One of South Wales’ most distinctive hospitality venues, The Priory in Caerleon, is celebrating a major milestone in 2026 – 30 years as a family-run hotel and restaurant.
![Bodybasix](https://itsoncardiff.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/BodyBasix.jpg")
Located on the River Usk in the historic town of Caerleon, The Priory’s story stretches back centuries. Originally founded in 1180 as a Cistercian monastery, the Grade II-listed building has been a nunnery, a private residence, and – since 1996 – a much-loved family-run business.
It was in that year that current owner Benito Martinez’s father Benigno Martinez (affectionately known as Martin) first took over the site – beginning a three-decade chapter of hospitality rooted in family values, local heritage, and warm, genuine service.
Today, The Priory is operated by Benito and his wife Sophie as part of the Fire & Wine restaurant group, who oversaw an extensive refurbishment that was completed in early 2025. The transformation sensitively updated the historic building while introducing bold, modern design and a renewed focus on fire-led cooking, provenance, and exceptional wine.
Rooted in Heritage, Hospitality & Evolution
Across three decades of family ownership, The Priory has evolved significantly, most recently entering a new culinary era with the appointment of Head Chef Grady Atkins, whose international experience spans Michelin-starred kitchens and luxury hotels; and plans for an on-site kitchen garden to reinforce the restaurant’s commitment to provenance and seasonality already underway.
But despite these exciting developments, The Priory continues to honour the values that have defined it since 1996: heartfelt hospitality, exceptional produce, and a deep respect for the building’s remarkable history.
Benito Martinez said, “Reaching 30 years is incredibly special for our family. The Priory has been part of our lives for three decades, and it’s been a privilege to welcome so many guests through our doors. This anniversary is about saying thank you – to our loyal customers, our team, and the Caerleon community. We’re excited for the next chapter.”
30 for 30: A Month-Long Thank-You to Guests
To mark its 30-year anniversary, The Priory is celebrating with an exclusive January offer designed as a gesture of appreciation to the guests and community who have supported the venue over the decades.
Throughout 1–31 January 2026, diners can enjoy 30% off their food bill Monday–Thursday (lunch & dinner) and Friday lunch only. To redeem, guests simply need to book during December 2025 and either quote ‘30 for 30’ when reserving over the phone or by selecting the special promotion when booking online.
The initiative aims not only to celebrate the past 30 years, but also to encourage guests – new and returning – to enjoy a memorable meal during what is traditionally one of the industry’s quieter months.
A party on the 30th January will also invite long-standing customers, Caerleon locals, suppliers, friends and family to raise a glass in The Priory’s honour.
The Priory Caerleon – Full History
· 75AD Roman conquest of Wales: Following the Roman conquest of Wales, taking control of Caerleon from the Silures tribe, Caerleon is chosen as a site of one of the three permanent legionary fortresses in Roman Britain.
· 12th Century: The Priory becomes a Cistercian monastery.
· 1270 Norman Revolt: Caerleon falls into Norman hands and Gilbert de Clare embarks on a renovation of the castle, rebuilding it in stone and extending its grounds.
· 1402 Welsh Revolt: Caerleon Castle is taken by Rhys Gethin, General for Owain Glyndwr, as part of the Welsh revolt.
· 16th Century: Earliest official mentions of The Priory.
· Henry Morgan becomes High Sheriff of Monmouthshire.
· 18th Century: Mary Morgan gives The Priory the Gothic appearance it still holds today.
· 19th Century: Ownership passes to Thomas Hooper. Sir Digby Mackworth becomes its first new owner. The amateur antiquarian J. E. Lee becomes tenant.
· 20th Century: Miss Ethil Radcliffe becomes the tenant.
· Present Day: Hotel and restaurant owned and run by the Martinez Family.
