Along the River Usk
The River Usk meanders its way from Brecon to Newport, passing through Abergavenny, Usk and Caerleon, and within close proximity of many castles and historic sites. There are hidden gems along the route such as Usk Castle in the centre of the town, described as "It's like a secret castle that no-one's ever found!" and Craft Renaissance, an art centre with exhibitions, workshops and a delightful café. You will also pass through the Clytha Estate, a National Trust property (only the parkland is open to the public) and view the Sugar Loaf above Abergavenny which is also managed by the National Trust.
Alongside the river is the Usk Valley Walk, in total a 48 mile route that takes you through rich, agricultural lands, dotted with farms. If you follow the river Usk from Caerleon into Newport you'll join the Wales Coast Path. As well as being great for walking, its a wonderful area for cycling and has welcomed the Tour of Britain and the Wales Velothone.
The Usk is an important river for fishing both for salmon and wild brown trout, and there are various fishing opportunities. As you approach the River Severn, the history of the River Usk as a port is very clear; the Newport Transporter Bridge was opened in 1906 and it was designed in such a way to allow ships to continue to dock further up stream. The long history of the area as a port was confirmed with the discovery of the Newport Ship, deep in the mud where the Riverfront Theatre now sits.
Usk Valley Walk - See an interactive map of the walk by clicking the map below
Places to stay along the River Usk
