A major conservation and restoration project is transforming Plas Gunter, one of Abergavenny’s oldest and most historically significant buildings, into a new visitor attraction, with its public opening anticipated for spring 2028.
Situated on Cross Street in Abergavenny’s historic quarter, the Grade II listed 17th-century townhouse was built around 1630. Hidden within the building is a secret Catholic chapel once used by itinerant priests to celebrate Mass at a time when practising the Catholic faith could carry severe penalties.
The chapel is associated with St David Lewis, an Abergavenny-born Jesuit priest who became Wales’ last Catholic martyr, and St Philip Evans. Hidden for more than 200 years, the chapel and its surviving wall paintings preserve an important part of the town’s religious and cultural history.
Other historic features include an ornate 17th-century plaster ceiling decorated with cherubs, vines, pomegranates and Tudor roses. Archaeological remains associated with a Roman road have also been found beneath the garden, connecting the site with an earlier chapter of Abergavenny’s history.
Plas Gunter Mansion Trust is undertaking the conservation and restoration project, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and other funders. The project will enable the most historically significant areas of the building, including the secret chapel, to open to the public for the first time.
Through interpretation and activities, your clients will be able to explore almost 400 years of history and stories centred on faith, persecution, tolerance and sanctuary.
Details about opening times, admission prices, guided visits, accessibility and group bookings are due to be announced nearer the opening date.
We have a range of itineraries, fact sheets, attractions, activities and accommodation featuring Abergavenny on our website.
