Abergavenny is a beautiful and bustling market town at the foot of the Brecon Beacons. Long considered to be the Gateway to Wales, it is famous for its gastronomic delights, for its wealth of history and amazing hiking trails, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. Surrounded by tall green hills, filled with charming markets and peppered with castle ruins. Our pick of the best places to stay in Abergavenny reflects the area's variety with stylish town hotels and charming country escapes.

Abergavenny is nestled between seven hills. One of them, Blorenge, overlooks the town and is known to be one of the best paragliding spots in the UK, and it is also from these hills that Abergavenny's world-renowned mountain lamb, beef and venison come from. Far from being syphoned-off and sold to Cardiff and London, much of this produce is sold in local pubs, restaurants, hotels and of course, the local markets. In Abergavenny, there is a market every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, where you can find everything from bric-a-brac and antiques to Usk Valley cheeses and Welsh whiskey. A mecca for foodies, Abergavenny hosts an annual autumnal food festival too, which is a must-see.

As for historic sites, you are spoilt for choice. Atop a small hill in the centre of town is Abergavenny Castle, formerly a Norman fortlet and now a museum. Further afield is Raglan Castle, the home of the young Henry VII and by Chepstow is a Norman fortress. For Roman remains, Caerleon makes for a great day out, the town stands on the site of a Roman amphitheatre and a legionary fortress, as well as an Iron Age hillfort. Lastly, just outside Crickhowell is another Iron Age hillfort sitting atop Table Mountain, a great place for long walks and gorgeous views.

What not to miss

• Be sure not to miss the weekly markets in Abergavenny, held on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, boasting everything from prime local venison and cheeses to rare antiques and bric-a-brac.
• The Abergavenny Museum, situated in a Norman castle atop a hill, is a must-see and provides fascinating artefacts detailing the town's rich history.
• Discover the historical sites. There are many Iron Age hilltop forts around, including in Crickhowell and at Caerleon, where there is also the remains of a Roman amphitheatre and baths. Raglan Castle, just 10 minutes out-of-town, is a great place to explore as is Chepstow Castle, a Norman fortress.
• At the foot of the Brecon Beacons, Abergavenny is perfectly located for long rambles through wild hill-country. Table Mountain, by Crickhowell, has some great views and is a rewarding hike. For the braver among you, head to Blorenge Mountain, overlooking the town, which is a popular spot for paragliders.

During the summer months, this is a popular spot, so to be sure you snag one of the best places to stay in Abergavenny we recommend you book well in advance.

The best places to stay in Abergavenny

For a town stay

• The Angel Hotel is a stylish family-ran hotel in the centre of town, offering beautifully decorated rooms and several restaurants. Ideal for a chic weekend away.

For a country retreat

• The Hardwick is a charmingly converted country pub, offering eight rooms and a critically-acclaimed gourmet restaurant. A great base to set out on long rambles through the countryside.

For an apartment or cottage

• If you would prefer something more private we suggest running through the options on our partner Booking.com's website which has a wide range of cottages and apartments in the nearby area.

Travel information

• Fly to Cardiff and get a bus or train to Abergavenny.
• If you would like flexibility in getting around why not hire a car from our online partner Rentalcars?
• The best time to go is during the summer months. In July the temperature peaks at around19 degrees, ideal for ramblers.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include all our recommended properties across Monmouthshire.
• Browse through all our suggestions of the best places to stay in Wales.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.