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Discover the Charm of Newtown, Mid Wales - An Ideal Base for Exploring Mid Wales

Newtown, also known as 'Y Drenewydd' in Welsh, is the largest town in Powys, with a population of 13,000. Nestled in the heart of Mid Wales, this charming town is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and explore the surrounding countryside. Surrounded by hills visible in every direction, Newtown is an all-weather destination for visitors.

Established as a market town in the 13th century, the town centre boasts a conservation area with a rich variety of historic buildings, including the renovated Victorian Market Hall, the picturesque ruins of St Mary’s Church, and the remains of a medieval motte and bailey. Newtown also offers excellent facilities for families, including a brand-new premier playpark, a mountain bike trail, and a BMX pump track within walking distance of the town centre.

For shoppers, Newtown is a journey of discovery, with many small independent retailers and a charter street market held every Tuesday in the town centre. Dolerw Park, a large park adjacent to the River Severn that meanders through the town, is accessible from the Back Lane Car Park.

Newtown is also home to a number of museums and galleries, including the Robert Owen Museum, Newtown Textile Museum, WH Smith Museum, and the Oriel Davis Gallery, all located in the town centre. The Hafren theatre, NPTC College, and local sports facilities are located on the outskirts of town.

Newtown has a rich industrial heritage and is surrounded by beautiful countryside. Visitors can explore the Severn Valley countryside, nature reserves, Montgomery Canal, the Severn Way, Dolforwyn Castle, and Gregynog Hall & Gardens.

The town's prominence in the 19th century was due to the Montgomeryshire Canal, which supplied transport for the blossoming textile industry. Newtown was also the birthplace of the world's first mail-order store. The town's textile industry was revived in the 20th century with the establishment of Laura Ashley's home furnishing and clothing company.

Newtown is best known as the birthplace of Robert Owen, Britain's first socialist. Visitors can see his epitaph in the churchyard of the abandoned St Mary's Church, which sums up his philosophy: "It is the one great and universal interest of the human race to be cordially united and to aid each other to the full extent of their capacities."

Newtown also offers a weekly free 5km timed run, known as Newtown parkrun. Pay-and-display car parks are available at Back Lane and Gravel Lane.