things to see and do nearby.
The Top Attractions and Things to Do in Presteigne
The Judge's Lodging Museum
The Judge's Lodging in Presteigne is an award-winning restored Court House that was once one of the stateliest judge’s residences in Wales and England – complete with authentic cells used to contain prisoners, judges’ living quarters and the courtroom. Head in and experience what upstairs/downstairs life was like for its resident judges, servants and, of course, felonious visitors.
Presteigne Carnival
Presteigne Carnival is a lively family-friendly festival held annually in the town each July. Popular with townsfolk and visitors alike, this traditional carnival is widely-anticipated and boasts a packed line up of events, including a procession through the town centre with carnival floats, dog shows, cookery competitions, live music, children’s games and much more.
Presteigne Music Festival
For music fans from near and far, the Presteigne Music Festival held every August is one of the must-visit events in Wales. Internationally-renowned, 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 started in the 1970’s. Beginning life as a carpet repair shop, the gallery has evolved over the years to become a multi-faceted business and attraction. Peruse the gallery’s quirky lightings, toys and clothes before settling down and choosing from the café’s menu of tasty, freshly-made meals.
The Spaceguard Centre (5 miles)
Situated on a remote Dark Sky site in the Welsh Marches, the Spaceguard Centre is an intriguing visitor attraction and working observation centre revealing insights into life above earth. 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 potentially earth-threatening comets and asteroids.
Kington Golf Club (7 miles)
At nearly 1,300ft above seal level, Kington Golf Club is home to the highest 18-hole golf course in England. One of the most popular natural in-land links golf courses in the country, it affords 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 choice of food and drinks.
Wigmore Castle (10 miles)
Once the stronghold of the powerful Mortimer family, Wigmore Castle was one of many castles built along the border of England and Wales after the Norman Conquest. Though a power centre for 500 years, it was gradually left to fall into disrepair and now its overgrown 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 (10 miles)
Water-Break-Its-Neck is one of the UK’s most curiously named waterfalls and one that should definitely receive your attention during a holiday in Presteigne. Found within the leafy Warren Wood between mini peaks, this waterfall is a real hidden gem – often heard before its seen if there’s been a lot of rainfall. There are a number of walks to reach it, including a short family-friendly walk.
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