Welsh audio tour launched at Presteigne award-winning museum

The Judge’s Lodging Museum in Presteigne has introduced a Welsh-language audio tour, offering a fresh way for visitors to explore the Victorian world.

The tour features characters such as Mary the maid and Richard Lister Venables, chairman of the magistrates.

The role of Richard Lister Venables is played by comedian and presenter Tudur Owen.

Tudur Owen (Image: The Judge’s Lodging)

The museum staff were pleased to have Tudur take on the role, as he is familiar with The Judge’s Lodging.

In 2010, he spent a year visiting the museum for the filming of Byw yn ôl y Llyfr (Living by the Book).

The series, based on a Victorian self-help manual, followed Tudur and author Bethan Gwanas as they tried to follow the book's advice on various topics.

Museum manager, Gaby Rivers, said: "When Tudur filmed with us, every day was hilarious, and we just knew he would breathe real life into our chairman of the magistrates character.

"Tudur’s performance is wonderful and we think that Welsh speakers will really enjoy the experience."

The new Welsh audio guide also features a supporting cast of singers from Mid Wales Opera.

They recorded the roles of the Victorian servants during the Covid pandemic when they were unable to perform publicly.

The museum, with its Victorian lighting and corners, offers a seasonal atmosphere.

For those who are not fluent Welsh speakers, the museum staff can demonstrate how the audio guide can be switched between the two languages, allowing visitors to test their language skills.

Tudur Owen, known for his work on television and radio, is no stranger to The Judge’s Lodging.

Tudur Owen during filming in 2010 at The Judge’s Lodging (Image: The Judge’s Lodging) His stand-up comedy is presented in both Welsh and English, and he also stars in BBC Wales’ Tourist Trap.

His role in the Welsh audio tour replaces that of the late actor Robert Hardy, who portrayed Richard Lister Venables in the English-language tour.

The Judge’s Lodging museum in Presteigne is an award-winning attraction that provides a glimpse into the Victorian world.

The introduction of the Welsh-language audio tour is expected to enhance the experience for Welsh-speaking visitors.