Common-y-coed

Settlement in Monmouthshire

Wales

Common-y-coed

The house on the hill A 17th century house on the site of Penhow Castle
<span class="nowrap"><a title="http://map.coflein.gov.uk/index.php?action=do_details&amp;numlink=221292" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="http://map.coflein.gov.uk/index.php?action=do_details&amp;numlink=221292">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> — The house on the hill Credit: Bob Harvey

Common-y-coed is a small village located in the county of Monmouthshire, Wales. Situated in the southeastern part of the country, it is nestled in the picturesque Usk Valley. The village is known for its beautiful countryside and tranquil surroundings, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Common-y-coed is home to a tight-knit community, with a population of around 500 residents. The village has a rich history dating back to medieval times, evident in its well-preserved traditional architecture and charming cottages. The local church, St. Mary's, is a notable landmark that adds to the village's historical charm.

Despite its small size, Common-y-coed offers a range of amenities to its residents and visitors. The village has a primary school, providing education for local children, as well as a community hall that serves as a venue for various events and gatherings. Additionally, there are a number of local businesses, including a small convenience store and a cozy pub, offering essential goods and services to the community.

Surrounded by rolling hills and meandering rivers, Common-y-coed boasts breathtaking natural beauty. The village is an excellent starting point for exploring the Monmouthshire countryside, with numerous walking trails and cycling routes in the vicinity. Nearby attractions include the renowned Usk Valley Walk, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and the Usk Reservoir, a popular spot for fishing and boating enthusiasts.

In summary, Common-y-coed is a charming village in Monmouthshire, Wales, offering a peaceful and picturesque setting amidst the stunning Usk Valley. With its rich history, close-knit community, and access to beautiful countryside, it is a destination that appeals to both locals and visitors seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

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Common-y-coed Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 51.596946/-2.8242999 or Grid Reference ST4389. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

The house on the hill

A 17th century house on the site of Penhow Castle Link

Bob Harvey

Penhow Castle

Grade II* Listed Penhow was developed from a heavily-built keep and was the first castle with a stone keep to be built in Britain by the conquering Normans in 1070 and has claims to be the oldest inhabited castle in Wales. Less than a century after the keep tower was built the larger area of the inner bailey was enclosed within a thick stone curtain wall. By the 14th century Penhow was quite a stronghold. The drawbridge was operated by counterweights of stone rediscovered in 1979. Above the lower hall, the Great Hall achieved its present shape in the late 1480s. The Lewis family converted Penhow from an old-fashioned castle to a modern house shortly after 1674. Thomas Lewis' son Thomas was High Sheriff of the county. Stephen Weeks bought the Norman stronghold in 1973 and rebuilt the ruins into an award-winning attraction that opened to the public in 1978. Penhow Castle was sold to a London businessman and closed to the public on 29th December 2002. The important thing about the house is that it was home to the famous Seymour family which eventually produced a King and Queen of England in Jane Seymour and Edward VI.

Bob Harvey

St John's church, Penhow

Ruth Sharville

St John's church, Penhow - interior

Ruth Sharville

Minor road to St Brides Netherwent, Monmouthshire

The 50mph speed limit increases to the National Speed Limit on the road on the south side of the A48. No vehicles heavier than 7.5 tonnes ahead except for access.

Jaggery

Grazing and hedgerow near Pen-y-lan

JThomas

Grazing near Pen-y-lan

JThomas

Hilltop church, Penhow

The Church of St John the Baptist viewed across the A48. The church is in the Church in Wales Diocese of Monmouth. Cadw records that the church has 12th century origins. The building was heavily restored in 1914 with donations from Lady Perry-Herrick, then owner of Penhow Castle. At this time, the tower was rebuilt, the vestry was added and the church was refenestrated and refitted internally, including the restoration and partial replacement of the rood screen. The building was Grade II listed in 1963 for its early origins, surviving medieval fabric and group value with nearby Penhow Castle.

Jaggery