About Pontypool in Monmouthshire

Pontypool is a town in Monmouthshire, Wales. It is situated on the Afon Lwyd river in the county of Monmouthshire, about 10 miles (16 km) north of Newport. The town has a population of 36,815 (2011 census). Pontypool developed around a 6th-century Celtic monastery, which was destroyed by the Saxons in the 7th century. The town grew in the 18th century with the development of the iron and coal industries. Pontypool has a variety of schools, including two secondary schools, one sixth form college and a further education college. The town also has a variety of shops, pubs and restaurants.