Llowes is situated close to the River Wye, Powys, south Wales. The river flows from the Plymlimon mountains and joins the Severn estuary just below Chepstow. Geographically Llowes lies in the Wye Valley between Hay-on-Wye and Glasbury.

There are many walking trails nearby including the Wye Valley Walk, with a pleasant riverside trail into the nearby “book town” of Hay-on-Wye.

The parish church is dedicated to St. Meilig, who is said to have founded a monastery in the 6th century at Croesfeilig near the village and to be buried there. Meilig may have been one of the sons of Caw and brother to St. Gildas. He is mentioned in Culhwch and Olwen as one of the knights in the court of King Arthur. The old church was replaced by the present church, which was rebuilt during the Victorian period. The nave and chancel were completely rebuilt between 1833 and 1835, though the base of the tower may be medieval and the iron-banded font is thought to be 12th century.

However, the history of the church isn't Llowes's most interesting tale. In the churchyard stands an impressive old carved cross, known as Moll Walbee's Stone (St Meilig's Cross). Moll was the wife of Marcher Lord William de Braose, and it is said that she built Hay Castle in one night. Whilst carrying stones to the site in her apron, one dropped from her apron. In her temper, Moll threw the stone across the Wye and it happened to land in the churchyard.

Unfortunately she criticised King John for his treatment of Prince Arthur and was punished. Although she had tried to apologise by sending the king a gift, it did little help her and she was imprisoned, along with her eldest son, in Corfe Castle where they both starved to death.