Margam Stones Museum
Overview
Magnificent carved stones reach back to the dawn of Christianity in Wales
This little building next door to the medieval abbey church is fascinating in its own right – it’s one of the earliest church schools in Wales. But the real story lies inside.
There you’ll find a remarkable collection of nearly 30 inscribed stones and crosses, some dating from the early days of Christianity in sixth-century Wales. These originally stood as milestones on Roman roads – or in one case on top of a Bronze Age barrow– and were recycled in memory of local chieftains.
Later sculptured stones include magnificent disc-headed and cart-wheel crosses from the ninth and 10th centuries, such as the great Cross of Cobelin with its carved hunting scene.
In the upstairs gallery, among the medieval sculptures and inscriptions from Margam Abbey, is an effigy of a 14th century knight. He’s dressed in chain mail with a small dragon at the foot of his shield. But the star of the show may be the grotesque gargoyle designed to void rainwater via its backside.
Opening times
Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday and Bank Holidays from 10amؘ–3pm
Last admission 30 minutes before closing.
The museum is now closed and only available to be opened for pre-arranged group visits.
To request a visit please email: CadwEstatesandProperty@gov.wales
Prices
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Admission |
Free
|
Facilities
Parking for 30 cars adjacent to museum shared with restaurant opposite (5 metres).
No specific disabled parking.
Museum on two levels. No access to upper floor for wheelchair users
Car park close to museum, level path/road to door.
No specific disabled parking.
Site guidebook available to purchase in selected visitor centres.
On-site museum.
Cadw do not allow drone flying from or over its guardianship sites, except by contractors commissioned for a specific purpose, who satisfy stringent CAA criteria, have the correct insurances and are operating under controlled conditions.
Smoking is not permitted.
Light refreshments are available.
Visitor toilets are available at this site.
Directions
Margam, 4m (6.4km) SE of Port Talbot, off A48, adjacent to Margam Country Park.
Port Talbot 5m (8.1km).
Postcode SA13 2TA.
For further information, please contact: Traveline Cymru on 0871 200 2233 or National Rail Enquiries on 08457 48 49 50.
