Pub history

The John Capel Hanbury

Pontypool’s development began in 1588, when Richard Hanbury bought land here for making iron. The interests of his family and Pontypool fluctuated, until Major John Hanbury (born 1664) moved to the town and build Pontypool House. The 158 acres of enclosed parkland were purchased by the council, in 1920, from John Capel Hanbury, the last Squire of Pontypool. He was a notable benefactor, gifting the sites of Pontypool Hospital, the grammar school, the library, the market and St Hilda’s Church.