Working for the Local Community

Presteigne, (Llanandras in Welsh), was once the county town of Radnorshire and nestles at the heart of the Marches on the border of Wales and England. Surrounded by devastatingly beautiful, unspoilt countryside, this thriving border town has many unique qualities that make it both a perfect destination and a base from which to explore.

Set alongside the river Lugg, at the corner of the three counties of Shropshire, Herefordshire and Powys, it is within a short drive from Hay on Wye, Hereford, Ludlow and Shrewsbury.

Just over an hour and a half from Birmingham and the beautiful coastline of West Wales, it would be difficult to find a better place to stay for easy access to the rich variety of experiences necessary for a rewarding break. There’s always something on hand, or within easy reach, to treat the whole family.

History of Presteigne

Presteigne has a history marked by conflict and commerce, beginning as a 12th-century settlement called ‘Prestehemed’ and later becoming a wealthy market town, though prosperity was disrupted by events like the Black Death and the Owain Glyndŵr rebellion. It served as the county town of Radnorshire until the mid-19th century, losing this status due to the expansion of Llandrindod Wells. Today, it is known for its well-preserved historic buildings and its location on the Welsh-English border.

Early History

· Presteigne first appeared as ‘Prestehemed’ in 1137, a name combining ‘priest,’ ‘meadow,’ and ‘boundary’. · A wooden motte and bailey castle, known as Warden Castle, existed but was destroyed in 1262 by Prince Llywelyn and never rebuilt. · Its position on the eastern side of Offa’s Dyke made it a target for Welsh rebels, such as when it was besieged by Prince Llywelyn in 1262.

Medieval and Tudor Times

· The prosperity of the late 13th century was severely damaged by the Black Death and the Glyndŵr rebellion, and a nearby victory by Glyndŵr’s forces at the Battle of Bryn Glas in 1402 was significant.

· The town recovered by the Tudor period, establishing a thriving cloth industry and a weekly market, and hosting annual fairs. John Beddoes a wealthy cloth merchant founded a school in the town in 1565.

County Town Status

· Presteigne became a significant town due to its position on a major mail coaching road.

· From the 16th century, the County Assizes were held in the town, leading it to become the county town of Radnorshire.

· This status was lost in 1884 with the rapid expansion of Llandrindod Wells as a spa town.

· The town is noted for its well-preserved historical architecture and its status as the former county town of Radnorshire.