St David's Church

St David’s Church stands beside the ruins of Llanthony Priory in the quiet Vale of Ewyas. Built in the 16th century from the old priory infirmary, its nave once formed the infirmary hall and its chancel the chapel. The church was restored in 1886–87 by J. James Spencer, who also worked on St Martin’s at Cwmyoy. Cadw recognises the building as Grade I-listed since 1956. A local tradition claims the church dates from the 12th century, when Saint David is said to have visited the valley. The church’s medieval bones remain visible despite later changes. Much of the original stonework survives, especially in the nave’s high walls and the chancel’s pointed arch. Spencer’s restoration kept these features while adding new roofs and windows. The twelfth-century tradition may actually belong to an earlier priory church on the site. Whatever its exact age, the building links the valley’s religious past to later centuries. Inside, the nave opens into a simple rectangular space with a small bellcote above the west end. The chancel is slightly raised and retains its original arch. Outside, yew and ash trees frame the churchyard, and the priory ruins lie just to the north. The valley’s hills rise steeply on every side, enclosing the scene in quiet greenery.