The Kymin Roundhouse

Cadw's description

Location

On the top of the hill overlooking the town on the east side, which is approached from the Staunton Road.

History

Erected in 1794 by the Kymin Club as a picnic house for its members, people prominent in Monmouth society. They met on Tuesdays, 'dining together in a social and friendly manner'. Built on the highest point of The Kymin to take advantage of the astonishing views, particularly those to the west, over the town and towards the mountains around Abergavenny. Nelson and the Hamiltons breakfasted here in 1802. Monmouthshire County Council gave the building to the National Trust in 1902 after a public subscription. recently restored by National Trust when converted back from a dwelling to its appearance at the time of Nelson.

Exterior

Rendered and painted circular stone castellated tower of two storeys, each with a single room. Six over 6 pane sash windows facing north-west and south-west with an additional one on the first floor facing south-east, these are supposedly aligned on objects in the view. Flat roof, which once carried a telescope for the benefit of the Club members. Small residential two storey extension on the north-east side with a hipped and catslide roof. This has a tall narrow sash window and a standard one, oeuil-de-boeuf below. Single storey extension in the angle, this has a 6-panel door with the top two glazed and an oeuil-de-boeuf on the side wall.

Interior

The interior of the tower contains a kitchen on the ground floor and a dining room on the first floor. Plain residential accommodation for the tower keeper, and a staircase in the extension.

Reason for designation

Included in a higher grade for its exceptional historic interest, its design and its very important contribution to the landscape and views around Monmouth.