AT the end of next summer visitors to the Kymin will be able to see inside the historic 18th century building for the first time in its history.

A major programme of renovation and repair works will transform the old banqueting house into a landmark which The National Trust hopes will attract many more visitors.

The eccentric, yet important building is a highly visible landmark on the skyline above Monmouth and on a clear day the panoramic view it commands across the Wye and Usk valleys is breathtaking.

But it is not just the Round House with its views that attracts visitors. On the same site is the Naval Temple, unique in that it is the only monument dedicated to the glory of an entire navy and once visited by Lord Nelson. Both buildings are set amongst the ancient woodlands of the Wye valley and are surrounded by lawns.

The ten-acre site on the summit of the Kymin, was given to the National Trust by the people of Monmouth in 1902. Since then the Round House has been home to a succession of caretaker tenants, even though the building was never designed to house people. According to the National trust, the house is in effect no more than a large summerhouse.

There have been long running problems with damp and it is a difficult property to keep heated. These factors had to be considered when the National Trust was deciding how the building should be managed for its long-term protection and preservation.

In the summer of 2000 the National Trust began the three-phase programme to restore the Round House for public viewing. Phase one involved converting the old stable block into adequate accommodation for a custodian, phase two will be to renovate the house and phase three will be to open it to the public.

Phase one is now complete and phase two has begun. The Round House will, for the next six months, be shrouded in scaffolding and temporarily lost to view until the grand re-opening next August.

If you are interested in the project or if you wish to make a donation towards the renovation works, or if you would like to volunteer to help with the opening, please contact the Property Manager, The National Trust, Dan y Gyrn, Blaenglyn Farm, Libanus, Brecon on 01874 625515.

Ele Yearsley