Mamhilad, South Wales

The Star Inn

Walk along the Mon & Brecon Canal between Goytre and Pontymoile and you will find a turn off which will take you to Mamhilad.  Most famously known as the home of British Nylon Spinners, later to become ICI Fibres and then du Pont, but now the site is leased as rented units.

But Mamhilad existed long before the 'Nylon Factory,' or 'the Nylon,' as it was known.  Follow the lane from the canal, and, as it meets the road, you find The Star Inn on your righthand side.  It has changed hands several times over recent years, but you can always be sure of a friendly welcome, a pint, and possibly some food.  (If not, why not just have a packet of crisps.)

Mamhilad seems to be the home of that rare commodity 'the red telephone box.'  Situated against a cottage opposite the pub, I wonder how often it is used in this age of mobile phones. 





Mamhilad Church

On the opposite side of the road is an ancient church, surrounded by a grave yard.  Just inside the gate you will find the traditional yew tree.  Some say they were placed in churchyards to protect the dead. Others give a more practical reason.  The wood was used to make arrows and it would remain protected in the churchyard as no-one would dare destroy the tree.  Whatever the reason, its interesting to see if a churchyard has a yew tree within its bounds, a sign of medieval history.

 

 

Old Gravestones in Mamhilad Churchyard