Welshpool

Welshpool is the fourth largest town in Powys (a Welsh principality that emerged after Roman rule). Originally named ‘Pool’, it became ‘Welshpool’ in 1835, to distinguish it from the English town of Poole.

A major attraction is Powys Castle, which was the ancestral home of the Earl of Powys, and it is known for holding the items that Major-General Robert Clive (Commander-in-Chief of British India) and Edward Clive brought home from India. Now in the care of the National Trust, The Clive Museum presents some spoils of war, including a gold and bejewelled tiger’s head finials.

George Herbert, Great Grandson of Edward, inherited the estate and garden in 1891. With his wife Violet, he set about remodelling the castle and grounds. He reinstated 17th century decor internally, whilst Violet made room for a formal Edwardian garden.

Another key attraction is Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway. It opened in 1903 to make Welshpool’s market accessible to the rural community of Llanfair Caereinion. The service still runs today, with journey times between 45 minutes and an hour through the Welsh countryside.

The town’s New Street contains an octagonal brick cockpit. It was regularly used for cockfighting (until it was outlawed in 1849), and is now the home of the town’s Women’s Institute.

The local economy is primarily made up of agriculture, and Smithfield Livestock Market is the largest one-day sheep market in Europe.