Newtown Tourist Information

Newtown in Powys, is in the old county of Montgomeryshire, to the East of the Cambrian Mountains and Snowdonia National Park. It has been a town since the thirteenth century, and traces of its motte and bailey fortifications can still be seen.

What’s Newtown like?

Its history in wool and flannel production leaves behind it the Flannel Exchange which is now an entertainment venue. But Newtown’s textile links were re-established when Laura Ashley located her business in the area, and it is also now the venue of the Textile Museum. This attractive market town is the largest in this area.

Things to see and do

The town is nestled within some gorgeous Severn Valley countryside so is perfect for walkers and cyclists or anyone who loves the outdoors. Local nature reserve Pwll Penarth is great for sand martins and Lake Vyrnwy is worth a visit as is the area round the 80-ft high Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfall. Local canal paths provide good opportunities for trekking but the more ambitious might like to walk the Severn Way! Or for gardens, try Gregynog Hall or Dingle Nursery and Scenic Gardens.

As for castles, Dolforwyn Castle is on Newtown’s original site, five miles outside the current Newtown, up a steep track. A little further afield (eleven miles away) is Montgomery Castle. Both offer some spectacular views, as does Powis Castle.

And for something a bit different, you might like to try a visit to the Centre for Alternative Technology in Machynlleth – which demonstrates living with sustainability and green principles – perhaps via the Cambrian Coast Railway with its accompanying spectacular coastal scenery. The railway runs from Newtown to Machynlleth, Harlech and further. And there’s always The Hafren, (just to the West of Newtown on the A489) – it’s a family entertainment venue which runs comedy, theatre, music and kids’ entertainment events. Another brilliant option to entertain the younger holidaymakers is Machinations – about 18 miles from Newtown. Prepare to be fascinated with the cogs and pulleys bringing to life many automated items. Superb!

How to get to Newtown and where to stay

Arriva run a train service to Newtown and there are a few bus services operating in the area as well as National Express coaches. Newtown is also situated at the meeting point of the A489 and A483, two major roads – though the nearest link to the UK’s motorway network is the M54 North East at Telford, some fifty miles away.

Accommodation in Newtown and the surrounding areas includes many self catering holiday cottages, ranging from pine-built log cabins to barn and stable conversions and traditional farm cottages. This part of Wales is sure to inspire, so book a stay with us today and explore the Newtown area.