Llanymynech

Llanymynech is dominated by the limestone quarries of Llanymynech Hill and the chimney of the nearby Hoffman kiln (YMGW passim), majestic amongst the common oaks (Quercus robur). The village benefits from a real spirit of community, but is suffering a little from the recession, with both the Lion Inn and the Dolphin Inn closed. The former famously had one bar in Wales and another in England.

Richard Roberts, a nineteenth century mechanical engineer renowned for improving the accuracy of machine tools, was born in the village. In 1847 he patented his Jacquand machine, adapted to punch holes in metal instead of patterns in cloth. His invention was used to make the plates of the railway bridge at Conwy. It was also a version of the Jacquand that punched cards for early computers. One of Roberts's clocks graces the Normanesque St Agatha's Church, one oversized face designed to be visible from the quarry. The church was built in 1844 of local limestone, with terracotta arches and decoration.