Part of the FreePhotoGuides.
Ancient arches at sunset. Through the arches on the north side of the Nave.
Eight miles north of Abergavenny in the Vale of Ewyas in the Black Mountains, sits Llanthony Priory, a beautiful 12th Century Augustinian ruin. I have to agree with Giraldus Cambrensis[1] when he described it as "not unhandsomely constructed" in his 12th Century writings[2] and I think you'll find the remoteness and stone remains well worth seeking out. Have a drink at the attached Llanthony Priory Hotel[3] (or a meal after you tackle the hills) and spend some time wandering the ruins, working out the best light and angles, imagining how grand it must have been back in the day.
What a setting. Looking down on the Priory from the eastern ridge.
This u-shaped valley was created centuries ago by glaciation and follows the river Honddu from Gospel Pass to the north, down to Llanvihangel-Crucurney to the south.
I've marked two paths on the map, both very steep, making them tough climbs, but well worth it for the views from the top. The Offa,s Dyke Path[4] runs along the top of the eastern ridge, defining the English Welsh border. Five miles north on the western ridge brings you to Grwyne Fawr Reservoir, beautiful, and extremely remote, especially good if the water is calm enough to reflect the hills. An extra, if you're lucky enough to come across any (and if they stand still long enough) are the hardy Welsh mountain ponies that wander these desolate hills.
How does he see where he's going?
Introduction.
Eight miles north of Abergavenny in the Vale of Ewyas in the Black Mountains, sits Llanthony Priory, a beautiful 12th Century Augustinian ruin. I have to agree with Giraldus Cambrensis[1] when he described it as "not unhandsomely constructed" in his 12th Century writings[2] and I think you'll find the remoteness and stone remains well worth seeking out. Have a drink at the attached Llanthony Priory Hotel[3] (or a meal after you tackle the hills) and spend some time wandering the ruins, working out the best light and angles, imagining how grand it must have been back in the day.
Special Photographic Features.
- Within the Priory itself, obviously, the ruins themselves and the way the sun creates shadows amongst the stone arches.
- Another attraction is the tremendous views from the surrounding hills.
- I also find the horses from the riding school in the surrounding fields and the wild mountain ponies interesting subjects.
The Priory Ruins.
Inspiring artists for centuries, including JMW Turner in 1834, the Priory provides endlessly interesting angles. As above, the hills make a great backdrop to photos taken through the arches. The stone detail also make for interesting shots.
The Hills.
This u-shaped valley was created centuries ago by glaciation and follows the river Honddu from Gospel Pass to the north, down to Llanvihangel-Crucurney to the south.
I've marked two paths on the map, both very steep, making them tough climbs, but well worth it for the views from the top. The Offa,s Dyke Path[4] runs along the top of the eastern ridge, defining the English Welsh border. Five miles north on the western ridge brings you to Grwyne Fawr Reservoir, beautiful, and extremely remote, especially good if the water is calm enough to reflect the hills. An extra, if you're lucky enough to come across any (and if they stand still long enough) are the hardy Welsh mountain ponies that wander these desolate hills.
How does he see where he's going?
The Horses.
The horses from The Llanthony Riding School [5] are all round the Priory and are used to people wandering amongst them and so make great subjects.
Best time of day/year.
Each season has its good points, although, check the weather forecast and choose a fine day, especially if you intend to climb the hills as it can be much colder at the top and rain and mist can close in quickly.
Although I haven't been here at night, Rob Hudson has, and even with the slight light pollution from Hay-on-wye he mentioned, I can see the ruined arches make great silhouettes.Night Photography.
As Cadw say on their site, it is an open site which generally means it is unmanned and open from 10am to 4pm.[6]
Special equipment.
- A wide angle lens make the best of the views from the hills and for the confined shots within the Priory.
- Strong boots and warm clothing are important for the hills.
- Don't forget, like I did, that the return walk is the same distance as the outward walk, so allow time to get back before dark!
Getting there.
Not the easiest place to find, travel north from Abergavenny towards Hereford and turn left off the A465 at Llanvihangel-Crucurney and follow the signs for Llanthony. Its probably easier with a map: Google mapAt the site, there is good free parking and toilets.
Here is a map of the details of the guide: Google Map
To see more of my photos visit my Flickr photo stream.
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