The historic town of LLantrisant appears, at first glance, to be a sleepy hamlet perched on a hilltop but scratch its surface and you'll find a heart that beats to the martial drum of history and a town that is equally vibrant commercially.

L
LANTRISANT FROM HIGH STREET TO SIDE STREETS

Just below the main entrance to the Model House Craft & Design Centre stands a statue of Dr William Price, the eccentric surgeon and scholar who paved the way for legalised cremation. It's history like this that makes Llantrisant one of Rhondda Cynon Taf's must-visit towns.



Stroll up beyond the Bull Ring and the side streets are lined with charming 18th and early 19th century cottages, with a church and the remains of a castle. The Church, originally founded in the eleventh century, is dedicated to Saints Gwynno, Illtyd and Tyfodwg who are commemorated in the town's name, Llantrisant means 'Church of Three Saints'.

I'm not a religious person but as I stand in this beautiful church, I challenge anyone to not be moved. It is beautiful and the stunning stained glass windows are simply breathtaking.

In 1346 the archers of Llantrisant served Edward Prince of Wales in his wars against the French. At the battle of Crecy, it was the superior range of the Welsh longbow which allowed the archers to destroy the French army without ever coming within reach of enemy fire. The grateful monarch then gave a charter to the men of Llantrisant and their descendants, giving them the right to trade freely within the boundaries of the ancient borough and graze cattle on Llantrisant Common free of all taxes in perpetuity. The latter is still honoured to this day under the watchful eye of Llantrisant Town Trust.

1346 is but a landmark in a longer history, the town being one of the oldest in Wales. The main square, the Bull Ring, is a partly cobbled area opening off the main road through the town. Until 1827 the Bull Ring was used for bull baiting, but these days it is dominated by the Model House. Originally the local workhouse where inmates were expected to lead a 'model life', hence the name, the Model House now houses a centre for the production, exhibition and sale of art and crafts of many kinds. Whilst the castle was also built in the thirteenth century by Richard de Clare, Lord of Glamorgan, all that remains is a broken tower and a section of wall, but it is imposing and the Castle Green is a very pleasant place to take the weight off your feet, and is also the site of the Guildhall of 1777, now the headquarters of the Llantrisant Town Trust.



From every street corner you'll discover new views - whether it's over Talbot Green which sits at the foot of Llantrisant's abrupt escarpment, the rolling country of the Vale of Glamorgan or north to the Rhondda. Talking about Talbot Green, you really are spoilt for choice with a large modern shopping centre showcasing major companies like Marks & Spencer and the famous Leekes of Llantrisant surrounded by acres of car parks - the complete antithesis of the ancient town above. On a clear day, even Cardiff and the Bristol Channel and beyond come in to view - truly magnificent.

Talking about shopping, Llantrisant is a real find if you love independents such as Pink Zebra and The Dairy. There's also a traditional toy shop and general store and several good pubs and restaurants which serve up traditional food and ales. Ladies who lunch will love The Butchers Arms & Gallery; great coffee, scrummy sandwiches and a superb range of home-made cakes.

Yes Llantrisant is quirky, yes it's quaint but it's one of my favourite places and, if you haven't visited before, you really are missing out on a treat.



For more ideas for great days out visit
www.destinationrct.co.uk
 
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