A Day in Newtown: A Journey Through History, Culture, and Nature

Newtown, the largest town in Powys, stands out among its Mid Wales neighbours with its rich history as a former centre of the 19th-century textile trade. While the flannel-producing factories have been replaced by modern commerce, the town’s striking architecture serves as a reminder of its prosperous role during the Industrial Revolution, when it earned the nickname the ‘Leeds of Wales.’

Nestled along the winding River Severn, Newtown’s origins date back to the medieval period, though it truly flourished during the boom in Welsh wool demand. Today, it’s a lively, modern hub for surrounding villages, with Broad Street as its focal point—a wide, bustling thoroughfare lined with a mix of shops, pubs, cafés, and restaurants, offering both familiar brands and local gems. The street’s architecture, featuring red-brick townhouses, Victorian shopfronts, and traditional black-and-white half-timbered buildings, provides a visual timeline of the town’s heritage.

Morning

Newtown Textile Museum

Start your day by delving into Newtown's industrial past at the Newtown Textile Museum. Located in a former 19th-century hand-loom weaving factory on Commercial Street, the museum takes you on a journey through the town’s rich textile history. Explore the antique weaving machinery, witness woolcraft demonstrations, and learn how the town transformed from a rural market hub into a textile powerhouse during the Industrial Revolution. The museum's former workers' cottages on the ground floor add a personal touch to the story.

Robert Owen Museum

A short walk will take you to the Robert Owen Museum, dedicated to Newtown's most famous son. Learn about Robert Owen, the industrialist and social reformer who laid the foundations for the global cooperative movement and earned the title of ‘Britain’s first socialist’. Explore his efforts to improve working conditions during the Industrial Revolution and his visionary ideas for a fairer society. If time allows, visit St Mary’s Church ruins on the banks of the Severn to see Owen’s tomb.

Lunch

Lunch on Broad Street

Head over to Broad Street for a delightful lunch. This bustling shopping street offers an eclectic mix of cafes, pubs, and restaurants, perfect for a leisurely meal. Enjoy a blend of local flavours while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Newtown’s central thoroughfare, surrounded by historic architecture that echoes the town’s heritage.

Afternoon

Oriel Davies Gallery

After lunch, take a stroll to Oriel Davies Gallery, located at the edge of Dolerw Park This contemporary art space showcases dynamic exhibitions from Welsh and international artists. Wander through its creative exhibits, or, if you're feeling inspired, participate in one of the gallery's hands-on workshops. From painting to weaving, it’s a great way to explore your own artistic side.

Trehafren Hill

Next, head over to Trehafren Hill for a bit of outdoor adventure. If you're a fan of biking or simply enjoy a scenic walk, this hill offers something for everyone. Walk or bike along its trails, or if you’re feeling adventurous, take on the BMX pump track or the off-road mountain bike trail. With stunning views over Newtown, this spot provides both excitement and relaxation in the heart of nature.

Evening

Theatr Hafren

Conclude your day with some live entertainment at Theatr Hafren, Newtown’s premier performance venue. Choose from an array of shows, including theatre, comedy, dance, or live music. If time allows, check out the gallery space, which showcases artwork inspired by the stunning Welsh landscapes surrounding Newtown.

Curiosities and Surprises

Pryce Jones: The World’s First Mail Order Business

Discover how a local draper revolutionised retail by creating the first mail-order business. His customers included Queen Victoria and Florence Nightingale!

WH Smith Museum

Step into the past at the Newtown branch of WH Smith, which has been restored to its 1927 design. The small museum upstairs gives a fascinating insight into the history of the iconic British chain.

Halfpenny Bridge 

Learn about the origins of Halfpenny Bridge, a vital crossing over the River Severn. Though the current bridge was built in 1972, its origins date back to the 19th century, when travellers paid a halfpenny to cross.