Montgomery

Snuggled beneath the rugged outcrop housing its medieval castle, Montgomery is a picturesque market town with a street plan unchanged for over eight centuries, showcasing its rich Victorian and Georgian architecture. Close to the English border, this charming town blends its proud heritage with a vibrant, modern community.

Central Broad Street impresses with elegant Georgian townhouses and the historic Town Hall. Montgomery thrives with a weekly market, cultural events like the Monty Lit Fest, and open-air Shakespeare performances. Its streets are lined with enticing shops, cafés, and restaurants, with highlights including the treasure trove of Bunners and the Old Bell Museum's fascinating local artefacts.

Spend a day with us discovering Montgomery: 

Morning

Start at Broad Street:

Begin your day with a leisurely stroll along Montgomery’s central strip, Broad Street. Admire the handsome Georgian townhouses and the striking red brick Town Hall at the end of the street. Don't miss the grey plaques detailing fascinating historical tidbits about the town.

Visit St Nicholas Church:

Next, head to the 13th-century St Nicholas Church on Church Bank. Inside, marvel at the stunning hammer-beam roof, the beautifully carved medieval rood screen, and the ornate 16th-century tomb of local lord Richard Herbert. In the churchyard, look for the Robber’s Grave, tied to a local legend of injustice.

Explore Bunners:

A short walk from the church, visit Bunners on Arthur Street. This old-fashioned store, run by the same family since 1892, offers a wide variety of goods from kitchenware to quad bikes. It’s a charming, nostalgic shopping experience that’s not to be missed.

Midday

The Old Bell Museum:

Head to The Old Bell Museum, housed in a former 16th-century inn. Run by volunteers from the Montgomery Civic Society, it offers a rich collection of local artefacts, including antique maps, blacksmiths’ tools, and items from the excavation of Montgomery Castle. It's a great way to delve into the town’s history.

Lunch

Take a break at one of Montgomery’s cozy cafés or restaurants. Enjoy a delicious meal while soaking in the historic atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a light snack, you’ll find plenty of options.

Afternoon

Montgomery Castle

After lunch, make your way up to the dramatic ruins of Montgomery Castle. You can either walk via the steep Conduit lane or drive to the accessible car park. Once there, explore the ruins and enjoy the breathtaking views that extend for miles. This 13th-century fortress, built by Henry III, has a fascinating history and offers a perfect spot for reflection and photography.

Explore Local Shops and Markets

Head back to the town and browse more of Montgomery’s charming shops. If it’s a Thursday, don’t miss the weekly market, a tradition since 1227. It’s a vibrant spot where you can find everything from fresh produce to unique crafts.

Evening

Cultural Activities

Depending on the time of year, you might catch a cultural event. Look out for the Monty Lit Fest, which features writers from Wales and beyond, or open-air Shakespeare performances in the castle grounds. These events provide a wonderful way to end your day immersed in local culture.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at one of Montgomery’s fine restaurants. Whether you prefer a cosy pub atmosphere or a more formal dining experience, the town offers a variety of choices to suit your taste.

Night

Relax and Unwind

If you’re staying overnight, take an evening stroll through the town’s historic streets, enjoying the peaceful ambiance. Reflect on your day and perhaps plan your next visit to this charming and historic market town.

Montgomery: Additional Curiosities and Surprises

Crime and Punishment: Visit the graveyard of St Nicholas Church to find the memorials of PC William Davies and John Davies, the latter known for the legend of the Robber’s Grave.

Town Crier: Listen out for the loud voice and ringing bell of the town crier, a vibrant remnant of days before modern news media.

Burgess Plots: Notice the uniform width of houses along Broad Street, a historical feature dating back to the 13th-century town planning.

Theatre at the Castle: In the summer, enjoy open-air Shakespearean performances at Montgomery Castle.

Former County Gaol: Discover the imposing gateway of Montgomery’s former County Gaol, now part of a private home, reflecting the town’s Victorian history.