Where in Wales is The Royal Mint?
With a history spanning more than 1,100 years, The Royal Mint is a British maker of thoughtfully designed products and services, as well as being the world’s leading export mint. Under an exclusive contract, the mint produces and supplies coins to the United Kingdom. As well as creating coins for use domestically and internationally, the mint also produces planchets, commemorative coins, various types of medals and precious metal bullion.
The mint was historically part of a series of mints that became centralised to produce coins for the Kingdom of England, all of Great Britain and eventually most of the British Empire. The original London mint was established in 886 AD and operated within the Tower of London for approximately 800 years, before moving to what is now called Royal Mint Court where it remained until the 1960s.
As Britain followed the rest of the world in decimalising its currency, the mint moved from London to a new 38-acre plant in Llantrisant, Glamorgan, where it has remained since.
The Royal Mint Experience
A £9-million visitor centre opened in 2016, offering exhibitions, workshops, events and activities as well as a guided tour of the mint.
During the tour, you can expect to learn about the manufacturing process that goes into creating the coins in your pocket, as well as the different methods taken to ensure that our coins are amongst the most secure in the world. You’ll be taken to parts of The Royal Mint that are only accessible to the public as part of the guided tour.
The exhibition area is home to some of the most important and historical artefacts in the history of The Royal Mint. Some coins and items found in the exhibition area are amongst the rarest in the world and the host will help you learn about their history.
Llantrisant, Glamorgan
Hilltop town Llantrisant is one of the most visited in Wales, and one of the most historic!
As well as being the home to The Royal Mint, Llantrisant is a wonderful town full of many boutiques, shops, eateries, family-fun activities and a flourishing social scene. Commanding an outstanding setting high on the crest of a hill Llantrisant’s splendour lies in its enchanting beauty of landmark buildings and homes scattered through the town’s charming, cobbled streets.
Make sure you spend time wandering the fascinating buildings and take advantage of the series of popular walks around the area. Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding countryside and learn the incredible Llantrisant story at its Guildhall.
Where to stay
Just a 30-minute drive from Llantrisant is Holm House – a boutique hotel and spa that’s small but grand, with an eclectic personality. Part-country house, part-townhouse that’s both dazzling and calming. Holm House is designed to ensure you relax, unwind, enjoy the seaside location, and feel completely at home. Sea-view rooms, a spa and gym complete with indoor pool, cocktail and garden bars and a restaurant with locally sourced ingredients – what more could you want?