St. Briavel’s April 2014

St. Briavels Castle YHA

A weekend spent at St. Briavel’s castle with a medieval banquet, a World War 2 re-enactment taking place in the hostel and a walk to Tintern Abbey along part of Offa’s Dyke all thrown in for good measure.

We first stayed at St. Briavel’s in 2006 and wanted to visit again ever since mainly because of the unique venue. Last time the majority of us were in the Hanging Room up at the top the castle, this time we were all in the Chaplain’s Quarters. As it turned out we picked a good weekend for this trip – good weather and a medieval banquet in the evening (although the dressing up part caused a bit of discomfort…).

On the Saturday we walked to Tintern Abbey along the Offa’s Dyke path with some lamb wrangling en route, courtesy of Tom. On Sunday a tour of the castle revealed that the room named The Oubliette really does have an oubliette – underneath the ornamental rug in the middle of the room, complete with skeleton to illustrate the fate of those unfortunate enough to be thrown down there.

Wander on…

St. Briavels Castle YHA

St. Briavels Castle YHA

This Youth Hostel is one of many…

Lamb wrangling

Wrangled

Tom

Last one through, close the gate

Come on, you can do it

View of the Devil’s Pulpit and Tintern Abbey

Tintern Abbey (’tis)

St. Briavel’s Church

All dressed up for the big banquet

St. Briavels Castle YHA

Inside the castle