About Us
Monmouth has been twinned with Carbonne in the Midi-Pyrenees region of South West France since 1975.
Monmouth Twinning members enjoy French culture and the opportunity to learn more about how our friends across the channel live.
We are keen to encourage pupils and students to expand their experience of France and French Language, see Schools.
Many of us speak no French and that’s not a barrier to enjoying the opportunities that Town Twinning brings!
"Twinning is really good too for making new friends in Monmouth - there are lots of events here, such as our pétanque afternoon, a skittles match against the German Twinning Association, wine tastings, our regular coffee mornings and annual BBQ. Even our AGM is a social event with a French or Welsh themed supper!"
The Beginning
Monmouth residents have been ‘exchanging’ with our Twin Town, Carbonne, since 1975.
Exchanges have been for individuals, families, clubs, organisations, choirs, bands and schools.
Monmouth and Carbonne residents have taken part in joint concerts, sporting competitions, visits and meetings.
Many lifelong friendships have been forged.
Carbonne is now even easier to get to – a direct EasyJet flight from Bristol to Toulouse airport or Eurostar and TGV if you prefer trains.
"Involvement in the twinning, for over forty years, has led to lots of friendships, many long term, and associated with numerous happy memories."
"The best thing about being a member of the Monmouth Town Twinning is that we can travel to Carbonne together and share our experiences. We also enjoy entertaining the Carbonnais when they are in Monmouth. We get together for meals and group activities which makes hosting easy."
Our most recent exchange visits
May 2024 was a beautifully warm long weekend when we welcomed 30 guests from Carbonne with trips to the Cider Museum and Nantgarw Chinaworks alongside a superb meal at Bridges. See ‘Events’ for more details.
September 2022 was our first visit since the Covid restrictions ended – it was great to get away and experience the warm autumn sun, remind ourselves of the hospitality of our hosts and experience the excellent French cuisine and wine.
September 2019 saw our Carbonne friends visit Monmouth. We all enjoyed a group supper in Bridges Centre and a visit to HMS Great Britain in Bristol.
Future plans
September 2025 will be a very special visit to Carbonne to celebrate 50 years of twinning. It promises to be an amazing visit.
In the meantime we have a Coffee Morning on 23rd November in The Priory. See ‘Event’s for more details.
Plans are underway for a wine-tasting and a petanque competition and many more opportunities to share French themed social events.
