I was left amazed by the characteristics of this small but charming Welsh town that has become a celebrated culinary hub, along with a thriving high street and a nearby vineyard
Wales is a country of that has it all. From rolling green hills that lead to winding rivers and picturesque villages, to charming towns and thriving cities, it’s landscapr are as striking as they are varied.
Among the many, many places to choose from, there’s one quaint town, known as the ‘food capital’, that is particularly worth a visit.
The vibrant market town of Abergavenny in Monmouthshire is set within a dramatic mountainous backdrop and the sprawling Welsh countryside. It’s brimming with independent shops, has a nearby vineyard and firmly established itself as a culinary hub – features of the town I was blissfully unaware of prior to my visit.
Beforehand, I thought that Abergavenny was a run-of-the-mill town, and one that might be suffering from a struggling high street like so many locations across the UK. Yet, I was pleasantly surprised as I wandered through the bustling high street on a Saturday morning to find a treasure trove of independent boutiques and popular brand stores.
I loved strolling around the town, popping into some of the shops to pick up supplies and purchase a gift for a relative’s upcoming birthday. It was busy without being overcrowded, and relaxing without being dull, with an inviting atmosphere that seeped through the town and its residents.
Its allure hasn’t gone unnoticed, as Abergavenny was named as the best place to live in Wales by the Sunday Times in 2024. The publication noted: “Few locations in the UK are as friendly, practical and picturesque as this friendly market town on the edge of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. There has been a market here since the 13th century, and food remains a strong point, with the Abergavenny Food Festival celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Community spirit is off the charts, and there’s a strong and varied sporting scene.”
Notably, one of the busiest times in Abergavenny is during its annual food festival, held over a weekend in September, attracting visitors from far and wide. The Abergavenny Food Festival offers a diverse range of culinary experiences, featuring an extensive list of food and produce stalls throughout the town centre, as well as live cooking demonstrations and entertainment.
The annual festival is just one of the reasons why Abergavenny has often been dubbed the ‘food capital’ of Wales, alongside its impressive restaurant scene. One notable establishment is the beloved Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant, The Walnut Tree Inn, run by acclaimed chef Shaun Hill.
The town also boasts The Angel Hotel, which was named as the ‘Best foodie hotel’ in The Sunday Times’ list of 100 Best Places to Stay in the UK for 2025. The Sunday Times praised The Angel’s “superpower is its gourmet offering,” noting that guests can savour seasonal dishes in the Oak Room restaurant, which also serves as an art exhibition space.
The luxurious four-Silver-Star establishment has also previously bagged the AA Hotel of the Year award for Wales. I personally found that it’s Foxhunter Bar provided the idyllic spot for a drink as I melted into one of their leather Shackleton sofas one afternoon.
Elsewhere, I found the artisan Angel Bakery offering freshly baked sourdough, artisan coffee and a selection of mouthwatering treats that were hard to resist. There’s plenty more to explore and devour when it comes to Abergavenny’s gastronomic haven, with more gems just a short drive from the town centre.
One of which is the charming and cosy vineyard tucked away on Sugar Loaf Mountain. Sugar Loaf Vineyards offers a range of experiences, including tours and tastings, as well as a coffee shop and holiday lets.
It’s well worth taking advantage of the sprawling countryside along the Sugarloaf Walk, which starts in the town and ascends all the way up to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain. I can assure you that the views are spectacular.
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