Mountains are a modern fascination. We visit them to walk, climb, ski, mountain bike, and to enjoy nature. They feature in literature, film, television, art, and music. But what do we know about our medieval ancestors’ relationship to these landscapes? Join us for a guided walk at Llanthony Priory in the Black Mountains (Monmouthshire) to find out!

Join Dr Steve De Hailes (Lecturer in English at the University of Bristol) and Stuart Brown (Mountain Leader) for a University of Bristol event funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council.

Beginning at the beautifully-situated ruins of Llanthony Priory, climb the slopes of the stunning Vale of Ewyas and learn about medieval society’s relationship to mountain landscapes. What value did mountains hold in the Middle Ages? Who lived, worked and travelled in the mountains? And how were they depicted in literature and art?

You do not need to be an experienced hill walker to take part in this event, but a descent level of physical fitness is required (if conditions are good, we will be climbing to a height of around 600m).

The organisers will be arranging a minibus from Bristol for any attendees travelling from the city, or you are welcome to make your own way there.

The event will aim to begin at 11am and finish around 3pm. Those travelling from Bristol will meet earlier (roughly 9am). The minibus will return you to the original collection point.

Under 18s must be accompanied by a parent/legal guardian/responsible adult. Younger children may find the level of activity challenging, but can attend at the discretion of the responsible adult.